Maintenance and repair of cable / connector infrastructure is of primary concern to users.
* Fiber optic contacts need to be inspected and kept clean, just like a camera lens.
* Maintenance is simple process of regular inspection & cleaning when necessary.
* For reliable operation of the system it is essential for the ferrule end faces of any fiber optic contact to be clean and free from any debris.
* It is strongly recommended that ferrule end faces are regularly inspected in-situ using commercially available video inspection microscope e.g. Lightel.
* It is essential to clean contacts on both sides of a mated pair if one is dirty.
The Process
* Cleaning the LEMO contact is very simple using cotton buds.
* If necessary, remove alignment sleeve using removal tool.
* Clean ferrule end face using one cotton bud soaked in Isopropyl Alcohol or a Fiber Optic Cleaning Solution, then dry the end face using a second dry cotton bud.
* If alignment sleeve has been removed, replace the alignment sleeve. Note: It must “click” home.
* Blister pack buds are pre-soaked
* NOTE: Alignment sleeve is retained on the tool throughout the process, so it cannot become lost or contaminated.
* 2 other common methods - FerruleMate and Aefos AFC3000. Useful for emergencies/OB use.
* If such tools used, regular maintenance using cotton buds still recommended.
Conclusions
* A good cleaning process is essential for the correct performance of any fibre optic system
* The use of an inspection scope is vital to determine if cleaning is needed – Rule is “if your disconnect it, clean it”
* Proprietary cleaners are available but produce mixed results.
* The best ( and lowest cost) solution is still the use of Cotton buds and Isopropyl alcohol or Fiber Optic Cleaning Solution
* Remember: If the alignment device has been removed during the cleaning process it must be replaced and “clicked” home.