ITW CHEMTRONICS APS: FOBACKPLANE2 Application Sheet Cleaning 1.25mm and 2.5mm Fiber Optic Backplane Connections using Precision Swabs The Need For Cleaning The need to clean fiber optic connectors is well documented. The more difficult operation is cleaning the backplane end-face. This end-face, located on the backside of the alignment sleeve, is subject to contamination from the patch cord connection. The simple action of removing this connection can create a vacuum that enables airborne dust to enter this connection, causing soils to accumulate around the ferrules in the alignment sleeve. This contamination will then be transferred within the alignment sleeve to the patch cord ferrule. Clean both sides of these connections each time they are disconnected in field installations, central office and OEM installation, or service applications. Contamination can cause signal attenuation or, in worst-case reports, complete interruption of the signal. The Better Way When cleaning the backplane connection if the jumper on the internal side is accessible, it is preferred to clean both internal backplane and external jumper-side connection as described in Application Sheet FO-APC4/QBE, Cleaning Angled Physical Connector (APC) End Faces with the QbE Cleaning System. This outlines the use of the QbE Cleaning System and Electro-Wash PX Fiber Optic Cleaner with the Combination Cleaning process (CCp). When the internal backplane connection is not accessible, highly effective cleaning is accomplished with the Coventry 1.25 mm Fiber Optic Swab (Part number 25123X), or the Coventry 2.5 mm Precision Fiber Optic Swab (Part number 25183) in combination with a small amount of Electro-Wash PX Fiber Optic Cleaner. Alternatively, use of the Coventry 2.5 mm Fiber Optic Foam Swab in combination with a small amount of Electro-Wash PX Fiber Optic Cleaner will remove all contamination. It is important not to over-saturate the backplane by spraying or dipping any solvent on a precision swab. Excess solvent can accumulate and become exceptionally difficult to dry in the hidden areas of backplane connections. This effective cleaning method is described below: 1) Remove the patch cord from the bulkhead. 2) Lightly moisten the Fiber Optic Swab by spotting a small amount of Electro-Wash PX onto the QbE . Dab/tap the swab onto the wetted area. Hold the tip of the swab in the moist area for a count of 1-2-3-4-5. 3) Insert the swab into the connector, press lightly against the connector, twist 2-3 times and remove. 4) Dry with a second swab. 5) Reinsert the patch cord and test for signal strength. Re-clean as necessary. Availability: Coventry 2.5 mm Fiber Optic Foam Swab Coventry 2.5 mm Precision Fiber Optic 48040 500 - 2.5mm swabs per bag Swab 25183 100 - 2.5mm swabs per bag Electro-Wash PX Fiber Optic Cleaner 25184 5 - 2.5mm swabs per bag ES810 5 oz. aerosol Coventry 1.25 mm Fiber Optic Swab QbE Cleaning System 25123X 100 -1.25mm swabs per bag QbE 200 wipe cleaning platform MANUFACTURED BY: ITW CHEMTRONICS INC. 8125 Cobb Center Drive Kennesaw, GA 30152 1-800-645-5244 / 1-770-424-4888 TECHNICAL SUPPORT Hot Line: 1-800-TECH-401 (1-800-832-4401) www.chemtronics.com rev-02/06 NOTE: This information is believed to be accurate. It is intended for professional end users having the skills to evaluate and use the data properly. ITW Chemtronics does not guarantee the accuracy of the data and assumes no liability in connection with damages incurred while using it. ITW Chemtronics, Chemtronics , QbE and Electro-Wash are registered trademarks of ITW Chemtronics. All rights are reserved. Coventry and the Combination Cleaning process(CCp) are trademarks of ITW Chemtronics. All rights are reserved.