Technical data

650 Chapter 22
Connector Care
Using, Inspecting, and Cleaning RF Connectors
Connector Care
Connector Wear and Damage
Look for metal particles from the connector threads and other signs of wear (such as
discoloration or roughness). Visible wear can affect measurement accuracy and
repeatability. Discard or repair any device with a damaged connector. A bad
connector can ruin a good connector on the first mating. A magnifying glass or
jeweler’s loupe is useful during inspection.
Cleaning Procedure
1. Blow particulate matter from connectors using an environmentally-safe aerosol
such as Ultrajet. This product is recommended by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency and contains chlorodifluoromethane.
2. Use an alcohol wipe to wipe connector surfaces. Wet a small swab with alcohol
(from the alcohol wipe) and clean the connector with the swab.
3. Allow the alcohol to evaporate off the connector before making connections
CAUTION Do not allow excessive alcohol to run into the connector. Excessive alcohol entering
the connector collects in pockets in the connector’s internal parts. The liquid will
cause random changes in the connector’s electrical performance. If excessive
alcohol gets into a connector, lay it aside to allow the alcohol to evaporate. This may
take up to three days. If you attach that connector to another device it can take much
longer for trapped alcohol to evaporate.