JAY TOURIGNY FIBRE CLEANING
For next generation optical networks to manage the enormous amount of data and high connectivity speeds demanded by the consumer, it is essential that a fibre network is properly installed and maintained. This means ensuring that all fibre and connections are kept perfectly clean to avoid potential problems which could result in unreliable performance or a complete system shut down, explains Jay Tourigny , senior vice president, MicroCare. CLEANING FIBRE OPTICS: THE DO’S AND DON’TS
D ue to the meticulous nature of maintaining a fibre optic network, it is critical that technicians are properly trained to know exactly how to correctly handle and clean termini end-faces. Even the smallest speck of dust left on a connector can prove detrimental to a network. However, because you cannot see the actual fibre end-face without an inspection scope, the cleaning process is not always obvious. It is therefore important to understand and implement proper fibre cleaning procedures to ensure the network’s performance is reliable. Technicians must use tools and fluids engineered specifically for cleaning fibre optics and use them properly to ensure fibre optic cleaning success. There are specific dos and don’ts when it comes to the correct cleaning procedures. When cleaning end-faces, always remember to use the three-step process of inspect, clean, inspect. STEP 1 INSPECT • Don’t look directly at the laser-energised fibre optic termini with your eyes, and don’t expose skin to direct or scattered
source of contamination and reduce the number of cleaning rounds. • Do determine which cleaning technique is appropriate for the contaminant and the fibre optic end-face. Do you need a wipe, a swab, or cleaning fluid? Know what you need in order to perform an efficient cleaning process. Consider purchasing a ready-to-use fibre optic cleaning kit that includes everything needed to clean most commonly used connectors. STEP 2 CLEAN • Do clean in an enclosed area when possible. If there is a lot of dust and debris, wipe the outside of the mated pair before disconnecting to remove the heavy soil first. • Do clean any inspection tools and the adapters that will be used to inspect to prevent any cross-contamination. After performing those initial cleaning steps, then you are ready to clean the fibre connectors. • Do thoroughly wash your hands before handling the fibre optic connectors and the cleaning supplies. Clean hands are less likely to transfer dirt and oils that can compromise the cleaning process. • Don’t apply a moisturiser or lotion to your hands prior to cleaning the termini.
radiation. Most laser and LED light sources used in fibre optics operate in the near-infrared and infrared wavelengths. While they are invisible to the eye, they can cause significant damage in the form of corneal, retinal, or skin burns. Only view the termini with equipment engineered to safely inspect fibre optic end-faces. Be safe and always treat all termini as though they are laser- energised. • Do learn what each type of contaminant looks like. It is important to know which contaminants you are working with in order to properly clean the fibre optic end-face. • Contaminant can come in many forms and from many sources including fingerprint oils from the technician, lint from clothing, exhaust fumes and moisture from the atmosphere or simply dust. Dust particles are one of the most common contaminants and can originate frommany sources, including dead skin, plant pollen and cardboard boxes. • Do a thorough examination to find the type of contaminant(s) on the end- face. It might just be one particulate or a combination of dust, oil, and salts. Understand what you’re facing in the beginning to successfully eliminate the
16
| ISSUE 21 | Q3 2020
www.opticalconnectionsnews.com
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online