Keep transceivers and fiber-optic cables clean and dust free to maintain high signal accuracy and prevent damage to the connectors. Contamination increases attenuation (loss of light) and should be below 0.35 dB.

Consider these maintenance guidelines:

• Transceivers are static sensitive. To prevent ESD damage, wear an ESD-preventative wrist strap that is connected to the grounded chassis.

• Do not remove and insert a transceiver more often than is necessary. Repeated removals and insertions can shorten its useful life.

• Keep all optical connections covered when not in use. Clean them before using to prevent dust from scratching the fiber-optic cable ends.

• Do not touch the ends of connectors. Touching the ends can leave fingerprints and cause other contamination.

• Clean the connectors regularly; the required frequency of cleaning depends upon the environment. In addition, clean connectors if they are exposed to dust or accidentally touched. Both wet and dry cleaning techniques can be effective; refer to the fiber-optic connection cleaning procedures for your site.

• Inspect routinely for dust and damage. If you suspect damage, clean and then inspect fiber ends under a microscope to determine if damage has occurred.