Achieve Peak Performance: Cleaning and Inspecting MTP®/MPO Connectors

Ensuring the cleanliness of fiber optic connections is crucial for optimal performance in optical communication networks. Even microscopic contamination on a connector end face can lead to significant problems. Contamination that obstructs the fiber core can cause strong back reflections (Return Loss) and potentially impact attenuation (Insertion Loss). MTP®/MPO connectors come in various configurations, including pinned and unpinned, and require connector inspection when installed on a free cable or within an adaptor (panel configuration or module). This article delves into the specific requirements of MTP®/MPO connectors and provides comprehensive guidelines for cleaning and inspection to maintain their reliability and performance.

A Brief Definition of MTP®/MPO Connector

MTP®/MPO stands for Multi-Fiber Push-On Connector, representing a series of connector types. MT stands for Mechanical Transfer and refers to the rectangular ferrule utilized in MTP®/MPO connectors. The number of holes present in the ferrule determines the capacity of an MTP®/MPO connector, enabling it to connect from 4 to 32 additional fibers.

Cleaning Procedures

Cleaning MTP®/MPO fiber connectors requires specific considerations due to their unique design. Unlike the ceramic ferrules typically found in single-mode and multimode connectors, MTP®/MPO ferrules are made of plastic. However, the cleaning procedures for MTP®/MPO connectors are similar. The following points outline the essential aspects of cleaning MTP®/MPO connectors:

Materials Compatibility

Cleaning materials like lint-free wipes, swabs, compressed air, and isopropyl alcohol, which are commonly used for cleaning ceramic ferrules, are also suitable for cleaning thermoplastic MT ferrules. FS offers a range of fiber cleaning tools including dust-free anti-static fiber cleaning wipes, clean swabs, and pump leak proof alcohol bottles for you to select from.

Tool Compatibility

Fiber cleaning tools and fixtures need to be specially designed to accommodate the larger rectangular MT ferrules and their guide pins. There are readily available cartridges and pen-type cleaners with specific features tailored for MTP®/MPO connectors. NEOCLEAN-M One-push Cleaner provided by FS is specially designed for MTP®/MPO connectors and can clean all fibers with a simple one-click operation.

Fiber Protrusion

MTP®/MPO connectors undergo polishing to ensure that fiber ends extend between 1.0 to 4.0 µm beyond the polished end face of the MT ferrule. When cleaning MTP®/MPO fiber connectors, it is essential for fiber cleaning tools to take into account this unique characteristic.

Inspection Procedures

Inspecting MTP®/MPO connectors requires attention to their distinctive features, including larger rectangular ferrules, guide pins, and multiple fiber ends. The following insights offer a comprehensive understanding of MTP®/MPO cable inspection:

Guide Pins and Holes

Special attention should be given to cleaning and inspecting guide pins and guide-pin holes, which is a step not required with cylindrical ferrules. Contaminants present in the guide-pin holes can have a negative impact on fiber-to-fiber contact, resulting in insertion loss and return loss issues.

Magnification Levels

Traditional microscopes commonly used for inspecting fiber ends may provide excessive magnification for examining guide-pin holes. In the field, it is recommended to use an inexpensive 10X loupe for inspecting guide pins and holes. FS offers the Fluke Networks FI-3000 FiberInspector™ Ultra camera, which allows you to zoom in or out of each end face, perform inspections online, and receive connector inspection reports as images or PDFs.

Factory Environment

In assembly factories, comprehensive connectors inspection of MTP®/MPO is performed using automated systems equipped with magnifying optics that range from 200X to 400X, as well as interferometry-based systems. Checking guide pins and holes is a separate step in the production process to ensure thorough inspection.

Conclusion

Ensuring the cleanliness of MTP®/MPO connectors is crucial for optimal performance in fiber optic networks. By following the recommended cleaning procedures and using compatible materials, you can maintain their reliability and performance. Utilizing specialized fiber cleaning tools and inspecting guide pins and holes are essential steps. By adhering to these guidelines, you can optimize your optical communication network.

Related Articles: A Full Introduction to MTP®/MPO Cleaning Tools