Harris HMX6803+ - Inspecting and Cleaning Fiber Optic Connections

HMX6803+ and OP+HMX+ Installation and Operation Manual 21
Copyright © 2009, Harris Corporation
Chapter 2: Installation
2. Grasp the extractor handle on the installed module, and then pull the
module out of its slot. Use the handle as a lever.
3. Close the front panel to ensure proper frame ventilation.
Back Module
Follow these steps to remove a back module from a frame:
1. Remove the front module, as described above.
2. Unscrew the top of the corresponding back module, and then tip it towards
you.
3. Pull the bottom lip of the back module from its slot.
4. Reinstall a new or blank back plate in the empty slot to ensure proper frame
ventilation.
5. Reinstall the front module.
Inspecting and Cleaning Fiber Optic Connections
Small amounts of microscopic dust or other contaminants can seriously impair
or disable a fiber optic network. To ensure that your network operates reliably,
you must carefully inspect and clean each connection when installing OPTO+
products.
Table 2-4 lists some typical contaminants of a fiber optic connection. The
inspection and cleaning procedure begins on page 22.
Important Points
• Before you begin cleaning, always inspect the fiber connections.
• Inspect and clean both fiber ends every time you make a connection.
• Keep a protective cap on unplugged fiber connectors.
• Do not touch the end of a fiber.
• Store unused protective caps in a clean resealable container, located nearby
for easy access.
Table 2-4. Typical Contaminants
Contaminant Comments
Dust particle, 1 micron Can block up to 1% of the light transmission,
creating a loss of 0.05 dB
Dust particle, 9 microns Although microscopic, the particle can completely
block the fiber core
Human hair Typically 50 to 75 microns in diameter
Oil Frequently caused by touching
Film residues Can accumulate from vapors or smoke
Powdery coatings Can be left behind after water or other solvents
evaporate