Analysis of the Cleanliness and Maintenance Tools for Fiber Optic Patch Cords

In any fiber optic communication system, daily maintenance of fiber optic jumpers is indeed important. During daily maintenance, two factors must be kept in mind.

Cleanliness of Fiber Optic Jumpers

According to industry experts, cleanliness plays a crucial role in the integrity of fiber optic networks. Based on various survey results, it can be safely said that contamination is the biggest risk factor in fiber optic networks. This is because optical fibers are used to transmit signals, and light can easily be intercepted by solid particles, resulting in partial or complete blockage of information flow along the entire link. Here, it is important to understand that the supplier's instructions must be followed when planning the cleaning activities of fiber optic connectors.

Generally, wet cleaning and dry wiping are the two methods widely used for cleaning connectors. In the market, various cleaning solutions are available, such as: connector cleaning pens, connector cleaning kits, cotton swabs, and specialized wiping tissues.

Maintenance Tools for Fiber Optic Jumpers

Ensuring that you have a tidy and clean fiber optic infrastructure is crucial. It is important to clean existing or new fiber optic jumpers before installing or inserting fiber adapters. There are various fiber optic maintenance tools available in the market, using which you can keep your physical network in optimal condition.

Wet wipes

Cleaning fiber connectors by wiping them with a cloth is a very basic and convenient method. In the market, both dry wiping paper and IPA wiping paper can be used. We believe it is better to soak pre-wetted wipes in an appropriate amount of cleaning solution, as every part of these wipes will be soaked. On the other hand, the use of dry wiping paper is not as easy as pre-wetted ones, and for these wipes, cleaning solution must be purchased separately.

Cleaning cassettes and cleaning tapes

Cleaning cassettes and cleaning tapes are considered as alternatives to alcohol-based cleaners and other cleaning solutions. These types of cleaners come with indoor-grade cleaning media that effectively remove dirt, grease, debris, and dust from connector end faces. The anti-scratch structure of these cleaners ensures the safety of optical fiber array. The cleaning media remains covered even when not in use, thus preventing contamination.

Cotton swabs

Cotton swabs provide a basic level of cleaning. You can use cotton swabs to clean connector end faces, adapters, and sealing gaskets.

Connector cleaners

Connector cleaners are simple devices that clean connectors by a mechanism that can be easily pushed. The extendable tip of connector cleaners allows access to hard-to-reach recessed connector areas. These cleaners are designed to provide optimum performance against various pollutants. To achieve the best cleaning effect, you can rotate the connector cleaner by 180 degrees.

Optical microscope

Optical microscopes come in various sizes and shapes. The connectors of these microscopes can be easily adjusted to accommodate the type of fiber optic connector being inspected.

While observing through an optical microscope, visible traces of contaminants, dirt, dust, oil, etc. should be looked for. After cleaning the connector, a clean, neat, and perfect surface should be seen.