Using SFP Data to Detect Contaminated Fiber Connectors

Abstract

We explore the use of optical power measurement data from SFP optical transceivers for the detection of contaminated fiber connectors. Due to the accuracy limitations of this data we find that this data cannot be used to detect fingerprint oil. However, we have been able to detect dust and present a general detection rule to declare a fiber connector as contaminated with dust. We also develop a contamination score to express the severity of contamination. Lastly, our study provides deep insight into the accuracy limitations of SFP power measurement data.