Abstract: An optical fiber fusion splicer includes a personal computer and splicing elements in communication with and controlled by the personal computer for fusion splicing at least one pair of opposed optical fibers. The personal computer is integral with the splicing elements within the fusion splicer and provides personal computer functionality to the fusion splicer. The fusion splicer may further include a hard drive in communication with the personal computer for storing and retrieving data, a display in communication with the personal computer including a graphical user interface comprising a touch screen and one or more icons for controlling the personal computer, and a global positioning system in communication with and adapted to interface with the personal computer to assist with fusion splicing the optical fibers. The fusion splicer may also include a central processing unit in communication with the personal computer and the splicing elements.

Abstract: A fiber optic splice component is provided with a ferrule having an opening therein, a housing to hold the ferrule, and at least one electrode in the housing for fusing optical fibers inserted into the opening. A method and machine to fuse optical fibers in a fiber optic splice component is also provided, with the method and machine being capable of melting a protection element around the fused optical fibers. A splicing ferrule with a lead-in portion at each end of the ferrule is also provided.