91500 Revision B
22
DiCon Fiberoptics VX500 Fiberoptic Switch
Handling Fiberoptic Components and Cables
Handling Fiberoptic Cables
Your switch may come with fiber pigtail outputs. Treat cables with care to avoid cable dam-
age and minimize optical loss. The minimum bend radius for most optical cables is 35mm.
Never bend an optical cable more sharply than this specification. Optical performance will
degrade and the cable may break.
• Avoid bending the optical cable near a cable strain relief boot. Bending an optical cable
near a strain relief boot is one of the easiest ways to permanently damage the optical
fiber.
• Avoid bending the optical cable over a sharp edge.
• Avoid using cable tie wraps to hold optical cable. Tie wraps when tightened can create
micro-bends or break an optical cable. Microbends can cause a dramatic reduction in
optical performance.
• Do not pull on the bare fiber as this can break the fiber inside the component.
• Avoid using soldering irons near optical cable. Accidental damage can easily occur
when an soldering iron is used near an optical cable. In addition, solder splatter can con-
taminate and permanently damage optical fiber connectors.
• In order to obtain the most stable, repeatable optical performance, immobilize optical
cables using wide pieces of tape or some form of mechanical cushion after the optical
cables have been connected.
Storing Optical Connectors
All switches are shipped with dust caps in place covering all optical connectors. Optical
connectors should remain covered at all times when the instrument is not in use.
Cleaning Optical Connectors
Clean any exposed connector using a cleaning kit supplied by the connector manufacturer
or high-grade isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab. To clean with alcohol and a swab, dab
the tip of a cotton swab in alcohol and then shake off any excess alcohol. The tip should be
moist,
not
dripping wet. Stroke the swab tip gently across the surface of the connector and
around the connector ferrule. Either allow the connector a minute to dry, or blow dry the
connector using compressed air. Be careful when using compressed air because improper
use may deposit a spray residue.
FIBEROPTIC
COMPONENT
FIBER
PIGTAILS
CONNECTOR
Do not bend the fibers at the
exits of the switch housing.
The fiber will break if
stressed at these points.
Do not bend the fibers at the
exit of the connector strain
relief boot. The fiber will
break if stressed at this point.
