
18 D I C o n Fiberoptics GP700M Modular Platform
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Handling Fiberoptic Components and Cables
Fiber optic components require special handling. Follow these guidelines when
handling the cables and connectors.
Handling Fiber Optic Cables
To avoid cable damage and to minimize optical loss, follow these guidelines when
handling fiber optic cables.
• Handle the fiber pigtail outputs carefully.
• 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 might 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.
• D o not pull on the bare fiber as this can break the fiber inside the component.
• Avoid using soldering irons near optical cables. Accidental damage can easily
occur when a soldering iron is used near an optical cable. In addition, solder
splatter can contaminate and permanently damage optical fiber connectors.
• To assure the most stable, repeatable optical performance after the optical
cables have been connected, immobilize the cables using wide pieces of tape or
another form of mechanical cushion.
Storing Optical Connectors
All switches that include optical connectors are shipped with dust caps covering
those optical connectors. Optical connectors should remain covered at all times
when the instrument is not in use.
91507 Revision A3
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11, 2005