Fiber Optic Troubleshooting

If you are experiencing issues with your fiber network, the issue is likely related to cleaning in some way. Those who fail to clean their fiber network equipment will often find that a simple cleaning of both hardware and fiber cabling (don’t overlook fiber patch panels) does the trick. Take a look at your cables every now and then to ensure that they have not accumulated dirt. If they are dirty, grime will be pressed right into the optics. For hardware fiber inputs, you can use the same canned air that cleans off your computer keyboard to blow the dust, dirt and grime out of the optics.

If you run your fiber-optic cables through areas that receive a lot of foot traffic, they might have been compromised by someone’s misstep or a rolling chair. The little bit of pressure provided by a footstep or chair caster can severely compromise fiber integrity. Even a cleaning crew member scooting a desk out from a wall by a few inches to vacuum can damage cables. Cables will also malfunction when handled in an inappropriate manner.