Never clean an optical connector attached to a fiber that is carrying light.
Particles of foreign matter on the tip of a ferrule can have a disabling effect on fiber-optic
transmission. Fiber-optic connectors need to be cleaned every time they are mated and
unmated; it is essential that fiber-optic users develop the necessary discipline to always clean
the connectors before they are mated.
Use a commerially available cleaning kit specifically designed for fiber-optic connectors and
follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• The connector sections to be cleaned include the tips and sides of ferrules, the interior
walls of alignment sleeves, and the interior and exterior of connector shells.
• For plugs, the interior surfaces of alignment sleeves and the tips of ferrules are to be
cleaned with a cleaning stick treated with the appropriate fluid. (Cleaning sticks with a
slender design are available that allow alignment sleeves to be cleaned without having to
detach them.)
• For jacks, it is important to clean both the tips and sides of the completely protruding
ferrules.
• Both the male and female connector shells tend to attract dust and metal particles, so it is
important to clean both the insides and outsides.
• The fiber end face and ferrule must be absolutely clean before it is inserted into a
transmitter or receiver.
• Mate the connector immediately! Do not let the connector lie around and collect dust
before mating.
• Air can be used to remove lint or loose dust from the port of a transmitter or receiver to be
mated with the connector. Never insert any liquid into the ports.
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