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Cleaning SCT-MMA/SMA Fiber Optic and Bulkhead Connectors
The best method for keeping the SCT-MMA/SMA and bulkhead connectors clean is to cover the connectors when not in use and only
insert clean fiber optic patch cord connectors. Cleaning the SCT-MMA/SMA and bulkhead connectors should always be followed by
inspection to determine results.
Dry Cleaning Method
Megger recommends using the dry clean method for cleaning SCT-MMA/SMA and Bulkhead connectors.
Ensure all LED and Laser sources are off
Insert the clean lint-free 2.5 mm swab into the connector.
Turn the swab several complete revolutions in the same direction.
Properly dispose of the swab.
Never reuse a swab.
Repeat the cleaning process as necessary.
Wet Cleaning Method
If a dry cleaning procedure does not remove the dirt from the SCT-MMA/SMA fiber optic connectors, then try the wet cleaning method.
When using isopropyl alcohol it is important to completely remove all of the alcohol from the end face. Residual liquid alcohol can trap
loose dirt. Isopropyl alcohol that evaporates slowly can leave residual material making it more difficult to clean off without another wet
cleaning.
Ensure all LED and Laser sources are off
Place one drop of 99% pure isopropyl alcohol on a 2.5 mm swab, do not over saturate the swab.
Lightly insert the dampened swab into the connector.
Turn the swab several complete revolutions in the same direction.
Remove the dampened swab and insert a second dry second dry swab to remove any alcohol that remains.
Turn the dry swab several complete revolutions in the same direction.
Properly dispose of the wet and dry swab.
Never reuse a swab.
Attaching SCT-MMA/SMA Fiber Optic Adapters
The SCT-MMA/SMA fiber optic adapters may be attached or removed prior to or after completing a test. Removing an adapter will cause
the SCT to return to the main menu in preparation for the attachment of a different adapter. The SCT may remain powered on when
attaching or removing a SCT-MMA/SMA fiber optic adapter.
Multimode Testing Without Mandrels
The SCT-MMA fiber optic adapter does not require an external mandrel when testing multimode fiber. The SCT-MMA fiber optic adapter
uses a unique LED source and internal mandrel to comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1 and ISO/IEC TR 14763-3 standards.
Setting a Reference
Setting a reference establishes the zero loss power and zero length distance for all future measurements. Setting a reference also removes
additional losses due to reference patch cords and adapters that should not be included in the measurement. Therefore properly setting a
reference is necessary for obtaining accurate results.
Establish a fiber optic reference only after the SCT Primary and Secondary units and the SCT-MMA/SMA fiber optic adapters
have been on for five minutes. Allow additional time for the adapter to reach ambient temperature if the adapters have been
stored above or below ambient temperature.
The reference measurement is invalidated if the reference patch cord is disconnected from the SCT_MMA/SMA fiber optic
adapter. Disconnecting and re-connecting a reference patch cord will alter the optical characteristics resulting in a different
reference loss power.
Establish a new reference:
Anytime the SCT-MMA/SMA adapters are attached.
Anytime the reference patch cords are disconnected from the SCT-MMA/SMA adapters.
Anytime negative loss or length results are obtained.
The SCT will request a new reference:
After a 24 hour period has elapsed since the last reference
Anytime a different fiber optic is attached to the primary or secondary SCT.
Anytime the test mode is switched from loopback to secondary or secondary to loopback.
Anytime the test method is changed.