IEC 62077:2010

Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic circulators - Generic specification

IEC 62077:2010 applies to circulators used in the field of fibre optics bearing all of the following features:
- they are non-reciprocal optical devices, in which each port is either an optical fibre or fibre optic connector;
- they are passive devices in accordance with the categorization and definition provided in IEC 62538; and
- they have three or more ports for directionally transmitting optical power.
The changes with respect to the previous edition are:
- having substantially increased the number of terms;
- having added an informative annex for example of filtering technologies;
- having deleted quality assessment procedures.

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques - Circulateurs à fibres optiques - Spécification générique

La CEI 62077:2010 s'applique aux circulateurs utilisés dans le domaine des fibres optiques présentant toutes les caractéristiques suivantes:
- ce sont dispositifs optiques non réciproques, dont chaque port est soit une fibre optique, soit un connecteur à fibres optiques;
- ce sont des dispositifs passifs, conformément à la classification et à la définition données dans la CEI 62538; et
- ils disposent d'au moins trois ports pour la transmission de la puissance optique de façon directionnelle.
- Les modifications par rapport à l'édition antérieure concernent:
- l'augmentation substantielle du nombre de termes;
- l'ajout d'une annexe informative fournissant un exemple de technologies de filtrage;
- la suppression des procédures d'évaluation de la qualité.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 17-Feb-2010
• 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: DELPUB - Deleted Publication
• Start Date: 04-Nov-2015
• Completion Date: 26-Oct-2025

Relations

• Revises: IEC 62077:2001 - Fibre optic circulators - Generic specification
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revised: IEC 62077:2015 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic circulators - Generic specification
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 62077:2010 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic circulators - Generic specification - defines a generic specification for fibre optic circulators. The standard applies to non‑reciprocal, passive fibre optic devices with three or more ports, where each port is an optical fibre or fibre‑optic connector and the device directionally transmits optical power. Edition 2 (2010) expands terminology, adds an informative annex on filtering technologies, and removes prior quality‑assessment procedures.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and classification: Defines device categories (type, style, variant, assessment level) and how circulators are classified for specification and procurement.
• Terms and definitions: Extensive glossary covering ports, transfer matrix, transfer coefficients, conducting/isolated ports, completely/incompletely circulated types.
• Performance parameters: Formal definitions for insertion loss, isolation, transfer matrix (and logarithmic transfer matrix), and related measurement concepts used to quantify circulator behaviour.
• Documentation and specification structure: Required symbols, specification system, drawings, test and measurement records, and user instructions.
• Design, materials and workmanship: High‑level requirements for construction and component selection to meet performance and safety objectives.
• Quality, marking, packaging and storage: Identification, variant numbering, package marking, storage conditions and safety requirements.
• Informative annexes: Example of magneto‑optic bulk circulator technology and an example application; added guidance on filtering technologies.

Practical applications and users

IEC 62077 is intended for organizations involved with fibre optic circulators and related passive optical components:

• Manufacturers and designers specifying or producing circulators
• Test laboratories and quality assurance teams performing measurements (insertion loss, isolation, transfer matrix)
• System integrators and OEMs procuring circulators for optical networks, sensing, WDM and laser systems
• Procurement and compliance officers ensuring products meet international specifications

Use cases include directional routing of optical power in fibre links, enabling bidirectional operation on single fibres, isolating components from back‑reflections, and integration into wavelength‑selective or magneto‑optic assemblies (see informative annexes).

Related standards (normative references)

Relevant IEC/ISO documents referenced by IEC 62077 include:

• IEC 62538 (categorization of optical devices)
• IEC 61300 (fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - test procedures)
• IEC 60050‑731, IEC 60825‑1 (vocabulary and laser safety)
• ISO standards for drawings and tolerancing (ISO 129‑1, ISO 1101, ISO 286‑1)

Keywords: IEC 62077, fibre optic circulators, passive optical components, non‑reciprocal devices, insertion loss, isolation, transfer matrix, magneto‑optic, filtering technologies.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 62077 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
circulators – Generic specification

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
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IEC 62077 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
circulators – Generic specification

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
PRICE CODE
T
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-88910-614-1
– 2 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.4
1 Scope.6
2 Normative references .6
3 Terms and definitions .7
3.1 Basic terms .7
3.2 Component terms.8
3.3 Performance parameters .8
4 Requirements .10
4.1 Classification.10
4.1.1 General .10
4.1.2 Type.11
4.1.3 Style.11
4.1.4 Variant .12
4.1.5 Assessment level.12
4.1.6 Normative reference extensions .12
4.2 Documentation .13
4.2.1 Symbols .13
4.2.2 Specification system.13
4.2.3 Drawings .15
4.2.4 Test and measurements .15
4.2.5 Test reports .15
4.2.6 Instructions for use.16
4.3 Standardization system .16
4.3.1 Interface standards.16
4.3.2 Performance standards.16
4.3.3 Reliability standards .17
4.3.4 Interlinking .17
4.4 Design and construction .18
4.4.1 Materials .18
4.4.2 Workmanship.19
4.5 Quality .19
4.6 Performance.19
4.7 Identification and marking .19
4.7.1 General .19
4.7.2 Variant identification number .19
4.7.3 Component marking .19
4.7.4 Package marking.20
4.8 Packaging .20
4.9 Storage conditions .20
4.10 Safety .20
Annex A (informative) Example of technology of bulk circulator based on magneto-
optic effect.21
Annex B (informative) Example of application of the circulator .22
Bibliography.23

Figure 1 – Standard system .18

62077 © IEC:2010(E) – 3 –
Figure A.1 – An example of a circulator .21
Figure B.1 – An example of application of the circulator.22

Table 1 – Example of a typical circulator set classification .10
Table 2 – The IEC specification structure.13
Table 3 – Interlink matrix for standards .18

– 4 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC CIRCULATORS – 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,
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 62077 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001. It constitutes a
technical revision.
The changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below:
– having substantially increased the number of terms;
– having added an informative annex for example of filtering technologies;
– having deleted quality assessment procedures.

62077 © IEC:2010(E) – 5 –
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
86B/2871/CDV 86B/2950/RVD
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.
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.
A bilingual version of this publication may be issued at a later date.

– 6 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC CIRCULATORS – GENERIC SPECIFICATION

1 Scope
This International Standard applies to circulators used in the field of fibre optics bearing all of
the following features:
– they are non-reciprocal optical devices, in which each port is either an optical fibre or fibre
optic connector;
– they are passive devices in accordance with the categorization and definition provided in
IEC 62538;
– they have three or more ports for directionally transmitting optical power.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For update 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 (IEV) – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication
IEC 60617-SN, Graphical symbols for diagrams
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825-1, Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment, classification, requirements and
user’s guide
IEC/TR 61282-9, Fibre optic communication system design guides – Part 9: Guidance on
polarization mode dispersion measurements and theory
IEC 61300 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components
IEC 61930, Fibre optic graphic symbology
IEC/TS 62538, Categorization of optical devices
IEC Guide 102, Electronic components – Specification structures for quality assessment
(Qualification approval and capability approval)
IECQ 01, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ Scheme) – Basic
Rules
IECQ 001002-3, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ) – Rules
of Procedure – Part 3: Approval procedures

62077 © IEC:2010(E) – 7 –
ISO 129-1, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances – Part 1: General
principles
ISO 286-1, ISO system of limits and fits – Part 1: Bases 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),
together with the following definitions, apply.
3.1 Basic terms
3.1.1
port
optical fibre or optical fibre connector attached to a passive component for the entry and/or
exit of the optical power
3.1.2
transfer matrix
optical properties of a fibre optic circulator can be defined in terms of an n × n matrix of
coefficients where n is the number of ports, and the coefficients represent the fractional
optical power transferred between designated ports
NOTE In general, the transfer matrix T is:
⎡t t . t ⎤
11 12 1n
⎢ ⎥
t
⎢ ⎥
T =
⎢ ⎥
t
ij
⎢ ⎥
t t t
⎢ ⎥
⎣ n1 n2 nn ⎦
where t is the ratio of the optical power P transferred out of port j with respect to input
ij
ij
power P into port i, that is:
i
t = P /P
ij ij i
3.1.3
transfer coefficient
element t of the transfer matrix
ij
3.1.4
logarithmic transfer matrix
in general, the logarithmic transfer matrix is as follows:
⎡ a a . a ⎤
11 12 1n
⎢ ⎥
a
⎢ ⎥
A =
⎢ ⎥
a
ij
⎢ ⎥
a a a
⎢ ⎥
n1 n 2 nn
⎣ ⎦
where a is the optical power reduction, in decibels, out of port j with unit power into port i, that

ij
is:
a = –10 log t
ij ij
– 8 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
where t is the transfer matrix coefficient

ij
3.1.5
conducting ports
two ports i and j between which t is nominally greater than zero
ij
3.1.6
isolated ports
two ports i and j between which t is nominally zero, and a is nominally infinite
ij ij
3.2 Component terms
3.2.1
fibre optic circulator
passive component possessing three or more ports which input and output are cyclic. In the
case of 3 ports circulator with port 1, port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted
from port 1 to port 2, optical power from port 2 is transmitted to port 3
3.2.2
completely circulated type
type of circulator which all ports is input and output. In the case of 3 ports circulator with port
1, port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted from port 1 to port 2, optical power
from port 2 is transmitted to port 3 and optical power from port 3 is transmitted to port 1

Circulator
Port 1
Port 3
Port 2
3.2.3
incompletely circulated type
type of circulator which a port is input or output. In the case of 3 ports circulator with port 1,
port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted from port 1 to port 2, optical power
from port 2 is transmitted to port 3 and optical power from port 3 is not transmitted to port 1

Circulator
Port 1 Port 3
Port 2
3.3 Performance parameters
3.3.1
insertion loss
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an input port i and output port j which optical
ij
power is transmitted. It is the reduction in optical power between an input and output port of a
passive component expressed in decibels and defined as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ij j i
where
Pi is the optical power launched into the input port;
P is the optical power received from the output port
j
62077 © IEC:2010(E) – 9 –
Supposing optical
Circulator
power is transmitted
from port i to port j
Input port i
Output port j
3.3.2
isolation
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an output port j and input port i which optical
ji
power is transmitted direction opposite to the insertion loss. It is the reduction in optical power
between an input and output port of a passive component, expressed in decibels and defined
as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ji i j
where
P is the optical power received from the input port;
i
P is the optical power launched into the output port
j
Supposing optical
Circulator
power is transmitted
Input port i
from port i to port j
Output port j
3.3.3
directivity
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an port i and port k which optical power is not
ik
transmitted. It is the reduction in optical power between i port and k port of a passive
component expressed in decibels and defined as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ik k i
where
P is the optical power launched into the input port;
i
P is the optical power received from the output port
k
Supposing optical
power is transmitted
from port i to port j
Circulator
and from port j to port k
Input port i
Input port k
Output port j
3.3.4
polarization dependent loss
PDL
for polarization independent circulators, the maximum variation of insertion loss for any state
of polarization of P
j
– 10 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
3.3.5
polarization mode dispersion
PMD
the variation of the differential group delay (DGD) over the bandpass wavelength (or
frequency) range in accordance with IEC/TR 61282-9
3.3.6
operating wavelength
nominal wavelength, λ, at which a passive component is designed to operate with the
specified performance
3.3.7
operating wavelength range;
bandpass
specified range of wavelengths from λ to λ close to a nominal operating wavelength
i min i max
λ , within which a passive component is designed to operate with the specified performance
i
3.3.8
return loss
element a (where i = j) of the logarithmic transfer matrix. It is the fraction of the input power
ij
that is returned from the input port of a passive component. It is defined as:
a = –10 log (P /P )
refl i
ij
where
P  is the optical power launched into the i port,
i
P is the optical power received back from i port

refl
4 Requirements
4.1 Classification
4.1.1 General
Fibre optic circulators shall be classified as follows:
– type;
– style;
– variant;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.
An example of a typical circulator classification is as follows:
Table 1 – Example of a typical circulator set classification
Type: – Three port circulator
– Completely circulated type
– Operating wavelength: 1 310 nm
Style: – Configuration: B
– Connector type: FC
– Fibre type: IEC type B 1,2
Variants: – Means of mounting
Assessment level: – ………………………
Normative reference – ………………………
extensions:
62077 © IEC:2010(E) – 11 –
4.1.2 Type
Circulators are mainly divided into types by their configuration.
• Port numbers:
• Circulated type:
– completely circulated type;
– un-completely circulated type;
• By their operational principles:
– magneto-optic Faraday effect;
– magneto-optic Cotton-Mouton effect and Kerr effect.
• By their operating wavelength:
– short wavelength circulators (e.g. 630 nm);
– long wavelength circulators (e.g. 1 310 nm, 1 550 nm);
– other wavelength circulators.
4.1.3 Style
Optical circulators may be classified into styles based upon fibre type(s), connector type(s),
cable type(s), housing shape and dimensions, and configuration.
The configuration of the circulator ports is classified as follows:
Configuration A – Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails without connector:

Circulator
Pigtail Pigtail
Pigtail
Configuration B – Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails, with a connector on each
pigtail:
Circulator
Connector Connector
Connector
Configuration C – Device containing connectors as an integral part of the device housing:

Circulator
Connector Connector
Connector
Configuration D – Device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the
preceding configurations, for example:

– 12 – 62077 © IEC:2010(E)
Circulator
Pigtail
Connector
Connector
4.1.4 Variant
The circulator variant identifies those common features which encompass structurally similar
components. Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to, the
following:
– position and orientation of ports on housing;
– means of mounting.
4.1.5 Assessment level
Assessment level defines the inspection levels and the acceptable quality level (AQL), of
groups A and B and the periodicity of inspection of groups C and D. Relevant specifications
shall specify one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be designated by a capital
letter.
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
•
...

IEC 62077 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
circulators – Generic specification

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –
Circulateurs à fibres optiques – Spécification générique

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IEC 62077 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
circulators – Generic specification

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –
Circulateurs à fibres optiques – Spécification générique

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
T
CODE PRIX
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-88912-278-3
– 2 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
CONTENTS
FOREW ORD . 4
1 Sc o pe . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
3.1 Basic terms . 7
3.2 Component terms . 8
3.3 Performance parameters . 8
4 Requirements . 10
4.1 Classification . 10
4.1.1 General . 10
4.1.2 Type . 11
4.1.3 Style . 11
4.1.4 Variant . 12
4.1.5 Assessment level . 12
4.1.6 Normative reference extensions . 12
4.2 Documentation. 13
4.2.1 Symbols . 13
4.2.2 Specification system . 13
4.2.3 Drawings . 14
4.2.4 Test and measurements . 15
4.2.5 Test reports . 15
4.2.6 Instructions for use . 15
4.3 Standardization system. 16
4.3.1 Interface standards . 16
4.3.2 Performance standards . 16
4.3.3 Reliability standards . 16
4.3.4 Interlinking . 17
4.4 Design and construction . 18
4.4.1 Materials . 18
4.4.2 W orkmanship . 18
4.5 Quality . 19
4.6 Perform ance . 19
4.7 Identification and marking . 19
4.7.1 General . 19
4.7.2 Variant identification number . 19
4.7.3 Component marking . 19
4.7.4 Package marking . 20
4.8 Packaging . 20
4.9 Storage conditions . 20
4.10 Safety . 20
Annex A (informative) Example of technology of bulk circulator based on magneto-
optic effect . 21
Annex B (informative) Example of application of the circulator . 22
Bibliography . 23

Figure 1 – Standard system . 18

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 3 –
Figure A.1 – An example of a circulator . 21
Figure B.1 – An example of application of the circulator. 22

Table 1 – Example of a typical circulator set classification . 10
Table 2 – The IEC specification structure . 13
Table 3 – Interlink matrix for standards . 18

– 4 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC CIRCULATORS – 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,
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 62077 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001. It constitutes a
technical revision.
The changes with respect to the previous edition are listed below:
– having substantially increased the number of terms;
– having added an informative annex for example of filtering technologies;
– having deleted quality assessment procedures.

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 5 –
This bilingual version, published in 2010-12, corresponds to the English version.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
86B/2871/CDV 86B/2950/RVD
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 upon.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
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.
– 6 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC CIRCULATORS – GENERIC SPECIFICATION

1 Scope
This International Standard applies to circulators used in the field of fibre optics bearing all of
the following features:
– they are non-reciprocal optical devices, in which each port is either an optical fibre or fibre
optic connector;
– they are passive devices in accordance with the categorization and definition provided in
IEC 62538;
– they have three or more ports for directionally transmitting optical power.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For update 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 (IEV) – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication
IEC 60617-SN, Graphical symbols for diagrams
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825-1, Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment, classification, requirements and
user’s guide
IEC/TR 61282-9, Fibre optic communication system design guides – Part 9: Guidance on
polarization mode dispersion measurements and theory
IEC 61300 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components
IEC 61930, Fibre optic graphic symbology
IEC/TS 62538, Categorization of optical devices
IEC Guide 102, Electronic components – Specification structures for quality assessment
(Qualification approval and capability approval)
IECQ 01, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ Scheme) – Basic
Rules
IECQ 001002-3, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ) – Rules
of Procedure – Part 3: Approval procedures

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 7 –
ISO 129-1, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances – Part 1: General
principles
ISO 286-1, ISO system of limits and fits – Part 1: Bases 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),
together with the following definitions, apply.
3.1 Basic terms
3.1.1
port
optical fibre or optical fibre connector attached to a passive component for the entry and/or
exit of the optical power
3.1.2
transfer matrix
optical properties of a fibre optic circulator can be defined in terms of an n ´ n matrix of
coefficients where n is the number of ports, and the coefficients represent the fractional
optical power transferred between designated ports
NOTE In general, the transfer matrix T is:
ét t . t ù
11 12 1n
ê ú
t
ê ú
T =
ê ú
t
ij
ê ú
t t t
ê ú
ë n1 n2 nn û
where t is the ratio of the optical power P transferred out of port j with respect to input
ij
ij
power P into port i, that is:
i
t = P /P
ij ij i
3.1.3
transfer coefficient
element t of the transfer matrix
ij
3.1.4
logarithmic transfer matrix
in general, the logarithmic transfer matrix is as follows:
é a a . a ù
11 12 1n
ê ú
a
ê ú
A =
ê ú
a
ij
ê ú
a a a
ê ú
n1 n 2 nn
ë û
where a is the optical power reduction, in decibels, out of port j with unit power into port i, that

ij
is:
a = –10 log t
ij ij
– 8 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
where t is the transfer matrix coefficient
ij
3.1.5
conducting ports
two ports i and j between which t is nominally greater than zero
ij
3.1.6
isolated ports
two ports i and j between which t is nominally zero, and a is nominally infinite
ij ij
3.2 Component terms
3.2.1
fibre optic circulator
passive component possessing three or more ports which input and output are cyclic. In the
case of 3 ports circulator with port 1, port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted
from port 1 to port 2, optical power from port 2 is transmitted to port 3
3.2.2
completely circulated type
type of circulator which all ports is input and output. In the case of 3 ports circulator with port
1, port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted from port 1 to port 2, optical power
from port 2 is transmitted to port 3 and optical power from port 3 is transmitted to port 1

Circulator
Port 1
Port 3
Port 2
3.2.3
incompletely circulated type
type of circulator which a port is input or output. In the case of 3 ports circulator with port 1,
port 2 and port 3, supposing optical power is transmitted from port 1 to port 2, optical power
from port 2 is transmitted to port 3 and optical power from port 3 is not transmitted to port 1

Circulator
Port 1 Port 3
Port 2
3.3 Performance parameters
3.3.1
insertion loss
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an input port i and output port j which optical
ij
power is transmitted. It is the reduction in optical power between an input and output port of a
passive component expressed in decibels and defined as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ij j i
where
Pi is the optical power launched into the input port;
P is the optical power received from the output port
j
62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 9 –
Supposing optical
Circulator
power is transmitted
from port i to port j
Input port i
Output port j
3.3.2
isolation
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an output port j and input port i which optical
ji
power is transmitted direction opposite to the insertion loss. It is the reduction in optical power
between an input and output port of a passive component, expressed in decibels and defined
as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ji i j
where
P is the optical power received from the input port;
i
P is the optical power launched into the output port
j
Supposing optical
Circulator
power is transmitted
Input port i
from port i to port j
Output port j
3.3.3
directivity
element a of the logarithmic transfer matrix of an port i and port k which optical power is not
ik
transmitted. It is the reduction in optical power between i port and k port of a passive
component expressed in decibels and defined as follows:
a = –10 log (P /P )
ik k i
where
P is the optical power launched into the input port;
i
P is the optical power received from the output port
k
Supposing optical
power is transmitted
from port i to port j
Circulator
and from port j to port k
Input port i
Input port k
Output port j
3.3.4
polarization dependent loss
PDL
for polarization independent circulators, the maximum variation of insertion loss for any state
of polarization of P
j
– 10 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
3.3.5
polarization mode dispersion
PMD
the variation of the differential group delay (DGD) over the bandpass wavelength (or
frequency) range in accordance with IEC/TR 61282-9
3.3.6
operating wavelength
nominal wavelength, l, at which a passive component is designed to operate with the
specified performance
3.3.7
operating wavelength range;
bandpass
specified range of wavelengths from l l
to  close to a nominal operating wavelength
i min i max
l , within which a passive component is designed to operate with the specified performance
i
3.3.8
return loss
element a (where i = j) of the logarithmic transfer matrix. It is the fraction of the input power
ij
that is returned from the input port of a passive component. It is defined as:
a = –10 log (P /P )
refl i
ij
where
P  is the optical power launched into the i port,
i
P is the optical power received back from i port
refl
4 Requirements
4.1 Classification
4.1.1 General
Fibre optic circulators shall be classified as follows:
– type;
– style;
– variant;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.
An example of a typical circulator classification is as follows:
Table 1 – Example of a typical circulator set classification
Type: – Three port circulator
– Completely circulated type
– Operating wavelength: 1 310 nm
Style: – Configuration: B
– Connector type: FC
– Fibre type: IEC type B 1,2
Variants: – Means of mounting
Assessment level: – ………………………
– ………………………
Normative reference
extensions:
62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 11 –
4.1.2 Type
Circulators are mainly divided into types by their configuration.
· Port numbers:
· Circulated type:
– completely circulated type;
– un-completely circulated type;
· By their operational principles:
– magneto-optic Faraday effect;
– magneto-optic Cotton-Mouton effect and Kerr effect.
· By their operating wavelength:
– short wavelength circulators (e.g. 630 nm);
– long wavelength circulators (e.g. 1 310 nm, 1 550 nm);
– other wavelength circulators.
4.1.3 Style
Optical circulators may be classified into styles based upon fibre type(s), connector type(s),
cable type(s), housing shape and dimensions, and configuration.
The configuration of the circulator ports is classified as follows:
Configuration A – Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails without connector:

Circulator
Pigtail Pigtail
Pigtail
Configuration B – Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails, with a connector on each
pigtail:
Circulator
Connector Connector
Connector
Configuration C – Device containing connectors as an integral part of the device housing:

Circulator
Connector Connector
Connector
Configuration D – Device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the
preceding configurations, for example:

Circulator
Pigtail
Connector
Connector
– 12 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
4.1.4 Variant
The circulator variant identifies those common features which encompass structurally similar
components. Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to, the
following:
– position and orientation of ports on housing;
– means of mounting.
4.1.5 Assessment level
Assessment level defines the inspection levels and the acceptable quality level (AQL), of
groups A and B and the periodicity of inspection of groups C and D. Relevant specifications
shall specify one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be designated by a capital
letter.
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
One additional assessment level may be added in the relevant specification. When this is
done, the capital letter X shall be used.
4.1.6 Normative reference extensions
Normative reference extensions are used to identify integrated independent standards
specifications or other reference documents as relevant specifications.
Unless otherwise specified, additional requirements of extensions are mandatory. 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.
Some optical fibre circulator configurations require special qualification provisions which shall
not be imposed universally. This accommodates individual component design configurations,
specialized field tooling or specific application processes. In this case, the requirements are
necessary to assure 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 circulator, either for field application usage or
preparation of qualification test specimens. The relevant specification shall clarify all

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 13 –
stipulations. However, design and style dependent extensions shall not be imposed
universally.
In the event of conflicting requirements, precedence shall be given, in descending order, as
follows: generic over mandatory extension, over relevant, over detail, 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 specification of the
IEC 60874 series for a duplex type “SC/BFOC/2,5” hybrid connector adapter;
· using IEC 61754-13 and IEC 60869-1 to partially define a future specification of the
IEC 60874 series for an integrated type “FC” preset attenuated optical connector;
· using IEC 61754-2 and IEC 61073-4 to partially define a future specification of the
IEC 60874 series for a duplex “BFOC/2,5” receptacle incorporating integral mechanical
splices.
Other examples of requirements to normative extensions:
– 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 specialized locations;
– specialized field tooling may require an extension to implement specific ocular safety,
electrical shock, burn hazard avoidance requirements, or require isolation procedures to
prevent potential ignition of combustible gases.
4.2 Documentation
4.2.1 Symbols
Graphical and letter symbols shall, whenever possible, be taken from the IEC 60027 series,
IEC 60617 and IEC 61930.
4.2.2 Specification system
4.2.2.1 General
This specification is part of a three-level IEC specification system. Subsidiary specifications
shall consist of relevant specifications and detail specifications. This system is shown in Table
2. There are no sectional specifications for circulators.
Table 2 – The IEC specification structure
Specification level Examples of information to be included Applicable to
– Assessment system rules
– Inspection rules
– Optical measurement methods
– Environmental test methods
– Sampling plans
– Identification rule
Two or more component families or
Basic
sub-families
– Marking standards
– Dimensional standards
– Terminology
– Symbol standards
– Preferred number series
– SI units
– Specific terminology
Generic Component family
– Specific symbols
– 14 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
Specification level Examples of information to be included Applicable to
– Specific units
– Preferred values
– Marking
– Quality assessment procedures
– Selection of tests
– Qualification approval procedures
– Capability approval procedures
– Quality conformation test schedule
Groups of types and/or styles having a
Relevant – Inspection requirements
common test schedule
– Information common to a number of types
– Individual values
– Specific information
Detail Individual component(s)
– Completed quality conformance test
schedules
4.2.2.2 Relevant specification
Relevant specifications are not, by themselves, a specification level. They are associated with
the generic specification.
Each relevant specification shall contain
– the minimum mandatory test schedules and performance requirements;
– one or more assessment levels;
– the preferred format for stating the required information in the relevant specification;
– in case of hybrid components, including connectors, addition of appropriate entry fields to
show the normative reference document, document title and issue date.
A specific circulator described by a corresponding relevant specification, which is prepared by
filling in the blanks of the relevant specification. Within the constraints imposed by this
generic specification, the relevant specification may be filled in by any national committee of
the IEC, thereby defining a particular circulator design as an official IEC standard.
Relevant specifications shall specify the following, as applicable:
– type (see 4.1.2);
– style (see 4.1.3);
– variant(s) (see 4.1.4);
– assessment level (see 4.1.5);
– part identification number for each variant (see 4.7.2);
– drawings, dimensions required (see 4.2.3);
– quality assessment test schedules (see 4.1.5);
– performance requirements (see 4.6).
4.2.3 Drawings
4.2.3.1 General
The drawings and dimensions given in relevant specifications shall not restrict themselves to
details of construction, nor shall they be used as manufacturing drawings.

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 15 –
4.2.3.2 Projection system
Either first-angle or third-angle projection shall be used for the drawings in documents
covered by this specification. All drawings within a document shall use the same projection
system and the drawings shall state which system is used.
4.2.3.3 Dimensional system
All dimensions shall be given in accordance with ISO 129, ISO 286-1 and ISO 1101.
The metric system shall be used in all specifications.
Dimensions shall not contain more than five significant digits.
Conversion between systems of units shall be done correctly. When units are converted, a
note shall be added in each relevant specification between systems of units shall use a factor
of 25,4 mm to 1 inch.
4.2.4 Test and measurements
4.2.4.1 Test and measurement procedures
The test and measurement procedures for optical, mechanical, climatic, and environmental
characteristics of circulators to be used shall be defined and selected preferably from the
IEC 61300 series.
The size measurement method to be used shall be specified in the relevant specification for
dimensions which are specified within a total tolerance zone of 0,01 mm or less.
4.2.4.2 Reference components
Reference components, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
4.2.4.3 Gauges
Gauges, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
4.2.5 Test reports
Test reports shall be prepared for each test conducted as required by a relevant specification.
The reports shall be included in the qualification report and in the periodic inspection report.
Reports shall contain the following information:
– title of test and date;
– specimen description including the type of fibre, connector or other coupling device. The
description shall also include the variant identification number (see 4.7.2);
– test equipment used and date of latest calibration;
– all applicable test details;
– all measurement values and observations;
– sufficiently detailed documentation to provide traceable information for failure analysis.
4.2.6 Instructions for use
Instructions for use, when required, shall be given by the manufacturer and shall include:
– assembly and connection instructions;

– 16 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
– cleaning method;
– safety aspects;
– additional information, as necessary.
4.3 Standardization system
4.3.1 Interface standards
Interface standards provide both manufacturer and user with all the information required to
make or use the product in conformity with the physical features of that standard interface.
Interface standards fully define and dimension the features essential for the mating and
unmating of optical fibre connectors and other components. They also serve to position the
optical datum target, where defined, relative to other reference datum.
Interface standards ensure that connectors and adapters that comply with the standard will fit
together. The standards may also contain tolerance grades for ferrules and alignment devices.
Tolerance grades are used to provide different levels of alignment precision.
The interface dimensions may also be used to design other components that will mate with
the connectors. For example, an active device mount can be designed using the adapter
interface dimensions. The use of these dimensions combined with those of a standard plug
provides the designer with assurance that the standard plugs will fit into the optical device
mount. They also provide the location of the plug's optical datum target.
Standard interface dimensions do not, by themselves, guarantee optical performance. They
guarantee connector mating at a specified fit. Optical performance is currently guaranteed via
the manufacturing specification. Products from the same or different manufacturing
specifications using the same standard interface will always fit together. Guaranteed
performance can be given by any single manufacturer only for product delivered to the same
manufacturing specification. However, it can be reasonably expected that some level of
performance will be obtained by mating a product from different manufacturing specifications,
although the level of performance cannot be expected to be any better than that of the lowest
specified performance.
4.3.2 Performance standards
Performance standards contain a series of tests and measurements (which may or may not be
grouped into a specified schedule depending on the requirements of that standard) with
clearly defined conditions, severities, and pass/fail criteria. The tests are intended to be run
on a “one-off” basis to prove the ability of a given product to satisfy the “performance
standards” requirement. Each performance standard has a different set of tests and/or
severities (and/or groupings) that represents the requirements of a market sector, user group
or system location.
A product that has been shown to meet all the requirements of a performance standard can
be declared as complying with a performance standard but should then be controlled by a
quality assurance/ quality conformance programme.
A key point of the test and measurements standards is their application (particularly with
regard to insertion loss and return loss) in conjunction with the interface standards of inter-
product compatibility. Certain conformance on each individual product to this standard will be
ensured.
4.3.3 Reliability standards
Reliability standards are intended to ensure that a component can meet performance
specifications under stated conditions for a stated time period.
For each type of component, the following shall be identified (and appear in the standard):

62077 Ó IEC:2010 – 17 –
· failure modes (observable general mechanical or optical effects of failure);
· failure mechanisms (general causes of failure, common to several components);
· failure effects (detailed causes of failure, specific to component).
These are all related to environmental and material aspects.
Initially, just after component manufacture, there is an “infant mortality phase” during which
many components would fail if they were deployed in the field. To avoid early field failure, all
components may be subjected to screen process in the factory, involving environmental
stresses that may be mechanical, thermal and humidity-related. This is to induce known
failure mechanisms in a controlled environmental situation to occur earlier than would
normally be seen in the unscreened population. For those components that survive (and are
then sold), there is a reduced failure rate since these mechanisms have been eliminated.
Screening is an optional part of the manufacturing process, rather than a test method. It will
not affect the “useful life” of a component, defined as the period during which it performs
according to specifications.
Eventually other failure mechanisms appear, and the failure rate increases beyond some
defined threshold. At this point, the useful life ends and the “wear-out region” begins, and the
component must be replaced.
At the beginning of useful life, performance testing on a sampled population of components
may be applied by the supplier, by the manufacturer, or by a third party. This is to ensure that
the component meets performance specifications over the range of intended environments at
this initial time. Reliability testing, on the other hand, is applied to ensure that the component
meets performance specifications for at least a specified minimum useful lifetime or specified
maximum failure rate. These tests are usually done by utilising the performance testing, but
increasing duration and severity to accelerate the failure mechanisms.
A reliability theory relates component reliability testing to component parameters and to
lifetime or failure rate under testing. The theory then extrapolates these to lifetime or failure
rate under less stressful service conditions. The reliability specifications include values of the
component parameters needed to ensure the specified minimum lifetime or maximum failure
rate in service.
4.3.4 Interlinking
Standards currently under preparation are given in Figure 1. A large number of the test and
measurement standards exist already and the quality assurance qualification approval
standards, recognized by the term IECQ, exist already and have done so for many years. As
previously mentioned, other alternative methods of quality assurance/quality conformance are
being developed under the banners of capability approval and technology approval, covered
by IECQ 01, IECQ 001002-3, and IEC Guide 102.
With regard to interface, performance and reliability standards, once these three standards
are all in place, the matrix given in Table 3 demonstrates some of the other options available
for product standardization.
Product A is fully IEC standardized, having a standard interface and meeting defined
performance standards and reliability standards.
Product B is a product with a proprietary interface but which meets a defined IEC
performance standard and reliability standard.
Product C is a product which complies with an IEC standard interface but does not meet the
requirements of either an IEC performance standard or reliability standard.

– 18 – 62077 Ó IEC:2010
Product D is a product which complies with both an IEC standard interface and performance
standard but does not meet any reliability requirements.
Obviously the matrix is more complex than shown since there will be a number of interface,
performance and reliability standards which may cross-refer. In addition, the products may all
be subject to a quality assurance programme that could be under IEC qualification approval,
capability approval, technology approval or even a national or company quality assurance
system.
Test and
Interface Performance Reliability Quality
measurement
IEC 61300-XX IEC 61754-XX IEC 61753-XX IEC 62005-SS QC 001002-3
(IEC 60068-ZZ)
IEC specification
structure:
-------------------
Generic
specification
Sectional
specification
Relevant
specification
Detail
specification
IEC  143/10
Figure 1 – Standard system
Table 3 – Interlink matrix for standards
Product type Interface Performance Reliability
standard standard standard
Product A YES YES YES
Product B NO YES YES
Product C YES NO NO
Product D YES YES NO
4.4 Design and construction
4.4.1 Materials
4.4.1.1 Corrosion resistance
All materials used in the construction of circulator sets shall be corrosion resistant or suitably
finished to meet the requirements of the relevant specification.
4.4.1.2 Non-flammable materials
When non-flammable materials are required, the requirement shall be specified in the
specification and IEC 60695-11-5 shall be referenced.
4.4.2 Workmanship
Components and associated hardware shall be manufactured to a uniform quality and shall
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