Why do optical connectors need cleaning?

Since the optical fiber core through which communication light passes is as small as 10 microns in diameter, even a small amount of dirt invisible to the naked eye affects transmission characteristics.
On the other hand, since the end face of the optical connector is exposed at the tip of the component, it is inevitable that it will become dirty.
Therefore, it is imperative to clean the optical connector just before connecting it.

If dirt that cannot be seen with the naked eye adheres to the core, it will degrade the transmission characteristics.

Wiping with fabric such as work clothes will conversely cause dirt and fiber waste to adhere.
Cleaning with alcohol on the wiper will leave wiping streaks.
Be sure to clean the optical connector with a special cleaner or cleaner just before connecting the optical connector.
NTT-AT 's optical connector cleaner wipes off dirt with fibers developed for cleaning optical connectors.

Furthermore, the power of communication light has been increasing recently.
Communication light is confined in a very small core of 10 microns, so the energy density is very high, and if the core is dirty, it will burn and the heat may melt the core.

In order not to cause such a serious trouble,
Cleaning with an optical connector cleaner is required.

Please take a look at the detailed information we have prepared.

To all optical connection workers and contractors

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光コネクタ端面汚れが及ぼす影響とその対策
～なぜ、光コネクタは清掃が必要なのでしょうか？～