216 DX-700 • User’s Guide • Rev 02
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Proper Fiber Optic Cable Maintenance
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To maintain the optimum operating conditions, fiber optic cable requires proper care and
handling. Please follow these basic guidelines:
• Do not stretch, puncture, or crush the fiber optic cable.
• Always maintain the minimum bend radius that is specified by the fiber optic cable
manufacturer. To avoid fractures of the glass, do not exceed these limits!
• Avoid overtightening tie wraps that are placed around the cable. This action may
result in micro-bends, which in turn results in excess attenuation.
• Always keep the dust caps on the cable ends until you make the connections. Re-
connect the dust caps when the cable is disconnected. Refer to the “
Securing the
Dust Cap on the Fiber Optic Cable” section on page 213 for more information.
• Do not polish the fiber optic connectors with a cloth made of synthetic fibers. This
action will charge up the fiber and attract dust.
• Protect the exposed ends from contact with all surfaces. Contact with hard
surfaces may scratch or chip the end, causing permanent damage.
• Do not touch the exposed fiber ends with your finger, as this action will leave oil
residue on the fiber.
• Do not use canned or compressed air to clean the connectors.
• Clean each connector each time it is inserted into an adapter. Dirty connectors
will contaminate adapters. Clean all suspect surfaces with a Reel Cleaner, Stick
Cleaner, or optic grade alcohol and wipes.
• To reduce condensation, ensure that the fiber end is dried after cleaning. Wipes
should be used once, and then discarded.
• To ensure proper alignment, avoid tilting the connector during insertion. This
action also prevents damage or scratching to the fiber end.
• Use the connector strain relief whenever pulling on the fiber cable. Pulling on the
fiber may damage the glass.
• Always store protective covers in a clean container. Always clean contaminated
protective covers prior to use.
Note
The minimum bend radius is usually 10-20 times the cable's
outer diameter.
