Agilent Technologies 81591B, User Manual

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Cleaning Information Cleaning Instructions
44
Agilent 8159xB Optical Switch Modules, Fourth Edition
How to clean connectors
Cleaning connectors is difficult as the core diameter of a single-mode fiber
is only about 9 µm. This generally means you cannot see streaks or
scratches on the surface. To be certain of the condition of the surface of
your connector and to check it after cleaning, you need a microscope.
In the case of scratches, or of dust that has been burnt onto the surface of
the connector, you may have no option but to polish the connector. This
depends on the degree of dirtiness, or the depth of the scratches. This is a
difficult procedure and should only be performed by skilled personal, and
as a last resort as it wears out your connector.
To assess the projection of the emitted light beam you can use an infrared
sensor card. Hold the card approximately 5 cm from the output of the
connector. The invisible emitted light is project onto the card and becomes
visible as a small circular spot.
Preferred Procedure
Use the following procedure on most occasions.
1
Clean the connector by rubbing a new, dry cotton-swab over the
surface using a small circular movement.
2
Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.
Procedure for Stubborn Dirt
Use this procedure particularly when there is greasy dirt on the connector:
1
Moisten a new cotton-swab with isopropyl alcohol.
2
Clean the connector by rubbing the cotton-swab over the surface using
a small circular movement.
3
Take a new, dry soft-tissue and remove the alcohol, dissolved sediment
and dust, by rubbing gently over the surface using a small circular
movement.
4
Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.
An Alternative Procedure
A better, more gentle, but more expensive cleaning procedure is to use an
ultrasonic bath with isopropyl alcohol.
1
Hold the tip of the connector in the bath for at least three minutes.
2
Take a new, dry soft-tissue and remove the alcohol, dissolved sediment
and dust, by rubbing gently over the surface using a small circular
movement.
3
Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.
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