How to Replace the Optical Connector Protector's Ferrule?

Connector damage has been a common cause of fiber optics test sets being returned to manufacturers’ service centers for repair, especially those field equipment used in harsh environments, like OTDRs. Severe and permanent test port damage are a result from repeated mating with dirty, contaminated patch cords, launch reels, accidents or just general wear and tear over time. Damaged optical connector ports affect measurements' accuracy, performance and can damage other ports, so they must be replaced. Traditionally, such repairs required returning the instruments to the factory or authorized service center, to remove the damaged connector, splice a new one, recalibrate the instrument and ship it back, along with the associated approvals, logistics, cost and downtime.

Always Clean and Inspect optical connectors and patch cords before using them, keeping their end-faces clean and un-blemished to prevent damage, excessive insertion and return losses.

VeEX's innovative patent pending field-replaceable optical ferrule system adds an extra layer of protection to the internal end-face of calibrated optical test ports, preventing contamination and accidental damage. This extends the instrument’s lifespan, reduces downtime and improves productivity.

Spare APC and UPC ferrules are available in affordable packs of four. Having some of them in your stock would help reduce the mean time to repair (MTTR or downtime), for all your VeEX optical instruments, to zero.

Optical Conector Protector Elements

Simple Ferrule Replacement Procedure

Before You Start

Find a clean working area/environment with a stable flat surface to work on (e.g., office, garage, workbench, even a van or truck).

Before you start, remove the protective plastic Dust Cap and Base Cover, to fully expose the optical connector protector assembly.

Removing "Old" or Damaged Ferrule

Inserting New Ferrule

Reinstall the plastic Base Cover and Dust Cap.

Always clean and inspect (scope) all the connectors, as required, before mating them with any patch cords, launch fibers, devices under test, etc.

Refer to the Optical Connector Protector article for further details about this replaceable ferrule solution.