#1 Cause of Fiber Optic Cabling Failures

Written by Ben Hamlitsch, trueCABLE Technical and Product Innovation Manager RCDD, FOI

Have you wondered what causes fiber optic systems to fail? In the intricate and fast-paced world of fiber optics, every tiny detail matters. And among those details, there’s one that often gets overlooked yet bears immense significance: the cleanliness of fiber optic connectors and splices.

Wondering why this is a game-changer in the fiber optic universe? Read on, and then dive even deeper as you watch an interview with our very own Fiber Optics Technical Specialist Ben Hamlitsch. Ben sits down with Chuck Bowser and the “Let’s Talk Cabling" podcast, titled “#1 Problem with Fiber Optic Cabling”.

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's establish some basics. Fiber optic connectors are the pivotal points in a fiber optic system where signals get transmitted and received. Think of them as gatekeepers, guiding the pulses of light (data) on their journey. However, these connectors, especially the end-faces, are vulnerable to dust, dirt, and contaminants. These may seem minute and insignificant, but in the world of fiber optics they can be your worst nightmare.

The below YouTube video by Chuck Bowser’s “Let’s Talk Cabling” podcast delves into this very issue, “#1 Problem with Fiber Optic Cabling".

We talk about the correct methods and tools to ensure that every connection is spotless.

We share insider tips, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices for proper cleaning.

If you’re involved in the fiber optic realm or just a curious soul, understanding the importance of cleaning connectors is pivotal. The following podcast paints the full picture.

Don’t let tiny contaminants cloud your network's potential.

Conclusion

When network uptime, signal transmission performance, and equipment reliability are important to your business, skimping on inspecting and cleaning fiber optic connectors can result in timely and costly consequences. And it is always important to ensure your end-face is clean and free of any dirt, dust, or debris by inspecting your fiber connections.

By incorporating fiber inspection and cleaning into your process, you can ensure you have a clean fiber end-face that will perform as intended and in doing so, there should be no excuse for network failures due to contaminated connectors.

HAPPY NETWORKING!

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