The document provides a guide on how to install two types of fiber optic connectors: no-epoxy/no-polish and epoxy-and-polish connectors. It details the step-by-step installation procedures for each type, emphasizing the importance of proper cleaning and handling of fiber to ensure optimal connection performance. Additionally, it mentions that issues with connector installation can significantly affect light transmission, potentially rendering the fiber optic system inoperative.

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Fiberstore White Paper | How to Install a Fiber Optic Connector? 1
As we know, fiber optic patch cords are capped at both ends with fiber optic connectors to allow
them to be rapidly and conveniently connected to telecommunication equipment. Fiber optic
connector is one of those high quality ceramic components used to achieve accurate and precise
connections of the fiber ends. It is a simple device which allows fiber links to be readily connected
and disconnected.
How to install fiber optic connectors to optical fibers so that they can achieve accurate and precise
connections? The method for attaching fiber optic connectors to optical fibers varies based on
connector types. Installation ways of fiber optic connectors largely depends on the connector types.
Generally, connectors can be categorized into no-epoxy/no-polish connectors and epoxy-and-polish
connectors. The following text elaborates on how to install these two kinds of connectors
respectively.
No-epoxy/no-polish Connector Installation
How to install no-epoxy/no-polish (NENP) connectors to optical fibers? A no-epoxy/no-polish
connector includes an precisely polished endface. When installing an NENP connector, there is no
need to use an epoxy or to polish the endface. The field fiber is mechanically spliced to a
factory-cleaved fiber stub. The following picture is an illustration of no-epoxy/no-polish connector
installation.
How to Install a Fiber
Optic Connector?

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Fiberstore White Paper | How to Install a Fiber Optic Connector? 2
The installation process begins with preparing the field fiber, which is done by stripping the
protective coating down to the bare glass. Once the fiber is cleaned, it is then cleaved with a
precision cleaver. Next step is to insert the field fiber into the connector until it is seated against the
factory-stubbed fiber and locked into place mechanically by a rotating cam or other means. Typically
this step is achieved by using a tool that holds the connector and activates the mechanical splice by
a button or lever.
Epoxy-and-polish Connector Installation
How to install epoxy-and-polish (EP) connectors to optical fibers? The most common types of EP
connectors use heat- or anaerobic-curing techniques. A heat-cure connector uses heat to harden an
epoxy, which takes several minutes. An anaerobic EP connector uses a two-part epoxy, a hardener
that is inserted into the connector and an activator on the fiber.
To install an EP connector, an epoxy must be inserted into the connector ferrule first to form a bond
between the field fiber and the connector's ferrule, and then the endface needs to be
hand-polished. Next, the field fiber is stripped down to the bare glass and cleaned. If the connector
is heat-cure, the fiber is inserted into the connector and placed in an oven for the epoxy to cure. If
the type of connector is anaerobic, the bare fiber is painted with an activator and inserted into the
connector. Once the epoxy has been cured, the fiber stub which is protruding above the ferrule is
scribed and removed. The final step is to polish the endface of the connector using a fixture and
several different polishing films.
Notes for Fiber Optic Connector Installation
Besides different installation methods for different connector types, several things need to be paid
attention to when installing fiber optic connectors, especially when a fiber patch cord has two
different types of connectors, such as LC-SC fiber optic patch cord or FC-ST fiber optic patch cord.
• The bared fiber must be thoroughly cleaned with isopropyl alcohol. Never clean the fiber with a
dry tissue. Before the connection is made, the end of each fiber must have a smooth finish that is
free of defects such as hackles, lips, and fractures.
• The cable should be cut about one inch longer than the required finished length.
• Be sure to use strippers made specifically for use with fiber rather than metal wire strippers
because damage can occur and then weaken the fiber.
Summary
Any problems with a connector, such as poor installation and uncleanness, can greatly influence the
transmission and reception of the light power. And such problems may render the fiber optic system
inoperative. So it is very necessary to know something about installation of fiber optic connectors.

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Fiberstore White Paper | How to Install a Fiber Optic Connector? 3
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Notice: This document is for informational purposes only and does not set forth any warranty, expressed or
implied, concerning any equipment, equipment features, or service offered or to be offered by Fiberstore.
Fiberstore reserves the right to make changes to this document at any time, without notice, and assumes no
responsibility for its use. This information document describes features that may not be currently available.
Contact a Fiberstore sales team for information on feature and product availability.
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