Understanding Key Telecommunications Standards: Ensuring Signal Integrity and Electromagnetic Compatibility

Modern telecommunications networks form the backbone of our connected world, enabling everything from global business communications to high-definition streaming and mission-critical industrial controls. As technology evolves, so do the challenges: the need for ever-faster data transmission, minimal interference, robust security, and seamless scaling looms larger than ever. To address these complexities, the telecommunications industry relies on a rigorous framework of international standards—blueprints for quality, safety, and compatibility. This article provides an easy-to-understand guide to four influential standards in telecommunications, focusing on passive RF and microwave device measurement and electromagnetic compatibility. These standards are not just technical obligations—they're pivotal for productivity, network security, and business scalability as new technologies roll out. Understanding and implementing them is essential for businesses aiming to lead in a hyper-connected era.

Overview / Introduction

Telecommunications. Audio and video engineering standards are the unsung heroes behind the reliability and quality of systems we depend on every day. From ensuring clear wireless signals to protecting against network outages caused by electromagnetic disturbances, these standards underpin both cutting-edge innovations and foundational infrastructure. Without them, businesses would face unpredictable performance, greater security risks, and escalating costs as networks scale up.

This guide covers four critical standards:

• Passive RF and microwave device measurement for coaxial cables, cable assemblies, and antennas (EN 62037-4:2012/A1:2026, EN IEC 62037-2:2021/A1:2026, EN IEC 62037-6:2022/A1:2026)
• Electromagnetic compatibility for unbalanced installations on medium, high, and extra-high voltage power systems (SIST-TP IEC TR 61000-3-13:2026)

You'll learn what each standard covers, why it's relevant, who should comply, and what real-world benefits proper implementation delivers. By the end, you'll understand why these standards are must-haves for any organization invested in future-proofed, secure, and scalable telecommunications systems.

Detailed Standards Coverage

EN 62037-4:2012/A1:2026 - Measurement of Passive Intermodulation in Coaxial Cables

Full Standard Title: Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 4: Measurement of passive intermodulation in coaxial cables

This standard specifies the procedures and requirements for measuring passive intermodulation (PIM) in coaxial cables, a cornerstone for ensuring high-performance signal transmission in radio, TV, mobile, and wireless data networks. PIM refers to unwanted frequencies generated when multiple signals interact in a passive device, potentially causing signal degradation, dropped calls, or data loss.

Key requirements include:

• Test setups, instrumentation, and calibration for accurate intermodulation measurements
• Defined measurement environment to minimize external interference
• Acceptable PIM thresholds for different cable types and applications

Who should apply this standard?

• Cable manufacturers
• Network operators
• Installers of telecommunications and broadcast infrastructure

Practical implications: Implementing EN 62037-4:2012/A1:2026 ensures that coaxial cables meet rigorous quality criteria—essential for achieving high data rates, minimizing interference, and supporting reliable 5G/6G deployments. Compliance reduces maintenance costs and prevents costly signal disruptions in expanding networks.

Key highlights:

• Standardizes PIM measurement for all coaxial cable types
• Enhances RF system robustness and clarity
• Supports scalability in network deployments

Access the full standard:View EN 62037-4:2012/A1:2026 on iTeh Standards

EN IEC 62037-2:2021/A1:2026 - Measurement of Passive Intermodulation in Coaxial Cable Assemblies

Full Standard Title: Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 2: Measurement of passive intermodulation in coaxial cable assemblies

This standard extends PIM measurement requirements to entire coaxial cable assemblies, including connectors and joints. Signal quality in assemblies is often compromised by poor connections, aging, or assembly defects, making this standard vital for high-density data centers, telecom towers, and broadcast sites.

Key requirements and specifications:

• Test methods covering both static and dynamic conditions
• Evaluation of connector integrity and cable joint quality
• Standardization of pass/failure criteria

Target industries/organizations:

• Equipment manufacturers
• Systems integrators
• Maintenance teams for broadcast/telecom facilities

Implementation implications: By adhering to this standard, organizations can mitigate risks associated with connector-related signal degradation and future-proof their installations as technology and network traffic scale up.

Key highlights:

• Guarantees performance over the entire transmission path
• Reduces troubleshooting and downtime
• Essential for network upgrades and new installations

Access the full standard:View EN IEC 62037-2:2021/A1:2026 on iTeh Standards

EN IEC 62037-6:2022/A1:2026 - Measurement of Passive Intermodulation in Antennas

Full Standard Title: Passive RF and microwave devices, intermodulation level measurement – Part 6: Measurement of passive intermodulation in antennas

This standard focuses on measuring and minimizing PIM within RF and microwave antennas—critical for base stations, point-to-point microwave links, and broadcast towers. Even small levels of intermodulation in antennas can disrupt network reliability and spectrum efficiency.

Key requirements include:

• Specific test arrangements for antennas (including far-field and near-field conditions)
• Environmental control during measurements to avoid false results
• Pass/fail thresholds tailored to antenna type and application

Industries and organizations impacted:

• Telecom operators
• Antenna manufacturers
• Field service providers

Practical implications: Complying with this standard helps businesses deliver interference-free services, maximizing signal quality while supporting a variety of new wireless technologies like IoT and edge computing.

Key highlights:

• Extends PIM control to the last point of signal transmission
• Protects network resources from internal RF noise
• Crucial for 5G/6G and IoT network reliability

Access the full standard:View EN IEC 62037-6:2022/A1:2026 on iTeh Standards

SIST-TP IEC TR 61000-3-13:2026 - Assessment of Emission Limits for Unbalanced Installations to MV, HV, and EHV Power Systems

Full Standard Title: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-13: Limits — Assessment of emission limits for the connection of unbalanced installations to MV, HV and EHV power systems

This technical report provides comprehensive guidance for managing the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of unbalanced installations—loads or generators that cause voltage unbalance—connected to medium, high, or extra-high voltage public power networks. Voltage unbalance can damage sensitive network equipment, increase losses, and trigger power quality issues.

Key requirements and recommendations:

• Principles for assessing connection requirements for unbalanced three-phase installations
• Allocation of system capacity to absorb voltage disturbances
• Procedures for evaluating emission limits at different voltage levels
• Responsibilities for system operators in planning and assessment

Who needs to comply:

• Power utilities
• Industrial customers with large or unbalanced loads (e.g., arc furnaces, traction power systems)
• Energy project developers

Practical implications: Implementing this standard ensures fair sharing of network resources, enhances service quality for all connected users, and reduces the risk of equipment failures or regulatory sanctions. Properly set emission limits also support network upgrades and renewables integration.

Key highlights:

• Harmonizes EMC assessments across voltage networks
• Prevents cascading power quality disturbances
• Supports digital transformation of energy networks

Access the full standard:View SIST-TP IEC TR 61000-3-13:2026 on iTeh Standards

Industry Impact & Compliance

Telecommunications standards like those highlighted above deliver immense value to businesses and service providers—both technically and strategically. They:

• Safeguard signal integrity and minimize harmful electromagnetic interference (EMI), crucial in high-density urban and industrial environments
• Define interoperable benchmarks that manufacturers and installers must meet, reducing costly rework and service interruptions
• Lay the groundwork for advanced services and digitalization, such as 5G, IoT, edge computing, and AI-powered networks
• Provide clear guidance for compliance, helping organizations demonstrate diligence to regulators, customers, and partners

Risks of non-compliance include:

• Signal degradation, interference, and outages
• Increased maintenance and downtime costs
• Fines and reputational damage from regulatory authorities
• Barriers to technology upgrades, threatening competitive position

Conversely, standards-driven compliance boosts: security, productivity, capacity scaling, and overall network resilience.

Implementation Guidance

Implementing international telecommunications standards brings order and predictability to a complex sector. Best-practice steps include:

1. Gap Analysis – Evaluate current processes, equipment, and installations against the latest requirements.
2. Staff Training – Educate engineers, installers, and maintenance staff on new measurement techniques and compliance targets.
3. Certified Equipment Procurement – Source cables, assemblies, antennas, and other network elements from vendors accredited to the relevant standards.
4. Procedural Documentation – Maintain thorough records of testing, certification, and installation practices for audit and troubleshooting purposes.
5. Ongoing Monitoring – Use build-in/self-monitoring and periodic retesting to catch degradation or new EMI risks before they become network issues.
6. Engage Standards Bodies and Resources – Leverage the expertise, tools, and updates provided by organizations like CLC, IEC, and SIST.

Useful resources include:

• iTeh Standards online platform for sourcing and comparing up-to-date standards
• Training from certified labs and industry associations
• Software tools for network design and EMC analysis

Conclusion / Next Steps

Telecommunications standards are more than checkbox compliance—they are the essential blueprint for building reliable, scalable, and secure networks in a world defined by data and digital transformation. The four standards detailed here empower organizations to confidently adopt next-generation technologies, assure signal and power quality, and demonstrate leadership in an increasingly interconnected landscape.

Key takeaways:

• Implementing these standards is critical for productivity, security, and the ability to scale with confidence.
• The cost of non-compliance is high—not only in regulatory terms, but in lost business opportunities and customer trust.
• Staying updated and proactive is key—leverage authoritative sources and ongoing training to keep your systems robust.

Ready to advance your network?

• Explore the full texts of these and other telecommunications standards on iTeh Standards
• Conduct an internal standards compliance audit and empower your teams with the knowledge and tools to excel

By prioritizing international standards, your organization can operate at the forefront of telecommunications—increasing productivity, security, and scalability for tomorrow’s digital landscape.