Connectors need to be handled carefully. They should be stored in a safe environment. Always install protective plastic end caps on the connectors of the device when they are not in use.
Keep connectors clean (see Cleaning). Avoid touching the connector mating surfaces with your fingers. Use gloves when working with the connectors to avoid contamination from dirt or grease and to improve accuracy of measurement.
CAUTION |
Do not touch mating plane surfaces. Grease and microscopic dirt particles are difficult to remove from these surfaces. |
Inspect connectors before mating using a magnifying glass. Check for scratches on the plating, worn mating surfaces, metal particles in the threads or on the mating surfaces, and bent or misaligned conductor centers.
CAUTION |
No device should be used if the center connector conductor is bent or broken. No device should be used if the connector has deformed threads. |
Holding the connector in your hand or cleaning the connector with compressed air can significantly change its temperature. Wait for the connector temperature to stabilize before using it for calibration or measurement.
Wear a grounding wrist strap and cover the working table with a grounded, conductive mat. This helps to protect devices from electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Connector lifetime:
•All connectors have a limited lifetime. This means that connectors can become defective due to wear during normal use. For best results, all connectors should be inspected and maintained to maximize their lifetime.
•A visual inspection should be performed each time the connectors are mated. Metal particles from connector threads often find their way onto the mating surface during connection or disconnection.
