IEC 60869-1:2018

Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic passive power control devices - Part 1: Generic specification

IEC 60869-1:2018 applies to fibre optic passive power control devices. These have all of the following general features:
– they are passive in that they contain no optoelectronic or other transducing elements;
– they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control of the transmitted power in a fixed or variable fashion;
– the ports are non-connectorized optical fibre pigtails, connectorized optical fibres or receptacles.
This document establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices:
– optical attenuator;
– optical fuse;
– optical power limiter.
This document also provides generic information including terminology for the IEC 61753-05x series. Published IEC 61753-05x series documents are listed in Bibliography
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2012 and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) the terms and definitions have been reviewed;
b) the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System has been reviewed;
c) the clause concerning quality assessment procedures has been deleted;
d) Annex G, relating to technical information on variable optical attenuators, has been added.
Keywords: fibre optic passive power control devices

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs fibroniques - Dispositifs fibroniques passifs de contrôle de la puissance - Partie 1: Spécification générique

L'IEC 60869-1:2018 s'applique aux dispositifs fibroniques passifs de contrôle de la puissance. Ceux-ci présentent toutes les caractéristiques générales suivantes:
– ils sont passifs dans le sens où ils ne contiennent aucun élément optoélectronique ou autre élément transducteur;
– ils disposent de deux ports pour la transmission de la puissance optique et ils contrôlent l'énergie transmise de manière fixe ou variable;
– les ports sont des fibres amorces optiques dépourvues de connecteurs, des fibres optiques munies de connecteurs ou des embases.
Le présent document établit les exigences génériques pour les dispositifs optiques passifs suivants:
– affaiblisseur optique,
– fusible optique,
– limiteur de puissance optique.
Le présent document prévoit également l'information générique y compris la terminologie pour la série IEC 61753-05x. Les publications de la série IEC 61753-05x sont indiquées dans la Bibliographie.
Cette cinquième édition annule et remplace la quatrième édition parue en 2012 et constitue une révision technique. Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l'édition précédente:
a) les termes et définitions ont été revus;
b) l'exigence concernant le système IEC 'd'évaluation de la qualité a été revue;
c) l'article concernant les procédures d'assurance de la qualité a été supprimé;
d) l'Annexe G, concernant les informations techniques des affaiblisseurs optiques variables, a été ajoutée.
Mots-clés: dispositifs fibroniques passifs de contrôle de la puissance

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 15-Nov-2018
• ICS: 33.180.20 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices
• Technical Committee: SC 86B - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components
• Drafting Committee: WG 7 - TC 86/SC 86B/WG 7
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 16-Nov-2018
• Completion Date: 26-Oct-2018

Relations

• Revises: IEC 60869-1:2012 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic passive power control devices - Part 1: Generic specification
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 60869-1:2018 is the fifth edition of the IEC generic specification for fibre optic passive power control devices. It defines generic requirements, terminology and documentation for passive two‑port optical devices that do not contain optoelectronic or transducing elements. Covered device classes include optical attenuators (fixed and variable/VOA), optical fuses, and optical power limiters. Ports may be non‑connectorized pigtails, connectorized fibres or receptacles. This edition updates terms and definitions, reviews the IEC Quality Assessment System, removes the clause on quality assessment procedures and adds Annex G with technical information on variable optical attenuator technologies.

Key Topics

• Scope and definitions: clear terminology for component and performance characteristics, aligned with the IEC 61753‑05x series.
• Device description: functional operation curves for fixed attenuators, VOAs, optical fuses and power limiters.
• Classification and identification: requirements for type, wavelength band, style, variant and assessment levels.
• Performance and tests: documentation of required tests, measurements, test data sheets and performance criteria for insertion loss, attenuation range, response time and stability (see normative references for test methods).
• Design, materials and workmanship: construction, marking, packaging, storage and safety requirements relevant to passive optical components.
• Documentation and specification system: three‑level IEC specification structure including drawings, instructions for use and test reports.
• Annex G (new): example technologies for VOAs such as MEMS, PLC/thermo‑optic and magnet‑optic approaches (informative).

Applications and Users

Practical uses of IEC 60869‑1:2018 include:

• Specifying and qualifying components for telecommunications and data communications networks.
• Selection and procurement of fixed and variable attenuators for link power balancing and laboratory measurement.
• Integration of optical fuses and power limiters for system protection against high optical power, transients or laser hazards in CATV, enterprise and industrial optics.
• Guiding manufacturers, test laboratories, system integrators and procurement teams on documentation, marking and conformance expectations.

Who should use this standard:

• Component manufacturers preparing product datasheets and test plans.
• Quality and compliance engineers validating optical passive power control devices.
• Test labs performing IEC‑referenced measurements.
• System designers and procurement specialists specifying components for optical links.

Related Standards

• IEC 61753‑05x series (environmental and performance information referenced in this document).
• Other IEC fibre‑optic device and test standards referenced in the normative bibliography.

Keywords: IEC 60869-1:2018, fibre optic passive power control devices, optical attenuator, variable optical attenuator (VOA), optical fuse, optical power limiter, IEC standard.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2018-11
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
passive power control devices –
Part 1: Generic specification
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IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2018-11
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic

passive power control devices –

Part 1: Generic specification
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-6298-6

– 2 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
3.1 Component terms. 8
3.2 Performance terms . 9
4 Description of devices . 11
4.1 Optical attenuator . 11
Variable optical attenuator (VOA) .
4.2 Optical fuse . 12
4.3 Optical power limiter . 13
5 Requirements . 13
5.1 Classification . 13
5.1.1 General . 13
5.1.2 Type . 14
5.1.3 Wavelength band . 14
5.1.4 Style . 14
5.1.5 Variant . 15
5.1.6 Assessment level . 15
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions. 16
5.2 Documentation . 17
5.2.1 Symbols . 17
5.2.2 Specification system . 17
5.2.3 Drawings . 18
5.2.4 Tests and measurements . 18
5.2.5 Test data sheets . 19
5.2.6 Instructions for use . 19
5.3 Standardization system . 19
5.3.1 Interface standards . 19
5.3.2 Performance standards . 20
5.3.3 Reliability standards . 20
5.3.4 Interlinking . 21
5.4 Design and construction . 22
5.4.1 Materials . 22
5.4.2 Workmanship . 22
5.5 Quality . 22
5.6 Performance . 23
5.7 Identification and marking . 23
5.7.1 General . 23
5.7.2 Variant identification number . 23
5.7.3 Component marking . 23
5.7.4 Package marking . 23
5.8 Packaging . 24
5.9 Storage conditions . 24
5.10 Safety . 24
Annex A (informative) Optical fuse configuration and performance examples . 25

IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 3 –
Annex B (informative) Optical fuse application notes . 27
Annex C (informative) Optical power limiter configuration and performance examples . 29
Annex D (informative) Optical power limiter application notes . 32
Annex E (informative) Fixed optical attenuator application note . 34
Annex F (informative) Variable (manually or electrically) optical attenuator application
note . 36
Annex G (informative) Example of technology of variable optical attenuators . 38
G.1 Example technology of micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) based VOA . 38
G.2 Example technology of planar lightwave circuit (PLC) based and
thermo-optic (TO) based VOA . 38
G.3 Example technology of magnet-optic (MO) based VOA . 39
Bibliography . 41

Figure 1 – Fixed optical attenuator operation curve . 11
Figure 2 – VOA operation curve . 12
Figure 3 – Optical fuse operation curve . 12
Figure 4 – Optical power limiter operation curve . 13
Figure 5 – Configuration A . 15
Figure 6 – Configuration B . 15
Figure 7 – Configuration C . 15
Figure 8 – Standardization structure . 22
Figure A.1 – Optical fuse, pigtail non-connectorized style . 25
Figure A.2 – Optical fuse, plug-receptacle style (LC-plug) . 25
Figure A.3 – Response time curve of an optical fuse . 26
Figure A.4 – Optical fuse, power threshold approx. 30 dBm (1 W), output power drop at
threshold approx. 25 dB . 26
Figure B.1 – Placement of an optical fuse . 28
Figure C.1 – Optical power limiter, pigtail non-connectorized style . 29
Figure C.2 – Optical power limiter, plug-receptacle style (LC-plug) . 29
Figure C.3 – Optical power limiter – Experimental . 29
Figure C.4 – Schematic optical power limiter response time; 1 ms input pulse time . 30
Figure C.5 – Schematic power definitions . 31
Figure C.6 – Optical power limiter, input power definitions . 31
Figure D.1 – Optical power limiter and optical fuse, combined, operation curve . 33
Figure E.1 – Placement of a fixed optical attenuator . 35
Figure F.1 – Placement of a variable, manual or electrical, optical attenuator . 37
Figure G.1 – Example technology of MEMS based VOA . 38
Figure G.2 – Example technology of PLC-TO based VOA . 39
Figure G.3 – The relation of phase changes and attenuation . 39
Figure G.4 – Example technology of MO based VOA . 40

Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure . 17
Table 2 – Standards' interlink matrix . 22

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INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING DEVICES AND PASSIVE
COMPONENTS – FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
FOREWORD
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IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 5 –
International Standard IEC 60869-1 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC TC 86: Fibre optics.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2012 and constitutes a
technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) the terms and definitions have been reviewed;
b) the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System has been reviewed;
c) the clause concerning quality assessment procedures has been deleted;
d) Annex G, relating to technical information on variable optical attenuators, has been added.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
86B/4139/FDIS 86B/4144/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 6 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING DEVICES AND PASSIVE
COMPONENTS – FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60869 applies to fibre optic passive power control devices. These have all of
the following general features:
– they are passive in that they contain no optoelectronic or other transducing elements;
– they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control of the transmitted
power in a fixed or variable fashion;
– the ports are unconnectorized optical fibre tails or optical fibre pigtails with connectors.
– the ports are non-connectorized optical fibre pigtails, connectorized optical fibres or
receptacles.
This document establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices:
– optical attenuator;
– optical fuse;
– optical power limiter.
Test and measurement procedures for the above products are described in IEC 61300-1, the
IEC 61300-2 series and the 61300-3 series [1,2,3] .
This document also provides generic information including terminology for the IEC 61753-05x
series. Published IEC 61753-05x series documents are listed in Bibliography.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
IEC 60027 (all parts), Letter symbols to be used in electrical technology
IEC 60050-731, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication (available at www.electropedia.org)
IEC 60617, Graphical symbols for diagrams (available at http://std.iec.ch/iec60617)
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825 (all parts), Safety of laser products
IEC 61300 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic
test and measurement procedures
___________
References in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.

IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 7 –
IEC TS 62627-09, Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Vocabulary
for passive optical devices
ISO 129, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances
ISO 129-1, Technical product documentation (TPD) – Presentation of dimensions and
tolerances
ISO 286-1, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – ISO coding code system for
tolerances of on linear sizes – Part 1: Bases Basis of tolerances, deviations and fits
ISO 1101, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – Geometrical tolerancing – Tolerances
of form, orientation, location and run-out
ISO 8601, Data elements and interchange formats – Information interchange –
Representation of dates and times
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-731,
IEC TS 62627-09 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
NOTE Definitions are given in three sub-groups; basic terms, component terms and performance terms.
3.1 Basic terms
3.1.1
insertion loss
reduction in optical power between an input and output port of a passive device, intended to
be transparent, expressed in decibel
Note 1 to entry: This is defined as follows:
IL = –10 log (P /P )= 10 log (P /P )
10 1 0 10 0 1
where P is the optical power launched into the input port, and P the optical power received from the output port.
3.1.2
operating wavelength
nominal wavelength λ at which a passive device is designed to operate with the specified
performance
3.1.3
operating wavelength range –passband
specified range of wavelengths from λ to λ about a nominal operating wavelength λ ,
i min i max i
within which an optical passive device is designed to operate with the specified performance
3.1.4
return loss
fraction of optical input power that is returned from the port of a passive device
Note 1 to entry: This is defined as follows:

– 8 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
RL = –10 log (P /P )= 10 log (P / P )
10 0 10 0 1
where P is the optical power launched into the port, and P the optical power received back from the same port.
0 1
3.1 Component terms
3.1.1
fibre optic passive power control device
passive optical device (component) which controls a transmittance with a designed
wavelength-independent transfer coefficient
Note 1 to entry: The transfer coefficient may be controlled for all intensity of input power or for input power over a
threshold power.
3.1.2
optical attenuator
passive optical device (component), which produces a wavelength-independent controlled
signal attenuation in an optical fibre transmission line
Note 1 to entry: An attenuator is intended to be wavelength independent.
3.1.3
fixed optical attenuator
optical attenuator in which attenuation is constant
3.1.4
variable optical attenuator
VOA
optically passive device, an attenuator that regulates the optical power in fibres, producing a
controlled, optical output power, as a result of manual or electrical control input
optical attenuator in which attenuation is controllable
Note 1 to entry: Attenuation values of variable optical attenuators are generally controlled by manual or electric
means.
Note 2 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.5
optical fuse
fibre optic passive power control device, which produces a controlled, permanent, signal
blocking at for higher optical power than a predetermined power threshold in an optical fibre
transmission line
3.1.6
optical power limiter
fibre optic passive power control device that regulates the optical power in fibres, producing a
controlled, constant optical output power P of optical limit power, as a result of varying
limit
optical input power higher than P the input optical limit power , and has no influence at
limit
optical powers below P
limit
3.1.7
plug-receptacle style device
fibre optic device having a combination of two interfacing features, a plug at one end and a
receptacle at the other
3.2.5
plug style device
device having a combination of two interfacing features, a plug on one end and a socket on
the other
IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 9 –
3.2.6
adaptor style device
device having a combination of two sockets as interfacing features
3.2 Performance terms
3.2.1
optical fuse power threshold
P
th
optical input power, into an optical fuse, in which the optical output power is blocked
Note 1 to entry: The optical fuse power threshold P is expressed in watt or dBm.
th
3.2.2
optical fuse response time
total time when the optical fuse output power level is higher than the optical fuse power
threshold by 1 dB, staring when the rising power passes the power fuse power threshold plus
1 dB and ending when the declining power passes the fuse power threshold plus 1 dB on its
way down
time between the start of the input power and the end time when the output optical power has
decreased to be less than the predetermined optical power
Note 1 to entry: The predetermined power shall be either of the power threshold, P minus insertion loss, IL,
th
(P − IL) in dB, or the input power, P minus the required blocking attenuation at threshold, A .
th in block
Note 2 to entry: The optical fuse response time depends on the optical input power level and the input pulse time.
Note 3 to entry: An example of the input power, P , is recommended to be 3 dB over of the power threshold, P ,
in th
and the rectangle shape pulse of 1 ms (P = P + 3 dB). An example of the required blocking attenuation at
in th
threshold, A of 30 dB is recommended.
block
3.2.3
optical fuse blocking attenuation at threshold
A
block
optical fuse blocking attenuation at threshold
drop of in optical power through the optical fuse when exposed to more than the optical fuse
power threshold P , and responds with response by blocking the power, expressed in dB
th
3.2.4
optical power limiter response time
total time where the optical power limiter output power level is higher than limit power + 1 dB,
staring when the rising power passes the limit power plus 1 dB and ending when the declining
power passes the limit power plus 1 dB on its way down
length of time between the start of the input power and the end time in decreasing the output
power to be less than or equal to the predetermined power
Note 1 to entry: The optical power limiter response time depends on the optical input power level and the input
pulse time.
Note 2 to entry: An example of the input power, P is recommended to be 3 dB over of the optical limit power and
in
the rectangular pulse of 1 ms (P = P + 3 dB). An example of the pre-determined optical power of P + 1 dB is
in limit limit
recommended.
3.3.5
optical limit power
optical input power, into an optical power limiter, in which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed this value. The optical limit power P is expressed in Watt or dBm
limit
3.2.5
input optical limit power
P
in-limit
optical input power, into an optical power limiter, at which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed that value, P , which is expressed in watt or dBm
in-limit
– 10 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
3.2.6
output optical limit power
P
out-limit
optical output power from an optical power limiter, at which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed that value, P , which is expressed in watt or dBm
out-limit
3.2.7
minimum insertion loss
term applicable only to variable optical attenuators, (VOAs); it is the lowest insertion loss to
which the device may be adjusted
lowest insertion loss to which a VOA is adjusted
3.2.8
variable attenuation range
range of insertion loss attenuation to which the device may be adjusted
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.9
nominal attenuation
supplier specified attenuation value for fixed attenuators and user-set attenuation value for
variable attenuators
3.3.8
insertion loss setting resolution
minimal adjustable step size or difference of the insertion loss of the device
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.3.9
accuracy of setting value of attenuation
difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and the manually or
electrically nominal adjusted value of the insertion loss
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.10
maximum attenuation
attenuation of the maximum value which is set
3.2.11
minimum attenuation
attenuation of the minimum value which is set
3.2.12
attenuation setting resolution
minimal adjustable step size or difference of the attenuation of a VOA
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.13
error of setting value of attenuation
difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and nominal attenuation
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.14
repeatability of setting attenuation value
difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and the value of the
insertion loss in previous same settings

IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 11 –
maximum deviation of the insertion loss of the device at a given setting in multiple times of
repeated settings
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.15
maximum allowed power input
maximum input power that the device can handle without causing dysfunction malfunction or
permanent damage, expressed in watt or dBm
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable to all fibre optic passive power control devices.
Note 2 to entry: This term is equal to optical fuse power threshold to optical fuse.
Note 3 to entry: The maximum input power defined in IEC TS 62627-09 has a different meaning of the maximum
input optical power for which a passive optical device keeps the required optical performances.
4 Description of devices
4.1 Optical attenuator
The optical attenuator is a passive optical device used for optical power reduction into or out
of an optical device. The optical attenuator is normally used for a broad range of wavelengths,
attenuating the power at by a predetermined level attenuation rate.
There are two types of optical attenuator: a fixed optical attenuator and a variable optical
attenuator.
The power reduction rate of a fixed optical attenuator is constant. The performance curve of
an fixed optical attenuator is shown in Figure 1, where the attenuated power is always lower
than the non-attenuated power and proportional to it.
Annex E describes the fixed optical attenuator application note as a users' guide.

Figure 1 – Fixed optical attenuator operation curve
4.2 Variable optical attenuator (VOA)
The performance curve of a variable optical attenuator (VOA) is similar to Figure 1 of an
attenuator, where shown in Figure 2. In a manner similar to that of the fixed optical attenuator,
the attenuated power is always lower than the non-attenuated power and proportional to it.
The VOA produces a controlled, optical output power, as a result of manual or electrical
control input. The VOA is a passive device used for optical power reduction into or out of an

– 12 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
optical device. The optical attenuator is normally used for a broad range of wavelengths,
attenuating the power at a pre-adjusted level.
Annex F describes the variable optical attenuator application note as a users' guide.

Figure 2 – VOA operation curve
4.2 Optical fuse
The optical fuse (see Figure 3) is a passive device, designed to protect equipment and fibre
cables from damage due to optical overpower, spikes and surges. When the input power is
lower than a predetermined threshold power, the optical fuse remains transparent, ideally.
However, the optical fuse becomes permanently opaque when the optical power exceeds the
specified predetermined threshold level. The optical fuse is wavelength independent in the
region of its transparency. The optical fuse is bidirectional.

NOTE Figure 3 schematically explains how the optical fuse operates, with the representation of the ideal optical
fuse, which has no insertion loss (IL).
Figure 3 – Optical fuse operation curve
The optical fuse protects against power spikes and surges. The optical fuse is placed either at
the input port of an optical device, such as in the case of a detector, or at the output port of a
high power device, such as in the case of a laser or optical amplifier. An activated (burnt) fuse
permanently blocks the forward optical power without enlarging increasing the reflected
power, thus preventing damage. The optical fuse can be used as an eye safety device.

IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 13 –
Annexes A and B describe optical fuse configuration and performance examples, and optical
fuse application notes.
4.3 Optical power limiter
The optical power limiter (see Figure 4) is a passive device that regulates the optical power in
fibres, producing a controlled, constant output power P , as a result of varying input
out-limit
power higher than P , and has no influence at powers below P . Under normal
in-limit in-limit
operation, when the input power is low, the optical power limiter has no effect on the system.
However, when the input power is high, the optical output power is limited to a predetermined
level (P ). The optical power limiter can typically operate under continuous wave (CW)
out-limit
input up to 5 dB above P , and can sustain short duration pulses and spikes (1 s/min) up
in-limit
to 8 dB above P .
in-limit
NOTE Figure 4 schematically explains how the optical power limiter operates, with the representation of the ideal
optical power limiter, which has no insertion loss (IL).
Figure 4 – Optical power limiter operation curve
The optical power limiter is used at the input of power-sensitive equipment and at the output
of high power devices, such as amplifiers, or wherever power regulation is required. The
optical power limiter can serve as an eye safety device. The optical power limiter is
wavelength independent in the region of its transparency. The optical power limiter is
bidirectional. The optical power limiter is, in some cases, combined in line with an optical
fuse, ensuring that at high powers, when the optical power limiter fails, the following device is
not exposed to damaging power.
Annexes C and D describe optical power limiter configuration and performance examples, and
optical power limiter application notes.
5 Requirements
5.1 Classification
5.1.1 General
Power control devices are classified by the following categories:
– type;
– wavelength band;
– style;
– variant;
– 14 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
– environmental category;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.
An example of a typical power control device classification is as follows:
Type: – continuously variable
Wavelength band: – L band
Style: – configuration C
– LC-LC connectors
Variant: – means of mounting
Assessment level: – A
5.1.2 Type
Power control devices types are defined by their intended function.
There are three types of optical attenuators:
– fixed;
– continuously variable;
– discrete step variable.
There is one type of optical fuse having discrete predetermined threshold power.
There is one type of optical power limiter having discrete predetermined limit power.
There are various combinations of the above-mentioned devices, for example a fixed optical
attenuator and an optical power limiter in one device, or an optical power limiter and an
optical fuse in one device.
There are several technology types for VOAs, such as manual, micro-electromechanical
system (MEMS), magnet optics effect, planar lightwave circuit and thermal optic effect,
LiNbO crystal based electro-optic effect. Annex G shows the example of technical
information on variable optical attenuators.
5.1.3 Wavelength band
Power control devices types are defined by their wavelength band, O, C or L, and sometimes
two or more by a combination of these bands (such as C and L).
5.1.4 Style
Power control devices may be classified into styles based upon fibre type, connector type,
cable type, housing shape and dimensions and configuration.
The configuration of the power control device ports is classified as follows.
– Configuration A – A device as shown in Figure 5 containing integral optical pigtails without
connectors.
IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 15 –
Power control device
Figure 5 – Configuration A
– Configuration B – A device as shown in Figure 6 containing integral optical pigtails, with a
connector on each pigtail.
Power control device
Figure 6 – Configuration B
– Configuration C – A device as shown in Figure 7 containing fibre optic connectors as an
integral part of the device housing.
Power control device
Figure 7 – Configuration C
– Configuration D – A device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the
preceding configurations.
5.1.5 Variant
The power control device variant identifies those features which encompass structurally
similar components.
Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to, the following:
– orientation of ports on housing;
– means for mounting.
5.1.6 Assessment level
The detail specification shall include all required tests for quality assessment.
Each test shall be assigned to one of four groups labelled A, B, C and D.
The detail specification shall specify one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be
designated by a capital letter. The assessment level defines the relationship between the
inspection levels/acceptable quality levels (AQLs) of groups A and B and the inspection
periods of groups C and D.
The following are preferred levels:
– Assessment level A
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group C inspection: 24-month periods

– 16 – IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
• group D inspection: 48-month periods
– Assessment level B
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group C inspection: 18-month periods
• group D inspection: 36-month periods
– Assessment level C
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %
• group C inspection: 12-month periods
• group D inspection: 24-month periods
Groups A and B are subject to lot-by-lot inspection and groups C and D are subject to periodic
inspection. One additional assessment level (other than those specified above) may be added
in the detail specification. In this case, it shall be designated by the capital letter X.
NOTE AQL = Acceptable Quality Level.
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions
Normative reference extensions are used to identify introduce integrated independent
standard specifications or other reference documents into blank detail specifications.
Unless specified exceptions are noted, additional requirements imposed by an extension are
mandatory. Additional requirements imposed by normative reference extensions are
mandatory, unless otherwise specified. Usage is primarily intended to merge associated
components to form hybrid devices, or integrated functional application requirements that are
dependent on technical expertise other than fibre optics.
Published reference documents produced by ITU, consistent with the scope statements of the
relevant IEC specification series, may be used as extensions. Published documents produced
by regional standardization bodies, such as TIA, CENELEC, JIS, etc. may be referenced in an
informative annex attached to the generic specification.
Some optical fibre splice configurations require special qualification provisions which shall not
be imposed universally. These cases encompass individual component design configurations,
specialised field tooling, or specific application processes. In these cases, requirements are
necessary to ensure repeatable performance or adequate safety, and provide additional
guidance for complete product specification. These extensions are mandatory whenever used
to prepare, assemble or install an optical fibre splice either for field application usage or
preparation of qualification test specimens. The relevant specification shall clarify all
stipulations. However, design- and style-dependent extensions shall not be imposed
universally.
In the event of conflicting requirements, precedence, in descending order, shall be for
"generic" to prevail over "mandatory extension", which latter prevails over "blank detail",
which latter prevails over "detail", which latter prevails over "application specific extension".
Examples of optical connector extensions are given as follows:
– using IEC 61754-4 and IEC 61754-2 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex type "SC/BFOC/2,5" hybrid connector adapter;
– using IEC 61754-13 and IEC 60869-1-1 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for an integrated type "FC" present attenuated optical connector;

IEC 60869-1:2018 RLV © IEC 2018 – 17 –
– using IEC 61754-2 and IEC 61073-4 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex "BFOC/2,5" receptacle incorporating integral mechanical splices.
Other examples of requirements to normative extensions are the following: some commercial
or residential building applications may require direct reference to specific safety codes and
regulations or incorporate other specific material flammability or toxicity requirements for
specialised locations.
Specialised field tooling may require an extension to implement specific ocular safety,
electrical shock, burn hazard avoidance requirements, or require isolation procedures to
prevent potential
...

IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2018-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
passive power control devices –
Part 1: Generic specification
Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs fibroniques – Dispositifs
fibroniques passifs de contrôle de la puissance –
Partie 1: Spécification générique
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IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2018-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic

passive power control devices –

Part 1: Generic specification
Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs fibroniques – Dispositifs

fibroniques passifs de contrôle de la puissance –

Partie 1: Spécification générique

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-6177-4

– 2 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
3.1 Component terms. 7
3.2 Performance terms . 8
4 Description of devices . 9
4.1 Optical attenuator . 9
4.2 Optical fuse . 10
4.3 Optical power limiter . 11
5 Requirements . 12
5.1 Classification . 12
5.1.1 General . 12
5.1.2 Type . 13
5.1.3 Wavelength band . 13
5.1.4 Style . 13
5.1.5 Variant . 14
5.1.6 Assessment level . 14
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions. 15
5.2 Documentation . 15
5.2.1 Symbols . 15
5.2.2 Specification system . 16
5.2.3 Drawings . 17
5.2.4 Tests and measurements . 17
5.2.5 Test data sheets . 17
5.2.6 Instructions for use . 18
5.3 Standardization system . 18
5.3.1 Interface standards . 18
5.3.2 Performance standards . 18
5.3.3 Reliability standards . 19
5.3.4 Interlinking . 19
5.4 Design and construction . 21
5.4.1 Materials . 21
5.4.2 Workmanship . 21
5.5 Quality . 21
5.6 Performance . 21
5.7 Identification and marking . 21
5.7.1 General . 21
5.7.2 Variant identification number . 21
5.7.3 Component marking . 21
5.7.4 Package marking . 22
5.8 Packaging . 22
5.9 Storage conditions . 22
5.10 Safety . 22
Annex A (informative) Optical fuse configuration and performance examples . 23
Annex B (informative) Optical fuse application notes . 25

IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 3 –
Annex C (informative) Optical power limiter configuration and performance examples . 26
Annex D (informative) Optical power limiter application notes . 29
Annex E (informative) Fixed optical attenuator application note . 30
Annex F (informative) Variable, manual or electrical, optical attenuator application
note . 31
Annex G (informative) Example of technology of variable optical attenuators . 33
G.1 Example technology of micro electromechanical system (MEMS) based VOA . 33
G.2 Example technology of planar lightwave circuit (PLC) based and
thermo-optic (TO) based VOA . 33
G.3 Example technology of magnet-optic (MO) based VOA . 34
Bibliography . 36

Figure 1 – Fixed optical attenuator operation curve . 10
Figure 2 – VOA operation curve . 10
Figure 3 – Optical fuse operation curve . 11
Figure 4 – Optical power limiter operation curve . 12
Figure 5 – Configuration A . 13
Figure 6 – Configuration B . 13
Figure 7 – Configuration C . 14
Figure 8 – Standardization structure . 20
Figure A.1 – Optical fuse, non-connectorised style) . 23
Figure A.2 – Optical fuse, plug-receptacle style (LC) . 23
Figure A.3 – Response time curve of an optical fuse . 24
Figure A.4 – Optical fuse, power threshold approx. 30 dBm (1 W), output power drop at
threshold approx. 25 dB . 24
Figure B.1 – Placement of an optical fuse . 25
Figure C.1 – Optical power limiter, non-connectorised style . 26
Figure C.2 – Optical power limiter, plug-receptacle style (LC) . 26
Figure C.3 – Optical power limiter – Experimental . 26
Figure C.4 – Schematic optical power limiter response time. Input pulse is 1 ms long . 27
Figure C.5 – Schematic power definitions . 28
Figure C.6 – Optical power limiter, input power definitions . 28
Figure D.1 – Optical power limiter and optical fuse, combined, operation curve . 29
Figure E.1 – Placement of a fixed optical attenuator . 30
Figure F.1 – Placement of a variable, manual or electrical, optical attenuator . 32
Figure G.1 – Example technology of MEMS based VOA . 33
Figure G.2 – Example technology of PLC-TO based VOA . 34
Figure G.3 – The relation of phase changes and attenuation . 34
Figure G.4 – Example technology of MO based VOA . 35

Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure . 16
Table 2 – Standards interlink matrix . 20

– 4 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING DEVICES AND PASSIVE
COMPONENTS – FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
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Publication(s)"). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
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with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60869-1 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC TC 86: Fibre optics.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2012 and constitutes a
technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) the terms and definitions have been reviewed;
b) the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System has been reviewed;
c) the clause concerning quality assessment procedures has been deleted;
d) Annex G, relating to technical information on variable optical attenuators, has been added.

IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 5 –
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
86B/4139/FDIS 86B/4144/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 6 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING DEVICES AND PASSIVE
COMPONENTS – FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60869 applies to fibre optic passive power control devices. These have all of
the following general features:
– they are passive in that they contain no optoelectronic or other transducing elements;
– they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control of the transmitted
power in a fixed or variable fashion;
– the ports are non-connectorized optical fibre pigtails, connectorized optical fibres or
receptacles.
This document establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices:
– optical attenuator;
– optical fuse;
– optical power limiter.
This document also provides generic information including terminology for the IEC 61753-05x
series. Published IEC 61753-05x series documents are listed in Bibliography.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
IEC 60027 (all parts), Letter symbols to be used in electrical technology
IEC 60050-731, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication (available at www.electropedia.org)
IEC 60617, Graphical symbols for diagrams (available at http://std.iec.ch/iec60617)
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825 (all parts), Safety of laser products
IEC 61300 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic
test and measurement procedures
IEC TS 62627-09, Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Vocabulary
for passive optical devices
ISO 129-1, Technical product documentation (TPD) – Presentation of dimensions and
tolerances
IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 7 –
ISO 286-1, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – ISO code system for tolerances on
linear sizes – Part 1: Basis of tolerances, deviations and fits
ISO 1101, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – Geometrical tolerancing – Tolerances
of form, orientation, location and run-out
ISO 8601, Data elements and interchange formats – Information interchange –
Representation of dates and times
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-731,
IEC TS 62627-09 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1 Component terms
3.1.1
fibre optic passive power control device
passive optical device (component) which controls a transmittance with a designed
wavelength-independent transfer coefficient
Note 1 to entry: The transfer coefficient may be controlled for all intensity of input power or for input power over a
threshold power.
3.1.2
optical attenuator
passive optical device (component), which produces a wavelength-independent controlled
signal attenuation in an optical fibre transmission line
Note 1 to entry: An attenuator is intended to be wavelength independent.
3.1.3
fixed optical attenuator
optical attenuator in which attenuation is constant
3.1.4
variable optical attenuator
VOA
optical attenuator in which attenuation is controllable
Note 1 to entry: Attenuation values of variable optical attenuators are generally controlled by manual or electric
means.
Note 2 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.1.5
optical fuse
fibre optic passive power control device, which produces controlled, permanent, signal
blocking for higher optical power than a predetermined power threshold in an optical fibre
transmission line
– 8 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
3.1.6
optical power limiter
fibre optic passive power control device that regulates the optical power in fibres, producing a
controlled, constant optical output power of optical limit power, as a result of varying optical
input power higher than the input optical limit power
3.1.7
plug-receptacle style device
fibre optic device having a combination of two interfacing features, a plug at one end and a
receptacle at the other
3.2 Performance terms
3.2.1
optical fuse power threshold
P
th
optical input power, into an optical fuse, in which the optical output power is blocked
Note 1 to entry: The optical fuse power threshold P is expressed in watt or dBm.
th
3.2.2
optical fuse response time
time between the start of the input power and the end time when the output optical power has
decreased to be less than the predetermined optical power
Note 1 to entry: The predetermined power shall be either of the power threshold, P minus insertion loss, IL,
th
(P − IL) in dB, or the input power, P minus the required blocking attenuation at threshold, A .
th in block
Note 2 to entry: The optical fuse response time depends on the optical input power level and the input pulse time.
Note 3 to entry: An example of the input power, P , is recommended to be 3 dB over of the power threshold, P ,
in th
and the rectangle shape pulse of 1 ms (P = P + 3 dB). An example of the required blocking attenuation at
in th
threshold, A of 30 dB is recommended.
block
3.2.3
optical fuse blocking attenuation at threshold
A
block
drop in optical power through the optical fuse when exposed to more than the optical fuse
power threshold P , with response by blocking the power, expressed in dB
th
3.2.4
optical power limiter response time
length of time between the start of the input power and the end time in decreasing the output
power to be less than or equal to the predetermined power
Note 1 to entry: The optical power limiter response time depends on the optical input power level and the input
pulse time.
Note 2 to entry: An example of the input power, P is recommended to be 3 dB over of the optical limit power and
in
the rectangular pulse of 1 ms (P = P + 3 dB). An example of the pre-determined optical power of P + 1 dB is
in limit limit
recommended.
3.2.5
input optical limit power
P
in-limit
optical input power, into an optical power limiter, at which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed that value, P , which is expressed in watt or dBm
in-limit
3.2.6
output optical limit power
P
out-limit
optical output power from an optical power limiter, at which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed that value, P , which is expressed in watt or dBm
out-limit
IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 9 –
3.2.7
minimum insertion loss
lowest insertion loss to which a VOA is adjusted
3.2.8
variable attenuation range
range of attenuation to which the device may be adjusted
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.9
nominal attenuation
supplier specified attenuation value for fixed attenuators and user-set attenuation value for
variable attenuators
3.2.10
maximum attenuation
attenuation of the maximum value which is set
3.2.11
minimum attenuation
attenuation of the minimum value which is set
3.2.12
attenuation setting resolution
minimal adjustable step size or difference of the attenuation of a VOA
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.13
error of setting value of attenuation
difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and nominal attenuation
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.14
repeatability of setting attenuation value
maximum deviation of the insertion loss of the device at a given setting in multiple times of
repeated settings
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.2.15
maximum allowed power input
maximum input power that the device can handle without causing malfunction or permanent
damage, expressed in watt or dBm
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable to all fibre optic passive power control devices.
Note 2 to entry: This term is equal to optical fuse power threshold to optical fuse.
Note 3 to entry: The maximum input power defined in IEC TS 62627-09 has a different meaning of the maximum
input optical power for which a passive optical device keeps the required optical performances.
4 Description of devices
4.1 Optical attenuator
The optical attenuator is a passive optical device used for optical power reduction into or out
of an optical device. The optical attenuator is normally used for a broad range of wavelengths,
attenuating the power by a predetermined attenuation rate.

– 10 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
There are two types of optical attenuator: a fixed optical attenuator and a variable optical
attenuator.
The power reduction rate of a fixed optical attenuator is constant. The performance curve of a
fixed optical attenuator is shown in Figure 1, where the attenuated power is always lower than
the non-attenuated power and proportional to it.
Annex E describes the fixed optical attenuator application note as a users' guide.

Figure 1 – Fixed optical attenuator operation curve
The performance curve of a variable optical attenuator (VOA) is shown in Figure 2. In a
manner similar to that of the fixed optical attenuator, the attenuated power is always lower
than the non-attenuated power and proportional to it. The VOA produces a controlled, optical
output power, as a result of manual or electrical control input.
Annex F describes the variable optical attenuator application note as a users' guide.

Figure 2 – VOA operation curve
4.2 Optical fuse
The optical fuse (see Figure 3) is a passive device, designed to protect equipment and fibre
cables from damage due to optical overpower, spikes and surges. When the input power is

IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 11 –
lower than a predetermined threshold power, the optical fuse remains transparent, ideally.
However, the optical fuse becomes permanently opaque when the optical power exceeds the
specified predetermined threshold level. The optical fuse is wavelength independent in the
region of its transparency. The optical fuse is bidirectional.

NOTE Figure 3 schematically explains how the optical fuse operates, with the representation of the ideal optical
fuse, which has no insertion loss (IL).
Figure 3 – Optical fuse operation curve
The optical fuse protects against power spikes and surges. The optical fuse is placed either at
the input port of an optical device, such as in the case of a detector, or at the output port of a
high power device, such as in the case of a laser or optical amplifier. An activated (burnt) fuse
permanently blocks the forward optical power without increasing the reflected power, thus
preventing damage. The optical fuse can be used as an eye safety device.
Annexes A and B describe optical fuse configuration and performance examples, and optical
fuse application notes.
4.3 Optical power limiter
The optical power limiter (see Figure 4) is a passive device that regulates the optical power in
fibres, producing a controlled, constant output power P , as a result of varying input
out-limit
power higher than P , and has no influence at powers below P . Under normal
in-limit in-limit
operation, when the input power is low, the optical power limiter has no effect on the system.
However, when the input power is high, the optical output power is limited to a predetermined
level (P ). The optical power limiter can typically operate under continuous wave (CW)
out-limit
input up to 5 dB above P , and can sustain short duration pulses and spikes (1 s/min) up
in-limit
to 8 dB above P .
in-limit
– 12 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018

NOTE Figure 4 schematically explains how the optical power limiter operates, with the representation of the ideal
optical power limiter, which has no insertion loss (IL).
Figure 4 – Optical power limiter operation curve
The optical power limiter is used at the input of power-sensitive equipment and at the output
of high power devices, such as amplifiers, or wherever power regulation is required. The
optical power limiter can serve as an eye safety device. The optical power limiter is
wavelength independent in the region of its transparency. The optical power limiter is
bidirectional. The optical power limiter is, in some cases, combined in line with an optical
fuse, ensuring that at high powers, when the optical power limiter fails, the following device is
not exposed to damaging power.
Annexes C and D describe optical power limiter configuration and performance examples, and
optical power limiter application notes.
5 Requirements
5.1 Classification
5.1.1 General
Power control devices are classified by the following categories:
– type;
– wavelength band;
– style;
– variant;
– environmental category;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.
An example of a typical power control device classification is as follows:
Type: – continuously variable
Wavelength band: – L band
Style: – configuration C
– LC-LC connectors
Variant: – means of mounting
Assessment level: – A
IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 13 –

5.1.2 Type
Power control device types are defined by their intended function.
There are three types of optical attenuators:
– fixed;
– continuously variable;
– discrete step variable.
There is one type of optical fuse having discrete predetermined threshold power.
There is one type of optical power limiter having discrete predetermined limit power.
There are various combinations of the above-mentioned devices, for example a fixed optical
attenuator and an optical power limiter in one device, or an optical power limiter and an
optical fuse in one device.
There are several technology types for VOAs, such as manual, micro-electromechanical
system (MEMS), magnet optics effect, planar lightwave circuit and thermal optic effect,
LiNbO crystal based electro-optic effect. Annex G shows the example of technical
information on variable optical attenuators.
5.1.3 Wavelength band
Power control device types are defined by their wavelength band, O, C or L, and sometimes
by a combination of these bands (such as C and L).
5.1.4 Style
Power control devices may be classified into styles based upon fibre type, connector type,
cable type, housing shape and dimensions and configuration.
The configuration of the power control device ports is classified as follows.
– Configuration A – A device as shown in Figure 5 containing integral optical pigtails without
connectors.
Power control device
Figure 5 – Configuration A
– Configuration B – A device as shown in Figure 6 containing integral optical pigtails, with a
connector on each pigtail.
Power control device
Figure 6 – Configuration B
– 14 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
– Configuration C – A device as shown in Figure 7 containing fibre optic connectors as an
integral part of the device housing.
Power control device
Figure 7 – Configuration C
– Configuration D – A device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the
preceding configurations.
5.1.5 Variant
The power control device variant identifies those features which encompass structurally
similar components.
Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to, the following:
– orientation of ports on housing;
– means for mounting.
5.1.6 Assessment level
The detail specification shall include all required tests for quality assessment.
Each test shall be assigned to one of four groups labelled A, B, C and D.
The detail specification shall specify one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be
designated by a capital letter. The assessment level defines the relationship between the
inspection levels/acceptable quality levels (AQLs) of groups A and B and the inspection
periods of groups C and D.
The following are preferred levels:
– Assessment level A
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group C inspection: 24-month periods
• group D inspection: 48-month periods
– Assessment level B
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group C inspection: 18-month periods
• group D inspection: 36-month periods
– Assessment level C
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %
• group C inspection: 12-month periods
• group D inspection: 24-month periods

IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018 – 15 –
Groups A and B are subject to lot-by-lot inspection and groups C and D are subject to periodic
inspection. One additional assessment level (other than those specified above) may be added
in the detail specification. In this case, it shall be designated by the capital letter X.
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions
Normative reference extensions are used to introduce integrated independent standard
specifications or other reference documents into blank detail specifications.
Additional requirements imposed by normative reference extensions are mandatory, unless
otherwise specified. Usage is primarily intended to merge associated components to form
hybrid devices, or integrated functional application requirements that are dependent on
technical expertise other than fibre optics.
Published reference documents produced by ITU, consistent with the scope statements of the
relevant IEC specification series, may be used as extensions. Published documents produced
by regional standardization bodies, such as TIA, CENELEC, JIS, may be referenced in an
informative annex attached to the generic specification.
Some optical fibre splice configurations require special qualification provisions which shall not
be imposed universally. These cases encompass individual component design configurations,
specialised field tooling, or specific application processes. In these cases, requirements are
necessary to ensure repeatable performance or adequate safety, and provide additional
guidance for complete product specification. These extensions are mandatory whenever used
to prepare, assemble or install an optical fibre splice either for field application usage or
preparation of qualification test specimens. The relevant specification shall clarify all
stipulations. However, design- and style-dependent extensions shall not be imposed
universally.
In the event of conflicting requirements, precedence, in descending order, shall be for
"generic" to prevail over "mandatory extension", which latter prevails over "blank detail",
which latter prevails over "detail", which latter prevails over "application specific extension".
Examples of optical connector extensions are given as follows:
– using IEC 61754-4 and IEC 61754-2 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex type "SC/BFOC/2,5" hybrid connector adapter;
– using IEC 61754-13 and IEC 60869-1-1 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for an integrated type "FC" present attenuated optical connector;
– using IEC 61754-2 and IEC 61073-4 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex "BFOC/2,5" receptacle incorporating integral mechanical splices.
Other examples of requirements to normative extensions are the following: some commercial
or residential building applications may require direct reference to specific safety codes and
regulations or incorporate other specific material flammability or toxicity requirements for
specialised locations.
Specialised field tooling may require an extension to implement specific ocular safety, electric
shock, burn hazard avoidance requirements, or require isolation procedures to prevent
potential ignition of combustible gases.
5.2 Documentation
5.2.1 Symbols
Graphical and letter symbols shall, whenever possible, be taken from
IEC 60027 (all parts) and IEC 60617 unless superseded by this document.

– 16 – IEC 60869-1:2018 © IEC 2018
5.2.2 Specification system
5.2.2.1 General
This document forms part of a three-level IEC specification system. Subsidiary specifications
shall consist of blank detail specifications and detail specifications. This system is shown in
Table 1. There are no sectional specifications for power control devices.
Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure
Specification Examples of information Applicable to
level to be included
– Assessment system rules
– Inspection rules
– Optical measurement methods
– Sampling plans
– Identification rule
Two or more component
Basic – Marking standards
families or subfamilies
– Dimensional standards
– Terminology
– Symbols
– Preferred number series
– SI units
– Specific terminology
– Specific symbols
– Specific units
– Preferred values
Generic – Marking Component family
– Quality assessment procedures
– Selection of tests
– Qualification approval and/or capability approval
procedures
– Quality conformance test schedule
Groups of types having
Blank detail – Inspection requirements
a common test schedule
– Information common to a number of types
– Individual values
Detail – Specific information Individual type
– Completed quality conformance test schedul
...