Using a mechanical splice is a way for a technician to hold two optical fibers together precisely so that light can pass through the fiber. This alignment is not permanent. A mechanical splice is usually temporary. Because of this pull strength is limited. The fiber is aligned and held in place by a self contained assembly. The assembly itself has transparent index matching which has properties that are similar to the properties of the glass itself. This method of alignment or mating usually has a higher reflectance than fusion splices. A big plus it that no expensive equipment is needed for this installation. All that is needed is a stripper, a cleaver and isopropyl alcohol. This is a simple, fast way to mate fiber. However, it is important to remember insertion loss is greater and the cost of the mechanical splice is more expensive than a fusion splice.
