4 Ways to Clean a Canon Jack (XLR) Connector Safely
Renting sound system gear? Learn four safe ways to clean an XLR connector, from alcohol swabs to compressed air, and keep your signal clean.
4 Ways to Clean a Canon Jack (XLR) Connector Safely
If you are renting sound system equipment, you will likely be working with a range of gear, including Canon jacks (XLR connectors). In general, keeping this connector in good condition improves the signal when two devices are linked. Here is how to clean the jack connector components.
How to Clean an XLR Connector
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Cotton
The XLR connector was invented by James H. Cannon. The company was called Cannon Electric, and its product was named the Cannon X. After the latched part was developed, it was named XLR. Besides XLR, the company also made the XLP, which uses plastic insulation, but its other components are the same as the XLR.
The first method is to use cotton. Start by dabbing alcohol onto the cotton you use to clean the Canon jack. However, do not use alcohol too often on XLR connectors. This method is actually useful, but it can cause corrosion if done frequently.
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Using a Dry or Damp Cloth
A balanced input, or Canon jack, can also be maintained or cleaned with a dry or damp cloth. Use the dry cloth to clean the area inside the connector. The female socket area matters here, since the metal extends into the male area. This method uses a damp cloth to clean the surface, which keeps the input balanced.
However, remember to wring out any water soaked into the cloth before you apply it. The goal is to keep water from running into the inside of the jack connector. If the inside of this component gets wet, it can be very dangerous. So take care with this method to avoid damaging the jack connector components.
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Using a Compressed Air Canister
As you may know, compressed air is commonly used to clean dirty computers, but it can also be used on a balanced input. This method is quite easy. The trick is simply to blow the compressed air canister into the bushing hole area. After a moment, the XLR connector will be clean enough, and its quality will not be affected.
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Using a Tissue
Even if you are outdoors and do not have the three tools above, you can wipe the Canon socket with a soft cloth. Never use a rough cloth, because it can scratch the surface or the XLR connector. This way, you can clean a Canon jack easily, anytime and anywhere, without any fuss.
These four methods are easy to apply. Although they are fairly simple, make sure you do them carefully so you do not damage the input connector. You should also use high-quality jacks so they last longer, such as those available at Goshen Swara Indonesia.
