Fibre Optics Cleaning Best Practices

The fibre optic connector is dirty and does not pass the microscope IEC 61300-3-35 test? How to clean it?

Very simple:

• Make sure that you clean and check both sides ( connector and adapter) of the connection
• You dry clean and check again. If the test passes you can plug it in, if not then
• You do a wet cleaning, then a dry cleaning and check with the IEC 61300-3-35 test. This step must be repeated until the  is clean. It is important that the end face is always dry cleaned before measurement.

If it doesn’t clean, it’s the wrong cleaner or a poor quality product. There are polishing cracks, adhesive residues, broken fibre ends, etc. Despite the certificate included, not all connectors are 100% factory tested.

Dry cleaning of the fibre optic connector

There are lot of handy and not so handy tools available on the market. To get things done you don’t need them all. In most cases it’s totally enough to have one of following setup

• NTT-AT Cletop Cleaners

This is probably best tool to clean connector ferrule. To reach mating ferrule inside the adapter you need to have adaptor cleaning sticks. This makes it bit uncomfortable, but the result is always best.

There are similar looking products from other manufacturers as well, but by many technicians the NTT-AT one has best overall properties. It’s removing dirt well and doesn’t produce static electricity.

• One-Click Cleaners ™

This is probably most comfortable solution on the market. With One-Click Cleaners ™ its possible to clean both ferrules – the ones on the connector and adapter.  It can be also extended to reach dense places. Original ones are produced by Fujikura for already more then decade, and are proven to be bit better then competition. Cloth has optimal properties for dirt removal, it will not break and head has dual action.

Wet cleaning of the fibre optic connector

There is almost endless selection of products available on the market. Wet and clean wipes, derbis destroyer pens, different sprays etc. Yes, there are niches for all of them but for everyday use you need just

• Alcohol dispenser with 99% purity isopropanol
• Lint free lens paper for optics
• Cleaning sticks to reach adapters

Most of cleaning can be done with just a paper and isopropyl alcohol.

Best practices

To learn best practices, please do not hesitate to participate in one of our fibre optic trainings

Inspect before you connect