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3-4 85032B/E
Use, Maintenance, and Care of the Devices
Cleaning Connectors
Inspect Female Connectors
Pay special attention to the contact fingers in the female center conductor. These can be
bent or broken, and damage to them is not always easy to see. A connector with damaged
contact fingers will negatively affect electrical performance and must be replaced.
NOTE Inspection is particularly important when mating nonprecision to precision
devices.
Cleaning Connectors
Clean connectors are essential for ensuring the integrity of RF and microwave coaxial
connections.
1. Use Compressed Air or Nitrogen
WARNING Always use protective eyewear when using compressed air or
nitrogen.
Use compressed air (or nitrogen) to loosen particles on the connector mating plane
surfaces.
You can use any source of clean, dry, low-pressure compressed air or nitrogen that has
an effective oil-vapor filter and liquid condensation trap placed just before the outlet
hose.
Ground the hose nozzle to prevent electrostatic discharge, and set the air pressure to
less than 414 kPa (60 psi) to control the velocity of the air stream. High-velocity streams
of compressed air can cause electrostatic effects when directed into a connector. These
electrostatic effects can damage the device. Refer to “Electrostatic Discharge” earlier in
this chapter for additional information.
2. Clean the Connector Threads
WARNING Keep isopropyl alcohol away from heat, sparks, and flame. Store in a
tightly closed container. It is extremely flammable. In case of fire, use
alcohol foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide; water may be
ineffective.
Use isopropyl alcohol with adequate ventilation and avoid contact
with eyes, skin, and clothing. It causes skin irritation, may cause eye
damage, and is harmful if swallowed or inhaled. It may be harmful if
absorbed through the skin. Wash thoroughly after handling.
In case of spill, soak up with sand or earth. Flush spill area with
water.
Dispose of isopropyl alcohol in accordance with all applicable
federal, state, and local environmental regulations.