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2.4
Handling and Cleaning Fiber Optic Equipment
2.4.1
Handling
Fiber optic cable is designed to survive the installation environment. As with coaxial
cable, fiber optic cable should never be bent at sharp angles. The most vulnerable area of
the fiber is the connector. When pulling fiber, do not pull directly on the connector or on
the fiber immediately behind the connector. The fiber should be pulled from a point
several inches back from the connector.
When working with multi-fiber cables, it is a good idea to color code each of the fibers in
a cable. A connection chart can be made to help facilitate the connection and
reconnection process.
Keep connectors covered with the protective caps when not using fiber optics cables or
equipment. When a connection is made use only finger tightening. Do not use tools, as
excessive force may damage or misalign the connection system.
2.4.2
Cleaning Procedures
Fiber Cable Connectors
Perform the steps below each time the connector is used:
1. Remove any accumulated dust or debris from the connector by blowing off the
cylindrical and end-face surfaces of the connector using a canned air duster.
2. Use a pad or a wipe saturated with optical-grade isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the
cylindrical and end-face surfaces.
3. Use canned air to blow dry the connector surfaces or allow them to air dry.
4. Avoid touching the connector surfaces after cleaning. If the connector is not going to
be used, it should be covered with a dust cap to prevent contamination.
Fiber Optic Receptacles
The procedures described above should not be applied routinely to fiber optic receptacles
(ports), but only in instances where degraded performance of the assembly warrants
cleaning (i.e., evidence of contamination).
Note: Materials used for cleaning fiber-optic devices should be consistent with the
function. Wiping cloths should be made of lint-free, nonabrasive materials.
Cotton swabs should have a tightly wrapped tip and be talcum-free. Pure optical grade
isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is the recommended solvent for cleaning connector tips. For
removing dust from receptacles, canned compressed air is recommended. Do not use
commercial compressed air or house air because of the risk of oil contamination.
2.5
Inspection
Decouple all optical connectors and inspect optical ports and connector tips for dirt or
obstruction. Inspect with the amplifier with unit powered off only (see the safety
precautions at the beginning of this manual). A 10X loupe is recommended. This
inspection should be performed as needed in the event of gradual signal degradation.
