EuroWire March 2023

Technical Article

Dispel the myths of fibre optic installation to future-proof 5G connectivity By Liam Taylor, European business manager, fibre optics, at MicroCare UK Ltd, and member of IEC/SC 86B Working Group 4

The benefits of 5G technology are undeniable. Its high-speed bandwidth, ultra-low latency and vast device connectivity enable emerging technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), augmented reality (AR) and autonomous vehicles to progress. Although still accounting for a smaller percentage of mobile connections compared to 4G networks, 5G is set to overtake its predecessor in the future, with connections predicted to reach one billion worldwide in mid-2023 [1] . Service providers are investing in 5G because it will deliver speeds approaching ten gigabits per second, 600 times faster than standard 4G speeds and more than ten times faster than some residential fibre offerings [2] . However, for 5G networks to effectively handle this increased connectivity and seamlessly stream the enhanced bandwidth, reliability is crucial. As 5G continues to roll out, network providers must ensure fibre is installed and maintained correctly, with all connections kept perfectly clean for optimal performance and consistency. Fibre contamination is the number one cause of network failure. If cleaning is not performed properly, problems such as insertion loss (weakened signal) or back-reflection (signal diverted back to its source) can occur. If the contamination is severe, the signal path, or refraction angle, can change enough that the signal is completely lost, causing a total system shutdown. 5G’s higher frequency of light makes it extremely sensitive to refractive angle changes. As a result, it requires every milliwatt of power to ensure its superfast speeds and increased data volumes are maintained. Without implementing cleaning procedures to guarantee optimal network operation, uninterrupted connectivity and high-speed operation can be affected. Although many fibre network operators understand the importance of cleanliness, there are still misconceptions and myths of how and when it should be done. Myth 1 If it’s new, it doesn’t need cleaning Even if an installer has a brand-new cable assembly that is still unopened in the original packaging, this does not mean it is perfectly clean, and new parts direct from the factory can still be contaminated.

As 5G continues to roll out, network providers must ensure fibre is installed and maintained correctly for optimal performance

Plastic end caps used on new fibre end faces contain chemicals called plasticisers. These can outgas, leaving a film of small oil droplets on the end face. Some manufacturers also use mould release agents to speed up the manufacturing process of the end caps. However, the end caps may retain some of the agent on the inner surface, which can migrate onto the connector core. Wear debris can also get trapped inside the protective dust plugs that cover new cable end faces after manufacture. When the protective plugs are removed, the debris created by the unplugging friction creates contaminants that can easily migrate to the end faces. The best way to ensure optical connectors are delivering the designed performance is to inspect and clean both ends of the connector pair before mating. Failure to remove debris from the two ends will cause cross-contamination of the ferrule end faces, disrupting the optical signal path.

Myth 2 You don’t need special tools

Using the correct tools and cleaning procedures helps to guarantee robust and reliable system performance. Without proper cleaning, 5G networks are at risk. Optical-grade cleaning fluid Gone are the days of wiping connectors on a shirt sleeve, blowing the dust away, or using IPA (isopropyl alcohol). 5G networks, with their higher fibre count, make the connectors and end faces more vulnerable to damage and contamination. Using the correct tools, therefore, is vital.

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March 2023