Purpose. The purpose of this test is to determine the effects of a controlled salt-laden atmosphere on Fiber Optic device components, finishes and mechanisms. Typical effects of this test include, but are not limited to:

(a) Exposure of base metals, pitting and porosity of finishes.

(b) Cracking and delamination of components or finishes, or both.

(c) Abnormal nicks, cracks or scratches on finished surfaces that indicate the removal of the normal protective coating.

(d) Change of optical transmittance or insertion loss values, or change of electrical properties.

Similar Methods. Note that the intent and methodology of this test are essentially the same as those of (a) EIA RS-186-5E (Type II Test), (b) ASTM B 117, (c) MIL-STD-202F, Method 101D, and (d) MIL-STD-1344A, Method 1001.1, but specifically address the testing of fiber optic components. All of the methods are practically the same, but much of the text is adapted from the two MIL standards (which are essentially identical). Refer also to Appendix B for a discussion of comparisons with the IEC method.