Inspecting Connectors - Agilent Technologies 86122A User Manual

Cleaning Connections for Accurate Measurements
WARN IN G
Agilent 86122A Multi-Wavelength Meter, Second Edition

Inspecting Connectors

Always remove both ends of fiber-optic cables from any instrument,
system, or device before visually inspecting the fiber ends. Disable all
optical sources before disconnecting fiber-optic cables. Failure to do so
may result in permanent injury to your eyes.
Because fiber-optic connectors are susceptible to damage that is not
immediately obvious to the naked eye, bad measurements can be made
without the user even being aware of a connector problem. Although
microscopic examination and return loss measurements are the best way
to ensure good connections, they are not always practical. An awareness
of potential problems, along with good cleaning practices, can ensure that
optimum connector performance is maintained. With glass-to-glass
interfaces, it is clear that any degradation of a ferrule or the end of the
fiber, any stray particles, or finger oil can have a significant effect on
connector performance.
Figure 4 shows the end of a clean fiber-optic cable. The dark circle in the
center of the micrograph is the fiber's 125 mm core and cladding which
carries the light. The surrounding area is the soft nickel-silver ferrule.
Figure 5 shows a dirty fiber end from neglect or perhaps improper cleaning.
Material is smeared and ground into the end of the fiber causing light
scattering and poor reflection. Not only is the precision polish lost, but this
action can grind off the glass face and destroy the connector.
Setting Up the 86122A
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