Preventive Maintenance of Fiber Optic Cables and Optics 2006-05

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. Liquid may be released
contaminating the surface of the fiber.
- Do not use lens paper dry. Dry lens paper is extremely abrasive.
- Do not use Acetone as a cleaning solvent on the fiber optical surfaces.
- To ensure the purity of the Methanol or Alcohol, do not insert the lens
tissue, swabs, etc into the liquid. Instead, drip the liquid onto the
material.
- Optical cable cleaning kits such as the Cletop Reel-Type Cleaner
(PN:CLETOP-RL), a Realm Fieldmaster (PN:REALM FP-6), or 3M kits (PN:
4144) are also good solutions (see Figure 6). Follow the instructions for
the cleaning kit you use.
Fig.6 – Fiber cable cleaning kits