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

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 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 60793-2-10:2017 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

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

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 60794-2-21:2019 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 60794-2-30:2019 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 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.

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 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.

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

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

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

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 60793-1-47:2017 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

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 60794-1-22:2017 is available as IEC 60794-1-22:2017 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.IEC 60794-1-22:2017 defines test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for the environmental performance of: - optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques, and - cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. Throughout this 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 second edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - new test method designation F16 – Compound flow (drip) [E14 in IEC 60794-1-21]; - new test method F17 – Cable shrinkage test (fibre protrusion); - new test method F18 – Mid-span temperature cycling test. Keywords: optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment

Applies to three methods of measuring polarization mode dispersion (PMD). Establishes uniform requirements for measuring the PMD of single-mode optical fibre, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial purposes. In this edition, reference to IEC 61282-9 has resulted in the removal of Annexes E, F, G and H as well as the creation of a new Annex E.

IEC 60793-1-33:2017 contains descriptions of the five main test methods for the determination of stress corrosion susceptibility parameters. The object of this document is to establish uniform requirements for the mechanical characteristic of stress corrosion susceptibility for silica-based fibres. Dynamic fatigue and static fatigue tests are used to determine the (dynamic) nd value and (static) ns value of stress corrosion susceptibility parameters. Currently, only the nd-value is assessed against specification. Measured values greater than 18 per this procedure reflect the nd-value of silica, which is approximately 20. Higher values will not translate to demonstrable enhanced fatigue resistance. Silica fibre mechanical tests determine the fracture stress and fatigue properties under conditions that model the practical applications as closely as possible. The following test methods are used for determining stress corrosion susceptibility: A: Dynamic nd value by axial tension; B: Dynamic nd value by two-point bending; C: Static ns value by axial tension; D: Static ns value by two-point bending; E: Static ns value by uniform bending. These methods are appropriate for category A1, A2 and A3 multimode, class B single-mode fibres and class C intraconnecting single-mode fibres. These tests provide values of the stress corrosion parameter, n, that can be used for reliability calculations according to IEC TR 62048. Information common to all methods is contained in Clauses 1 to 10, and information pertaining to each individual test method appears in Annexes A, B, C, D, and E. Annexes F and G offer considerations for dynamic and static stress corrosion susceptibility parameter calculations, respectively; Annex H offers considerations on the different stress corrosion susceptibility parameter test methods. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: removal of RTM; changes to scope. Keywords: stress corrosion, silica fibre mechanical tests

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

IEC 60794-2:2017 is a sectional specification. It gives the requirements that apply to optical fibre cables for indoor use in communications networks. Other types of applications requiring similar types of cables can be considered. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2002. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the specification has been streamlined by cross-referencing with IEC 60794-1-1 and IEC TR 61931; - the document structure has been aligned with IEC 60794-3, and Clause 4 on optical fibres was added; - transmission requirements in Clause 4 were added; - the electrical conductors and the lay-up of the cable elements were introduced into Article 5 on cable elements and construction; - 5.13 on identification was separated in fibre, unit and sheath colour coding; - the colour coding proposals were extended to accommodate latest fibre categories; - Article 6 on installation and operating condition was added; - cable element tests and cable tests have been simplified by the use of tables instead of text; - a bibliography has been added. Keywords: optical fibre cables for indoor use in communications networks

IEC 60794-1-3:2017(E) is a generic specification covering optical cable elements. Requirements which are described in this document apply to elements of optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques. The elements which are the subject of this document are those which apply to several cable types of IEC 60794 (all parts) and as defined by sectional specifications IEC 60794-2, IEC 60794-3, IEC 60794‑4, and IEC 60794-5. The requirements for cable elements are described in the IEC 60794-1-3X series for which the IEC 60794-1-31 is the first one, and family specifications and detailed specifications of the aforementioned sectional specifications can define specific cables families and types. Keywords: optical fibre cables, telecommunication equipment

IEC 60793-1-60: 2017 defines test methods for both the phase beat length, and the group beat length. These two parameters are defined differently, and will give different results depending on the type of polarization-maintaining (PM) fibre. The phase beat length is the relevant parameter for the fibres ability to maintain a high extinction ratio. This is described in more details in Annexes A and B.
Keywords: phase beat length, high extinction

This part of IEC 60793 is applicable to optical fibre types D1, D2, D3, as described in Table 1. These fibres are polarization-maintaining fibre types, and are used or can be incorporated in information transmission equipment and optical fibre cable. These fibres are available for use in optical transport networks. Three types of requirements apply to these fibres: - general requirements defined in IEC 60793-2; - specific requirements common to the category D polarization-maintaining fibres covered in this document and which are given in Clause 4; - particular requirements applicable to individual fibre types or specific applications, which are defined in Annexes A to C. Table 1– Categories of glass core/glass clad polarization-maintaining fibres ...

IEC 60793-1-61: 2017 establishes uniform requirements for measuring the polarization crosstalk of polarization-maintaining (PM) fibres. This document gives two methods for measuring the polarization crosstalk of PM fibres. Method A is the power ratio method, which uses the maximum and minimum values of output power at a specified wavelength, and Method B is the in-line method, which uses an analysis of the Poincaré sphere. Details of each method are described in Clause 6. Crosstalk values obtained by Methods A and B are based on different definitions. The crosstalk measured by Method A is defined as an "averaged" value over a measured wavelength range. In contrast, the crosstalk value obtained from Method B shows the "worst case" crosstalk value.
Keywords: polarization-maintaining (PM) fibres

NEW!IEC 60793-1-1:2017 is available as IEC 60793-1-1:2017 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.
IEC 60793-1-1: 2017 lists and gives guidance on the use of documents giving the 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 IEC 60793-2 (all parts) 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 fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: addition of rounding rules in Clause  REF _Ref469662545 \r \h 4 08D0C9EA79F9BACE118C8200AA004BA90B02000000080000000E0000005F005200650066003400360039003600360032003500340035000000 ; addition of two packaging requirements in Clause  REF _Ref469662553 \r \h 10 08D0C9EA79F9BACE118C8200AA004BA90B02000000080000000E0000005F005200650066003400360039003600360032003500350033000000 d) and e).
Keywords: measuring and testing optical fibres

IEC 60794-1-2: 2017 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. The prime objective of this document is to provide the end user with an overview about the content of different parts of the IEC 60794-1 series numbered -2X. Table 1 shows the different parts.  Table 1 – Document overview     Test methods  IEC reference    General guidance  IEC 60794-1-2    Methods E – Mechanical  IEC 60794-1-21    Methods F – Environmental  IEC 60794-1-22    Methods G – Cable elements  IEC 60794-1-23    Methods H – Electrical  IEC 60794-1-24    NOTE Several numbers in the test method numbering sequence are missing. The reasons for these omissions are historical. To avoid confusion, the existing numbering sequence has been retained.       These documents define test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for the geometrical, transmission, material, mechanical, ageing (environmental exposure) and climatic properties of optical fibre cables, and electrical requirements where appropriate. Throughout the documents, the wording "optical cable" can also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc.  The secondary objective of this document is to provide the end user with useful guidance when testing optical fibre cables.  This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2013 and IEC 60794­-1­-20 published in 2014. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition and to IEC 60794-1-20: - the multiple cross-reference tables have been deleted and replaced with a higher level one related to the generic standards; - all pertinent text from IEC 60794-1-20 has been included; - standard optical test wavelengths have been introduced; - this document has been streamlined by cross-referencing IEC 60794-1-1; - the &q

IEC 60794-2-22: 2016 is a detail specification and specifies breakout optical cables with multiple simplex fibre cables for termination with connectors. The requirements of the sectional specification IEC 60794-2 are applicable to cables covered by this document. The requirements of the family specification IEC 60794-2-20 are applicable to breakout cables to be installed without terminated connectors. Fan-out kits used for cable systems are not covered by this document. Keywords: breakout optical cables with multiple simplex fibre cables

IEC 60794-3-20:2008(E) covers optical self-supporting aerial telecommunication cables. Requirements of the sectional specification IEC 60794-3 for duct, buried and aerial cables are applicable to cables covered by this standard. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2002. It constitutes a technical revision. The main changes are listed below: - the fibres specification clause (Clause 5) has been enlarged to include fibre Types B5 and B6.a; - an annex has been added for additional requirements according to the MICE table.

IEC 60794-5:2014 which is a sectional specification, specifies the requirements of microduct optical fibre cables, microduct fibre units, microducts and protected microducts for installation by blowing for outdoor and/or indoor use. The microduct optical fibre cables and microduct fibre units utilize the structure of the microduct or protected microducts to support installation and to provide protection over the design lifetime. These products may be used for applications such as communication and transmission networks, transmission, telephone and data processing equipment, control and monitoring applications. The cabling structures described in this sectional specification are uniquely designed to facilitate and take advantage of installation by blowing into microducts. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition, published in 2006, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the addition of constructional requirements, including a reference to IEC 60794-3 for microduct optical fibre cables; - the specification has been streamlined by cross-referencing IEC 60794-1-1. Keywords: microduct optical fibre cables, microduct fibre units, microducts and protected microducts, installation by blowing

This European standard specifies the details for the point of failure, continuity, checking arrangement, test sample, test procedure and test report relevant to optical fibre cables tested as described either in EN 50200 or in EN 50577. The test determines the survival time for circuit integrity of the optical fibre cables when exposed to fire under the conditions either given in EN 50577 or given in EN 50200. EN 50200 is limited to cables with an overall diameter not exceeding 20 mm. This standard includes (Annex A) the field of direct application and rules for extended application of test results (EXAP). Details regarding P classification using data from the EN 50577 test and PH classification using data from the EN 50200 test are given in EN 13501-3. Information regarding classification is given in Annex B.

IEC 60793-2:2011 contains the general specifications for both multimode and single-mode optical fibres. Sectional specifications for each of the four categories multimode class: A1, A2, A3, and A4 contain requirements specific to each category. Sectional specifications for each of the two single-mode classes, B and C, 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 standard apply to all classes. This seventh edition cancels and replaces the sixth edition published in 2007. This modification has been necessary because of the addition of new fibre categories to IEC 60793-2-10 and IEC 60793-2-50.
This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60793-1 series.

This Technical Specification specifies the processes to be employed for the repair of damage to installed optical fibre cabling by reinstatement of the outer sheath or the replacement of an optical fibre cable between existing closures with the objective of restoring its pre-damaged performance and in order to maintain pathway capacity. Interim repair procedures, including temporary and/or partial repairs including the introduction of additional joints of connections, which deliver the minimum functionality to meet immediate performance requirements, are also described. The repair processes specified are applicable to all installation environments except optical ground wires (OPGW) or optical phase conductors (OPPC).

IEC 60794-3-70:2016 is part of a family specification that covers outdoor optical fibre cables intended for rugged terrestrial rapid/multiple deployment. These cables, with enhanced mechanical, environmental and ingress performance may be used wherever a rapid or multiple deployment is relevant (e.g. mobile broadcast units, emergency rescue services, outdoor motion-robotics, etc.). This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60794-1-1:2015, IEC 60794-1-2:2013 and IEC 60794-3:2014. Keywords: outdoor optical fibre cables intended for rugged terrestrial rapid/multiple deployment

IEC corrigendum

IEC 60793-2-40:2015(E) is applicable to category A4 optical multimode fibres and the related sub-categories A4a, A4b, A4c, A4d, A4e, A4f, A4g and A4h. These fibres have a plastic core and plastic cladding and may have step-index, multi-step index or graded-index profiles. The fibres are used in information transmission equipment and other applications employing similar light transmitting techniques, and finally in fibre optic cables. Table 1 of this document summarizes some of the salient characteristics and applications of these fibres. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2009. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - harmonization of terminology within the IEC 60793-2 series; - added measurement parameters for numerical aperture and fibre geometry. Keywords: category A4 optical multimode fibres, information transmission equipment

IEC 60793-2-20:2015(E) is applicable to sub-categories A2a, A2b, and A2c. These fibres are used or can be incorporated in information transmission equipment and optical fibre cables (typically up to 2 km). Three types of requirements apply to these fibres: - general requirements as defined in IEC 60793-2; - specific requirements common to the category A2 multimodal fibres covered in this standard and which are given in Clause 3; - particular requirements applicable to individual sub-categories or specific applications, which are defined in the normative family specification annexes. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition, published in 2007. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - Nath has been replaced by NAff; - specified test specimen length and measurement details for core diameter and NAff measurements. Keywords: information transmission equipment, optical fibre cables, category A2 multimodal fibres

IEC 60794-3-21:2015(E) is a product specification. It presents the detailed requirements specific to optical self-supporting aerial telecommunication cables for use in premises cabling to ensure compatibility with ISO/IEC 11801 and ISO/IEC 24702. The requirements of the family specification IEC 60794-3-20 and sectional specification IEC 60794-3 are applicable to cables covered by this standard. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2005. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - reference to ISO 24702; - reference to Fibre B6 (IEC 60793-2-50); - reference to the OS2 Fibre as defined by ISO/IEC 11801. Keywords: optical self-supporting aerial telecommunication cables This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60794-1-1:2015, IEC 60794-1-2:2013,  IEC 60794-3:2014 and  IEC 60794-3-20:2009.

IEC 60794-1-1:2015(E) is available as IEC 60794-1-1:2015 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition. IEC 60794-1-1:2015(E) applies to optical fibre cables for use with communication equipment and devices employing similar techniques and to cables having a combination of both optical fibres and electrical conductors. The object of this standard is to establish uniform generic requirements for the geometrical, transmission, material, mechanical, ageing (environmental exposure), climatic and electrical properties of optical fibre cables and cable elements, where appropriate. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 2011. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the expansion of the definitions, graphical symbols, terminology and abbreviations content, with the aim of making this standard the default and reference for all others in the IEC 60794-x series; - the inclusion of updated and expanded optical fibre, attenuation and bandwidth sections, with the aim of making this standard the default and reference for all others in the IEC 60794-x series. Keywords: optical fibre cables, cable elements

IEC 60793-2-30:2015(E9 is applicable to sub-categories A3a, A3b, A3c, A3d, A3e, A3f and A3g. These fibres are used or can be incorporated in different information transmission equipment, other applications employing similar light transmitting techniques as well as fibre optic cables. Three types of requirements apply to these fibres: - general requirements, as defined in IEC 60793-2; - specific requirements common to the category A3 multimode fibres covered in this standard and which are given in Clause 3; - particular requirements applicable to the individual sub-categories or specific applications (e.g. automotive or industrial applications), which are defined in the normative sub-category annexes. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2012 and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - specified test specimen length and measurement details for core diameter and NAff measurements have been added; - two new sub-categories have been added; - NAth is replaced by Naff. Keywords: category A3 multimode fibres

IEC 60794-1-21:2015(E) 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. The object of this standard is to define test procedures to be used in establishing uniform requirements for mechanical requirement performance. Throughout this standard the wording "optical cable" may also include optical fibre units, microduct fibre units, etc. General requirements and definitions are given in IEC 60794-1-20 and a complete reference guide to test method of all types in the IEC 60794-1-2. This first edition of IEC 60794-1-21 cancels and replaces the mechanical tests part of the second edition of IEC 60794-1-2, published in 2003. It constitutes a technical revision. Keywords: optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment, test procedures

IEC 60793-1-43:2015 establishes uniform requirements for measuring the numerical aperture of optical fibre, thereby assisting in the inspection of fibres and cables for commercial purposes. The numerical aperture (NA) of categories A1, A2, A3 and A4 multimode fibre is an important parameter that describes a fibre's light-gathering ability. It is used to predict launching efficiency, joint loss at splices, and micro/macrobending performance. The numerical aperture is defined by measuring the far-field pattern (NAff). In some cases the theoretical numerical aperture (NAth) is used in the literature, which can be determined from measuring the difference in refractive indexes between the core and cladding. Ideally these two methods should produce the same value. This second edition of IEC 60793-1-43, together with other standards in the IEC 60793-4X series, cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 60793-1-43, published in 2001, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - expansion of the scope to include A1, A2, A3 and A4 multimode fibre categories; - addition of measurement parameters of sample length and threshold values, product specific to the variables that are now found in the product specifications; - a new Annex B entitled "Product specific default values for NA measurement"; - addition of a new Technique 4 for measuring NA of A4d fibres; - a new Annex A entitled "Mapping NA measurement to alternative lengths" that gives a mapping function to correlate shorter sample length measurements to the length suggested in the reference test method Naff. Keywords: numerical aperture of optical fibre, inspection of fibres and cables

IEC 60794-3-10:2015 which is part of a family specification, covers optical telecommunication cables to be used in ducts or direct buried applications. The cable may also be used for lashed aerial applications. Requirements of the sectional specification IEC 60794-3 for duct, buried and aerial cables are applicable to cables covered by this standard. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2009 and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the specification has been streamlined by cross-referencing IEC 60794-1-1, the IEC 60794-3 series and IEC 60794-1-2; - reference to the MICE table in the previous Annex A has been deleted; - lashed aerial installation techniques as referenced in the previous Annex B has been removed for inclusion in the next edition of IEC TR 62691. Keywords: optical telecommunication cables, ducts or direct buried applications, lashed aerial applications

IEC 60794-3:2014 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 standard. Also included are cables for specialized use in sewers and in water and gas pipes. For aerial application, this standard does not cover all functional aspects of cables installed in the vicinity of overhead power lines. For such applications, additional requirements and test methods may be necessary. Moreover, this standard 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 standard does not cover methods of cable repair, nor repair capability, nor does it cover cables for use with underwater line amplifiers. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 2001, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the specification has been streamlined by cross-referencing with IEC 60794-1-1; - soft strippable tubes introduced into the "polymeric" tube heading and metal tubes have been added; - ribbon clauses have been simplified; - more precise outer sheath details have been added; - cable element tests and cable tests have been simplified by the use of tables instead of text; - Annex A on PMD has been removed, to avoid duplication with IEC TR 61282-3. Keywords: outdoor cables, requirements for optical fibre cables and cable elements