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http://www.cablinginstall.com/articles/print/volume-25/issue-7/features/installation/the-remarkable-evolution-of-modern-fiber-optic-connector-inspection-probes.html?cmpid=enl_cim_cimdatacenternewsletter_2017-07-20&email_address=tomi.engdahl@netcontrol.com&eid=293591077&bid=1816974

It’s mid-2017 and nearly everyone is aware that the information technology world encircling us is simultaneously getting both faster and denser. Bits of data are flying through optical network links at rates of 100 billion bits per second and higher, and the feature sizes in the network processor chips at the ends of these network links continue to shrink, as roughly and famously predicted by Gordon Moore. Multifiber connectors such as MPO, MT, and MXC are putting more and more less-than-human-hair diameter glass fibers into tighter spaces. With single MPO connectors increasingly using 16 fibers at 25 Gbits/sec per fiber, the asset value of these 400-Gbit/sec short-reach Ethernet links is exceedingly high, making data center infrastructure equipment failures due to connector contamination completely unacceptable to savvy management teams. Microscopic connector endface dirt and debris cause light reflections and attenuation – the enemies of optimal optical signal transmission.

Thankfully there now exist excellent quality and easy-to-use tools for inspecting and cleaning fiber endfaces. In particular, the brief history and evolution of fiber microscopes shows a compelling level of innovation, in terms of optics, electronics and software.

The RMS-1 TruVue Fiber Optic Video Scope is now configured for Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10, its inventor Edward J. Forrest recently announced. RMS-1 is direct digital photography and records in still and motion imagery.
“The RMS-1 TruVue Fiber Optic Video Scope is the only device that can ‘see’ beyond the customary and limited field-of-view as noted in IEC-61300-3-35,” Forrest explained. “This is an important advance as debris present in many sectors of the fiber-optic connector, heretofore not possible to be seen, can contribute to reflectance and insertion loss. The instrument can be used for field service, production lines, and a very essential asset for training applications.”

“In addition to the customary horizontal endface, RMS-1 can easily see the vertical ferrule as well as soil points of the fiber-optic connection,” Forrest said. “RMS-1 is thought to be the only device on the market able to capture direct digital images of fiber-optic connector surfaces beyond the limited areas commonly understood as Zone 1-2-3.” Forrest characterizes a connector in three-dimensional terms in Zones: 1-2-3-4-5.

In mid-2005, the eye care community breathed a sigh of relief when the first fiber inspection probes made their way to the market. These probes were able to display an image of the endface on an LCD rather than directly on a tech’s retina. However, this image had to be interpreted. What constituted a defect or contaminant had to be based on user knowledge and gut instinct; depending on the quality of the focus, image centering, and several other parameters, there was always a chance of misinterpretation.

Regardless of the power of the on-board intelligence, poor focus and poor image capture will lead to errors. More often than not, an out- of-focus speck, scratch, or trace will simply not appear on the screen. The intelligent software will give the connector a thumbs up, when in reality it should not have. This is what is referred to as a “false positive.” As the saying goes, garbage in, garbage out.

Many papers and studies have shown the impact that connector cleanliness has on network issues and failures. Unfortunately, very few technicians, operators, and managers acknowledge this.

100X Zoom LED Digital Microscope Lens Case w/ Clip for iPhone / iPad / Cellphone / Tablet – Black
http://dx.com/p/100x-zoom-led-digital-microscope-lens-case-w-clip-for-iphone-ipad-cellphone-tablet-black-241824?r=85273703

I think that combination of microscope and tablet/smartphone would be a good tool to inspect fiber optics. I think more easy to use than just microscope on your eye especially if you normally use glasses (I think it would be better, I have not tried though..)

Other products microscope add on to cellphone:

Universal 60X Telephoto Lens Set for iPhone / iPad / Samsung / HTC + More Cellphone / Tablet PC
http://dx.com/p/universal-60x-telephoto-lens-set-for-iphone-ipad-samsung-htc-more-cellphone-tablet-pc-237176?r=85273703

60X Zoom LED Micro Lens Microscope w/ Protective Case for iPhone 5 – Silver
http://dx.com/p/60x-zoom-led-micro-lens-microscope-w-protective-case-for-iphone-5-silver-168485