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Inspecting and Cleaning Fiber Optic Connections

When connecting fibers to a back module, ensure that you do not touch the end of the fiber, or allow it to become dirty. Small amounts of microscopic dust or other contaminants can seriously impair or disable a fiber optic network. If you touch the end of a fiber prior to connecting it to the back module, or otherwise allow it to become dirty, you must carefully inspect and clean the connection.

This table lists some typical contaminants of a fiber optic connection. The inspection and cleaning procedure is in Inspection and Cleaning Procedure.

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