The Inextricable Interaction Between Fiber Optic Precision Inspection and Precision Cleaning In Search of Best Practices - In Search of Best Practices

The Fiber Optic "End Face"...is the "business end" of any and all fiber optic transmissions. It is the condition of this surface that assures maximum transmission speeds. Not unlike a 'dirty window', if this surface is soiled, damaged, or, improperly cleaned, some level of transmission reliability will be compromised. FTTx or Aerospace, all transmission types share the common bond of surfaces that must be pristine-clean. Ed Forrest has studied cleaning "things" beginning with his first career stop as a technical representative for Prestone(R) branded products. He found himself under the hood of a 1974 prototype GM car...in 1968. The issue at the time was higher operating temperatures for a world facing gasoline shortages and growing environmental concerns. Engine blocks were sand cast. Radiators often had sand residues and corroded from leaking exhaust gas. In 1990, as industrial chemicals changed in response to global CFC-mandates, he began a new career in electronics production, service, repair and clean room sciences. These change-overs required new methods and procedures. He understands change-over procedures and applies The Scientific Method to his research. In 1998, as fiber optics began to emerge, and to this time, he has been challenged by end users who are not satisfied with available ways and means to precision clean fiber optic surfaces. To prove a new thesis, Ed invented a new means to inspect the surfaces. This digital photograph is one of more than 3,000 images that prove the point: there is more to a fiber optic connector than an end face! This is the latest and most detailed study of existing methods and procedures for fiber optic inspection and cleaning. As the Industry faces ever-higher expectations for the ever-evolving technologies of fiber optic sciences, there is need for clarity and a higher standard. The work is an important update to existing methods and procedures and is written in conversational style with logical conclusions to advance the work of network designers, installers and trainers.