Separable connectors are a critical element affecting the quality of the transmission path of the optical fiber. As they provide (theoretically low-loss) connecting track sections, they are essential components of each fiber-optic network. Nevertheless, despite the apparent simplicity of construction and operation of fiber optic connectors, network operators, and technical teams, one can easily have headaches while working with them. In most cases, failures are caused by dirt fiber optic connectors.
Dirt is not only a „here and now” problem but can cause difficulties throughout a whole operation. For example, we can look at a microscopic picture (on your left) that shows the same connector – just after taking it out from the original packaging and after an unintentional touch with (clean!) hand. The attenuation from the initial 0.16 dB increased to an alarming 1.8 dB.
A dirty connector is not just one isolated problem. It may often be a source of infection in the entire network – a lot of dirt (dust) is tough enough to scratch and damage the surface of the connector. Combining the dirty connector with another one, we also damage it permanently.
It is also worth remembering that over time dirt may migrate due to vibrations, changes of temperature, humidity, or even disconnection and reconnection. Ground that seemed to be away from the core for some time and not cause any attenuation changes may interrupt our network transmission in a week, quarter, or year.
Organic dirt is also problematic – initially, it may generate only minor changes in attenuation. Still, over time, especially when using high-power light sources causing carbonization of the impurities, attenuation will significantly increase.
What are the consequences of using dirty and scratched connectors?
How to keep dirt out of networks?
Dirt and other impurities shall be eliminated during the installation – this will help prevent failures and interruptions in transmission. We need to make our installers aware that preserving cleanliness is crucial and equip our technical teams with the necessary tools and inspection equipment. What do we need to put in the installer’s tool suitcase? Fibrain PRO-Cleaner, our new product group, offers all essentials.
Fibrain Pro-Cleaner – all you need to preserve cleanliness
Fibrain PRO-Cleaner offers cleaning accessories that help us preserve the cleanliness in our networks. The product offer includes:
One-click cleaners
Reel-type cleaners
Adapter cleaning sticks
