What is the most common type of cleaver used during connector installation?

The hand-held cleaver is widely regarded as the most common type used during connector installations due to its portability, ease of use, and effectiveness in typical field conditions. This type of cleaver allows technicians to perform precise and quick fiber optic cable cleaving efficiently, which is essential for achieving good optical performance when connecting fibers.

Hand-held cleavers are designed for flexibility, enabling technicians to easily maneuver and operate them in various environments, such as tight spaces or even outdoor locations. They typically require minimal setup and can be used with either single-mode or multimode fibers, making them versatile for different installation scenarios.

While motorized, bench, and rotary cleavers have their applications, they are often utilized in controlled environments or specialized tasks where high precision and consistency are required over bulk cleaving. These tools can be bulkier, often requiring a stable work surface, and may not be as convenient for on-site installations where portability and quick access are priorities. This further enhances the hand-held cleaver's status as the go-to choice for many fiber optic technicians.