--- title: Top 5 Fiber Inspection Tips from VIAVI description: Here is a top 5 list of important “be sure to...” tips for your fiber inspection and testing routine from VIAVI. image: https://www.accu-tech.com/hubfs/2017%20Redesign%20Vendor%20Banners/white%20blue%20fiber%20light%20with%20patch%20cords.jpg --- {% set baseFontFamily = "Open Sans" %} /* Add the font family you wish to use. You may need to import it above. */ {% set headerFontFamily = "Open Sans" %} /* This affects only headers on the site. Add the font family you wish to use. You may need to import it above. */ {% set textColor = "#565656" %} /* This sets the universal color of dark text on the site */ {% set pageCenter = "1100px" %} /* This sets the width of the website */ {% set headerType = "fixed" %} /* To make this a fixed header, change the value to "fixed" - otherwise, set it to "static" */ {% set lightGreyColor = "#f7f7f7" %} /* This affects all grey background sections */ {% set baseFontWeight = "normal" %} /* More than likely, you will use one of these values (higher = bolder): 300, 400, 700, 900 */ {% set headerFontWeight = "normal" %} /* For Headers; More than likely, you will use one of these values (higher = bolder): 300, 400, 700, 900 */ {% set buttonRadius = '40px' %} /* "0" for square edges, "10px" for rounded edges, "40px" for pill shape; This will change all buttons */ ### After you have updated your stylesheet, make sure you turn this module off [Click to Contact Sales](https://www.accu-tech.com/contact-us) | Call Corporate Office at [888-222-8832](tel:18882228832) [![Accu-Tech logo with tagline in navy blue](https://www.accu-tech.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Accu-Tech%20Blue%20Tagline%20300px%20-%20Edited.png?width=300&height=95&name=Accu-Tech%20Blue%20Tagline%20300px%20-%20Edited.png "Accu-Tech logo with tagline in navy blue")](https://www.accu-tech.com/) # Top 5 Fiber Inspection Tips from VIAVI by **[Teddi Strassburger](https://www.accu-tech.com/accu-insider/author/teddi-strassburger)** on March 6, 2018 ![BeSureTo](https://www.accu-tech.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BeSureTo.jpg?width=300&name=BeSureTo.jpg)Here is a top 5 list of important “be sure to...” tips for your fiber inspection and testing routine from VIAVI. **1. Be sure to….use a repeatable process.** A wise man once said “If you can’t describe what you are doing as a process, you don’t know what you’re doing.” Believe it or not, this applies to your fiber testing approach, too. Since contaminated connectors are the #1 cause of troubleshooting in fiber networks, technicians need an inspection and cleaning process they can rely on to ensure the best fiber connections. Don’t have a process? Check out the [first episode](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH) in VIAVI's Inspect Before You Connect video series and learn some simple steps you can act on today. **2. Be sure to…test fiber connectors proactively.** Many people think of inspection as a troubleshooting step – employing test gear only when issues arise. What it comes down to is doing the job right the first time. Why not prevent troubleshooting issues that result in permanent cable damage and network downtime? By being proactive about fiber inspection, you can ensure optimal cable performance from the get-go. In [episode 2](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH) of VIAVI's fiber inspection video series, you’ll hear about this classic case of reaping what you sow. **3. Be sure to…inspect BOTH sides of a fiber connection.** One of the most common mistakes technicians make is neglecting to inspect and clean both sides of a fiber connection. If you clean your patch cord but forget to inspect the bulk head, you run the risk of cross contamination. The risk ranges from residue-based coffee ring stains to permanent damage from dust particle migration scratching the bulk head. Check out [episode 3](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH) in VIAVI's inspection video series to learn more about why checking both sides of a fiber connection is a critical step in the inspection process. **4. Be sure to…inspect new fiber connectors.** It’s easy to assume that a new fiber connector doesn’t need to be inspected. It’s brand new – right out of the bag – why would it be dirty? But it’s possible, for instance, that even dust caps themselves can transfer residue and create the perfect environment for mold to develop. Learn about common scenarios when brand new cables can become contaminated in [episode 4](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH) in VIAVI's video series. **5. Be sure to…inspect reference cords and test leads.** This is the classic case of garbage in, garbage out. If you don’t test them, dirty reference cords could have devastating effects on all your test efforts. You also run the risk of permanently damaging not only the reference cord, but also the test port. Damaged test ports are the most common reason for test equipment needing repair. Watch [episode 5](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH) in VIAVI's video series to learn more and hear about two real-world examples. For access to all things fiber inspection, helpful advice, or to view the entire Inspect Before You Connect video series, visit [viavisolutions.com/inspect](http://bit.ly/2hQb3yH). [Click here to contact your local Accu-Tech representative.](https://www.accu-tech.com/contact) - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) Topics: [fiber](https://www.accu-tech.com/accu-insider/topic/fiber) [viavi](https://www.accu-tech.com/accu-insider/topic/viavi) [inspection](https://www.accu-tech.com/accu-insider/topic/inspection) ### Subscribe To Our Blog ### Additional Information ### About Accu-Tech Accu-Tech is a national distributor of Voice, Data, AV, Wireless, and Security solutions. We partner with best-in-class manufacturers to provide the integrated, future-proof solutions our customers require. From project services and management to on-the-job-site logistics, Accu-Tech ensures every customer’s project is supported from design to completion. 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