Endface inspection is one of the most critical steps in fiber connector quality control. Even a small dust particle or scratch on the endface can increase insertion loss, reduce return loss, and introduce random link instability. In FTTH, ODN, and data center environments, you rely on consistent. It's crucial to inspect, clean, and reinspect fiber end faces before mating connectors — whether on patch cords and trunks within the network or on the test reference cord you connect to your tester. The procedures in this document describe basic inspection techniques and processes of cleaning for fiber optic cables. Marcel Buijs, EMEA Business Development, Technical Sales, Fiber Optic Center, Inc.