Best Fiber Optic Splice Tray Buyers Guide and Top Picks
The fiber optic splice tray market offers compact solutions for organizing and protecting splices in fiber networks. This guide highlights five well-regarded options, focusing on capacity, materials, and compatibility for outdoor and indoor deployments. Each product section includes a quick view of core specs and practical considerations to help you choose the right tray for your splice needs.
Product Overview (summary)
- OFCN Store OFCN-013A: 12-core fiber optic splice tray, compact design
- OFCN Store OFCN-014c: 12-core tray with versatile configuration
- Corning M67-048: 12-fiber splice tray with heat shrink fusion splices, 0.2 in
- OFCN Store 2pcs 6-core trays: dual-pack, 6 cores per tray
- Corning M67-078: 24-fiber heat shrink fusion splices, wide 0.4 in
OFCN OFCN-013A 12-Core Splice Tray
The OFCN-013A supports 12 core fibers in a compact tray. Designed for organized splicing, it provides orderly winding and protection for standard standalone or panel installations. Material and finish are chosen to balance durability and ease of handling in field work. Useful in data centers and telecom closets where space is a premium.
OFCN OFCN-014c 12-Core Splice Tray
The OFCN-014c tray supports 12 core fibers with a focus on ease of use and compact footprint. Its configuration is suitable for both new installations and upgrades in patch panels. The tray offers straightforward access to each splice, aiding maintenance and testing tasks in busy network cabinets.
Corning M67-048 Splice Tray, 12 Fiber
Corning’s M67-048 tray holds 12 fibers for heat shrink fusion splices, with a compact 0.2 inch profile. It suits networks requiring reliable fusion-splice protection in tight spaces. The heat shrink approach provides robust sealing against dust and moisture, making it viable for controlled environments and some outdoor installations with proper housing.
OFCN 2pcs 6-Core Fiber Optic Splice Tray
This 2-pack includes two trays, each handling 6 cores. The paired set is ideal for smaller builds or phased deployments where inventory flexibility matters. Use cases include cabinet shelves with moderate splice density, or as spare trays to minimize downtime during maintenance.
Corning M67-078 Splice Tray, 24 Fiber
The Corning M67-078 supports up to 24 fibers with a wide 0.4-inch footprint, designed for higher-density splicing. It suits backbone and distribution layers in data centers or telecom facilities where compact but high-capacity trays are needed. The wide format helps accommodate multiple fusion splices while maintaining organization.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Capacity and density: Choose a tray that matches current splice counts with room to grow. Higher fiber capacity reduces cabinet rework later.
- Splice type compatibility: Fusion splices and heat shrink splices have different protection profiles. Ensure the tray’s design matches your splice method and sealing needs.
- Physical footprint: Consider cabinet depth and mounting options. Slimline trays save space in crowded enclosures.
- Material and durability: Look for trays with sturdy housings and dust/moisture resistance suitable for your environment, including indoor and some outdoor applications with proper enclosure.
- Maintenance access: Favor trays with clear access to splices and neat routing paths for fibers to minimize strain and accidental disconnections.
- Cost vs. value: Higher capacity trays reduce future upgrades but compare against your expected growth and maintenance costs.
- Compatibility with existing hardware: Ensure mounting standards align with your panel, splice closures, and patch panels to avoid adapter or screw-fit issues.
- Documentation and support: Reputable manufacturers provide installation guides and technical specs; this reduces installation risk and downtime.
Selecting the right fiber optic splice tray involves balancing capacity, protection, and space constraints. By evaluating core counts, splice type compatibility, and environmental considerations, you can choose a tray that aligns with current needs while accommodating future upgrades.