What is typically used to cleave fiber optic cables accurately?

A fiber cleaver is specifically designed for accurately cleaving fiber optic cables. The tool aligns the fiber precisely and applies controlled pressure to create a clean, straight cut. This precision is vital for ensuring the optimal performance of fiber optic connections, as a poorly cleaved fiber can lead to increased signal loss, reflections, and overall degradation of the fiber's performance. The design of a fiber cleaver incorporates features that allow for consistent and repeatable cleaving, such as adjustable blade angles and hardness appropriate for the glass fibers used in optical cables. This level of accuracy is not achievable with other tools like scissors, knives, or wire cutters, which lack the fine control and specialized design necessary for fiber optic applications.