Because MPO connectors are multi fiber push on connector, which is more susceptible to fiber contamination caused by the environment and improper operation during use, thus affecting signal transmission stability. So how can we effectively avoid these problems by cleaning?
First of all, we should clean the MPO connector regularly, and replace the tape of the cassette cleaner every 500 cleanings, and regularly check the accuracy of the microscope. During the operation, we should wear powder-free anti-static gloves to avoid hand grease contamination. At the same time, dry tools are used for daily maintenance of the cabinet, and wet tools are stored in a dust-free environment, so as to play a role in partition management. As long as this process is followed, 90% of test misjudgments caused by contamination can be reduced.
Below we will introduce in detail the operation guide for professional cleaning of MPO connectors to avoid test misjudgments, comprehensive cleaning tool selection, operation specifications and verification process:
Selection of cleaning tools and applicable scenarios
MPO Cleaning Cassette
- Model: CLE-BOX
- Cleaning time 550+ per core
- Only applicable for MPO male connector, not MPO female connector
- Alcohol-free anti-static design, replaceable tape to avoid scratching the end face (Cleaning female head disabled)
One Click MPO Cleaner
- Model: CLEP-MPO
- Cleaning times 800+
- Universal for MPO male and female connectors
- The cleaning cloth pops up with a button, suitable for the card sleeve with guide pins, effectively removes grease and dust
Wet Cleaning Tools
Model: KIMTECH 34155
- 280pcs/box, lint-free cotton swab + anhydrous ethanol (purity>99.5%), or Kimtech special wipes
- Single-layer design, low dust wiping paper, and good water absorption.
- Applicable to Stubborn stains or female connectors
Taboo:
Do not use ordinary paper towels or cotton wool for cleaning (residual fibers will increase contamination)
Do not use dry MPO cleaning cassette on MPO female connectors (only MPO male connectors are supported)
Standardized cleaning process
—-Dry cleaning (recommended for daily maintenance)
MPO Male connector cleaning:
- lOpen the slider of the cleaner and slide the MPO end face in the direction of the arrow at a constant speed for 3 times
- lPress the joystick to change the cleaning cloth area (a single cleaning cloth can be used ≤3 times)
One Click MPO Cleaner cleaning:
- lInsert the connector into the cleaner port and press the button twice (a “click” sound is heard) to complete
- lWet cleaning (stubborn contaminants)
Cotton swab method:
- lSoak a lint-free cotton swab with anhydrous ethanol and wipe the end face in one direction (do not rotate)
Wet wipe method:
- lFold the Kimtech wet wipe, wrap the connector end face and press and drag lightly
Key: Wait for the ethanol to evaporate completely before connecting the device
Verify after cleaning to prevent misjudgment
Microscope inspection (20x magnification):
- lObserve the end face for scratches and particle residue (focus on checking the guide pin hole)
- lConfirm that the fiber end face has uniform light transmission (the polluted area will be foggy)
Tester verification:
- lTest the insertion loss immediately after cleaning (>0.5dB abnormality requires re-cleaning)
- lCompare the return loss fluctuations before and after cleaning (single mode ≥55dB, multi-mode ≥35dB is qualified)
Red light pen assistance:
- lEmit red light to observe the output stability (flash or attenuation indicates residual contamination)
Key points for avoiding misjudgment risks
| Misjudgment scenario | Avoidance measures |
| Sudden increase in test loss | After cleaning, let it stand for 2 minutes before testing to avoid false highs caused by ethanol not drying |
| Partial channel failure | Check whether the guide pin is detached or contaminated (24-pin requires double-row cleaning) |
| Repeated cleaning still reports error | Replace cleaning tools (cotton swabs/wet wipes are limited to single use) and check for contamination inside the adapter |
Serious Warning:
- Uncleaned MPO connectors may cause 400G links to be misjudged as fiber breaks
- Bent male pins of MTP connector may cause the tester to display a full channel failure (replacement of jumpers is required)
MPO Connector Cleaning FAQ
How to prevent the MPO connector from being contaminated again?
After each test, it must be cleaned immediately, and the dust cap must be put on immediately after cleaning to isolate it from external factors.
Does your MPO cleaner have a price advantage?
Our MPO connector cleaning pen and cleaning box products are shipped in large quantities every day, with very good cost control, and the market is the best feedback. Welcome to inquire.
Do you have MPO fiber cleaner in stock?
Our regular 12 core MPO fiber cleaner are in stock, with fast delivery to meet your immediate needs.
Do you have 16 core MPO one click cleaner?
Yes, Yingda have one type of 16 core MPO one click cleaner, with high cleanliness and larger use times. After-sales service is guaranteed.
In addition to MTP cleaner, do you have other fiber optic connector cleaning pens?
Yingda provide a full range of LC FC SC ST MU MPO one click fiber optic connector cleaning pens. Best price and large inventory.
