Essentials For Reliable Fiber Test Results; Cleaning Connectors And Adapters - Fluke DTX-1800 Technical Reference Handbook

Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test Results

To get reliable fiber test results, you must follow proper
cleaning and referencing procedures and, in some cases,
use mandrels during testing.

Cleaning Connectors and Adapters

Always clean and inspect fiber connectors before making
connections. Use 99 %-pure isopropyl alcohol and optical-
grade wipes or swabs to clean connectors as follows:
Bulkhead Connectors and the Fiber Module's Output
Connector
Use a 2.5 mm foam swab for cleaning the fiber
module's output connector.
1 Dip the tip of a foam swab in alcohol; then touch the
swab to a dry wipe.
2 Touch a new, dry swab to the alcohol spot on the wipe.
Push the swab into the connector; twist it around 3 to 5
times against the endface, then remove and dispose of
the swab.
3 Dry the connector with a dry swab by twisting it
around in the connector 3 to 5 times.
Note
Certifying Fiber Optic Cabling
Essentials for Reliable Fiber Test Results
4 Inspect connectors with a fiber microscope, such as the
Fluke Networks FiberInspector Video Microscope
before making connections.
Fiber Module's Input Connector
Typically, the input connector requires cleaning
only if it has been touched.
1 Remove the connector adapter to expose the
photodiode lens (see page 7-7).
2 Use the method described in steps 1 and 2 above to
dampen a swab with alcohol.
3 Twist the damp swab around against the lens 3 to 5
times; then twist a dry swab around against the lens 3
to 5 times.
Connector Adapters and Fiber Adapters
Periodically clean connector adapters and fiber adapters
with a swab and alcohol. Dry with a dry swab before use.
Note
7
7-9