User manual

* Note that applying solvent directly from the pen to a swab will result in excess solvent on the swab.
What To Avoid When Cleaning End-Faces
There are as many different cleaning techniques as there are fiber optic network technicians. While some techniques
work some of the time, reliable and lasting performance of your fiber links require inspection and proper cleaning
processes with every mating. Here are some well-known bad habits:
Dry Cleaning:
Traditionally, dry cleaning has been proven to be only partially effective in eliminating contaminants from fiber end-
faces and connectors. The challenge had been that the dry cleaning materials were either not good enough to uplift
the various types of dirt or greasy contaminants, or they actually introduced static to the fiber ferrule that attracts dust.
With technological advancement and better dry cleaning materials, however, a new class of fiber cleaning tools have
been created to provide a cost effective and efficient solution for cleaning more than 50% of contaminants from
optical networks. It is therefore very important to avoid using simple swabs or cleaning papers to perform dry
cleaning on any fiber connectors. Instead, use Fluke Networks’ Quick Clean Cleaner to eliminate most of the dust
and harmful particles in your fiber plant.
Wet Cleaning:
Cleaning with only a pre-soaked wet wipe or excessive solvent will leave liquid behind on the end-face which also
causes problems. As that excess solvent dries, it can leave behind of film of dissolved contaminants that were never
properly removed. In addition, residual isopropyl alcohol (IPA) can leave behind a “halo” as it dries that not only
causes attenuation, but also can be very hard to remove. No solvent should remain at the conclusion of a cleaning.
Canned Air and Dusters:
Canned air and dusters are ineffective and should not be used to clean end-faces. The only thing dusters do is blow
large particles around. On a patch cord, this may be effective, but inside a port this can result in those same particles
settling elsewhere. Dusters are ineffective on smaller, statically-charged particles and totally useless on oil-based
contaminants such as buffer gel or body oil. Last, dusters often expel a propellant that becomes a whole new
contaminant that now requires an effective cleaning process to remove.
Thinking New Equals Clean:
Do not be lulled into thinking that end-faces on factory-terminated patch cords or pigtails will be clean when they are
brand new and covered with a dust cap. Though dust caps are great at preventing damage to the end-face, the caps
themselves can be a source of contamination. The plastic used to create dust caps will outgas a residue as its
plasticizers deteriorate over time and the surface of the cap may contain mold-release substances used in their high-
speed production process. Don’t be surprised to find a contaminated end-face upon removal of a protective cap. For
repeatable and reliable end-face cleaning, always use Fluke Networks’ tools to follow the recommended wet and dry
process.