Resource Library

We apologize in advance for this long answer, but this is a key mis-understanding that deserves serious consideration.In the world of fiber optics, there only are two truly critical cleaning operations. The first is “prepping” before fusion splicing. The other is “end-face cleaning.” Both are essential to deployment of reliable, high-capacity networks. But as new…

Some companies buy the purest IPA they can get, which is called “reagent grade” IPA. They use this to try to solve the fiber cleaning problem.But I believe that the purchase of 99.9% “reagent grade IPA” is a waste of money and effort. Here’s the ‘little secret’ about reagent-grade IPA: since it is the most…

Absolutely. A signal loss budget or “optical power budget” can be a victim of either poor cleaning tools or poor technique. A few minutes with your OTDR will demonstrate that clean connectors improve (reduce) signal losses, particularly in respect to insertion loss and back reflection. WDM networks also enjoy reduced chromatic aberration. All this enables the…

Everybody asks, how to clean patch cables, also called patch cords or jumpers. But what they really are asking is, do I need to clean them, when they’re new and right out of the bag? The answer is yes, you do. Here’s why:There are three “P”s to perfect fiber connectivity:Perfect core alignmentPerfect physical contact (no…

High power lasers can destroy glass fiber if the fiber is not perfectly clean.  This is called the “fiber fuse effect.” There isn’t too much written about this but it going to happen more frequently as optical networks evolve. The problem is more than just damaged fiber end faces. The effect also can kill the fiber…

All Sticklers™  fiber optic cleaning products are manufactured by MicroCare LLC of New Britain, Connecticut, USA. As such, and like all MicroCare products, all Sticklers™ products have an unlimited shelf life when properly stored. Proper storage is defined as in a cool, dry location, out of direct sunlight, and off any concrete floors.Every Sticklers™  product has a lot…