Agilent Technologies 8156A manual How to clean connectors, Preferred Procedure

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Cleaning Information

How to clean connectors

E.7 How to clean connectors

Cleaning connectors is difficult as the core diameter of a single- mode fiber is only about 9 ∝ m. This generally means you cannot see streaks or scratches on the surface. To be certain of the condition of the surface of your connector and to check it after cleaning, you need a microscope.

In the case of scratches, or of dust that has been burnt onto the surface of the connector, you may have no option but to polish the connector. This depends on the degree of dirtiness, or the depth of the scratches. This is a difficult procedure and should only be performed by skilled personal, and as a last resort as it wears out your connector.

Never look into the end of an optical cable that is connected to an active source.

To assess the projection of the emitted light beam you can use an infrared sensor card. Hold the card approximately 5 cm from the output of the connector. The invisible emitted light is project onto the card and becomes visible as a small circular spot.

Preferred Procedure

Use the following procedure on most occasions.

1.Clean the connector by rubbing a new, dry cotton-swab over the surface using a small circular movement.

2.Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.

Procedure for Stubborn Dirt

Use this procedure particularly when there is greasy dirt on the connector:

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