The SFP optical transceiver is very sensitive to ESD. SFP latent failures can occur, in dry climates or low relative humidity, surpassing their ESD protection.
Contaminant failures can occur in SFP optics and exposed glass Rx and Tx cable ends. Do not touch the exposed ends on fiber connectors. Leave the dust caps in place until you are ready to install the SFP module. Use the Fiber Optics Cleaning Kit to clean both the SFP and cable end every time they are replaced or swapped from one port to another, or when using a loopback.
When working with the SFP optical transceiver or SFP Loopback, also observe the following precautions:
Always use ESD protection when handling the SFP optical transceiver to prevent early failure.
Always keep a protective cap on unplugged fiber connections.
The SFP must be shipped in antistatic packaging. Discard any SFP shipped or stored without proper ESD protection.
For more information on handling and cleaning the SFP transceiver refer to Fiber Optic Cable Devices Installation and Replacement.