Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may include a housing, a cleaning tip supported by the housing and a cleaning wipe advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus may include one or more automated features which may enhance the effectiveness of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid. The apparatus may be configured to automatically control the force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber and/or to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe. Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of cleaning an end face of an optical fiber by advancing a wet portion of a cleaning wipe across the end face, and thereafter advancing a dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may include a housing, a cleaning tip supported by the housing and a cleaning wipe advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus may include one or more automated features which may enhance the effectiveness of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid. The apparatus may be configured to automatically control the force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber and/or to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe. Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of cleaning an end face of an optical fiber by advancing a wet portion of a cleaning wipe across the end face, and thereafter advancing a dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face.

Abstract: A transport tray for a coiled fiber including one or more coils of fiber and end portions extending from the coils. The transport tray comprises a base and a receptacle disposed on the base to receive the coils of fiber therein. The receptacle may have a circular shape configured to retain the coils without violating the minimum bend radius of the fiber. A locking mechanism may be provided to secure the coiled fiber in the receptacle. The tray may includes one or more retainers to secure the end portions of the fiber, including fibers having any one of a range of diameters, in one or more desired positions. The tray may also include two or more fiber end retainers interchangeably supported on the base to retain fiber ends having different shapes and sizes. A plurality of registration features may be provided to facilitate transporting and positioning the tray at one or more process stations or tools.

Abstract: A transport tray for a coiled fiber including one or more coils of fiber and end portions extending from the coils. The transport tray comprises a base and a receptacle disposed on the base to receive the coils of fiber therein. The receptacle may have a circular shape configured to retain the coils without violating the minimum bend radius of the fiber. A locking mechanism may be provided to secure the coiled fiber in the receptacle. The tray may includes one or more retainers to secure the end portions of the fiber, including fibers having any one of a range of diameters, in one or more desired positions. The tray may also include two or more fiber end retainers interchangeably supported on the base to retain fiber ends having different shapes and sizes. A plurality of registration features may be provided to facilitate transporting and positioning the tray at one or more process stations or tools.