RFS HYBRIFLEX mMIMO Instruction sheet

RFS INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
HYBRIFLEX® mMIMO | 603400209500 | July 2019
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Page 1 of 32
mMIMO HYBRIFLEX
®
Guidelines and Instructions

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Table of Contents
Introduction to HYBRIFLEX® ............................................................................................................................ 3
HYBRIFLEX Feeder Configuration ................................................................................................................... 3
Transporting, Shipping and Handling the Drum ............................................................................................. 5
Handling HYBRIFLEX Cable.............................................................................................................................. 5
Hoisting/Pulling HYBRIFLEX Cable .................................................................................................................. 6
HYBRIFLEX Bending ......................................................................................................................................... 7
Fixation/Mounting of the Cable ..................................................................................................................... 9
Monopole Installation Instructions ................................................................................................................ 9
Fiber Inspection ............................................................................................................................................ 14
Fiber Cleaning Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 15
HYBRIFLEX Armor Trimming Procedure ....................................................................................................... 20
Grounding Kit Installation ............................................................................................................................. 23
HYBRIFLEX Bulkhead Connector Fitting Installation ..................................................................................... 24
HYBRIFLEX Power Splice 4AWG to 6AWG Instruction .................................................................................. 25
HYBRIFLEX Power Splice 4AWG to 4AWG Y Splice Instruction..................................................................... 27
HYBRIFLEX Power Splice 4AWG to 6AWG Y Splice Instruction..................................................................... 28
HYBRIFLEX Tower Accessories ...................................................................................................................... 31

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Introduction to HYBRIFLEX®
RFS’ HYBRIFLEX Remote Radio Head (RRH) hybrid feeder cabling solution combines multiple elements,
including optical fiber and DC power, for RRHs in a single lightweight cable, making it the world’s most
innovative solution for RRH deployments. It was developed to reduce installation complexity and cost at
macro sites. HYBRIFLEX allows mobile operators deploying RRH architecture to standardize the RRH
installation process. HYBRIFLEX combines optical fiber, power and alarm wire in a single jacketed cable and
can connect multiple RRHs with a single feeder. Standard RFS CELLFLEX® coaxial cable accessories may be used
with HYBRIFLEX cable. Both pre-terminated and on-site terminated options are available. The rugged jacket
and copper wrapped armor facilitates easy transportation, handling, and installation.
These short instructions were written for qualified and experienced personnel. They describe, in few words,
the main points that MUST be noted during installation, without any claim of completeness.
Any liability or warranty for results of improper or unsafe use is disclaimed!
General remarks:
In principle, care must be taken to avoid all such strain that may cause permanent deformation on the cable,
e.g. going below admissible bending radii, kinking, applying too high tensile stress or forcible deformation (e.g.
pulling over sharp edges, over tightening of clamps etc.).
HYBRIFLEX Feeder Configuration
This installation guideline supports HYBRIFLEX cable available in small, medium and large riser trunk
configurations, 1x16, 2x16, 4x24, 5x24, 3x48 and 6x48. The trunk cable assemblies comprise of 4 or 6 AWG DC
wires and up to forty-eight (48) pairs of Multi-Mode fiber, terminated with ODVA, D-LC, MPO or outdoor rated
MPO connectors, depending upon the configuration.
HYBRIFLEX trunk cable assemblies are factory constructed specifically to suit this application, ensuring
trouble-free installation. Additional features that ease installation and ensure durability throughout service
life include:
 Robust breakout design with identified optical fibers and power conductors
 Stranded construction for easy bending and maximum fiber protection
 Copper wrap shield protects from crush and animal damage
 Integrated rip cords for length management
 Factory test certificate available for every cable assembly
 Smartly packaged, easy fiber end face access for pre-testing
The installation instructions here within, apply to (but not limited to) the following HYBRIFLEX families:

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Generic
Description Type DC Pairs
DC gage
(AWG)
Cross
Section
(mm
2
) DC Type
Fiber
Pairs
Fiber
type
Fiber
Termination
Top
Fiber
Termination
Bottom Armor Model Name
1x16 Hybrid Jumper Riser to
fiber
Jumper
1 6 13.4 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
16 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB058-13U1M16-xxxF
1x16 Hybrid Jumper Riser to
RRH
1 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
16 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB078-21U1M16-xxxF
2x16 Hybrid Jumper Riser to
RRH
2 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
24 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB078-21U2M16-xxxF
4x24 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
4 6 13.4 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
24 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB114-13U4M24-xxxF
4x24 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
4 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
24 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB114-21U4M24-xxxF
5x24 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
5 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
24 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB158-21U5M24-xxxF
3x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
3 6 13.4 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB078-13U3M48-xxxF
3x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
3 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB114-21U3M48-xxxF
3x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
3 6 13.4 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM MPO D-LC Copper
Tape
HB114-13U3MP48-xxxF
3x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
3 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM MPO D-LC Copper
Tape
HB114-21U3MP48-xxxF
6x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
6 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM ODVA D-LC Copper
Tape
HB158-21U6M48-xxxF
6x48 Hybrid Riser Riser to
fiber
Jumper
6 4 21 Jacketed red/black
unshielded pairs;
individually jacketed
red and black wires in
the bulk
48 MM MPO D-LC Copper
Tape
HB158-21U6MP48-xxxF
Typical Application

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Transporting, Shipping and Handling the Drum
Drums must be handled carefully to avoid any damage to the drum and/or the hybrid cable.
 If the drum will be shipped by van or truck the drum must be secured against rolling. Pay special
attention to careful loading and unloading. Do not roll the drum from high levels (load floor) of the
vehicle without protective measures, e.g. roll the drum from the vehicle by using planks as a ramp. Do
not drop the drum!
 If forklifts are used, the forks must be long enough to engage both flanges of the drum at the same
time to avoid cable damage.
 If a crane is used, a special hanger is necessary to ensure vertical application of forces and thus
avoiding damage of the drum flanges and the cable.
 Do not lay the drum on its side, reels must be transported and handled in their up-right position only
(the cable could be deformed due to its own weight).
 Make sure that the cable end is always properly sealed and fixed as close as possible to the drum core.
 Note the recommended rotation direction of the drum, which is shown by an arrow on the drum
flange (during installation/pulling of the cable the drum will be on drum stands and will then be
turned in the opposite direction to unwind the cable).
 If the drum is completely protected by wooden planks, these should not be removed before the drum
is placed (transported) to the final position.
Handling HYBRIFLEX Cable
Upon receiving the HYBRIFLEX shipment it is highly
recommended that the drum be inspected for any
physical damage and all fiber connection points be
tested.
Do not drag the cable over sharp edges. If, it can’t be
avoided to drag the cable over sharp edges, protective
measures must be taken, if necessary by positioning an
additional rigging at those critical places.
To protect the cable against any damage, protective
measures must be taken. This is also applicable if cables
must be pulled in horizontal runs (example: using pipe
rollers, wooden planks or similar).
Prevent any pinches to the DC wires, which may cause
electrical spikes and shorten circuitry.

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Hoisting/Pulling HYBRIFLEX Cable
 Note: when hoisting and pulling HYBRIFLEX always use caution.
 Do not remove the protective sleeve. If it is removed during pre-testing, re-attach securely before
hoisting the cable.
 Do not attach the hoisting grip over the protective sleeve.
 Hoisting grips should be attached no less than 20 inches from the breakout point.
HYBRIFLEX cable is supplied in specific cut lengths with fully terminated and polished factory connectors.
Short lengths of small HYBRIFLEX can be hoisted manually, otherwise
a winch is recommended. Provide a pulley high enough on the tower
to enable the HYBRIFLEX line to be raised sufficiently.
Attach a hoisting grip (do not use a closed lacing style) using tie back
rope or additional electrical tape if needed to prevent any stress or
force to fiber and electrical wire. When using pre-installed hoisting
grips, simply adjust it to the desired section of the cable and clamp it
or use heavy duty tape to secure it.
For every long vertical run of cable, additional hoisting grips should be
attached at 50-60m intervals.
Add the hoist line to the hoisting grip or rope sling; protect the
HYBRIFLEX against shackles.
Keep slack in the cable between the hoisting grips in case more than
one is needed. Ensure that the slack is maintained during hoisting.
Hoist the cable slowly.
Rotation of the reel must be slow to prevent buckling of the cable.
When unspooling, keep the reel secure so that it does not accidentally
roll over the unprotected components.
If it is necessary to drag the cable over sharp edges of buildings or
tower members, protective measures must be taken.
Careless handling can damage the cable jacket eventually causing
damage to fiber end face which may render the entire HYBRIFLEX line
length useless.
If the cable is hoisted inside the tower, feed it into the tower base and
keep its top off the tower steel work. Please refer to the Monopole
installation section of this document.
Caution! The protective sleeve should not be removed until
installation is complete.
Hoisting Grips: 1 for every 100ft of vertical run. For heavier runs, such
as 1-5/8” 4AWG, use 2 hoisting grips for every 200ft vertical run.
Hoisting Grip
Always secured
with electrical
tape or tie wrap
before applying
tension
Protective
sock
Do not Hoist
without Sock
Minimum
18.12 FT

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HYBRIFLEX Bending
 The minimum-bending radius should be strictly observed. [See product spec sheet].
HYBRIFLEX cable should be bent manually with a force applied in a distributed manner, pressing
carefully while the hand slides along the cable [see diagram 1]. Avoid rapid, sharp motions.
 Avoid any tight micro bends near the fiber end face as micro bends can cause broken fiber and
increase insertion loss. [See diagram 2&3].
Helpful Tip: Hybrid cables that utilize copper outer shield, are easy to bend, but must be handled carefully to
avoid damage to internal elements.
 Do not twist the cable, e.g. if changing from vertical to horizontal runs [See diagram 4]
 Do not leave the Hybrid cable hanging in a long free space, e.g. during the installation under a
platform. In adverse conditions, additional protective measures may have to be taken [for example
see picture 1].
Protective measures:
temporary fixation of the cable
As shown from side (upper) and
top (lower) view, do not swing
the cable horizontally creating a
twist in the vertical run
As shown from side view, rather
form a large bow and pull and
guide the cable horizontally
without creating any twist
Pull carefully
bit by bit
While pressing, slide your hand
Diagram 1
Diagram 3
Diagram 2
Diagram 4

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HYBRIFLEX Bending
Minimum Bending Radius
• Minimum bend radius is the tightest bend an installer can bend a section of the cable without causing
performance degradation and/or damage. Refer to product data sheet for specific hybrid cable bend
radius.
RFS specifies two types of minimum bending radius for a cable.
• Single bend – irreversible minimum bend section of the cable
• Repeated bend – reversible minimum bend section of the cable
HYBRIFLEX Bending
Repeated bend radius, can be
reversed without damage or cable loss.
For single bend radius, DO NOT reverse.
Doing so will damage and increase cable loss.

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Fixation/Mounting of the Cable
Crush resistance may vary for different outer materials. This should be considered when tightening the clamps
(especially if these clamps have not been approved by RFS).
Several different clamps may be used, we recommend using the SNAP-IN type. The SNAP-IN is suitable for all
fixing situations while at the same time it is a safer clamp (less chance of failure) offering many advantages.
The recommended and maximum clamp spacing shown in table 1 must always be considered. The small
spacing applies to severe site conditions (wind load, icing, etc.); whereas the greater/recommended spacing
can be used for less exposed cable runs (e.g. indoor applications).
Table 1
HYBRIFLEX
Size
Spacing
HBF058 [5/8”]
0.7m (28”)
HBF078 [7/8”]
0.9m (3ft”)
HB114 [1
-
1/4”]
1.3m (4.25ft)
HB158 [1
-
5/8”]
1.5m
(5ft)
Monopole Installation Instructions
All below configurations are options for mMIMO pre-terminated multi-mode risers.
Tower Risers – 3 Initial Variations
 3 Pair x 6AWG DC with 48 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application < 125 ft.
 3 Pair x 4AWG DC with 48 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application 125 ft. to < 230 ft.
 6 Pair x 4AWG DC with 48 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application >230 ft.
Sectorized Risers / Rooftop / Monopole – 3 Initial Variations
 1 Pair x 6AWG DC with 16 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application < 120 ft.
 1 Pair x 4AWG DC with 16 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application 125 ft. to < 230 ft.
 2 Pair x 4AWG DC with 16 Multi-Mode (MM) Fiber Pairs – typical application >230 ft.
Jumpers – 2 Initial Variations
 4 Pair Multi-Mode Fiber-Only
 3 Pair Multi-Mode Fiber Only
Discrete DC Cable
 2 x 6AWG – 1500 ft. Reels – (Available: 10 ft., 20 ft., 30 ft. 40 ft., 50 ft. and 100 ft.)
 2 x 4AWG – 1500 ft. Reels – (Available: 10 ft., 20 ft., 30 ft. 40 ft., 50 ft. and 100 ft.)
HYBRIFLEX Installation Instructions for 3x48 and 6x48 Configurations within a Monopole
Installations using 3x48 and 6x48 large riser trunk configurations MUST be considered on a case-by-case basis
based upon the site walk and awareness regarding tower loading.

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Helpful Tip: If the monopole is extremely full, top-down installation should be considered. If that is not
possible and incumbent loading is excessive, exterior mounting should be pursued, if local zoning restrictions
allow.
Top-Fed Pre-Installation Notes
• RFS recommends a complete site survey prior to installation, to insure the correct type and size of
hybrid cable to be utilized.
• Monopoles may be congested due to existing transmission lines. Exterior mounting options should be
explored where there are no zoning restrictions regarding this practice.
• Interior monopole installation of cable should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis based upon tower
loading as the potential risk of damage to the fiber components is very high.
• Review the spooling direction of each hybrid reel as the cable may need to be spooled in reverse to
accommodate top to bottom feeding.
• In the advent of a top-fed installation, adequate rigging must be utilized to support the weight of the
cable as it is fed to the top of the tower.
• Due to DC power wire gauge, these hybrid cables may be heavier than traditional transmission lines.
Use caution when feeding from the top to bottom and request additional manpower as needed.
• Use extreme caution when inserting the protective sleeve containing the LC connectors that connect
to the BBU. As you bring them into monopole port hole (top exit port) great care must be taken.
• Due to the interior design of the monopole, traditional cable hangers cannot be used to support the
weight of the hybrid - locate the hook in the upper portion of the monopole to support the cable as it
is fed descending in the monopole.
• Top installation within a monopole should ONLY be considered if tower loading is extremely light or
this is the first cable in a Greenfield site. Also, RFS recommends assessing the exit port size for
viability of cable exiting without excessive stress on fiber connectors and brake outs. Please refer to
the Monopole – Hoisting from the Bottom section of this document.

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HYBRIFLEX Installation Instructions for Bottom Feeding 3x48 and 6x48 Configurations within a Monopole
NOTE: These instructions are only applicable if the monopole is a greenfield site or relatively empty at or
below your designated exit port level.
Feed hybrid cable into the tower base and keep it from hitting
any tower steel work. Hoist the cable slowly and carefully, do
not use excessive force as it may damage fiber termination
breakout, connectors or the fiber itself.
Avoid snags when hoisting or routing hybrid cable through
and around tower members and other incumbent cable that
had been installed prior.
Insure the hybrid cable weight is distributed evenly for safety
and per hoisting components equipment specification.
Due to the DC wire, hybrid cable is heavier than traditional
cable. Use a strong pulley at both the top and bottom of the
tower to guide the hoist line.
If it is necessary to install the cable over rough ground
objects, protective measures must be taken.
Careless handling can damage the protective layers and
potentially cause damage to fiber strands, fiber connectors or
end-faces, which may render the entire HYBRIFLEX line length
inoperable.
Once the hybrid cable is hoisted to the appropriate height, anchor it to the support structure, starting at the
top.
Ensure that the breakout is extended out from the designated top port holes at approximately 20 inches so
that no parts of the hybrid fan-out remain in the interior of the monopole. (This is based upon adequate sizing
of the Exit Port. The main breakout is approximately 6.5 inches. Secure all unused terminations to prevent
future damage.) Ground the hybrid cable on the top and bottom with RFS grounding kits.

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Monopole Installation – Hoisting from the Bottom
NOTE: Inspect the hybrid cable for possible shipping damage, broken sleeves, missing connector caps, etc.
Drop and secure a rope inside the monopole port hole as
required. Refer to your tower safety handbook. (Use a rope
or cable capable of supporting the weight of the cable.) Un-
reel the hybrid cable, using caution to avoid damage.
One must keep the cable secure, so it does not accidentally
come loose and/or bind while pulling it off the reel. Support
the cable reel on an axle so that the reel can rotate freely as
the cable is hoisted and pulled from the bottom. Have a crew
member control the rotation of the reel.
Short lengths of RFS hybrid may be shipped in boxes. The
cable should be unboxed and uncoiled along the ground away
from the tower before it is hoisted.
Before clamping hoisting grips, make the following distance
measurements before clamping or use of a lace-up style
hoisting grips so that it can be hoisted to a support hook in
the monopole tower:
Measure the distance from the top exit of the monopole to
the interior hybrid cable support hook (ONLY if instructions
are NOT provided by the tower manufacturer).
Measure the distance from the top mesh of the hoisting grip
to the top of the cable handle.
Calculate the length of hybrid cable protruding from the top
exit of the monopole (all measurements must be made
excluding the breakout).
These three distances added together give the distance from
the top of the hybrid cable breakout to the point where the
top of the hoisting grip’s mesh should be located after
attachment. Once the location is found, the hoisting grip can
then be clamped down with the support clamp.

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Regardless of the calculated distance, the hoisting grips should be clamped at a minimum of six inches (6”)
below the breakout. Do NOT attach the hoisting grip over the fiber termination protection regardless of
whether it utilizes sleeves or bags! Use a tie back rope or additional electrical tape if needed to prevent any
stress or force to the fiber and protective sleeve (only use lace-up type hoisting grips).
Use a hoisting grip that will support the total weight of the specific hybrid cable and add additional hoisting
grips for longer lengths (hoisting grip clamps should always be utilized. See the hoisting grip recommendations
section of this document).
Make certain to allow slack in the hybrid cable between the hoisting grips in case more than one is used. This
will ensure each one can carry weight. Take care to ensure the slack is maintained during the hoisting process.

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Fiber Inspection
Optical Interface Connectors
The interface optical connectors for mMIMO are D-LC to D-LC.
An in-line weather resistant LC adaptor (ODVA) is used to
mate the top jumper with the main Riser to the RRH (mating
RRH connector MPO/MPT).
Tools and test equipment
Use ONLY test equipment approved or recommended by the
mobile network operator.
Safety Caution!
Operator should always assume fiber optic cables are live;
laser radiation can cause irreversible damage or injury to the
human eyes.
Optical End Face Inspection
Industry standards, as per the IEC document 61300-3-25 1.0,
state that all optical fiber end faces must be inspected and
cleaned before mating. Please refer to the cleaning procedure
within this document if needed.
LC Connector inspection
 Inspect the LC fiber end face using the approved test
equipment probe and the appropriated LC fiber tips. If
the test fails due to too much dirt, clean the end face
accordingly and re-test.
See Table 2 template and allowable defect table
Note: For test parameters and the specific test that must be
performed refer to the carrier closeout requirement.
LUCENT
CONNECTOR - LC
Pass
Zone IEC 61300-3-35 Recommended Acceptance Criteria
Multimode Polished Connectors
Scratches (maximum
number of a given
dimension)
Defects (maximum number of a
given dimension)
Core No limit ≤ 3 μm
None > 3 μm
4 ≤ 5 μm
None > 5 μm
Cladding
65 μm to 11 μm
No limit ≤ 5 μm
None > 5 μm
No limit > 2 μm
5 from 5 μm to 10 μm
None > 10 μm
Adhesive
115 μm to 135 μm
No limit No limit
Contact
135 μm to 250 μm
No limit None < 20 μm
50 from 20 μm to 30 μm
None > 30 μm
Table 2
Fail
125 μm
62.5 or 50 μm
250 μm

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Fiber Cleaning Introduction
Warning: Before attempting to clean or inspect fiber optics it is strongly recommended that the technician
have a good understanding of the IEC 61300-3-35 fiber optics standard procedure. This document can be
obtained simply by performing an internet search for IEC 61300-3-35.
It is important that every fiber connector be inspected and cleaned prior to mating. This document describes
inspection and cleaning processes for fiber optic connections. The procedures in this document describe basic
inspection techniques and processes of cleaning for fiber optic cables, bulkheads, and adapters used in fiber
Optics connections.
Note: This document is intended for use by service personnel, field service technicians, and hardware
installers.
Inspection and Cleaning are Critical
Clean fiber optic components are a requirement for
quality connections between fiber optic equipment.
One of the most basic and important procedures for the
maintenance of fiber optic systems is to clean the fiber
optic equipment.
Any contamination in the fiber connection can cause failure of the component or failure of the whole system.
Even microscopic dust particles can cause a variety of problems for optical connections. A particle that
partially or completely blocks the core generates strong back reflections, which can cause instability in the
laser system. Dust particles trapped between two fiber faces can scratch the glass surfaces. Even if a particle is
only situated on the cladding or the edge of the end face, it can cause an air gap or misalignment between the
fiber cores which significantly degrades the optical signal.
In addition to dust, other types of contamination must also be cleaned off the end face. Such materials
include:
 Oils, frequently from human hands
 Film residues, condensed from vapors in the air
 Powdery coatings, left after water or other solvents evaporate away
These contaminants can be more difficult to remove than dust particles and can also cause damage to
equipment if not removed. When you clean fiber components, always complete the steps in the procedures
carefully. The goal is to eliminate any dust or contamination and to provide a clean environment for the fiber
optic connection. Remember that inspection, cleaning and re-inspection are critical steps which must be done
before you make any fiber-optic connection.
General Reminders and Warnings
Review these reminders and warnings before you inspect and clean your fiber-optic connections.
Reminders:
 Always turn off any laser sources before you inspect fiber connectors, optical components or
bulkheads.
 Always make sure that the cable is disconnected at both ends.
 Always wear the appropriate safety glasses when required in your area.
 Always inspect the connectors or adapters before you clean.
 Always inspect and clean the connectors before you make a connection.
 Always use the connector housing to plug or unplug a fiber connector.

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 Always keep a protective cap on unplugged fiber connectors.
 Always store unused protective caps in a re-sealable container to prevent the possibility of the
transfer of dust to the fiber. Locate the containers near the connectors for easy access.
 Always discard used tissues and swabs properly.
Warnings
 Never look into a fiber while the system lasers are on.
 Never use alcohol or wet cleaning without a way to ensure that it does not leave residue on the end-
face. It can cause damage to the equipment.
 Never clean bulkheads or receptacle devices without a way to inspect them.
 Never connect a fiber to a fiberscope while the system lasers are on.
 Never touch the end face of the fiber connectors.
 Never twist or pull forcefully on the fiber cable.
 Never reuse any tissue, swab or cleaning cassette reel.
 Never touch the clean area of a tissue, swab or cleaning fabric.
 Never touch any portion of a tissue or swab where alcohol was applied.
 Never touch the dispensing tip of an alcohol bottle.
 Never use alcohol around an open flame or spark; alcohol is very flammable.
Best Practices
 Re-sealable containers should be used to store all cleaning tools; store end caps in a separate
container.
The inside of these containers must be kept very clean and the lid should be kept tightly closed to avoid
contamination of the contents during fiber connection.
 Never allow cleaning alcohol to evaporate slowly off the ferrule as it can leave residual material on the
cladding and fiber core. This is extremely difficult to clean off without another wet cleaning and
usually more difficult to remove than the original contaminant. Liquid alcohol can also remain in small
crevices or cavities where it might re-emerge.
General Inspection and Cleaning Procedures
This section describes the connector cleaning process. Additional
sections provide more detail on specific inspection and cleaning
techniques.
General Cleaning Process
Complete these steps:
1. Inspect the fiber connector, component, or bulkhead with a
fiberscope.
2. If the connector is dirty, clean it with a dry, cleaning technique.
Using hand tool such as “One-Click” type cleaner, etc.
3. Inspect the connector.
4. If the connector is still dirty, repeat the dry, cleaning
technique.

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5. Inspect the connector.
6. If the connector is still dirty, clean it with a wet cleaning technique followed immediately with a dry clean to
ensure no residue is left on the end-face.
Note: Wet cleaning is not recommended for bulkheads and receptacles. Damage to equipment can occur.
7. Inspect the connector again.
8. If the contaminate still cannot be removed, repeat the cleaning procedure until the end-face is clean.
Note: Never use alcohol or wet cleaning without a way to ensure that it does not leave residue on the end-
face. It can cause equipment damage.
Connector Inspection Technique
This inspection technique is done with the use of fiberscopes to view the end face.
A fiberscope is a customized microscope used to inspect optical fiber components. The fiberscope should
provide 200x-400x total magnification. Specific adapters are needed to properly inspect the end face of most
connector types, for example: 1.25mm, 2.5mm
Tools
 Clean, re-sealable container for the end-caps
 Fiberscope
 Bulkhead probe
Cleaning Techniques for Pigtails and Patch Cords
This section describes cleaning techniques for pigtails and patch cords.
Note: No known cleaning methods are 100% effective; therefore, it is imperative that inspection is included as
part of the cleaning process. Improper cleaning can cause damage to the equipment.
Dry Cleaning Technique: Cartridge and Pocket Style Cleaners
This section describes dry cleaning techniques with the use of cartridge and pocket style cleaners.
Tools
 Cartridge Cleaning Tools:
 Pocket Style Cleaning Tools:
1. Make sure that the lasers are turned off before you begin the inspection.
Warning: Invisible laser radiation might be emitted from disconnected fibers or connectors. Do not stare into
beams or view directly with optical instruments.
2. Remove the protective end-cap and store it in a small re-sealable container.
3. Inspect the connector with a fiberscope.
4. If the connector is dirty, clean it with a cartridge or pocket cleaner.
 For cartridge cleaners, press down and hold the thumb lever. The shutter slides back and exposes a
new cleaning area, then go to step 5.
 For pocket cleaners, peel back protective film for one cleaning surface, and then go to step 5.

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 For manual advance cleaners, pull on the cleaning material from the bottom of the device until a new
strip appears in the cleaning window, and then go to step 5.
5. Hold the Ferrule tip lightly against the cleaning area and rotate one quarter turn.
6. Pull the ferrule tip lightly down the exposed cleaning area in the direction of the arrow or from top to
bottom.
Caution: Do not scrub the fiber against the fabric or clean over the same surface more than once. This can
potentially contaminate or damage your connector.
7. Release the thumb lever to close the cleaning window, if you use cartridge type cleaners.
8. Inspect the connector again with the fiberscope.
9. Repeat the inspection and cleaning processes, as necessary.
Caution: Throw away any used cleaning material, either cards or material cartridges, after use.
Dry Clean Technique: Lint-Free Wipes
This section describes dry cleaning techniques that use lint-free wipes.
Tools
• Lint-free wipes, preferably clean room quality
1. Make sure that the lasers are turned off before you begin the inspection.
Warning: Invisible laser radiation might be emitted from disconnected fibers or connectors. Do not stare into
beams or view directly with optical instruments.
2. Remove the protective end-cap and store it in a small re-sealable container.
3. Fold the wipe into a square about 4 to 8 layers thick.
4. Inspect the connector with a fiberscope.
If the connector is dirty, clean it with a lint-free wipe.
Caution: Be careful not to contaminate the cleaning area of the wipe with your hands or on a surface during
folding.
5. Lightly wipe the ferrule tip in the central portion of the wipe with a figure 8 motion.
Caution: Do not scrub the fiber against the wipe. If you do it, it can cause scratches and more contamination.
6. Repeat the figure 8 wiping action on another clean section of the wipe.
7. Properly dispose of the wipe.
8. Inspect the connector again with the fiberscope.
9. Repeat this process as necessary.

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Wet Cleaning Technique: Lint-Free Wipes
If a dry, cleaning procedure does not remove the dirt from the fiber end-face, then precede the wet cleaning
method.
Caution: Improper cleaning can cause damage to the equipment. The primary concern with the use of
isopropyl alcohol is the ability to remove any residue completely from the connector or adapter. Residual
liquid alcohol acts as a transport mechanism for loose dirt on the end face. If the alcohol is allowed to
evaporate slowly off the ferrule, it can leave residual material on the cladding and fiber core. This is extremely
difficult to clean off without another wet cleaning and usually more difficult to remove than the original
contaminant. Liquid alcohol can also remain in small crevices or cavities where it can re-emerge during fiber
connection.
Tools
• 99% isopropyl alcohol
• Lint-free wipes
Caution: Read the reminders and warnings before you begin this process.
1. Make sure that the lasers are turned off before you begin the inspection.
Warning: Invisible laser radiation might be emitted from disconnected fibers or connectors. Do not stare into
beams or view directly with optical instruments.
2. Remove the protective end-cap and store it in a small re-sealable container.
3. Inspect the connector with a fiberscope.
4. Fold the wipe into a square, about 4 to 8 layers thick.
5. Moisten one section of the wipe with one drop of 99% alcohol. Be sure that a portion of the wipe
remains dry.
6. Lightly wipe the ferrule tip in the alcohol moistened portion of the wipe with a figure 8 motion.
Immediately repeat the figure 8 wiping action on the dry section of wipe to remove any residual
alcohol.
Caution: Do not scrub the fiber against the wipe, doing so can cause scratches.
7. Properly dispose of the wipe. Never reuse a wipe.
8. Inspect the connector again with a fiberscope.
9. Repeat the process as necessary

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HYBRIFLEX Armor Trimming Procedure
HYBRIFLEX finished lengths are built and shipped to the breakout requirements specified by the mobile
network operator. If these do NOT accommodate your specific site requirements, please follow the
instructions below.
Overview: This cable is constructed with a ripcord, located right under the cable jacket. The ripcord is
designed to cut through the jacket, to expose the individual fiber and power wires as necessary for the
installation.
Use the following process if the length of the HYBRIFLEX to be installed needs adjustment.
Note: DO NOT CUT FIBER LINES and avoid pinching DC Wires. Rack mountable optical fiber storage units are
available to manage any excess fiber lengths in the breakouts at the BBU.
Safety: Caution! Protect your hands and fingers. Knife and copper foil are sharp objects they can be harmful if
handled improperly.
Necessary Tools
Step 1
• Measure and mark the length of the armor to be removed.
• Use a razor or sharp blade to score the cable jacket. Caution, the ripcord is under the jacket!
Step 2
• Remove electrical tape to locate
the ripcord. Notch the jacket with
a flush cutter if necessary.
• Using a wrench/screwdriver or
Mandrel, wrap the rip cord into
the tool. If a mandrel is being
used, tighten a knot on the ripcord
and insert into the mandrel slot.
• RFS recommends using a mandrel
for lengths over 3ft.
Screwd
river
Mandrel
Wrench
RFS Mandrel