User's Manual

Powerwave Fiber Optics
VM100 56/EN – User’s Manual Rev. P1A9-Draft 2004-11 7 - 11
Handling Connectors
Always have in mind that the fiber area in a fiber optic connector is very small. The
diameter of the fiber in a single-mode connector is only 9µm. Compared to a human hair,
which is between 50 and 75µm, the fiber diameter is only about a seventh of that
diameter.
This means that a very small particle on the fiber end face causes trouble. A dust particle,
1µm in size, can suspend indefinitely in the air. On the fiber end face in a connector, this
particle can cause a loss of 1dB. A 9µm dust particle can completely put an end to the
signal.
Dust particles are usually 20µm or larger in diameter.
This makes it necessary to cover and clean optical connectors as described below.
Covering
An optical connector that is not in use must always be covered.
If, for example, an unprotected connector is dropped, the fiber end face may be damaged
when it reaches the floor.
A protection boot is usually provided by the connector manufacturer. It should protect
the entire connector, but at least the ferrule.
Cleaning
Always clean optical connectors immediately before inserting them into the coupling
ports. But, wait until the cleaning liquid has get absolutely dry.
Use the following cleaning equipment:
• Fiber cleaning cloths.
• Denaturated alcohol.
• Canned dry air.
• 30X microscope (for cleaning verification).
Clean as follows:
1. Ensure the laser transmitter is off.
2. Clean by using a cleaning device.
Or:
– Saturate the fiber cleaning cloth with alcohol and clean the entire connector,
especially the ferrule with the fiber end face. The cloth must not be dry.
– Verify the cleaning result by using the microscope.
– Canned air can be used to remove particles from the coupling port. Do not use
cleaning liquid in the coupling port.
– Never touch the fiber end face.