Connector Inspection Technique

This inspection technique is done with the use of fiberscopes in order to view the endface. A fiberscope is a customized microscope used in order to inspect optical fiber components. The fiberscope should provide at least 200x total magnification. Specific adapters are needed to properly inspect the endface of most connector types, for example: 1.25 mm, 2.5 mm, or APC connectors.

Tools

• Clean, resealable container for the endcaps

• Fiberscope

• Bulkhead probe

Figure 1 shows different kinds of fiberscopes.

Figure 1

The bulkhead probe is a handheld fiberscope used in order to inspect connectors in a bulkhead, backplane, or receptacle port. It should provide at least 200x total magnification displayed on a video monitor. Handheld portable monitors are also available. Specific adapters are needed in order to properly inspect the endface of most connector types.

Figure 2 shows a handheld fiberscope with probe and adapter tip for 1.25 mm connector.

Figure 2

Figure 3 shows two types of handheld fiberscopes.

Figure 3

Caution: Read the reminders and warnings before you begin this process.

Complete these steps in order to inspect the connector:

1. Make sure that the lasers are turned off before you begin the inspection.

 Warning: Invisible laser radiation might be emitted from disconnected fibers or connectors. Do not stare into beams or view directly with optical instruments.

1. Remove the protective cap and store it in a clean resealable container.

2. Verify the style of connector you inspect and put the appropriate inspection adapter or probe on your equipment.

3. Insert the fiber connector into the fiberscope adapter, and adjust the focus ring so that you see a clear endface image. Figure 4 shows a clean single mode connector endface.

Figure 4

1. Or, place the tip of the handheld probe into the bulkhead connector and adjust the focus.

Figure 5 shows the handheld probe inserted into a bulkhead connection.

Figure 5

1. On the video monitor, verify that there is no contamination present on the connector endface.

Tip: See the examples in " Sample Images of Contamination Conditions" for illustrations of different types of contamination.

1. Clean the endface and reinspect, as necessary. Refer to the appropriate section:

• Pigtails and Patch Cords Cleaning Techniques

• Bulkheads and Receptacles Cleaning Techniques 

2. Immediately plug the clean connector into the mating clean connector in order to reduce the risk of recontamination.

Related Knowledge:

• Fiber Optic Patch Cord Introduction

• detect optical fiber jumper

• Fiber Path Cord Production Tools & Procedures & Notes

• Benefits and significance of cleaning the fiber patch cord