cleaning

WHY?

Higher data rates, smaller fiber and connectors, longer distances, and lower
level signals - these are the main reasons why it is important to have clean
fiber connections. With a fiber core of 6 to 9 microns, one small bit of
contamination, whether oil or particle, may attenuate the signal so as to
interrupt all communication.

NO SINGLE RIGHT WAY TO CLEAN

This section will review problems encountered, show proven methods, and
review readily available products and materials. It will be an aid in
producing the necessary installation and maintenance procedures for fiber
optic equipment. Through practice, trial and error and success (!), a
cleaning technique will be discovered that will work for your particular
application, sometimes tailored to each individual. Although there are
definitely wrong ways to go about cleaning and handling fiber optic cables
and connectors, there are many correct ways to accomplishing the goal of
zero contamination. This section will provide information for a firm
foundation to build a custom procedure for any application.

NO SHORT CUTS

The important thing is to come up with a procedure, with options at times,
that works for the individual doing the procedure - one that is reliable and
repeatable for all conditions. It is necessary that the person performing the
procedure is aware of the importance of consistency and the error of trying
to cut corners. NO SHORT CUTS... "Do it right the first time" cannot be
stressed too strongly, for it may take hours or days to troubleshoot, re-
clean, or even replace fibers that are dirty or damaged due to using
improper procedures or improperly following good procedures.

Disclaimer:

It is important to note that information on this website has been produced for informational purposes
only and is not necessarily meant to recommend or endorse (or discredit) any procedure, material, or
product. It is recommended that users evaluate any procedure or product before using it in the "real
world" environment where damage or failure could result in problems and losses of any kind. As
always, safety precautions must be excercised at all times when using glass, chemicals, and lasers.
Eye protection, skin protection, and proper ventilation must be used where necessary. The user of this
website and any operator using the information from this website is fully responsible for any results.