Keysight N4372E, User Manual, Page: 115 / 152

Keysight N4372E Lightwave Component Analyzer User’s Guide 115
Maintenance 7
Why is it important to clean optical devices?
In transmission links optical fiber cores are about 9 µm (0.00035") in
diameter. Dust and other particles, however, can range from tenths to
hundredths of microns in diameter. Their comparative size means that they
can cover a part of the end of a fiber core, and as a result will reduce the
performance of your system.
Furthermore, the power density may burn dust into the fiber and cause
additional damage (for example, 0 dBm optical power in a single mode
fiber causes a power density of approximately 16 million W/m2). If this
happens, measurements become inaccurate and non-repeatable.
Cleaning is, therefore, an essential yet difficult task. Unfortunately, when
comparing most published cleaning recommendations, you will discover
that they contain several inconsistencies. In this section, we want to
suggest ways to help you clean your various optical devices, and thus
significantly improve the accuracy and repeatability of your lightwave
measurements.
What do I need for proper cleaning?
Some Standard Cleaning Equipment is necessary for cleaning your
instrument. For certain cleaning procedures, you may also require certain
Additional Cleaning Equipment.
Standard Cleaning Equipment
Before you can start your cleaning procedure you need the following
standard equipment:
•
Dust and shutter caps
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Cotton swabs
• Soft tissues
• Pipe cleaner
• Compressed air
Dust and shutter caps
All of Keysight Technologies’ lightwave instruments are delivered with
either laser shutter caps or dust caps on the lightwave adapter. Any cables
come with covers to protect the cable ends from damage or
contamination.