Abstract: A single laser is used as a heat source to activate droplets of acid applied to two optical fibers for selective stripping of fiber coating, for forming conical sections on the coating adjacent the exposed fiber for improved bonding, and for fusing the fibers together in a splice. An enhanced method for aligning the two fiber ends prior to splicing is also disclosed, consisting of a TV camera scanning of selected cross-sections of both fibers following stripping and cleaving, to devleop indicia of the relative location of the fiber cores. Lateral adjustment of a movable chuck responsive to the indicia, brings the prepared fiber ends into precise axial alignment. The method uses a minimum of acid, ad constructs low-loss permanent fusion splices without flame or need for skilled operators.

Abstract: A permalloy detector for a magnetic bubble memory employs a stack of chevron elements astride the bubble path. Alternate ones of the elements are positioned at an angle to the path of bubble propagation smaller than the angle at which the remaining elements are positioned. The result is that one set of elements moves a stretched bubble to a position at which the remaining elements accomplish detection. The result is a clearer output signal which is relatively easy to detect.

Abstract: A magnetic bubble memory of the field-access type employs a novel package arrangement for containing the field coils within desired limits during fabrication of the package.