CLC/TC 86A - Optical fibres and optical fibre cables

IEC 60794-2-10:2023 is available as IEC 60794-2-10:2023 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-2-10:2023 covers simplex and duplex optical fibre cables for indoor use. The requirements of IEC 60794-2 are applicable to cables covered by this document. For cables intended for installation in industrial applications specified in ISO/IEC 11801-1, MICE specifications can be additionally required (see Clause B.2). This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2011. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - updating of normative references; - updating of all relevant A1 and B1 fibre category and sub-category designations.

IEC 60794-1-308: 2023 describes test procedures to evaluates the degree of permanent twist in an uncabled ribbon or in a cabled optical fibre ribbon. This document applies to optical fibre ribbons in optical cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and to optical fibre ribbons in cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. This document is not applicable to partially-bonded ribbons. The method for partially-bonded ribbons is under consideration. Throughout the document, the wording "optical cable" can also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc. NOTE The environmental testing of optical fibre ribbon would be valuable for some applications. Useful information about suitable test methods can be found in the optical fibre standards IEC 60793-1-50, IEC 60793‑1‑51, IEC 60793‑1‑52, and IEC 60793-1-53.

IEC 60794-2-50: 2020 specifies requirements for simplex and duplex optical fibre cables for use in terminated cable assemblies or for termination with optical fibre passive components. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:  update of the normative references; review and update of parameters and requirements for mechanical tests and environmental tests; Annex B has been removed and test method for sheath pull-off force evaluation refers to IEC 60794-1-21, method E21; Annex C has been removed and test method for sheath shrinkage evaluation refers to IEC 60794-1-22, method F11; Annex D has been removed and test method for buffered fibre movement under compression refers to IEC 60794-1-21, method E22; Annex E has been removed and test method for temperature cycling evaluation refers to IEC 60794-1-22, method F12; fibre type designations have been updated and the new wideband MM fibre is included as an option.  Keywords: requirements for simplex and duplex optical fibre cables

IEC 60794-1-305:2023 describes test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for optical fibre ribbons as optical fibre cable elements for the mechanical property-tear (separability). This document applies to optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and to cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. NOTE Throughout the document, the wording "optical cable" can also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc. This test is applicable for edge-bonded ribbons and encapsulated ribbons specified in IEC 60794-1-31, and not intended to be used for partially-bonded ribbons.

IEC 60793-2:2019 is available as IEC 60793-2:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60793-2:2019 contains the general specifications for both multimode and single-mode optical fibres. Sectional specifications for each of the four categories of multimode fibres: A1, A2, A3, and A4 (part of the multimode fibre class A) contain requirements specific to each category. Sectional specifications for each of the three single-mode fibre classes, B, C and D contain requirements common to each class. Each sectional specification includes family specifications (in normative annexes) that contain requirements for the applicable category or sub-categories. These sub-categories are distinguished on the basis of different fibre types or applications. The requirements of this document apply to all classes. Each sectional specification contains the requirements that are common to all the family specifications that are within it. These common requirements are copied to the family specification for ease of reference. Tests or measurement methods are defined for each specified attribute. Where possible, these definitions are by reference to an IEC International Standard (see IEC 60793-1 series) – otherwise the test or measurement method is outlined in the relevant sectional specification. This ninth edition cancels and replaces the eighth edition published in 2015. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - introduction of the revised fibre designations for most A1 sub-category fibres and all class B single-mode fibres; - addition of the new fibre model (A1-OM5) defined for A1 category; - addition of class D polarization maintaining fibres. Keywords: specifications for both multimode and single-mode optical fibres

IEC 60794-1-23:2019 is available as IEC 60794-1-23:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60794-1-23:2019 describes test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for the geometrical, material, mechanical, environmental properties of optical fibre cable elements. This document applies to optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and to cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. Throughout the document, the wording "optical cable" can also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc. See IEC 60794-1-2 for a reference guide to test methods of all types and for general requirements and definitions. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2012. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - addition of a new test Method G9: Bleeding and evaporation (formerly known as Method E15 in IEC 60794-1-21:2015); - addition of a new test Method G10A: Stripping force stability of cabled optical fibres (formerly known as Method E5A in IEC 60794-1-21:2015); - addition of a new test Method G10B: Strippability of optical fibre ribbons (formerly known as Method E5B in IEC 60794-1-21:2015); - addition of a new test Method G10C: Strippability of buffered optical fibres (formerly known as Method E5C in IEC 60794-1-21:2015); - addition of a new test Method G11: Tensile strength and elongation of buffer tubes (included in IEC 60811-501); - addition of a new test Method G12: Elongation of buffer tubes at low temperature (included in IEC 60811-505); - clarification of the sample preparation procedure in Method G5: Ribbon tear (separability); Keywords: optical fibre cable, optical cable test procedures

IEC 60793-1-1:2022 is available as IEC 60793-1-1:2022 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60793-1-1:2022 lists and gives guidance on the use of documents giving uniform requirements for measuring and testing optical fibres, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial (mostly telecommunications) purposes. The individual measurement and test methods are contained in the different parts of the IEC 60793 series. They are identified as IEC 60793-1-X, where "X" is an assigned sub-part number, indicating its affiliation to the IEC 60793-1 series. In general, measurements and tests methods apply to all class A multimode fibres and class B and class C single-mode optical fibres covered by the IEC 60793-2 series relating to product specifications, although there can be exceptions. Clause 1 of each part of the IEC 60793 series contains the scope for each particular attribute. This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2017. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - changes in normative references; - renamed Clause 10 and added documentation-related requirements in a new subclause 10.2.

IEC 60793-2-10:2017 is applicable to optical fibre sub-categories A1a, A1b, and A1d. These fibres are used or can be incorporated in information transmission equipment and optical fibre cables. Sub-category A1a applies to 50/125 mm graded index fibre. Four bandwidth grades are defined as models A1a.1, A1a.2, A1a.3 and A1a.4. Each of these bandwidth grades is defined for two levels of macrobend loss performance that are distinguished by "a" or "b" suffix. Those models with suffix "a" are specified to meet traditional macrobend loss performance levels. Those models with suffix "b" are specified to meet enhanced macrobend loss (i.e. lower loss) performance levels. Model A1a.4 supports single wavelength or multi-wavelength transmission systems in the vicinity of 850 nm to 950 nm. Sub-category A1b applies to 62,5/125 mm graded index fibre and sub-category A1d applies to 100/140 mm graded index fibre. Other applications include, but are not restricted to, the following: - short reach, high bit-rate systems in telephony, distribution and local networks carrying data, voice and/or video services; - on-premises intra-building and inter-building fibre installations including data centres, local area networks (LANs), storage area networks (SANs), private branch exchanges (PBXs), video, various multiplexing uses, outside telephone cable plant use, and miscellaneous related uses. Three types of requirements apply to these fibres: - general requirements, as defined in IEC 60793-2; - specific requirements common to the category A1 multimode fibres covered in this document and which are given in Clause 5; - particular requirements applicable to individual fibre sub-categories and models, or specific applications, which are defined in the normative specification annexes. This sixth edition cancels and replaces the fifth edition published in 2015. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: addition of model A1a.4 fibre which supports single wavelength or multi-wavelength transmission systems in the vicinity of 850 nm to 950 nm. Keywords: optical fibre sub-categories A1a, A1b, and A1d

This part of IEC 60794 describes test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements of optical fibre cable elements for the mechanical property- strippability. This document applies to optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and to cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. Throughout the document, the wording "optical cable" can also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc.

This part of IEC 60794 is a family specification that covers sewer cables and conduits for installation by blowing and/ or pulling in man accessible and non-man accessible storm and sanitary sewers. Systems built with components covered by this standard are subject to the requirements of sectional specification IEC 60794-3. Sewer cable and conduit constructions have to meet the different requirements of the sewer operating companies and/or associations regarding chemical, environmental, operational, cleaning and in general maintenance conditions. Preferential applications, describing sewer cable characteristics versus methods of installation is reported in Annex A and Annex B for non-man accessible sewers. Clause 5 describes characteristics of sewer cables and conduits for installation by blowing, pulling or other means in storm and sanitary sewers. Detail specifications may be prepared on the basis of this family specification. The parameters specified in this standard may be affected by measurement uncertainty arising either from measurement errors or calibration errors due to lack of suitable standards. Acceptance criteria should be interpreted with respect to this consideration. The number of fibres tested is representative of the sewer cable and should be agreed between the customer and the supplier.

IEC 60794-2-21:2019 is available as IEC 60794-2-21:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-2-21:2019 presents the detailed requirements specific to this type of cable to ensure compatibility with the series of International Standards ISO/IEC 11801, Information technology – Generic cabling for customer premises (Parts 1 to 6). The requirements of family specification IEC 60794-2-20 are applicable to cables covered by this document. Particular requirements detailed in Clause 4 define either a specific option in relation to the requirements of IEC 60794-2-20 or additional requirements. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2012. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) incorporation of the OM5 cabled fibre performance category; b) incorporation of the OS1a cabled fibre performance category; c) cabled fibre performance categories OM1, OM2 and OS1 are no longer normative, and are retained for information. Keywords: multi-fibre distribution cables

IEC 60794-2-31:2019 is available as IEC 60794-2-31:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-2-31:2019 presents the detailed requirements specific to this type of cable to ensure compatibility with the series of International Standards ISO/IEC 11801, Information technology – Generic cabling for customer premises (Parts 1 to 6). The requirements of family specification IEC 60794-2-30 are applicable to cables covered by this document. The particular requirements detailed in Clause 4 define either a specific option in relation to the requirements of IEC 60794-2-30 or additional requirements. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2012. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) incorporation of the OM5 cabled fibre performance category; b) incorporation of the OS1a cabled fibre performance category; c) cabled fibre performance categories OM1, OM2 and OS1 are no longer normative, and are retained for information. Keywords: optical fibre ribbon cables

IEC 60794-2-11:2019 is available as IEC 60794-2-11:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60794-2-11:2019 presents the detailed requirements specific to this type of cable to ensure compatibility with the series of International Standards ISO/IEC 11801, Information technology – Generic cabling for customer premises (Parts 1 to 6). The requirements of family specification IEC 60794-2-10 are applicable to cables covered by this document. Particular requirements detailed in Clause 4 define either a specific option in relation to the requirements of IEC 60794-2-10 or additional requirements. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2012. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) incorporation of the OM5 cabled fibre performance category; b) incorporation of the OS1a cabled fibre performance category; c) cabled fibre performance categories OM1, OM2 and OS1 are no longer normative, and are retained for information. Keywords: simplex and duplex cables

This part of IEC 60793 establishes uniform requirements for measuring the attenuation of optical fibre, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial purposes. Four methods are described for measuring attenuation, one being that for modelling spectral attenuation: - method A: cut-back; - method B: insertion loss; - method C: backscattering; - method D: modelling spectral attenuation. Methods A to C apply to the measurement of attenuation for all categories of the following fibres: - class A multimode fibres; - class B single-mode fibres. Method C, backscattering, also covers the location, losses and characterization of point discontinuities. Method D is applicable only to class B fibres. Information common to all four methods appears in Clauses 1 to 11, and information pertaining to each individual method appears in Annexes A, B, C, and D, respectively.

IEC 60794-2-30:2019 is available as IEC 60794-2-30:2019 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60794-2-30:2019 is a family specification which covers indoor optical fibre ribbon cables for use in terminated cable assemblies. The requirements of the sectional specification IEC 60794-2 are applicable to cables covered by this document. The requirements of this document are written to define flat ribbon cables. This document can be applicable to other cable constructions. Parts of IEC 60794-3 which are applicable for ribbon tests are the subject of IEC 60794-1-31. Annex B contains requirements that supersede the normal requirements in case the cables are intended to be used in installation governed by the MICE table of ISO 11801-3.This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) removal of Annex C; b) reference to the most recent fibre standards; c) reference to IEC 60794-1-21, IEC 60794-1-22, IEC 60794-1-23 and IEC 60794-1-24. This standard is to be used in conjunction with IEC 60794-1-1, IEC 60794-1-2 and IEC 60794-2. Keywords: indoor optical fibre ribbon cables, flat ribbon cables

This part of IEC 60794 defines a test standard to determine the ability of an optical fibre cable to withstand the effects of a controlled salt atmosphere. This document applies to optical ground wire (OPGW) and optical phase conductor (OPPC). An optical ground wire and optical phase conductor are made of multiple metallic wires that are exposed to the environment without any insulating or protective sheath and contain optical fibres.

IEC 60794-3:2022 is available as IEC 60794-3:2022 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-3: 2022 specifies the requirements for optical fibre cables and cable elements which are intended to be used externally in communications networks. Other types of applications requiring similar types of cables can be considered. Requirements for cables to be used in ducts, for directly buried applications, aerial cables and cables for lake and river crossings are included in this document. Also included are cables for specialized use in sewers and in water and gas pipes. For aerial application, this document does not cover all functional aspects of cables installed in the vicinity of overhead power lines. For such applications, additional requirements and test methods can be necessary. Moreover, this document excludes optical ground wires and cables attached to the phase or earth conductors of overhead power lines. For cables for lake and river crossings, this document does not cover methods of cable repair, nor repair capability, nor does it cover cables for use with underwater line amplifiers. This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical change with respect to the previous edition: the ribbon specification has been removed, because it is covered in IEC 60794-1-31.

This part of IEC 60794 applies to optical phase conductor (OPPC). An optical phase conductor is made of multiple metallic wires that are exposed to the environment without any insulating or protective sheath and contain optical fibres. This part defines a test standard to determine the optical performance and temperature characteristics of a hybrid cable under the maximum current.

This part of IEC 60793 provides values of the tensile strength under dynamic loading of optical fibre samples. The method tests individual lengths of uncabled and unbundled glass optical fibre. Sections of fibre are broken with controlled increasing stress or strain that is uniform over the entire fibre length and cross section. The stress or strain is increased at a nominally constant rate until breakage occurs. The distribution of the tensile strength values of a given fibre strongly depends on the sample length, loading velocity and environmental conditions. The test can be used for inspection where statistical data on fibre strength is required. Results are reported by means of statistical quality control distribution. Normally, the test is carried out after temperature and humidity conditioning of the sample. However, in some cases, it can be sufficient to measure the values at ambient temperature and humidity conditions. This method is applicable to categories A1, A2, and A3, and classes B and C optical fibres. The object of this document is to establish uniform requirements for the mechanical characteristic: tensile strength.

This blank detail specification describes parameters that can be considered for simplex and duplex optical fibre cables for use in terminated cable assemblies or for termination with optical fibre passive components.

This part of IEC 60793 is applicable to optical fibre categories B-652, B-653, B-654, B-655, B-656 and B-657. A map illustrating the connection of IEC designations to ITU-T designations is shown in Table 1. These fibres are used or can be incorporated in information transmission equipment and optical fibre cables. Three types of requirements apply to these fibres: - general requirements, as defined in IEC 60793-2; - specific requirements common to the class B single-mode fibres covered in this document and which are given in Clause 5; - particular requirements applicable to individual fibre categories or specific applications, which are defined in Annexes A to F. For some fibre categories (shown in the relevant family specifications), there are subcategories that are distinguished on the basis of difference in transmission attribute specifications. The designations for these sub-categories are documented in the individual family specifications. Table 1 shows a map from the IEC designations to the ITU-T recommendations. The table also provides the normative annex in this document that contains the detailed specification as well as the name used to describe this fibre type in IEC 60793-2-50:2015. The ITU-T recommendations as well as the IEC categories/sub-categories within each recommendation are given. In some cases, as for Recommendation G.652, a given IEC designation maps to multiple categories in the ITU-T because the ITU-T categories are distinguished by cabled fibre attribute (PMDQ) performance which are not distinguished in the IEC fibre specifications.

This part of IEC 60794 applies to optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, as well as hybrid telecommunication cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. The object of this standard is to define test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for the material compatibility performance of cables, cable components, and cable subassemblies. Compatibility of materials within a cable has the potential to involve a range of material pairs. However, experience has shown that the most pertinent evaluations are of the cable filling and flooding materials interactions with other materials in the cable. Throughout the standard the wording “optical cable” may also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc. See IEC 60794-1-2 for general requirements and definitions and reference guide to test methods of all types.

This part of IEC 60793 is intended primarily for testing either fibres as produced by a fibre manufacturer or subsequently overcoated (tight buffered) using various polymers. The test can be performed either on fibres as produced, or after exposure to various environments. This test applies to A1, A2, A3, B and C fibres with a nominal glass dimension of 125 µm. The object of this document is to establish uniform requirements for the mechanical characteristic - coating strippability. This test quantifies the force required to mechanically remove the protective coating from optical fibres along their longitudinal axis. This test is not intended as a means to maximize fibre strength after the coating is removed nor is it intended to specify the best conditions for field stripping of optical fibres. This test is designed for optical fibres having polymeric coatings with nominal outer diameters in the range of 200 µm to 900 µm.

NEW!IEC 60794-4-20:2018 is available as IEC 60794-4-20:2018 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-4-20:2018 covers optical telecommunication cables, commonly with single-mode fibres used primarily in overhead power lines applications. The cables can also be used in other overhead utility networks, such as for telephony or TV services. Requirements of the sectional specification IEC 60794-4 for aerial optical cables along electrical power lines are applicable to cables covered by this document. This document covers the construction, mechanical, electrical, and optical performance, installation guidelines, acceptance criteria, test requirements, environmental considerations, and accessories compatibility for an all dielectric, self-supporting fibre optic (ADSS) cable. This document provides construction and performance requirements that ensure, within the guidelines of this document, that the required mechanical integrity of the cable components as well as optical fibre mechanical reliability and transmission parameters are maintained. The ADSS cable consists of single mode optical fibres contained in one or more protective dielectric fibre optic units surrounded by or attached to suitable dielectric strength members and sheaths. The cable does not contain metallic components. An ADSS cable is designed to meet the optical and mechanical requirements under different installation, operating and environmental conditions and loadings, as described in Annex B. This document excludes any "lashed" or "wrapped" OPAC cables included in IEC 60794-4. Figure 8 aerial cables are also excluded; they are specified in IEC 60794-3-20. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2012 and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - this document has been streamlined by cross-referencing IEC 60794-1-1, - IEC 60794-4 (all parts) and IEC 60794-1-2; - reference to the MICE table has been deleted; - the example of test method for particular environment in Annex C has been deleted; - creep test method has been updated in Annex E. Keywords: optical telecommunication cables, single-mode fibres used primarily in overhead power lines

The purpose of this report is to be a guideline for those considering to install a high bandwidth (high bit-rate) FttX-network. After studying the report, operators, communities, energy companies, installers and others will understand the necessary steps to take to plan and install networks with high quality and cost effectiveness, and to secure a uniform structure and a high quality level on such networks.

IEC 60793-49:2018 applies only to multimode, graded-index glass-core (category A1) fibres. The test method is commonly used in production and research facilities, but is not easily accomplished in the field. This document describes a method for characterizing the modal structure of a graded-index multimode fibre. This information is useful for assessing the bandwidth performance of a fibre especially when the fibre is intended to support a range of launch conditions, for example, those produced by standardized laser transmitters. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: a) better alignment with original intent by filling some omissions and therefore improving measurement rigor; b) the measurement of fibres with smaller differential mode delay (and higher modal bandwidth) such as type A1a.3 fibres of IEC 60793-2-10 that are used in constructing OM4 performance category cables; new requirements on specifying detector amplitude and temporal response, specimen deployment conditions, four-quadrant scanning, and uniformity of radial locations for calculating bandwidth. Keywords: modal structure of a graded-index multimode fibre, bandwidth performance

This test is intended to evaluate the impact of a lightning strike on an OPGW, OPPC or OPAC.

The short-circuit test is intended to assess the performance of the OPGW (optical ground wire) or OPPC (optical phase conductor) under typical short-circuit, or the impact on the performance of OPAC (optical attached cable) under short-circuit current on the messenger wire.

This part of IEC 60794, which is a generic specification, covers optical fibre ribbons. Requirements which are described in this part apply to optical fibre ribbon cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, in particular optical fibre cables in IEC 60794-2 for indoor use, in IEC 60794-3 for outdoor use, IEC 60794-4 for self-supporting overhead use, IEC60794-5 for air blown use and IEC60794-6 for indoor/outdoor use. Detailed specification can be verified in documents of specification for each application such as IEC 60794-2 and IEC 60794-3.

Specifies the electrical, mechanical and optical requirements and test methods for aerial optical cables including OPGW (optical ground wire), OPPC (optical phase conductor), MASS (metalic aerial self-supported cable), ADSS (all-dielectric self-supporting cable) and OPAC (optical attached cable).

IEC 60794-1-31:2018(E) which is a generic specification, covers optical fibre ribbons. Requirements which are described in this part apply to optical fibre ribbon cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, in particular optical fibre cables in IEC 60794-2 for indoor use and in IEC 60794-3 for outdoor use. Detailed specifications for each application are given in IEC 60794-2 and IEC 60794-3. Keywords: optical fibre ribbons

IEC 60794-1-403:2021 specifies a method of verifying that cable metallic elements are electrically continuous throughout the cable. Electrical continuity is important for bonding and grounding, toning for location, and other related system issues, and may represent a "goodness of manufacture" criterion. Typically, the test is one of continuity and carries no resistance or conductivity requirement. The metallic elements can be tested individually or can be tested as a total group. Since this latter criterion is frequently the case, all elements are measured as a group unless specified otherwise. NOTE It is possible detail specifications allow such elements as strength members to be non-continuous throughout the cable. This is a special case, and attention is directed to the detail specification.

This part of IEC 60794, which is a family specification, specifies the optical fibre, cable elements, cable construction requirements, main requirements for installation and operating conditions, cable design characteristics and test for OPPC (optical phase conductor), used for carrying current as well as communication and data transmission. The corresponding environmental declaration can be built according to IEC TR 62839-1. The OPPC is a substitute for a conventional phase bare conductor containing optical fibres. Usually, the fibres are embedded loosely in protective buffer tubes. To fulfil mechanical and electrical requirements, an armouring of one or more layers with aluminium, aluminium alloy, and aluminium clad steel, galvanized steel or a mixture of them is helically stranded.

IEC 60794-3-70:2021 is available as IEC 60794-3-70:2021 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-3-70:2021 covers outdoor optical fibre cables intended for rugged terrestrial rapid/multiple deployment. These cables, with enhanced mechanical, environmental and ingress performance can be used wherever a rapid or multiple deployment is relevant (e.g. mobile broadcast units, emergency rescue services, tactical ground-forces, outdoor motion-robotics, mining machinery, temporary repair cables for damaged links, etc.). This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2016. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - incorporation of the new classification system for optical fibre categories, sub-categories in IEC 60793-2-10; - incorporation of the new classification system for optical fibre categories, sub-categories and models in IEC 60793-2-50; - updating of cabled fibre performance categories in alignment with ISO/IEC 11801-1; - updating of bibliographical references.

IEC 60793-2-40:2021 is available as IEC 60793-2-40:2021 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60793-2-40:2021 is applicable to category A4 optical multimode fibres and the related subcategories A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e, A4g, A4h and A4i. 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 other applications employing similar light transmitting techniques, and in fibre optic cables. Table 1 summarizes some of the salient characteristics and applications of these fibres. This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2015. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - revision of NA range of A4a.2; - addition of a new subcategory A4i; - deletion of the subcategory A4f and of Annex F.

This part of IEC 60794 defines test procedures to measure the shrinkage of the sheath due to thermal exposure of cables. A first test method, F11A, is included for cables where the fibre or buffered fibre and the sheath of the cable are intended to be fully terminated into a connector at one or both cable ends. A second test method, F11B, is included in this document for sheath shrinkage testing for general purpose. See IEC 60794-1-2 for a reference guide to test methods of all types and for general requirements.

IEC 60793-1-34:2021 is available as IEC 60793-1-34:2021 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60793-1-34:2021 establishes uniform requirements for the mechanical characteristic: fibre curl or latent curvature in uncoated optical fibres, i.e. a specified length of the fibre has been stripped from coating. Fibre curl has been identified as an important parameter for minimizing the splice loss of optical fibres when using passive alignment fusion splicers or active alignment mass fusion splicers.Two methods are recognized for the measurement of fibre curl, in uncoated optical fibres: - method A: side view microscopy; - method B: laser beam scattering. Both methods measure the radius of curvature of an uncoated fibre by determining the amount of deflection that occurs as an unsupported fibre end is rotated about the fibre's axis. Method A uses visual or digital video methods to determine the deflection of the fibre while method B uses a line sensor to measure the maximum deflection of one laser beam relative to a reference laser beam. By measuring the deflection behaviour of the fibre as it is rotated about its axis and understanding the geometry of the measuring device, the fibre's radius of curvature can be calculated from simple circular models, the derivation of which are given in Annex C. Both methods are applicable to type B optical fibres as described in IEC 60793 (all parts). Method A is the reference test method, used to resolve disputes. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - modification of several derivation equations for laser scattering; - change of angular increment from 10° to 30° to 10° to 45°; - change of Annex B from informative to normative.

IEC 60794-3-12:2021 is available as IEC 60794-3-12:2021 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-3-12:2021 is a detailed specification for duct and directly buried optical telecommunication cables for use in premises cabling to ensure compatibility with ISO/IEC 11801-1. This document's requirements ensure that the ISO/IEC 11801-1 models work for generic cabling and system performances. Values in this document support these models. The requirements of the family specification IEC 60794-3-10 are applicable to cables covered by this document. Particular requirements detailed in Clause 5 either define a specific option relative to the requirements of IEC 60794-3-10 or define additional requirements. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2012. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - addition of references to ISO/IEC 11801-1; - removal of references to ISO/IEC 24702; - incorporation of the OM5 cabled fibre performance category; - incorporation of the OS1a cabled fibre performance category; - cabled fibre performance categories OM1, OM2 and OS1 are no longer normative, and are retained for information.

IEC 60794-1-2:2021 is available as IEC 60794-1-2:2021 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-1-2:2021 applies to optical fibre cables for use with telecommunications equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and to cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. An objective of this document is to define general requirements and methodology guidance applicable to all of the cable test methods of IEC 60794-1 (all parts). A second objective of this document is to provide the end user with an overview of the different test methods contained in the different parts of the IEC 60794-1 series. This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2017. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical change with respect to the previous edition: - addition of cross-reference tables listing the new test method numbers and the previous test method numbers.

NEW!IEC 60793-1-54:2018 is available as IEC 60793-1-54:2018 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60793-1-54:2018 outlines a method for measuring the steady state response of optical fibres and optical cables exposed to gamma radiation. It can be employed to determine the level of radiation-induced attenuation produced in Class B single-mode or Class A, category A1 and A2 multimode optical fibres, in either cabled or uncabled form, due to exposure to gamma radiation. The attenuation of cabled and uncabled optical fibres generally increases when exposed to gamma radiation. This is primarily due to the trapping of radiolytic electrons and holes at defect sites in the glass (i.e. the formation of "colour centres"). This test procedure focuses on two regimes of interest: the low dose rate regime suitable for estimating the effect of environmental background radiation, and the high dose rate regime suitable for estimating the effect of adverse nuclear environments. The testing of the effects of environmental background radiation is achieved with an attenuation measurement approach similar to IEC 60793-1-40 method A, cut-back. The effects of adverse nuclear environments are tested by monitoring the power before, during and after exposure of the test sample to gamma radiation. The depopulation of colour centres by light (photo bleaching) or by heat causes recovery (lessening of radiation induced attenuation). Recovery can occur over a wide range of time which depends on the irradiation time and annealing temperature. This complicates the characterization of radiation induced attenuation since the attenuation depends on many variables including the temperature of the test environment, the configuration of the sample, the total dose and the dose rate applied to the sample and the light level used to measure it. This test is not a material test for the non-optical material components of a fibre optic cable. If degradation of cable materials exposed to irradiation is studied, other test methods will be used. This test method is written to contain a clear, concise listing of instructions. The background knowledge that is necessary to perform correct, relevant and expressive irradiation tests as well as to limit measurement uncertainty is presented separately in IEC TR 62283. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2012. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - test conditions related to photobleaching have been changed; - the test length has been modified to yield a total induced attenuation in the test sample at the end of the irradiation between 3 dB and 10 dB.

NEW!IEC 60793-1-45:2017 is available as IEC 60793-1-45:2017 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60793-1-45:2017 establishes uniform requirements for measuring the mode field diameter (MFD) of single-mode optical fibre, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial purposes. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - improvement of the description of measurement details for B6 fibre; - correction of Equations (1), (2), (5) and (6); - correction of Table E.1, Table E.2 and Table E.3. Keywords: mode field diameter (MFD)

NEW!IEC 60793-1-47:2017 is available as IEC 60793-1-47:2017 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60793-1-47:2017 establishes uniform requirements for measuring the macrobending loss of single-mode fibres (class B) at 1 550 nm or 1 625 nm, category A1 multimode fibres at 850 nm or 1 300 nm, and category A3 and A4 multimode fibres at 650 nm, 850 nm or 1 300 nm, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial purposes. This document gives two methods for measuring macrobending sensitivity: - Method A – Fibre winding, pertains to class B single-mode fibres and category A1 multimode fibres. - Method B – Quarter circle bends, pertains to category A3 and A4 multimode fibres. For both of these methods, the macrobending loss can be measured utilizing general fibre attenuation techniques, for example the power monitoring technique (see Annex A) or the cut‑back technique (see Annex B). Methods A and B are expected to produce different results if they are applied to the same fibre. This is because the key difference between the two methods is the deployment, including the bend radius and length of fibre that is bent. The reason for the difference is that A3 and A4 multimode fibres are expected to be deployed in short lengths with a smaller number of bends per unit fiber length compared to single-mode and category A1 multimode fibres. In this document, the "curvature radius" is defined as the radius of the suitable circular shaped support (e.g. mandrel or guiding groove on a flat surface) on which the fibre can be bent. In addition, informative Annex E has been added to approximate bend loss for class B single-mode fibres across a broad wavelength range at various effective bends. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2009. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - former Annex A has been renumbered to Annex D; - introduction of new Annex A on the transmitted power monitoring technique; - introduction of Annex B on the cut-back technique; - introduction of Annex C on the requirements for the optical source characteristics of A1 multimode measurement; - introduction of Annex E on parallel plate (2-point) macrobend loss approximation. Keywords: macrobending loss of single-mode fibers