Care and Cleaning of Optical Connectors
Proper operation of this equipment requires clean optical fibers. Dirty fibers
will adversely affect performance. Proper cleaning is imperative.
The proper procedure for cleaning optical connectors depends on the connector type.
The following describes general instructions for fiber-optic cleaning. Use your
company's established procedures, if any, but also consider the following.
Cleaning fiber-optic connectors can help prevent interconnect problems and aid
system performance. When optical connectors are disconnected or reconnected, the
fiber surface can become dirty or scratched, reducing system performance.
Inspect connectors prior to mating, clean as needed, and then remove all residues.
Inspect connectors after cleaning to confirm that they are clean and undamaged.
Recommended Equipment
CLETOP or OPTIPOP ferrule cleaner (CLETOP Type A for SC, Type B for LC)
Compressed air (also called “canned air”)
Lint-free wipes moistened with optical-grade (99%) isopropyl alcohol
Bulkhead swabs for LC or SC type connectors (choose appropriate type)
Optical connector scope
Tips for Optimal Fiber-Optic Connector Performance
Do not connect or disconnect optical connectors with optical power present.
Always use compressed air before cleaning the fiber-optic connectors and when
cleaning connector end caps.
Always install or leave end caps on connectors when they are not in use.
If you have any degraded signal problems, clean the fiber-optic connector.
Advance a clean portion of the ferrule cleaner reel for each cleaning.
Turn off optical power before making or breaking optical connections to avoid
microscopic damage to fiber mating surfaces.
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