keysight lightwave test and measurement equipment · 4 cleaning guide for lightwave test and...

Keysight Lightwave Test and Measurement Equipment

Cleaning Procedures

Cleaning Procedures for Lightwave Test and Measurement Equipment 1

Notices© Keysight Technologies 2006, 2014

No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means (including electronic storage and retrieval or transla-tion into a foreign language) without prior agreement and written consent from Key-sight Technologies as governed by United States and international copyright laws.

Manual Part Number

5989-4473EN

Edition

Edition 2, August 2014

Printed in Germany

Keysight Technologies

Herrenberger Str. 130

71034 Boeblingen, Germany

Warranty

The material contained in this docu-ment is provided “as is,” and is sub-ject to being changed, without notice, in future editions. Further, to the max-imum extent permitted by applicable law, Keysight disclaims all warran-ties, either express or implied, with regard to this manual and any infor-mation contained herein, including but not limited to the implied warran-ties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Keysight shall not be liable for errors or for inciden-tal or consequential damages in con-nection with the furnishing, use, or performance of this document or of any information contained herein. Should Keysight and the user have a separate written agreement with warranty terms covering the material in this document that conflict with these terms, the warranty terms in the separate agreement shall control.

Technology Licenses

The hardware and/or software described in this document are furnished under a license and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.

Restricted Rights Legend

If software is for use in the performance of a U.S. Government prime contract or sub-contract, Software is delivered and licensed as “Commercial computer soft-ware” as defined in DFAR 252.227-7014 (June 1995), or as a “commercial item” as defined in FAR 2.101(a) or as “Restricted computer software” as defined in FAR

52.227-19 (June 1987) or any equivalent agency regulation or contract clause. Use, duplication or disclosure of Software is subject to Keysight Technologies’ standard commercial license terms, and non-DOD Departments and Agencies of the U.S. Gov-ernment will receive no greater than Restricted Rights as defined in FAR 52.227-19(c)(1-2) (June 1987). U.S. Govern-ment users will receive no greater than Limited Rights as defined in FAR 52.227-14 (June 1987) or DFAR 252.227-7015 (b)(2) (November 1995), as applicable in any technical data.

Safety Notices

CAUTION

A CAUTION notice denotes a haz-ard. It calls attention to an operat-ing procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to the product or loss of important data. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING

A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or the like that, if not correctly per-formed or adhered to, could result in personal injury or death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING notice until the indicated condi-tions are fully understood and met.

1 Overview 5

2 Safety Precautions 6

3 Why is it important to clean optical devices? 7

4 What do I need for proper cleaning? 8

4.1 Standard Cleaning Equipment 8

Dust and shutter caps 8

Isopropyl alcohol 8

Cotton swabs 9

Soft tissues 9

Pipe cleaner 10

Compressed air 10

4.2 Additional Cleaning Equipment 11

Video Microscope with a magnification range up to 480X 11

Ultrasonic bath 12

Warm water and liquid soap 12

Polymer film 12

Infrared Sensor Card 13

5 Preserving Connectors 13

5.1 Making Connections 13

5.2 Dust Caps and Shutter Caps 13

5.3 Immersion Oil and Other Index Matching Compounds 14

5.4 Cleaning Instrument Housings 14

5.5 Cleaning Connectors 14

5.6 Cleaning non-lensed Connector 16

5.7 Cleaning Adapter 18

6 Which Cleaning Procedure should I use ? 19

6.1 How to clean connectors 22

6.2 How to clean connector adapters 23

6.3 How to clean connector interfaces 24

6.4 How to clean bare fiber adapters 25

6.5 How to clean lenses 26

6.6 How to clean instruments with a fixed connector interface26

6.7 How to clean instruments with an optical glass plate 27

6.8 How to clean instruments with a physical contact interface28

6.9 How to clean instruments with a recessed lens interface 29

6.10 How to clean optical devices which are sensitive to mechanical stress and pressure 30

Cleaning Guide for Lightwave Test and Measurement Equipment, Edition 2 3

6.11 How to clean metal filters or attenuator gratings 31

7 Additional Cleaning Information 32

7.1 How to clean bare fiber ends 32

7.2 How to clean large area lenses and mirrors 32

8 Other Cleaning Hints 34

8.1 Making the connection 34

8.2 Lens cleaning papers 34

8.3 Immersion oil and other index matching compounds 34

8.4 Cleaning the housing and the mainframe 35

9 Keysight Technologies' Test and Measurement Support, Services, and Assistance 36

4 Cleaning Guide for Lightwave Test and Measurement Equipment, Edition 2

Keysight Lightwave Test and Measurement EquipmentCleaning Procedures

Cleaning Information

1. Overview

Lightwave connectors are used to connect two fiber ends together. These connections may be used to join cables between optical ports on devices, laser sources, receivers, patch panels, terminals and many other types of systems or components.

Fiber optic cables are used at different wavelengths, in single or multi- mode, and in different environments. There are a variety of sizes, core/cladding combinations, jackets, and indexes of refraction. In general, different types of cables do not work well together: cables must match each other and the system.

However, regardless of the cable type, the connectors have only one function: to provide a direct and low- loss optical signal transition from one fiber end to another. When these connectors are used in a measurement system, repeatability becomes an important factor.

Lightwave connectors differ from electrical or microwave system connectors. In a fiber optic system, light is transmitted through an extremely small fiber core. Because fiber cores are often 9 microns (0.009 mm) or less in diameter, and dust particles range from tenths of a micron to several microns in diameter, dust and very minute contamination on the end of the fiber core can degrade the performance of the connector interface (where the two cores meet). Therefore, the connector must be precisely aligned and the connector interface free of trapped foreign material.

Connector (or insertion) loss is one important performance characteristic of a lightwave connector. Typical values are less than 1 dB of loss, and sometimes as little as 0.1 dB of loss with high performance connectors. Return loss is another important factor. It is a measure of reflection: the less reflection the better (the larger the return loss, the smaller the reflection). The best physically contacting connectors have return losses better than 55dB, although 20 to 30 dB is more common.

Causes of connector loss and reflections include core misalignment; differences in the numerical aperture of two fibers; spacing and air gaps; reflections caused by damaged, worn, or loose fiber ends; and the improper use and removal of index matching compounds.

Achieving the best possible connection, where the fiber end faces are flush (no air gap) and properly aligned, is dependent upon two things:

– the type of connector and

– using the proper cleaning and connecting techniques.

If the connection is lossy or reflective, light will not make a smooth transition. If the transition is not smooth or the connection is not repeatable, measurement data will be less accurate. For this reason, lightwave connections can make a critical difference in optical measurement systems.

2. Safety Precautions

The following Cleaning Instructions contain some general safety precautions, which must be observed during all phases of cleaning. Consult your specific optical device manuals or guides for full information on safety matters.

Please try, whenever possible, to use physically contacting connectors, and dry connections. Clean the connectors, interfaces, and bushings carefully after use.

If you are unsure of the correct cleaning procedure for your optical device, we recommend that you first try cleaning a dummy or test device.

NOTE

Keysight Technologies assumes no liability for the customer's failure to comply to these requirements.

WARNING

Please follow the following safety rules.

Do not remove instrument covers when operating.

Ensure that the instrument is switched off throughout the cleaning procedures.

4 Cleaning Procedures for Lightwave Test and Measurement Equipment

Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

Make sure that you disable all sources when you are cleaning any optical interfaces.

Under no circumstances look into the end of an optical device attached to optical outputs when the device is operational. The laser radiation is not visible to the human eye, but it can seriously damage your eyesight.

To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the instrument from the mains before cleaning. Use a dry cloth, or one slightly dampened with water, to clean the external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.

Do not install parts or perform any unauthorized modification to optical devices.

Refer servicing only to qualified and authorized personnel.

3. Why is it important to clean optical devices?

In transmission links optical fiber cores are about 9 um (0.00035") in diameter. Dust and other particles, however, can range from tenths to hundredths of microns in diameter. Their comparative size means that they can cover a part of the end of a fiber core, and as a result will reduce the performance of your system.

Furthermore, the power density may burn dust into the fiber and cause additional damage (for example, 0 dBm optical power in a single mode fiber causes a power density of approximately 16 million W/m2). If this happens, measurements become inaccurate and non- repeatable.

Cleaning is, therefore, an essential yet difficult task. Unfortunately, when comparing most published cleaning recommendations, you will discover that they contain several inconsistencies. In this section, we want to suggest ways to help you clean your various optical devices, and thus significantly improve the accuracy and repeatability of your lightwave measurements.


4. What do I need for proper cleaning?

Some Standard Cleaning Equipment is necessary for cleaning your instrument. For certain cleaning procedures, you may also require certain Additional Cleaning Equipment.

4.1 Standard Cleaning EquipmentBefore you can start your cleaning procedure you need the following standard equipment:

• Dust and shutter caps

• Isopropyl alcohol

• Cotton swabs

• Soft tissues

• Pipe cleaner

• Compressed air

Dust and shutter capsAll of Keysight Technologies’ lightwave instruments are delivered with either laser shutter caps or dust caps on the lightwave adapter. Any cables come with covers to protect the cable ends from damage or contamination.

We suggest these protective coverings should be kept on the equipment at all times, except when your optical device is in use. Be careful when replacing dust caps after use. Do not press the bottom of the cap onto the fiber too hard, as any dust in the cap can scratch or pollute your fiber surface.

If you need further dust caps, please contact your nearest Keysight Technologies sales office.

Isopropyl alcoholThis solvent is usually available from any local pharmaceutical supplier or chemist's shop.


If you use isopropyl alcohol to clean your optical device, do not immediately dry the surface with compressed air (except when you are cleaning very sensitive optical devices). This is because the dust and the dirt is solved and will leave behind filmy deposits after the alcohol is evaporated. You should therefore first remove the alcohol and the dust with a soft tissue, and then use compressed air to blow away any remaining filaments.

If possible avoid using denatured alcohol containing additives. Instead, apply alcohol used for medical purposes.

WARNING

Never drink this alcohol, as it may seriously damage to your health.

Do not use any other solvents, as some may damage plastic materials and claddings. Acetone, for example, will dissolve the epoxy used with fiber optic connectors. To avoid damage, only use isopropyl alcohol.

Cotton swabsWe recommend that you use swabs such as Q- tips or other cotton swabs normally available from local distributors of medical and hygiene products (for example, a supermarket or a chemist's shop). You may be able to obtain various sizes of swab. If this is the case, select the smallest size for your smallest devices.

Ensure that you use natural cotton swabs. Foam swabs will often leave behind filmy deposits after cleaning.

Use care when cleaning, and avoid pressing too hard onto your optical device with the swab. Too much pressure may scratch the surface, and could cause your device to become misaligned. It is advisable to rub gently over the surface using only a small circular movement.

Swabs should be used straight out of the packet, and never used twice. This is because dust and dirt in the atmosphere, or from a first cleaning, may collect on your swab and scratch the surface of your optical device.

Soft tissuesThese are available from most stores and distributors of medical and hygiene products such as supermarkets or chemists' shops.


We recommend that you do not use normal cotton tissues, but multi- layered soft tissues made from non- recycled cellulose. Cellulose tissues are very absorbent and softer. Consequently, they will not scratch the surface of your device over time.

Use care when cleaning, and avoid pressing on your optical device with the tissue. Pressing too hard may lead to scratches on the surface or misalignment of your device. Just rub gently over the surface using a small circular movement.

Use only clean, fresh soft tissues and never apply them twice. Any dust and dirt from the air which collects on your tissue, or which has gathered after initial cleaning, may scratch and pollute your optical device.

Pipe cleanerPipe cleaners can be purchased from tobacconists, and come in various shapes and sizes.The most suitable one to select for cleaning purposes has soft bristles, which will not produces scratches.

There are many different kinds of pipe cleaner available from tobacco nists.

The best way to use a pipe cleaner is to push it in and out of the device opening (for example, when cleaning an interface). While you are cleaning, you should slowly rotate the pipe cleaner.

Only use pipe cleaners on connector interfaces or on feed through adapters. Do not use them on optical head adapters, as the center of a pipe cleaner is hard metal and can damage the bottom of the adapter.

Your pipe cleaner should be new when you use it. If it has collected any dust or dirt, this can scratch or contaminate your device.

The tip and center of the pipe cleaner are made of metal. Avoid accidentally pressing these metal parts against the inside of the device, as this can cause scratches.

Compressed airCompressed air can be purchased from any laboratory supplier.

It is essential that your compressed air is free of dust, water and oil. Only use clean, dry air. If not, this can lead to filmy deposits or scratches on the surface of your connector. This will reduce the performance of your transmission system.


When spraying compressed air, hold the can upright. If the can is held at a slant, propellant could escape and dirty your optical device. First spray into the air, as the initial stream of compressed air could contain some condensation or propellant. Such condensation leaves behind a filmy deposit.

Please be friendly to your environment and use a CFC- free aerosol.

4.2 Additional Cleaning EquipmentSome Cleaning Procedures need the following equipment, which is not required to clean each instrument:

• Video Microscope with a magnification range up to 480X

• Ultrasonic bath

• Warm water and liquid soap

• Polymer film

• Infrared Sensor Card

Video Microscope with a magnification range up to 480X

A video microscope helps you to estimate the type and degree of dirt on your device. You can use a microscope to choose an appropriate cleaning method, and then to examine the results. You can also use your microscope to judge whether your optical device (such as a connector) is severely scratched and is, therefore, causing inaccurate measurements.

CAUTION

Always remove both ends of fiber- optic cables from any instrument, system, or device before visually inspecting the fiber ends.

WARNING

Disable all optical sources before disconnecting fiber- optic cables. Failure to do so may result in permanent injury to your eyes.

The video microscope provides an indirect view of the fiber and connector on a screen and does not expose the eye to any laser radiation hazard.


The digital video microscope gives you the possibility to store the image of your optical connection as a bitmap or JPEG graphic and put it in any documentation for further analysis.

N3988A - Video Microscope (Laptop is not included)

Ultrasonic bathUltrasonic baths are also available from photography or laboratory suppliers or specialist mail order companies.

An ultrasonic bath will gently remove fat and other stubborn dirt from your optical devices. This helps increase the life span of the optical devices.

Warm water and liquid soapOnly use water if you are sure that there is no other way of cleaning your optical device without causing corrosion or damage. Do not use hot water, as this may cause mechanical stress, which can damage your optical device.

Ensure that your liquid soap has no abrasive properties or perfume in it. You should also avoid normal washing up liquid, as it can cover your device in an iridescent film after it has been air dried.

Some lenses and mirrors also have a special coating, which may be sensitive to mechanical stress, or to fat and liquids. For this reason we recommend you do not touch them.

If you are not sure how sensitive your device is to cleaning, please contact the manufacturer or your sales distributor.


Polymer filmPolymer film is available from laboratory suppliers or specialist mail order companies.

Using polymer film is a gentle method of cleaning extremely sensitive devices, such as reference reflectors and mirrors.

Infrared Sensor CardInfrared sensor cards are available from laboratory suppliers or specialist mail order companies.

With this card you are able to control the shape of laser light emitted. The invisible laser beam is projected onto the sensor card, then becomes visible to the normal eye as a round spot.

WARNING

Take care never to look into the end of a fiber or any other optical component, when they are in use. This is because the laser can seriously damage your eyes.

5. Preserving Connectors

Listed below are some hints on how best to keep your connectors in the best possible condition.

5.1 Making ConnectionsBefore you make any connection you must ensure that all cables and connectors are clean. If they are dirty, use the appropriate cleaning procedure.

When inserting the ferrule of a patchcord into a connector or an adapter, make sure that the fiber end does not touch the outside of the mating connector or adapter. Otherwise you will rub the fiber end against an unsuitable surface, producing scratches and dirt deposits on the surface of your fiber.


5.2 Dust Caps and Shutter CapsBe careful when replacing dust caps after use. Do not press the bottom of the cap onto the fiber as any dust in the cap can scratch or dirty your fiber surface.

When you have finished cleaning, put the dust cap back on, or close the shutter cap if the equipment is not going to be used immediately.

Always keep the caps on the equipment when it is not in use.

All of Keysight Technologies’ lightwave instruments and accessories are shipped with either laser shutter caps or dust caps. If you need additional or replacement dust caps, contact your nearest Keysight Technologies Sales/Service Office.

5.3 Immersion Oil and Other Index Matching CompoundsWherever possible, do not use immersion oil or other index matching compounds with your device. They are liable to impair and dirty the surface of the device. In addition, the characteristics of your device can be changed and your measurement results affected.

5.4 Cleaning Instrument HousingsUse a dry and very soft cotton tissue to clean the instrument housing and the keypad. Do not open the instruments as there is a danger of electric shock, or electrostatic discharge. Opening the instrument can cause damage to sensitive components, and in addition your warranty will be voided.

Item KeysightPart Number

FC/PC dust cap 08154- 44102

DIN dust cap 08154- 44103

HMS10/dust cap 08154- 44101


5.5 Cleaning ConnectorsThe procedures in this section provide the proper steps for cleaning fiber- optic cables and Keysight Technologies universal adapters. The initial cleaning, using the alcohol as a solvent, gently removes any grit and oil. If a caked- on layer of material is still present, (this can happen if the beryllium- copper sides of the ferrule retainer get scraped and deposited on the end of the fiber during insertion of the cable), a second cleaning should be performed. It is not uncommon for a cable or connector to require more than one cleaning.

CAUTION

Keysight Technologies strongly recommends that index matching compounds not be applied to their instruments and accessories. Some compounds, such as gels, may be difficult to remove and can contain damaging particulates. If you think the use of such compounds is necessary, refer to the compound manufacturer for information on application and cleaning procedures.


5.6 Cleaning non-lensed Connector

CAUTION

Do not use any type of foam swab to clean optical fiber ends. Foam swabs can leave filmy deposits on fiber ends that can degrade performance.

WARNING

Avoid direct skin contact with the isopropyl alcohol.

Step

Description

1 • Apply pure isopropyl alcohol to a clean lint- free cotton swab or lens paper.

– Cotton swabs can be used as long as no cotton fibers remain on the fiber end after cleaning.

2 • Clean the ferrules and other parts of the connector while avoiding the end of the fiber.


3 • Apply isopropyl alcohol to a new clean lint- free cotton swab or lens paper.

4 • Clean the fiber end with the swab or lens paper.

– Do not scrub during this initial cleaning because grit can be caught in the swab and become a gouging element.

5 • Immediately dry the fiber end with a clean, dry, lint- free cotton swab or lens paper.

Step

Description


Do not shake, tip, or invert compressed air canisters, because this releases particles in the can into the air. Refer to instructions provided on the compressed air canister.

• If the performance, after the initial cleaning, seems poor try cleaning the connector again. Often a second cleaning will restore proper performance. The second cleaning should be more arduous with a scrubbing action.

5.7 Cleaning Adapter The fiber- optic input and output connectors on many Keysight Technologies instruments employ a universal adapter such as those shown in the following picture. These adapters allow you to connect the instrument to different types of fiber- optic cables.

Universal adapters.

Apply isopropyl alcohol to a clean foam swab.

Cotton swabs can be used as long as no cotton fibers remain after cleaning. The foam swabs listed in this section’s introduction are small enough to fit into adapters.

Although foam swabs can leave filmy deposits, these deposits are very thin, and the risk of other contamination buildup on the inside of adapters greatly outweighs the risk of contamination by foam swabs.

6 • Blow across the connector end face from a distance of 6 to 8 inches using filtered, dry, compressed air. Aim the compressed air at a shallow angle to the fiber end face.

– Nitrogen gas or compressed dust remover can also be used.

7 • As soon as the connector is dry, connect or cover it for later use.

Step

Description


• Clean the adapter with the foam swab.

• Dry the inside of the adapter with a clean, dry, foam swab.

• Blow through the adapter using filtered, dry, compressed air.

• Nitrogen gas or compressed dust remover can also be used. Do not shake, tip, or invert compressed air canisters, because this releases particles in the can into the air. Refer to instructions provided on the compressed air canister.

6. Which Cleaning Procedure should I use ?

Light dirt

If you just want to clean away light dirt, observe the following procedure for all devices:

• Use compressed air to blow away large particles.

• Clean the device with a dry cotton swab.

• Use compressed air to blow away any remaining filament left by the swab.

Heavy dirt

If the above procedure is not enough to clean your instrument, follow one of the procedures below.

If you are unsure of how sensitive your device is to cleaning, please contact the manufacturer or your sales distributor

Table 1

Keysight Product

Description Procedure

81000*A

81001*A

81000BA

Head Adapters (Screwed)

Head Adapter (D- Shape)

Bare Fiber Adapters: (BA and CA)

6.2

6.2

6.8

81000*B

81000BT

81000BC

Bare Fiber Adapter

Bare Fiber Adapter (Screwed)

Bare Fiber Adapter (D- Shape)

6.3

6.2

6.2


81000*I

81000BI

81000UI

81000RI

Connector Interfaces

Bare Fiber Connector Interface

6.3

6.3

6.8

6.8

81000BR Reference Reflector 6.10

81000DF Depolarizing Filter 6.11

81000UM Universal through adapter 6.3

81001FF Fixed Filter 6.11

81002FF Integrating Sphere 6.2

81002*I Power Meter Connector Interface 6.3

81003*D D- Shape Head Adapters 6.2

81004BH Bare Fiber Holder 6.3

81009BH Bare Fiber Holder 6.3

81003LA Head Adapter 6.3

81010BL Lens 6.5

81050*L Lenses 6.5

81010BS Optical Power Splitter 6.6 or 6.8

81010PR PDL Cable 6.1 and 6.9

81101*C Adapter Cable (patchcord) 6.1


81109AC Adapter Cable (patchcord) 6.1


81230FL Attenuating Lens Adapter 6.5


8152*A Optical Head 6.7

8153A Lightwave Multimeter

Mainframe

6.7

8153*A Power Sensor Module 6.9, 6.8 (81534A)

81542MM LED Source Module 6.8

Table 1

Keysight Product



81551MM,

Laser Source Modules 6.8

8156A Optical Attenuator 6.8

8157*A Optical Attenuator Modules 6.8

8159*A/B Optical Switch Modules 6.8

8161*A Return Loss Modules 6.8

81600B Tunable Laser Source Modules 6.8

8162*A/B Optical Heads 6.7

81621BC Adapter Cable (patchcord) 6.1

8169A Polarization Controller 6.8

8163A Lightwave Multimeter 6.7

8163*A/B Power Sensor Modules 6.9

81635A Dual Power Sensor Module 6.8

8164A/B Lightwave Measurement System 6.7

8164*A Tunable Laser Source Modules 6.8

8165*A Laser Source Modules 6.8

8166A/B Lightwave Multichannel System 6.7

8166*A Laser Source Modules 6.8

8167A/B Tunable Laser Source 6.8

8168A/B/C/D/E/F

Tunable Laser Source 6.8

8168*A Tunable Laser Modules 6.8



N4160/1 Jumper Cable Kits 6.1

E6000B/C

Mini- OTDR 6.8

E600*B/C

E6010A

E6012A/C

Mini- OTDR Modules 6.8

Table 1

Keysight Product



6.1 How to clean connectorsRelated Products: 81101*C, 81102*C, 81109AC, 81113*C, 81501*C, 81010PR, 81621BC, N4160A, N4161A

Cleaning connectors is difficult as the core diameter of a single- mode fiber is only about 9 um. This generally means you cannot see streaks or scratches on the surface. To be certain of the condition of the surface of your connector and to check it after cleaning, you need a video microscope.

In the case of scratches, or of dust that has been burnt onto the surface of the connector, you may have no option but to polish the connector. This depends on the degree of dirtiness, or the depth of the scratches. This is a difficult procedure and should only be performed by a skilled person, and as a last resort as it wears out your connector

WARNING

Never look into the end of an optical cable that is connected to an active source.

To assess the projection of the emitted light beam you can use an infrared sensor card. Hold the card approximately 5 cm from the output of the connector. The invisible emitted light is projected onto the card and becomes visible as a small circular spot.

Preferred Procedure

Use the following procedure on most occasions.

1 Clean the connector by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.

2 Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.

Procedure for Stubborn Dirt

Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the connector:

1 Moisten a new cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol.

2 Clean the connector by rubbing the cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.

3 Take a new, dry soft tissue and remove the alcohol, dissolved sediment and dust, by rubbing gently over the surface using a small circular movement.



An Alternative Procedure

A better, more gentle, but more expensive cleaning procedure is to use an ultrasonic bath with isopropyl alcohol.

1 Hold the tip of the connector in the bath for at least three minutes.



6.2 How to clean connector adaptersRelated Products: 81000AA, 81000FA, 81000GA, 81000KA, 81000SA, 81000VA, 81000WA, 81002FF, 81003TD, 81003JD, 81003PD 81000BT, 81001*A, 81000BC

CAUTION

Some adapters have an anti- reflection coating on the back to reduce back reflection. This coating is extremely sensitive to solvents and mechanical abrasion. Extra care is needed when cleaning these adapters.

Be careful when using pipe cleaners, as the core and the bristles of the pipe cleaner are hard and can damage the interface.

Do not use pipe cleaners on optical head adapters, as the hard core of normal pipe cleaners can damage the bottom of an adapter.

Preferred Procedure


1 Clean the adapter by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the adapter:


2 Clean the adapter by rubbing the cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.


6.3 How to clean connector interfacesRelated Products: 81000AI, 81000FI, 81000GI, 81000JI, 81000KI, 81000SI, 81000VI, 81000WI, 81000BA, 81000BI, 81000UM, 81002LI, 81003LA

CAUTION

Be careful when using pipe cleaners, as the core and the bristles of the pipe cleaner are hard and can damage the interface.

Do not use pipe cleaners on optical head adapters, as the hard core of normal pipe cleaners can damage the bottom of an adapter.

Preferred Procedure


1 Clean the interface by pushing and pulling a new, dry pipe cleaner into the opening. Rotate the pipe cleaner slowly as you do this.

2 Then clean the interface by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the interface:

1 Moisten a new pipe cleaner with isopropyl alcohol.

2 Clean the interface by pushing and pulling the pipe cleaner into the opening. Rotate the pipe cleaner slowly as you do this.


4 Clean the interface by rubbing the cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.

5 Using a new, dry pipe cleaner, and a new, dry cotton swab remove the alcohol, any dissolved sediment and dust.



6.4 How to clean bare fiber adaptersRelated Products: 81000BA,

Bare fiber adapters are difficult to clean. Protect from dust unless they are in use.

CAUTION

Never use any kind of solvent when cleaning a bare fiber adapter as solvents can:

• Damage the foam inside some adapters.

• Deposit dissolved dirt in the groove, which can then dirty the surface of an inserted fiber.

Preferred Procedure


1 Blow away any dust or dirt with compressed air.


Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the adapter:

1 Clean the adapter by pushing and pulling a new, dry pipe cleaner into the opening. Rotate the pipe cleaner slowly as you do this.

CAUTION

Be careful when using pipe cleaners, as the core and the bristles of the pipe cleaner are hard and can damage the adapter.

2 Clean the adapter by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



6.5 How to clean lensesRelated Products: 81010BL, 81050*L, 81230FL

Some lenses have special coatings that are sensitive to solvents, grease, liquid and mechanical abrasion. Take extra care when cleaning lenses with these coatings.

Lens assemblies consisting of several lenses are not normally sealed. Therefore, use as little alcohol as possible, as it can get between the lenses and in doing so can change the properties of projection.

Preferred Procedure


1 Clean the lens by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the lens:


2 lean the lens by rubbing the cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.

3 Using a new, dry cotton swab remove the alcohol, any dissolved sediment and dust.


6.6 How to clean instruments with a fixed connector interfaceRelated Products: 81010BS

You should only clean instruments with a fixed connector interface when it is absolutely necessary. This is because it is difficult to remove any used alcohol or filaments from the input of the optical block.

It is important, therefore, to keep dust caps on the equipment at all times, except when your optical device is in use.


If you do discover filaments or particles, the only way to clean a fixed connector interface and the input of the optical block is to use compressed air.

If there are fluids or fat in the connector, please refer the instrument to the skilled personnel of Keysight’s service team.

CAUTION

Only use clean, dry compressed air. Make sure that the air is free of dust, water, and oil. If the air that you use is not clean and dry, this can lead to filmy deposits or scratches on the surface of your connector interface. This will degrade the performance of your transmission system.

Never try to open the instrument and clean the optical block by yourself, because it is easy to scratch optical components, and cause them to become misaligned.

NOTE

Keysight test and measurement instruments are equipped with an interchangeable optical connector system, which overcomes this kind of problems.

6.7 How to clean instruments with an optical glass plateRelated Products: 81520A, 81521B, 81524A, 82525A, 8153A, 8163A,/B 8164A/B, 8166A/B, 8162*A, 8162*B

Some instruments, for example, the optical heads from Keysight Technologies have an optical glass plate to protect the sensor. Clean this glass plate in the same way as optical lenses (see “How to clean lenses” on page 25).

NOTE

If you are cleaning an Optical Power Head (8162*A), please observe the following additional check. Periodically inspect the optical head’s front window for dust and other particles. Dust and particles can be propelled through the optical head adapter’s pinhole while inserting a connector ferrule to the receptacle. Particles on the optical head’s front window can signifcantly impair measurement results.


6.8 How to clean instruments with a physical contact interfaceRelated Products: 81000RA, 81000RI, 81000UI, 81010BS, 8169A, 8167A/B, 8168A- F, E6000B/C, E600*B/C, E6010A, E6012A, E6013A, 8168*A, 8153*A, 81635A, 81542MM, 81551MM, 8156A, 81610A, 81611A, 81612A, 81613A, 81614A, 81610CC, 8165*A, 81634A, 81634B, 8194*A, 8198*A, 81600B, 8157*A, 8159*A/B

Remove any connector interfaces from the optical output of the instrument before you begin the cleaning procedure.

Cleaning interfaces is difficult as the core diameter of a single- mode fiber is only about 9 um. This generally means you cannot see streaks or scratches on the surface. To be certain of the degree of pollution on the surface of your interface and to check whether it has been removed after cleaning, you need a video microscope.

WARNING

Never look into an optical output, because this can seriously damage your eyesight.

To assess the projection of the emitted light beam you can use an infrared sensor card. Hold the card approximately 5 cm from the interface. The invisible emitted light is projected onto the card and becomes visible as a small circular spot.

Preferred Procedure


1 Clean the interface by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the interface:






6.9 How to clean instruments with a recessed lens interfaceRelated Products: 8153*A, 81630B, 81632A

For instruments with a deeply recessed lens interface (for example the Keysight 81633A and 81634A Power Sensors) do NOT follow this procedure. Alcohol and compressed air could damage your lens even further.

Keep your dust and shutter caps on when your instrument is not in use. This should prevent it from getting too dirty. If you must clean such instruments, please refer the instrument to the skilled personnel of Keysight’s service team.

Preferred Procedure


1 Blow away any dust or dirt with compressed air. If this is not sufficient, then

2 Clean the interface by rubbing a new, dry cotton swab over the surface using a small circular movement.



Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the interface, and using the preferred procedure is not sufficient. Using isopropyl alcohol should be your last choice for recessed lens interfaces because of the difficulty of cleaning out any dirt that is washed to the edge of the interface:






6.10 How to clean optical devices which are sensitive to mechanical stress and pressureRelated Products: 81000BR

CAUTION

Some optical devices, such as the Keysight 81000BR Reference Reflector, which has a gold plated surface, are very sensitive to mechanical stress or pressure. Do not use cotton swabs, soft tissues other mechanical cleaning tools, as these can scratch or destroy the surface.

Preferred Procedure




To clean devices that are extremely sensitive to mechanical stress or pressure you can also use an optical clean polymer film. This procedure is time- consuming, but you avoid scratching or destroying the surface.

1 Put the film on the surface and wait at least 30 minutes to make sure that the film has had enough time to dry.

2 Remove the film and any dirt with special adhesive tapes.

Alternative Procedure

For these types of optical devices you can often use an ultrasonic bath with isopropyl alcohol. Only use the ultrasonic bath if you are sure that it won't cause any damage any part of the device.

1 Put the device into the bath for at least three minutes.

2 Blow away any remaining liquid with compressed air.

If there are any streaks or drying stains on the surface, repeat the cleaning procedure.


6.11 How to clean metal filters or attenuator gratingsRelated Products: 81000DF, 81001FF

This kind of device is extremely fragile. A misalignment of the grating leads to inaccurate measurements. Never touch the surface of the metal filter or attenuator grating. Be very careful when using or cleaning these devices. Do not use cotton swabs or soft tissues, as there is the danger that you cannot remove the lint and that the device will be destroyed by becoming mechanically distorted.

Preferred Procedure


1 Use compressed air at a distance and with low pressure to remove any dust or lint.


Do not use an ultrasonic bath as this can damage your device.

Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the device:

1 Put the optical device into a bath of isopropyl alcohol, and wait at least 10 minutes.

2 Remove the fluid using compressed air at some distance and with low pressure. If there are any streaks or drying stains on the surface, repeat the whole cleaning procedure.


7. Additional Cleaning Information

The following cleaning procedures may be used with other optical equipment:

7.1 How to clean bare fiber endsBare fiber ends are often used for splices or, together with other optical components, to create a parallel beam. The end of a fiber can often be scratched. You make a new cleave. To do this:

1 Strip off the cladding.

2 Take a new soft tissue and moisten it with isopropyl alcohol.

3 Carefully clean the bare fiber with this tissue.

4 Make your cleave and immediately insert the fiber into your bare fiber adapter in order to protect the surface from dirt.

7.2 How to clean large area lenses and mirrorsSome mirrors, as those from a monochromator, are very soft and sensitive. Therefore, never touch them and do not use cleaning tools such as compressed air or polymer film.

Some lenses have special coatings that are sensitive to solvents, grease, liquid and mechanical abrasion. Take extra care when cleaning lenses with these coatings.

Lens assemblies consisting of several lenses are not normally sealed. Therefore, use as little liquid as possible, as it can get between the lenses and in doing so can change the properties of projection.

Preferred Procedure




Use this procedure when there is greasy dirt on the lens:


CAUTION

Only use water if you are sure that there is no other way of cleaning your optical device without causing corrosion or damage.

Only use water if you are sure that there is no other way of cleaning your optical device without causing corrosion or damage. Do not use hot water, as this may cause mechanical stress, which can damage your optical device.

Ensure that your liquid soap has no abrasive properties or perfume in it. You should also avoid normal washing up liquid, as it can cover your device in an iridescent film after it has been air dried.

Some lenses and mirrors also have a special coating, which may be sensitive to mechanical stress, or to fat and liquids. For this reason we recommend you do not touch them.

If you are not sure how sensitive your device is to cleaning, please contact the manufacturer or your sales distributor.

1 Moisten the lens or the mirror with water.

2 Put a little liquid soap on the surface and gently spread the liquid over the whole area.

3 Wash off the emulsion with water, being careful to remove it all, as any remaining streaks can impair measurement accuracy.

4 Take a new, dry soft tissue and remove the water, by rubbing gently over the surface using a small circular movement.

5 Blow away remaining lint with compressed air.

Alternative Procedure A

To clean lenses that are extremely sensitive to mechanical stress or pressure you can also use an optical clean polymer film. This procedure is time- consuming, but you avoid scratching or destroying the surface.

1 Put the film on the surface and wait at least 30 minutes to make sure that the film has had enough time to dry.

2 Remove the film and any dirt with special adhesive tapes.

Alternative Procedure B

If your lens is sensitive to water then:

1 Moisten the lens or the mirror with isopropyl alcohol.



3 Blow away remaining lint with compressed air.

8. Other Cleaning Hints

Selecting the correct cleaning method is an important element in maintaining your equipment and saving you time and money. This Pocket Guide highlights the main cleaning methods, but cannot address every individual circumstance.

This section contain some additional hints which we hope will help you further. For further information, please contact your local Keysight Technologies representative (see Appendix on page 40).

8.1 Making the connectionBefore you make any connection you must ensure that all lightwave cables and connectors are clean. If not, then use appropriate cleaning methods.

When you insert the ferrule of a patchcord into a connector or an adapter, ensure that the fiber end does not touch the outside of the mating connector or adapter. Otherwise, the fiber end will rub up against something which could scratch it and leave deposits.

8.2 Lens cleaning papersSome special lens cleaning papers are not suitable for cleaning optical devices like connectors, interfaces, lenses, mirrors and so on. To be absolutely certain that a cleaning paper is applicable, please ask the salesperson or the manufacturer.

8.3 Immersion oil and other index matching compoundsDo not use immersion oil or other index matching compounds with optical sensors equipped with recessed lenses.


They are liable to dirty the detector and impair its performance.

They may also alter the property of depiction of your optical device, thus rendering your measurements inaccurate.

8.4 Cleaning the housing and the mainframeWhen cleaning either the mainframe or the housing of your instrument, only use a dry and very soft cotton tissue on the surfaces and the numeric pad.

Never open the instruments as they can be damaged.

Opening the instruments puts you in danger of receiving an electrical shock from your device, and renders your warranty void.


9. Keysight Technologies' Test and Measurement Support, Services, and Assistance

Keysight Technologies aims to maximize the value you receive, while minimizing your risk and problems. We strive to ensure that you get the test and measurement capabilities you paid for and obtain the support you need. Our extensive support resources and services can help you choose the right Keysight products for your applications and apply them successfully. Every instrument and system we sell has a global warranty. Support is available for at least five years beyond the production life of the product. Two concepts underlie Keysight's overall support policy: "Our Promise" and "Your Advantage."

Our Promise

Our Promise means your Keysight test and measurement equipment will meet its advertised performance and functionality. When you are choosing new equipment, we will help you with product information, including realistic performance specifications and practical recommendations from experienced test engineers. When you use Keysight equipment, we can verify that it works properly, help with product operation, and provide basic measurement assistance for the use of specified capabilities, at no extra cost upon request. Many self- help tools are available.

Your Advantage

Your Advantage means that Keysight offers a wide range of additional expert test and measurement services, which you can purchase according to your unique technical and business needs. Solve problems efficiently and gain a competitive edge by contracting with us for calibration, extra- cost upgrades, out- of- warranty repairs, and on- site education and training, as well as design, system integration, project management, and other professional engineering services. Experienced Keysight engineers and technicians worldwide can help you maximize your productivity, optimize the return on investment of your Keysight instruments and systems, and obtain dependable measurement accuracy for the life of those products.


By Internet, phone, or fax, get assistance with all your test & measurement needs

Online assistance: www.keysight.com/comms/lightwave

Phone or Fax

United States:

(tel) 1 800 829 4444

(fax) 1 800 829 4433

Canada:

(tel) 1 877 894 4414

(fax) 1 800 746 4866

Europe:

(tel) +31 20 547 2111

(fax) +31 20 547 2190

Japan:

(tel) 120 421 345

(fax) 120 421 678

Latin America:

(tel) +55 11 4197 3600

(fax) +55 11 4197 3800

Australia:

(tel) 800 629 485

(fax) 800 142 134

Asia Pacific:

(tel) + 852 800 930 871

(fax) + 852 800 908 476


This information is subject to change without notice.© Keysight Technologies 2006, 2014

Edition 2, August 2014

*5989-4473EN*5989-4473EN

www.keysight.com

keysight lightwave test and measurement equipment · 4 cleaning guide for lightwave test and...

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