Cleaning A Compression Connector - Silicon Graphics OCTANE2 Owner's Manual

Cleaning a Compression Connector

A compression connector should never require cleaning if you keep its protective cover
on when the module or board is not in the chassis. However, if the connector gets dirty,
follow these steps for removing pollutants.
Some pollutants can irreversibly damage (corrode or chemically alter) the pad
Note:
surfaces. Although cleaning may remove the pollutant, it does not repair damage
incurred by this contact.
To remove pollutants, follow these steps:
1. Obtain a can of dry compressed air or inert gas. The Envi-ro-tech Duster 1671
product manufactured by TECHSPRAY, (USA telephone 806-372-8523) works
extremely well for this application.
Caution: Do not use a cleaning product that contains any of the following
ingredients: halogenated hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, ethers, sulfur,
ketones, or solvents of any kind. These substances cause irreparable damage to the
connector's surface.
2. Follow the instructions on the can, for example, if a tube is provided, attach it to the
can's dispensing mechanism.
3. Hold the can in a vertical position.
4. Place or hold the board or module with the rounded edge of the compression
connector facing up.
The rounded edge is completely closed, so that air cannot flow into the
Note:
connector, while the squared edge has an opening.
Caution: Spraying into the squared (open) edge of the connector can destroy it.
5. Position the board or module at an angle to the can, so that the tip of the can's
applicator is 1 to 2 inches away from the first (top) row of pads, as shown in
Figure A-2. Do not allow the applicator to touch the pads. When you spray, the air
hits each pad and flows downward.
Cleaning a Compression Connector
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