Preventive Maintenance of Fiber Optic Cables and Optics 2006-05

ManualsBrandsHP ManualsComputer AccessoriesHP X131 10G X2 SC SR Transceiver

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

OF FIBER OPTIC CABLES

AND OPTICS

The end of a fiber optic cable and the inner surface of an optical module lens

constitute optical surfaces that should be properly cleaned and maintained to

ensure optimum reliability and system performance.

Small oil micro-deposits and dust particles on fiber

optic cable optical surfaces may cause a loss of light or

degraded signal power which may ultimately cause

intermittent problems in the optical connection.

Figure 1 shows the oil and dust that can collect on fiber

cable connector tips and canals.

FIG.1 – Fiber Optic Cable Contamination

Laser power density may eventually burn contaminants into the optical surfaces

causing the fiber to produce inaccurate results effectively rendering it unusable.

By extension, contaminated cable connectors may

often transfer contaminants and particulates into the

“Optical Sub-Assembly” (OSA) barrels of the Optical

Module they are inserted into.

Figure 2 shows particulates transferred to the inside

barrel of a module OSA.

FIG.2 – Module OSA Contamination

A general practice of cleaning optical cables and module OSAs is a good

and recommended habit to ensure overall system reliability and peak

performance.

Contamination

Summary of content (6 pages)

PAGE 1
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE OF FIBER OPTIC CABLES AND OPTICS The end of a fiber optic cable and the inner surface of an optical module lens constitute optical surfaces that should be properly cleaned and maintained to ensure optimum reliability and system performance. Small oil micro-deposits and dust particles on fiber optic cable optical surfaces may cause a loss of light or degraded signal power which may ultimately cause intermittent problems in the optical connection.
PAGE 2
Safety Precautions General safety precautions are discussed within this document but care should be taken to consult and follow your specific optical device manuals as well as the safety precautions outlined for the chemical or tool of use. Hewlett-Packard Corporation assumes no liability for customer failure to comply with these requirements. WARNING Never look into the end of an optical interface while the device is operational.
PAGE 3
Cleaning Fiber Optic Cables and Connectors There are multiple ways to clean fiber-optic cables and connectors. Included below are some helpful tips to properly clean fiber optic cables. Notes • Do not allow the end of the fiber optic cable to make contact with any surface including fingers. • Do not bend the fiber cable. Bending the cable may cause internal breaks along the fiber resulting in poor performance or instability. • Optics and optic coatings are easily chipped and/or scratched.
PAGE 4
. Examine the surface of the fiber under high intensity light using a magnifier, an optical loop, or a video inspection tool as shown in Figure 5. If streaks or contaminants still remain, repeat the process using a fresh lens tissue. Fig.5 – 400X Video Inspection Scope 5. Immediately install a protective cover over the end of the cable to avoid re-contamination or insert the fiber for immediate use. Notes - Do not tip the can of CDA while blowing.
PAGE 5
Cleaning Optical Transceivers The best way to clean a transceiver port is t o remove particles using a stream of Clean Dry Air (CDA). Included below are some helpful tips to properly clean fiber optic modules. Notes • Always handle optical modules in an ESD safe area using the proper safety precautions. • Ensure that the module power is off and handle the modules with care. • Always use CDA or an approved canned compressed air supply. • Always hold the can of compressed air upright.
PAGE 6
The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.