IEC 60793-2-40:2009

Optical fibres - Part 2-40: Product specifications - Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres

IEC 60793-2-40:2009 is applicable to optical fibre categories A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e, A4f, A4g and A4h. These fibres have a plastic core and plastic cladding and may have step-index, multi-step index, or graded-index profiles. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006 and constitutes a technical revision which defines an enhanced A4a fibre named A4a.2 while the existing A4a fibre has been renamed A4a.1.

Fibres optiques - Partie 2-40: Spécifications de produits - Spécification intermédiaire pour les fibres multimodales de la catégorie A4

La CEI 60793-2-40:2009 s'applique aux catégories de fibres optiques A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e, A4f, A4g et A4h. Ces fibres possèdent un coeur et une gaine en plastique et elles peuvent avoir des profils de type saut d'indice, sauts multiples d'indice ou gradient d'indice. Cette troisième édition annule et remplace la deuxième édition publiée en 2006 et constitue une révision technique qui définit une fibre A4a améliorée désignée A4a.2 alors que la désignation de la fibre A4a existante a été renommée en A4a.1.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 19-Apr-2009
• ICS: 33.180.10 - Fibres and cables
• Technical Committee: SC 86A - Fibres and cables
• Drafting Committee: WG 1 - TC 86/SC 86A/WG 1
• Current Stage: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Completion Date: 19-Nov-2015

Relations

• Revised: IEC 60793-2-40:2015 - Optical fibres - Part 2-40: Product specifications - Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 60793-2-40
®
Edition 3.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD


Optical fibres –
Part 2-40: Product specifications – Sectional specification for category A4
multimode fibres



IEC 60793-2-40:2009(E)

---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
THIS PUBLICATION IS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
Copyright © 2009 IEC, Geneva, Switzerland

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
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IEC 60793-2-40
®
Edition 3.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD


Optical fibres –
Part 2-40: Product specifications – Sectional specification for category A4
multimode fibres


INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
PRICE CODE
V
ICS 33.780.10 ISBN 978-2-88910-290-7
® Registered trademark of the International Electrotechnical Commission

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– 2 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.4
1 Scope and object.6
2 Normative references .7
3 Specifications .7
3.1 Dimensional requirements .7
3.2 Mechanical requirements.8
3.2.1 Tensile load test .9
3.3 Transmission requirements .10
3.4 Environmental requirements .11
3.4.1 Mechanical environmental requirement.12
3.4.2 Transmission environmental requirements .12
Annex A (normative) Family specifications for A4a multimode fibres .14
Annex B (normative) Family specifications for A4b multimode fibres .16
Annex C (normative) Family specifications for A4c multimode fibres .18
Annex D (normative) Family specifications for A4d multimode fibres.20
Annex E (normative) Family specifications for A4e multimode fibres .22
Annex F (normative) Family specifications for A4f multimode fibres .24
Annex G (normative) Family specifications for A4g multimode fibres.26
Annex H (normative) Family specifications for A4h multimode fibres.28
Annex I (normative) Mode Scramblers for A4a to A4d Fibres (based on IEC 794-1-1,
1999) .30
Annex J (informative) Additional transmission requirements for A4a multimode fibres
for wavelengths below 650 nm .31

Figure 1 – Tensile Load versus Elongation for a plastic optical fibre. .10
Figure I.1 – Mode Scrambler for A4 fibre .30

Table 1 – Characteristics and applications of category A4 Fibres.6
Table 2 – Dimensional attributes and measurement methods.8
Table 3 – Requirements common to all category A4 fibres .8
Table 4 – Additional attributes required in A4a though A4e family specifications.8
Table 5 – Additional attributes required in A4f through A4h family specifications.8
Table 6 – Mechanical attributes and test methods.9
Table 7 – Requirements common to category A4 fibres.9
Table 8 – Additional attributes required in family specification for categories A4a
through A4e fibres .9
Table 9 – Additional attributes required in family specification for categories A4f
through A4h fibres .9
Table 10 – Transmission attributes and measurement methods .11
Table 11 – Attributes required in family specifications.11
Table 12 – Environmental exposure tests.11
Table 13 – Attributes measured .12
Table 14 – Requirement for tensile strength.12

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 3 –
Table 15 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4a through A4e fibre .12
Table 16 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4f through A4h fibre .13
Table A.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4a fibres .14
Table A.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4a fibres.14
Table A.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4a fibres.15
Table B.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4b fibres .16
Table B.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4b fibres.16
Table B.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4b fibres.17
Table C.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4c fibres .18
Table C.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4c fibres.18
Table C.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4c fibres.19
Table D.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4d fibres .20
Table D.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4d fibres.20
Table D.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4d fibres .21
Table E.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4e fibres .22
Table E.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4e fibres.22
Table E.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4e fibres.23
Table F.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4f fibres .24
Table F.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4f fibres .24
Table F.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4f fibres.25
Table G.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4g fibres.26
Table G.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4g fibres .26
Table G.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4g fibres .27
Table H.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4h fibres .28
Table H.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4h fibres.28
Table H.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4h fibres .29
Table I.1 – Mode Scrambler parameters .30
Table J.1 – Transmission requirements specific to A4a.2 fibre .31

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INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________

OPTICAL FIBRES –

Part 2-40: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres


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
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
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
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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
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5) IEC provides no marking procedure to indicate its approval and cannot be rendered responsible for any
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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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 60793-2-40 has been prepared by subcommittee 86A: Fibres and
cables, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006 and constitutes a
technical revision which defines an enhanced A4a fibre named A4a.2 while the existing A4a
fibre has been renamed A4a.1.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
86A/1237/CDV 86A/1264/RVC

Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 5 –
A list of all parts of the IEC 60793 series, published under the general title Optical fibres, can
be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in
the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
A bilingual version of this publication may be issued at a later date.

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– 6 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)
OPTICAL FIBRES –

Part 2-40: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres



1 Scope
This part of IEC 60793-2 is applicable to optical fibre categories A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e,
A4f, A4g and A4h. These fibres have a plastic core and plastic cladding and may have step-
index, multi-step index, or graded-index profiles. The fibres are used in information
transmission equipment and optical fibre cables. Table 1 summarizes some of the salient
characteristics and applications of these fibres.
Table 1 – Characteristics and applications of category A4 Fibres
A4a A4b A4c A4d A4e A4f A4g A4h
Core diameter See Note 1 See See See Note 1 200 120 62,5
≥500
Note 1 Note 1
(μm)
Cladding 1000 750 500 1000 750 490 490 245
diameter (μm)
t t t t t e e e
Numerical 0,50 0,50 0,50 0,30 0,25 0,190 0,190 0,190
aperture
Operating 650 650 650 650 650 650, 850, 650, 850, 850, 1300
wavelength(s) 1300 1300
See Note 2
(nm)
Applications Digital audio industrial sensor Digital Digital Industrial Data Data
interface, and audiovisual audiovisual and mobile; transmission transmission;
automobile, sensor interface interface compatible primarily
industrial and data and data with A3 used in
and sensor transmission transmission transmission ribbon
equipment structures
Data
transmission
NOTE 1 Typically 15μm to 35 μm smaller than the cladding diameter.
NOTE 2 Other potential wavelengths for A4a fibre are described in Annex J.
t
Theoretical.
e
Measured effective.

In addition to the applications shown in Table 1, other applications for A4 fibres include, but
are not restricted to, the following: support for short reach high bit-rate systems in telephony,
distribution and local networks, carrying data, voice and/or video services and on-premises
intrabuilding and interbuilding fibre installations, including LANs, PBXs, video, various
multiplexing uses, and miscellaneous related uses, such as consumer electronics and
industrial and mobile networks.
Three types of requirements apply to A4 fibres:
• general requirements, as defined in IEC 60793-2;
• specific requirements common to category A4 multimode fibres covered in this standard
and that are given in Clause 3;
• particular requirements applicable to individual fibre types or specific applications and that
are defined in this standard in the normative family specification annexes.

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 7 –
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application 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 60068-1, Environmental testing – Part 1: General and guidance
IEC 60793-1 (all parts), Optical fibres – Part 1: Measurement methods and test procedures
IEC 60793-1-20:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-20: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Fibre geometry
IEC 60793-1-22:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-22: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Length measurement
IEC 60793-1-40:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-40: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Attenuation
IEC 60793-1-41:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-41: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Bandwidth
IEC 60793-1-42:2007, Optical fibres – Part 1-42: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Chromatic dispersion
IEC 60793-1-43:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-43: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Numerical aperture
IEC 60793-1-46:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-46: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Monitoring of changes in optical transmittance
IEC 60793-1-47: 2009, Optical fibres – Part 1-47: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Macrobending loss
IEC 60793-1-50:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-50: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Damp heat (steady state)
IEC 60793-1-51:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-51: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Dry heat
IEC 60793-1-52:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-52: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Change of temperature
IEC 60793-2, Optical fibres − Part 2: Product specifications – General
IEC 60794-2-41, Optical fibre cables – Part 2-41: Product specification for simplex and duplex
buffered A4 fibres.
3 Specifications
3.1 Dimensional requirements
Relevant dimensional attributes and measurement methods are given in Table 2.
Requirements common to all category A4 fibres are indicated in Table 3.

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– 8 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)
Tables 4 and 5 list additional attributes that shall be specified by each family specification.
Table 2 – Dimensional attributes and measurement methods
Attributes Measurement methods
Cladding diameter IEC 60793-1-20
Cladding non-circularity IEC 60793-1-20
Core diameter IEC 60793-1-20
Fibre length IEC 60793-1-22
Core-cladding concentricity error IEC 60793-1-20
Core non-circularity IEC 60793-1-20

Table 3 – Requirements common to all category A4 fibres
Attributes Unit Limits

a
Cladding non-circularity %
≤6

b
Core diameter
μm
c
Fibre length km
a
Unless otherwise specified in the family specification.
b
For A4a, A4b, A4c and A4d fibre, the core diameter is typically 15 μm to 35 μm smaller than the
cladding diameter. For A4e, A4f, A4g and A4h fibre, the core diameter varies and is listed in the
family specification.
c
Length requirements vary and should be agreed between the supplier and the customer.

Table 4 – Additional attributes required in A4a though A4e family specifications
Attributes
Cladding diameter

Table 5 – Additional attributes required in A4f through A4h family specifications
Attributes
Cladding diameter
Core non-circularity
Core-cladding concentricity error

3.2 Mechanical requirements
Mechanical attributes, test methods, and requirements for buffered fibre can be found in
IEC 60794-2-41.
Relevant mechanical attributes and test methods are given in Table 6.
Requirements common to all category A4 fibres are indicated in Table 7.
Additional attributes that shall be specified in the family specifications for categories A4a
through A4e are given in Table 8.

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 9 –
Additional attributes that shall be specified in the family specifications for categories A4f
through A4h are given in Table 9.
Table 6 – Mechanical attributes and test methods
Attributes Test methods
Tensile performance 3.2.1

Table 7 – Requirements common to category A4 fibres
Attribute Unit Limit
Elongation at yield peak %
≥4,0

Table 8 – Additional attributes required in family specification
for categories A4a through A4e fibres
Attributes
Tensile load at yield peak

Table 9 – Additional attributes required in family specification
for categories A4f through A4h fibres
Attributes
Tensile load at yield peak
Tensile load to induce 4 % elongation
3.2.1 Tensile load test
3.2.1.1 Object
The purpose of this test is to characterize the ability of the fibre to support a load during
handling. Its purpose is to obtain values of the fibre’s tensile strength.
The fibre samples are subjected to a mechanical environment as specified below. The test
shall be carried out at the standard test conditions in compliance with IEC 60068-1.
3.2.1.2 Definition of yield peak
Figure 1 shows a typical load vs. elongation curve for a plastic optical fibre. The curve
exhibits an initial monotonic increase in tensile load with applied elongation that goes through
a load peak. The peak is followed by a decrease in load as the sample begins to undergo a
ductile, irreversible elongation. Localized necking and drawing of the sample may accompany
the process. This phenomenon is known as yielding and the peak is termed a yield peak.

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– 10 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)


0
0 Strain  %
IEC  417/06

Figure 1 – Tensile load versus elongation for a plastic optical fibre
3.2.1.3 Test apparatus
The length of the sample between two clamping devices shall be between 100 mm and
200 mm.
The tensile strength measuring apparatus shall be a device, for example a vertical tensile
tester, that provides relative motion to the test fibre. The apparatus shall be capable of
imparting constant motion without jerking the fibre under test. The apparatus shall have the
ability to simultaneously measure and record the resulting tensile force or load. To prevent
fibre breakage, the means used to secure the fibre ends at the clamping points shall not
stress the fibre excessively.
3.2.1.4 Procedure
The tensile speed shall be 100 mm/min (±10 %). Yield strength and yield elongation are
obtained from the load-elongation curve described in 3.2.1.2. Unless otherwise specified,
tensile load at the yield peak and tensile load to induce 4 % elongation shall be recorded.
NOTE Elongation to breaking point is not applicable to A4 fibres.
3.2.1.5 Requirements
The requirements are stated in the family specifications in the normative annexes. If the fibre
sample breaks at a clamping point, the test shall be regarded as invalid and another test shall
be carried out. The number of samples tested shall be sufficient to allow for a statistical
analysis.
3.3 Transmission requirements
Relevant transmission attributes and measurement methods are given in Table 10.
Additional attributes required in the family specifications are indicated in Table 11.

Load  N

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 11 –
Table 10 – Transmission attributes and measurement methods
Attributes Measurement methods
a
IEC 60793-1-40
Attenuation
a
IEC 60793-1-41
Modal bandwidth
Modal bandwidth with RML IEC 60793-1-41
Theoretical numerical aperture IEC 60793-1-20
Numerical aperture IEC 60793-1-43
Chromatic dispersion IEC 60793-1-42
Macrobending loss IEC 60793-1-47, Method B
a
When measuring attenuation and modal bandwidth, the appropriate
launching conditions should be applied as specified in IEC 60793-1-40 and
IEC 60793-1-41 or as stated in the family specification. Bandwidth is not
necessarily linear with regard to length. The value of bandwidth is
referenced to 100 m of fibre.

Table 11 – Attributes required in family specifications
Attributes
Attenuation
Modal bandwidth
Theoretical numerical aperture or measured
numerical aperture
Chromatic dispersion
Macrobending loss

3.4 Environmental requirements
Environmental exposure tests and measurement methods are documented in two forms:
• Relevant environmental attributes, test methods and test conditions given in Table 12.
• Measurements of a particular mechanical and transmission attribute that may change
during exposure to the environmental test are listed in Table 13.
Table 12 – Environmental exposure tests
a b c
Environment
Test condition Test method Test condition
Damp heat IEC 60793-1-50 +75 °C, 85 % RH, 30 days
A Dry heat IEC 60793-1-51 +85 °C, 30 days
Change of temperature IEC 60793-1-52 T :-40 °C, T :+85 °C
a b
Damp heat IEC 60793-1-50 +60 °C, 85 % RH, 30 days
B
Dry heat IEC 60793-1-51 +70 °C, 30 days
Change of temperature IEC 60793-1-52 T :-20 °C, T :+70 °C
a b
a
Test condition A or B should be agreed between the supplier and the customer.
b
Although these test methods do not specifically mention their applicability to A4 fibres, the test
methods should be used.
c
These test conditions supersede any that might be specified in the indicated test methods.

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– 12 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)
Table 13 – Attributes measured
Attribute Measurement method
Change in optical transmission IEC 60793-1-46
Tensile load IEC 60793-2-40, 3.2.1

These tests are normally conducted periodically as type-tests for a fibre design. Unless
otherwise specified:
• the specimen shall be pre-conditioned by keeping it at standard atmospheric conditions for
at least 24 h, and
• the recovery period allowed between the completion of the environmental exposure and
measuring the attributes shall be as stated in the particular environmental test method.
Environmental exposure testing of A4a to A4e fibres are usually performed after the fibres are
buffered. (Refer to IEC 60794-2-41, for environmental requirements on buffered fibres.)
Environmental exposure testing of unbuffered fibre is only required when the fibres are sold in
unbuffered form.
3.4.1 Mechanical environmental requirement
Tensile strength shall be verified following removal of the fibre from the environment.
Table 14 – Requirement for tensile strength
Environment Elongation at yield peak
Damp heat
≥ 4,0 %

3.4.2 Transmission environmental requirements
Change in attenuation from the initial value shall be less than the values in Table 15 and
Table 16. The requirements differ for the two groups of fibres because of their different
application environments.
Table 15 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4a through A4e fibre
Environment Attribute Unit Limits
≤ 5
Damp heat Attenuation increase at 650 nm dB/100 m
(Includes attenuation due to
water absorption)
Dry heat Attenuation increase at 650 nm dB/100 m ≤ 2
Change of temperature Attenuation increase at 650 nm dB/100 m ≤ 2

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60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E) – 13 –
Table 16 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4f through A4h fibre
Environment Attribute Unit Limits
≤ 1,0
Damp heat Attenuation increase at 650, dB/100 m
a

(Includes attenuation due to
850 and/or 1300
water absorption)
Dry heat Attenuation increase at 650, dB/100 m
≤ 0,5
850 and/or 1300
Change of temperature Attenuation increase at 650, dB/100 m ≤ 0,5
850 and/or 1300
a
Because the effect of absorbed water can be significant at 1300 nm, attenuation increase is specified
only after the sample has recovered for at least 24 h under standard room temperature atmospheric
conditions.

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– 14 – 60793-2-40 © IEC:2009(E)
Annex
...

IEC 60793-2-40
®

Edition 3.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside


Optical fibres –
Part 2-40: Product specifications – Sectional specification for category A4
multimode fibres

Fibres optiques –
Partie 2-40: Spécifications de produits – Spécification intermédiaire pour les
fibres multimodales de la catégorie A4
IEC 60793-2-40:2009

---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
THIS PUBLICATION IS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
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International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

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---------------------- Page: 2 ----------------------
IEC 60793-2-40
®

Edition 3.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside


Optical fibres –
Part 2-40: Product specifications – Sectional specification for category A4
multimode fibres

Fibres optiques –
Partie 2-40: Spécifications de produits – Spécification intermédiaire pour les
fibres multimodales de la catégorie A4
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX V
ICS 33.180.10 ISBN 978-2-88912-563-0

® Registered trademark of the International Electrotechnical Commission
Marque déposée de la Commission Electrotechnique Internationale

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– 2 – 60793-2-40  IEC:2009
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope and object . 6
2 Normative references . 7
3 Specifications . 7
3.1 Dimensional requirements . 7
3.2 Mechanical requirements . 8
3.2.1 Tensile load test . 9
3.3 Transmission requirements . 10
3.4 Environmental requirements . 11
3.4.1 Mechanical environmental requirement . 12
3.4.2 Transmission environmental requirements . 12
Annex A (normative) Family specifications for A4a multimode fibres . 14
Annex B (normative) Family specifications for A4b multimode fibres . 16
Annex C (normative) Family specifications for A4c multimode fibres . 18
Annex D (normative) Family specifications for A4d multimode fibres . 20
Annex E (normative) Family specifications for A4e multimode fibres . 22
Annex F (normative) Family specifications for A4f multimode fibres . 24
Annex G (normative) Family specifications for A4g multimode fibres . 26
Annex H (normative) Family specifications for A4h multimode fibres . 28
Annex I (normative) Mode Scramblers for A4a to A4d Fibres (based on IEC 794-1-1,
1999) . 30
Annex J (informative) Additional transmission requirements for A4a multimode fibres
for wavelengths below 650 nm . 31

Figure 1 – Tensile Load versus Elongation for a plastic optical fibre. . 10
Figure I.1 – Mode Scrambler for A4 fibre . 30

Table 1 – Characteristics and applications of category A4 Fibres . 6
Table 2 – Dimensional attributes and measurement methods . 8
Table 3 – Requirements common to all category A4 fibres . 8
Table 4 – Additional attributes required in A4a though A4e family specifications . 8
Table 5 – Additional attributes required in A4f through A4h family specifications . 8
Table 6 – Mechanical attributes and test methods . 9
Table 7 – Requirements common to category A4 fibres . 9
Table 8 – Additional attributes required in family specification for categories A4a
through A4e fibres . 9
Table 9 – Additional attributes required in family specification for categories A4f
through A4h fibres . 9
Table 10 – Transmission attributes and measurement methods . 11
Table 11 – Attributes required in family specifications . 11
Table 12 – Environmental exposure tests. 11
Table 13 – Attributes measured . 12
Table 14 – Requirement for tensile strength . 12

---------------------- Page: 4 ----------------------
60793-2-40  IEC:2009 – 3 –
Table 15 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4a through A4e fibre . 12
Table 16 – Requirement for change in attenuation for A4f through A4h fibre . 13
Table A.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4a fibres . 14
Table A.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4a fibres . 14
Table A.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4a fibres . 15
Table B.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4b fibres . 16
Table B.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4b fibres . 16
Table B.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4b fibres . 17
Table C.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4c fibres . 18
Table C.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4c fibres . 18
Table C.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4c fibres . 19
Table D.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4d fibres . 20
Table D.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4d fibres . 20
Table D.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4d fibres . 21
Table E.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4e fibres . 22
Table E.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4e fibres . 22
Table E.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4e fibres . 23
Table F.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4f fibres . 24
Table F.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4f fibres . 24
Table F.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4f fibres . 25
Table G.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4g fibres . 26
Table G.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4g fibres . 26
Table G.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4g fibres . 27
Table H.1 – Dimensional requirements specific to A4h fibres . 28
Table H.2 – Mechanical requirements specific to A4h fibres . 28
Table H.3 – Transmission requirements specific to A4h fibres . 29
Table I.1 – Mode Scrambler parameters . 30
Table J.1 – Transmission requirements specific to A4a.2 fibre . 31

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– 4 – 60793-2-40  IEC:2009
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________

OPTICAL FIBRES –

Part 2-40: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres


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,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
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
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
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
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
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 60793-2-40 has been prepared by subcommittee 86A: Fibres and
cables, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006 and constitutes a
technical revision which defines an enhanced A4a fibre named A4a.2 while the existing A4a
fibre has been renamed A4a.1.
This bilingual version, published in 2011-06, corresponds to the English version.

---------------------- Page: 6 ----------------------
60793-2-40  IEC:2009 – 5 –
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
86A/1237/CDV 86A/1264/RVC

Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
The French version of this standard has not been voted on.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60793 series, published under the general title Optical fibres, can
be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication 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.

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– 6 – 60793-2-40  IEC:2009
OPTICAL FIBRES –

Part 2-40: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for category A4 multimode fibres



1 Scope
This part of IEC 60793-2 is applicable to optical fibre categories A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e,
A4f, A4g and A4h. These fibres have a plastic core and plastic cladding and may have step-
index, multi-step index, or graded-index profiles. The fibres are used in information
transmission equipment and optical fibre cables. Table 1 summarizes some of the salient
characteristics and applications of these fibres.
Table 1 – Characteristics and applications of category A4 Fibres
A4a A4b A4c A4d A4e A4f A4g A4h
Core diameter See Note 1 See See See Note 1 200 120 62,5
≥500
Note 1 Note 1
(µm)
Cladding 1 000 750 500 1 000 750 490 490 245
diameter (µm)
t t t t t e e e
Numerical 0,50 0,50 0,50 0,30 0,25 0,190 0,190 0,190
aperture
Operating 650 650 650 650 650 650, 850, 1 650, 850, 1 850, 1 300
wavelength(s) 300 300
See Note 2
(nm)
Applications Digital audio industrial sensor Digital Digital Industrial Data Data
interface, and audiovisual audiovisual and mobile; transmission transmission;
automobile, sensor interface interface compatible primarily
industrial and data and data with A3 used in
and sensor transmission transmission transmission ribbon
equipment structures
Data
transmission
NOTE 1 Typically 15µm to 35 µm smaller than the cladding diameter.
NOTE 2 Other potential wavelengths for A4a fibre are described in Annex J.
t
Theoretical.
e
Measured effective.

In addition to the applications shown in Table 1, other applications for A4 fibres include, but
are not restricted to, the following: support for short reach high bit-rate systems in telephony,
distribution and local networks, carrying data, voice and/or video services and on-premises
intrabuilding and interbuilding fibre installations, including LANs, PBXs, video, various
multiplexing uses, and miscellaneous related uses, such as consumer electronics and
industrial and mobile networks.
Three types of requirements apply to A4 fibres:
• general requirements, as defined in IEC 60793-2;
• specific requirements common to category A4 multimode fibres covered in this standard
and that are given in Clause 3;
• particular requirements applicable to individual fibre types or specific applications and that
are defined in this standard in the normative family specification annexes.

---------------------- Page: 8 ----------------------
60793-2-40  IEC:2009 – 7 –
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application 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 60068-1, Environmental testing – Part 1: General and guidance
IEC 60793-1 (all parts), Optical fibres – Part 1: Measurement methods and test procedures
IEC 60793-1-20:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-20: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Fibre geometry
IEC 60793-1-22:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-22: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Length measurement
IEC 60793-1-40:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-40: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Attenuation
IEC 60793-1-41:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-41: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Bandwidth
IEC 60793-1-42:2007, Optical fibres – Part 1-42: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Chromatic dispersion
IEC 60793-1-43:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-43: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Numerical aperture
IEC 60793-1-46:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-46: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Monitoring of changes in optical transmittance
IEC 60793-1-47: 2009, Optical fibres – Part 1-47: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Macrobending loss
IEC 60793-1-50:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-50: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Damp heat (steady state)
IEC 60793-1-51:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-51: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Dry heat
IEC 60793-1-52:2001, Optical fibres – Part 1-52: Measurement methods and test procedures
– Change of temperature
IEC 60793-2, Optical fibres − Part 2: Product specifications – General
IEC 60794-2-41, Optical fibre cables – Part 2-41: Product specification for simplex and duplex
buffered A4 fibres.
3 Specifications
3.1 Dimensional requirements
Relevant dimensional attributes and measurement methods are given in Table 2.
Requirements common to all category A4 fibres are indicated in Table 3.

---------------------- Page: 9 ----------------------
– 8 – 60793-2-40  IEC:2009
Tables 4 and 5 list additional attributes that shall be specified by each family specification.
Table 2 – Dimensional attributes and measurement methods
Attributes Measurement methods
Cladding diameter IEC 60793-1-20
Cladding non-circularity IEC 60793-1-20
Core diameter IEC 60793-1-20
Fibre length IEC 60793-1-22
Core-cladding concentricity error IEC 60793-1-20
Core non-circularity IEC 60793-1-20

Table 3 – Requirements common to all category A4 fibres
Attributes Unit Limits

a
Cladding non-circularity %
≤6

b
Core diameter µm
c

Fibre length km
a
Unless otherwise specified in the family specification.
b
For A4a, A4b, A4c and A4d fibre, the core diameter is typically 15 µm to 35 µm smaller than the
cladding diameter. For A4e, A4f, A4g and A4h fibre, the core diameter varies and is listed in
the family specification.
c
Length requirements vary and should be agreed between the supplier and the customer.

Table 4 – Additional attributes required in A4a though A4e family specifications
Attributes
Cladding diameter

Table 5 – Additional attributes required in A4f through A4h family specifications
Attributes
Cladding diameter
Core non-circularity
Core-cladding concentricity error

3.2 Mechanical requirements
Mechanical attributes, test methods, and requirements for buffered fibre can be found in

IEC 60794-2-41.
Relevant mechanical attributes and test methods are given in Table 6.
Requirements common to all category A4 fibres are indicated in Table 7.
Additional attributes that shall be specified in the family specifications for categories A4a
through A4e are given in Table 8.
Additional attributes that shall be specified in the family specifications for categories A4f
through A4h are given in Table 9.

---------------------- Page: 10 ----------------------
60793-2-40  IEC:2009 – 9 –
Table 6 – Mechanical attributes and test methods
Attributes Test methods
Tensile performance 3.2.1

Table 7 – Requirements common to category A4 fibres
Attribute Unit Limit
Elongation at yield peak %
≥ 4,0

Table 8 – Additional attributes required in family specification
for categories A4a through A4e fibres
Attributes
Tensile load at yield peak

Table 9 – Additional attributes required in family specification
for categories A4f through A4h fibres
Attributes
Tensile load at yield peak
Tensile load to induce 4 % elongation
3.2.1 Tensile load test
3.2.1.1 Object
The purpose of this test is to characterize the ability of the fibre to support a load during
handling. Its purpose is to obtain values of the fibre’s tensile strength.
The fibre samples are subjected to a mechanical environment as specified below. The test
shall be carried out at the standard test conditions in compliance with IEC 60068-1.
3.2.1.2 Definition of yield peak
Figure 1 shows a typical load vs. elongation curve for a plastic optical fibre. The curve
exhibits an initial monotonic increase in tensile load with applied elongation that goes through
a load peak. The peak is followed by a decrease in load as the sample begins to undergo a
ductile, irreversible elongation. Localized necking and drawing of the sample may accompany
the process. This phenomenon is known as yielding and the peak is termed a yield peak.

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– 10 – 60793-2-40  IEC:2009


0
0 Strain  %
IEC  417/06

Figure 1 – Tensile load versus elongation for a plastic optical fibre
3.2.1.3 Test apparatus
The length of the sample between two clamping devices shall be between 100 mm and
200 mm.
The tensile strength measuring apparatus shall be a device, for example a vertical tensile
tester, that provides relative motion to the test fibre. The apparatus shall be capable of
imparting constant motion without jerking the fibre under test. The apparatus shall have the
ability to simultaneously measure and record the resulting tensile force or load. To prevent
fibre breakage, the means used to secure the fibre ends at the clamping points shall not
stress the fibre excessively.
3.2.1.4 Procedure
The tensile speed shall be 100 mm/min (± 10 %). Yield strength and yield elongation are
obtained from the load-elongation curve described in 3.2.1.2. Unless otherwise specified,
tensile load at the yield peak and tensile load to induce 4 % elongation shall be recorded.
NOTE Elongation to breaking point is not applicable to A4 fibres.
3.2.1.5 Requirements
The requirements are stated in the family specifications in the normative annexes. If the fibre
sample breaks at a clamping point, the test shall be regarded as invalid and another test shall
be carried out. The number of samples tested shall be sufficient to allow for a statistical
analysis.
3.3 Transmission requirements
Relevant transmission attributes and measurement methods are given in Table 10.
Additional attributes required in the family specifications are indicated in Table 11.

Load  N

---------------------- Page: 12 ----------------------
60793-2-40  IEC:2009 – 11 –
Table 10 – Transmission attributes and measurement methods
Attributes Measurement methods
a
Attenuation IEC 60793-1-40
a
Modal bandwidth IEC 60793-1-41
Modal bandwidth with RML IEC 60793-1-41
Theoretical numerical aperture IEC 60793-1-20
Numerical aperture IEC 60793-1-43
Chromatic dispersion IEC 60793-1-42
Macrobending loss IEC 60793-1-47, Method B
a
 When measuring attenuation and modal bandwidth, the appropriate
launching conditions should be applied as specified in IEC 60793-1-40
and IEC 60793-1-41 or as stated in the family specification. Bandwidth
is not necessarily linear with regard to length. The value of bandwidth is
referenced to 100 m of fibre.

Table 11 – Attributes required in family specifications
Attributes
Attenuation
Modal bandwidth
Theoretical numerical aperture or measured
numerical aperture
Chromatic dispersion
Macrobending loss

3.4 Environmental requirements
Environmental exposure tests and measurement methods are documented in two forms:
• Relevant environmental attributes, test methods and test conditions given in Table 12.
• Measurements of a particular mechanical and transmission attribute that may change
during exposure to the environmental test are listed in Table 13.
Table 12 – Environmental exposure tests
a b c

Environment
...