How to clean MPO connectors to avoid misjudgment?

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.

mpo cleaner pen

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

optical fiber cleaner cassette box, 200+ cleans, for sc/lc/fc connectors, lint free, iso class 5 certified, lab & field use

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)
mpo/mtp fiber optic cleaner pen 1000+ cleans, static free, for 12/24/32 fiber connectors, data center grade tool

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
kimtech 34155 fiber optic cleaning wipes, 100 pack, lint free, 0.3μm particle removal, for connectors & splice sleeves

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

mpo cleaning toolset

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 lossAfter cleaning, let it stand for 2 minutes before testing to avoid false highs caused by ethanol not drying
Partial channel failureCheck whether the guide pin is detached or contaminated (24-pin requires double-row cleaning)
Repeated cleaning still reports errorReplace 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.

mpo/mtp 16 fiber connector cleaner pen, 800+ uses, anti static brush, for 12/24 fiber cables, data center maintenance essential
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.

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