Cleaning optical fiber connectors after each use is crucial to maintaining optimal performance and preventing damage to the fiber system. Here’s a step-by-step instruction for cleaning fiber optic connectors:
Materials Needed:
- Lint-free wipes or optical-grade cleaning cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol (99% or higher purity)
- Dry cleaning tools (e.g., fiber optic cleaning pen or cassette cleaner)
- Compressed air (optional)
Cleaning Procedure:
- Turn off all equipment connected to the optical fiber.
- Ensure the fiber optic cable is not transmitting any light to avoid potential damage to your eyes or equipment.
- Inspect the connector:
- Visually inspect the connector’s end face under a fiber scope or magnifying lens to check for dirt, dust, or scratches.
- Use a dry cleaning method (preferred):
- Use a fiber optic cleaning pen or a cassette cleaner. Insert the connector into the cleaner and apply gentle pressure while rotating it.
- For LC, SC, or other connectors, insert the cleaning pen into the adapter and push the tool gently to clean the surface.
- Wet cleaning if necessary:
- If dry cleaning doesn’t remove all contaminants, dampen a lint-free wipe with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (99%).
- Gently wipe the connector end face in a straight motion from one side to the other. Avoid circular motions to prevent redepositing contaminants.
- Follow up with a dry lint-free wipe to remove any residual alcohol or moisture.
- Compressed air (optional):
- If using compressed air, ensure it’s a clean, oil-free source. Hold the connector about 6-12 inches away and blow air across the connector face to remove any loose debris.
- Final inspection:
- Inspect the connector again with a fiber scope to ensure it’s clean and free from any dirt or smudges.
- Reconnect the optical fiber:
- Once cleaned, immediately reconnect the fiber to avoid exposing it to more dust or contaminants.
Tips:
- Always use clean and fresh wipes or cleaning tools.
- Never touch the connector end face with your fingers.
- Store connectors with dust caps when not in use to minimize contamination.
- Regularly inspect and replace cleaning tools to ensure they remain effective.
By following this routine after each use, you can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your optical fiber connectors.