While Fiber Optics are fairly robust, they are manufactured from glass
     and as such require some attention to the handling process.   The
     following are a few pointers for ensuring optimum performance from the
     fiber optic.

     1. When handling fiber optic components, always leave the protective
     dust caps on the connector until you are about to insert into an
     adapter.
     2. Make sure that the end face of the connector NEVER comes in direct
     contact with anything other than approved cleaning materials, or
     another connector via an adapter.
     3. Never dangle the connector in the air.  Doing this can break the
     fiber at the neck of the connector.
     4. Always clean the connector prior to insertion in an adapter with
     the approved tape reel cleaner cartridge.  Follow the diagram on the
     cleaning cartridge.  (Open the cleaning hatch with your thumb.  While
     holding the connector in the other hand place the connector tip in the
     guide groove and rotate the connector, followed by a light dragging
     action to the other end of the groove.  Repeat this process in the 2nd
     guide groove.  The connector should now be clean.)
     5. If the ferrule shaft of the connector is contaminated, or if you do
     not have a cleaning cartridge available, use the Field Service
     Cleaning Process .
     6. Never pull the connector out of an adapter by the fiber!  Always
     pull the connector out by its grips.
     7. Never bend the fiber too much!  Remember that is made from glass
     and will break when bent too far.  A broken fiber will not be apparent
     through its plastic sheath without the aid of a visible fault locator.
     8. When routing the fiber in an assembly, never introduce a bend
     smaller than 4 inches (2 inch bend radius).  When fibers are bent
     tighter than 4 inches, they begin to leak light from the bend area.
     The more you bend the fiber, the more the fiber will leak, up to the
     point of breaking the fiber.
     9. The strain relief tubing interface of the connector or the Laser is
     the weakest point in the pigtail or jumper.  Causing a break at these
     points is much easier than at any other point in the cable assembly.








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Subject: [TECHNET] Fiberoptic device handling
Author:  Steve Mikell <[log in to unmask]> at _Internet