What tool is best suited for inspecting connector faults such as scratches or dirt?

The inspection microscope is the best tool for inspecting connector faults such as scratches or dirt. This device magnifies the fiber connector end faces, allowing for a detailed examination of the surface conditions. By observing the connectors under high magnification, technicians can identify imperfections like scratches, dirt, or other contaminants that can affect performance quality.

While other tools like a visual fiber tracer are useful for determining the integrity of a fiber path, they do not provide the level of detail necessary to assess the physical condition of the connector end faces. An OTDR, or Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer, is excellent for diagnosing issues along the entire length of a fiber optic cable but does not visually inspect connector surfaces. Similarly, a light source and power meter can measure the overall light transmission quality and quantify loss, but they do not inspect the physical state of the connectors themselves. Hence, the inspection microscope is the most suitable choice for this specific task.