EN 60874-1:2007

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-september-2007
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SIST EN 186000-1:1999
SIST EN 60874-1:2001
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Connectors for optical fibres and cables -- Part 1: Generic specification (IEC 60874-
1:2006)
Steckverbinder für Lichtwellenleiter und Lichtwellenleiterkabel -- Teil 1:
Fachgrundspezifikation (IEC 60874-1:2006)
Connecteurs pour fibres et câbles optiques -- Partie 1: Spécification générique (IEC
60874-1:2006)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 60874-1:2007
ICS:
33.180.20 3RYH]RYDOQHQDSUDYH]D Fibre optic interconnecting
RSWLþQDYODNQD devices
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 60874-1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
January 2007
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 33.180.20 Supersedes EN 60874-1:1999 and EN 186000-1:1993

English version
Connectors for optical fibres and cables -
Part 1: Generic specification
(IEC 60874-1:2006)
Connecteurs pour fibres  Steckverbinder für Lichtwellenleiter
et câbles optiques - und Lichtwellenleiterkabel -
Partie 1: Spécification générique Teil 1: Fachgrundspezifikation
(CEI 60874-1:2006) (IEC 60874-1:2006)

This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2006-12-01. CENELEC members are bound to comply
with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard
the status of a national standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on
application to the Central Secretariat or to any CENELEC member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified
to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the
Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart 35, B - 1050 Brussels

© 2007 CENELEC - All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC members.
Ref. No. EN 60874-1:2007 E
Foreword
The text of document 86B/2370/FDIS, future edition 5 of IEC 60874-1, prepared by SC 86B, Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC TC 86, Fibre optics, was submitted to the
IEC-CENELEC parallel vote and was approved by CENELEC as EN 60874-1 on 2006-12-01.
This European Standard supersedes EN 186000-1:1993 and EN 60874-1:1999.
The specific technical changes from EN 60874-1:1999 include the introduction of new expressions for
intermateability and performance, of optical performance standards into the standardization system, and
updating the normative references.
The following dates were fixed:
– latest date by which the EN has to be implemented
at national level by publication of an identical
national standard or by endorsement (dop) 2007-09-01
– latest date by which the national standards conflicting
with the EN have to be withdrawn (dow) 2009-12-01
Annex ZA has been added by CENELEC.
__________
Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 60874-1:2006 was approved by CENELEC as a European
Standard without any modification.
In the official version, for Bibliography, the following notes have to be added for the standards indicated:
IEC 60874 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 60874 (series) (not modified).
IEC 61300-1 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61300-1:2003 (not modified).
IEC 61300-2 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61300-2 (series) (not modified).
IEC 61300-3 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61300-3 (series) (not modified).
IEC 61754-2 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61754-2:1997 (not modified).
IEC 61754-4 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61754-4:1997 (not modified).
IEC 61754-13 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61754-13:2006 (not modified).
__________
- 3 - EN 60874-1:2007
Annex ZA
(normative)
Normative references to international publications
with their corresponding European publications

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.

NOTE  When an international publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant EN/HD
applies.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year

IEC QC 001002-2 1998 IEC Quality Assessment System for - -
Electronic Components (IECQ) - Rules of
Procedure -
Part 2: Documentation
IEC QC 001002-3 2005 IEC Quality Assessment System for - -
Electronic Components (IECQ) - Rules of
Procedure -
Part 3: Approval procedures
IEC 60027 Series Letter symbols to be used in electrical EN 60027 Series
technology
1)
IEC 60050-731 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - -
(IEV) -
Chapter 731: Optical fibre communication

1)
IEC 60410 - Sampling plans and procedures for inspection - -
by attributes
IEC 60617 Data- Graphical symbols for diagrams - -
base
1) 2)
IEC 60695-11-5 - Fire hazard testing - EN 60695-11-5 2005
Part 11-5: Test flames - Needle-flame test
method - Apparatus, confirmatory test
arrangement and guidance
1) 2)
IEC 60825-1 - Safety of laser products - EN 60825-1 1994
Part 1: Equipment classification, requirements
and user's guide
IEC 61300 Series Fibre optic interconnecting devices and EN 61300 Series
passive components - Basic test and
measurement procedures
3)
IEC 61753-1 200X Fibre optic interconnecting devices and - -
passive components performance standard -
Part 1: General and guidance for
performance standards
IEC 61754 Series Fibre optic connector interfaces EN 61754 Series

1)
Undated reference.
2)
Valid edition at date of issue.
3)
To be published.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year
IEC 61755 Series Fibre optic connector optical interfaces EN 61755 Series

1)
IEC/TR 61930 - Fibre optic graphical symbology - -

1)
IEC/TR 61931 - Fibre optic - Terminology - -

1)
ISO 129-1 - Technical drawings - Indication of dimensions - -
and tolerances -
Part 1: General principles
1) 2)
ISO 286-1 - ISO system of limits and fits - EN 20286-1 1993
Part 1: Bases of tolerances, deviations and
fits
ISO 370 1975 Toleranced dimensions - Conversion from - -
inches into millimetres and vice versa

1) 2)
ISO 1101 - Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) - EN ISO 1101 2005
Geometrical tolerancing - Tolerances of form,
orientation, location and run-out

1) 2)
ISO 8601 - Data elements and interchange formats - EN 28601 1992
Information interchange - Representation of
dates and times
NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
60874-1
INTERNATIONAL
QC 910000
STANDARD
Cinquième édition
Fifth edition
2006-10
Connecteurs pour fibres et câbles optiques –
Partie 1:
Spécification générique
Connectors for optical fibres and cables –
Part 1:
Generic specification
© IEC 2006 Droits de reproduction réservés ⎯ Copyright - all rights reserved
Aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite ni No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any
utilisée sous quelque forme que ce soit et par aucun procédé, form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie et les photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'éditeur. the publisher.
International Electrotechnical Commission, 3, rue de Varembé, PO Box 131, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Telephone: +41 22 919 02 11 Telefax: +41 22 919 03 00 E-mail: inmail@iec.ch Web: www.iec.ch
CODE PRIX
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PRICE CODE
Commission Electrotechnique Internationale
International Electrotechnical Commission
МеждународнаяЭлектротехническаяКомиссия
Pour prix, voir catalogue en vigueur
For price, see current catalogue

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 3 –
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.5

1 Scope.11
2 Normative references.11
3 Terms and definitions .13
4 Requirements .19
4.1 Classification.19
4.2 Documentation .27
4.3 Standardization system.33
4.4 Design and construction .43
4.5 Quality.43
4.6 Performance.43
4.7 Identification and marking.43
4.8 Packaging .45
4.9 Storage conditions.45
4.10 Safety.45
5 Quality assessment procedures .47
5.1 Primary stage of manufacture .47
5.2 Structurally similar components .47
5.3 Qualification approval procedures .49
5.4 Quality conformance inspection .51
5.5 Certified records of released lots .55
5.6 Delayed deliveries .55
5.7 Delivery release before completion of group B tests .55
5.8 Alternative test methods .57
5.9 Unchecked parameters.57

Bibliography .59

Figure 1 – Standardization structure .41

Table 1 – Example of a typical connector set classification .21
Table 2 – Three-level specification structure.29
Table 3 - Standards interlink matrix .41

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 5 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
___________
CONNECTORS FOR OPTICAL FIBRES AND CABLES –

Part 1: Generic specification
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC provides no marking procedure to indicate its approval and cannot be rendered responsible for any
equipment declared to be in conformity with an IEC Publication.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60874-1 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 1999, and constitutes a
technical revision. The specific technical changes from the previous edition include the
introduction of new expressions for intermateability and performance, of optical performance
standards into the standardization system, and updating the normative references.

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 7 –
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
86B/2370/FDIS 86B/2412/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The QC number that appears on the front cover of this publication is the specification number
in the IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ).
IEC 60874 consists of the following parts, under the general title Connectors for optical fibres
and cables:
Part 1: Generic specification
Part 1-1: Blank detail specification – Environmental categories
Part 10-1: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type BFOC/2,5 terminated to
multimode fibre type A1
Part 10-2: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type BFOC/2,5 terminated to single-
mode fibre type B1
Part 10-3: Detail specification for fibre optic adaptor type BFOC/2,5 for single and
multimode fibre
Part 14-1: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type SC/PC standard terminated to
multimode fibre type A1a, A1b
Part 14-2: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type SC/PC tuned terminated to
single-mode fibre type B1
Part 14-3: Detail specification for fibre optic adaptor (simplex) type SC for single-mode
fibre
Part 14-4: Detail specification for fibre optic adaptor (simplex) type SC for multi-mode fibre
Part 14-5: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type SC-PC untuned terminated to
single-mode fibre type B1
Part 14-6: Detail specification for fibre optic connector - Type SC-APC 9° untuned
terminated to single-mode fibre Type B1
Part 14-7: Detail specification for fibre optic connector type SC-APC 9° tuned terminated to
single-mode fibre Type B1
Part 14-9: Fibre optic connector type SC-APC tuned 8° terminated on single mode fibre
type B1 – Detail specification
Part 14-10: Fibre optic pigtail or patch cord connector type SC-APC untuned 8° terminated
on single mode fibre type B1 – Detail specification
Part 17: Sectional specification for fibre optic connector – Type F-05 (friction lock)
Part 19: Sectional specification for fibre optic connector - Type SC-D(uplex)

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 9 –
Part 19-1: Fibre optic patch cord connector type SC-PC (floating duplex) standard
terminated on multimode fibre type A1a, A1b – Detail specification
Part 19-2: Fibre optic adaptor (duplex) type SC for single-mode fibre connectors – Detail
specification
Part 19-3: Fibre optic adaptor (duplex) type SC for multimode fibre connectors – Detail
specification
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until the
maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed;
• withdrawn;
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 11 –
CONNECTORS FOR OPTICAL FIBRES AND CABLES –

Part 1: Generic specification
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60874 applies to fibre optic connectors sets and individual components (i.e.
adaptors, plugs, sockets) for all types, sizes and structures of fibres and cables. It includes:
– connector set requirements;
– quality assessment procedures.
This part of IEC 60874 is divided into five clauses:
– Clauses 1 (Scope), 2 (Normative references) and 3 (Terms and definitions) contain general
information pertaining to this generic specification;
– Clause 4 (Requirements) contains all the requirements to be met by connectors covered by
this specification. This includes requirements for classification, the IEC specification system,
documentation, materials, workmanship, quality, performance, identification, and packaging;
– Clause 5 (Quality assessment procedures) contains all of the procedures that must be
followed for IEC quality assessment of products covered by this standard.
NOTE 1 Clauses 1 to 4 are applicable generally and refer to all connector standards while Clause 5 relates to IEC
qualification alone.
NOTE 2 This part of IEC 60874 applies also to the connectors covered by IEC 61753, IEC 61754, and IEC 61755
series.
This standard does not cover test and measurement procedures, which are described in
IEC 61300-1, IEC 61300-2 and IEC 61300-3.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of
the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IECQ 001002-2:1998, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ) –
Rules of procedure – Part 2: Documentation
IECQ 001002-3:2005, IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ) –
Rules of procedure – Part 3: Approval procedures
IEC 60027 (all parts), Letter symbols to be used in electrical technology
IEC 60050-731, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication
IEC 60410, Sampling plans and procedures for inspection by attributes

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 13 –
IEC 60617, Graphical symbols for diagrams
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825-1, Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classification, requirements and
user’s guide
IEC 61300 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test
and measurement procedures
IEC 61753-1: Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Part 1: General
1)
and guidance for performance standards
IEC 61754 (all parts), Fibre optic connector interfaces
IEC 61755 (all parts), Fibre optic connector optical interfaces
IEC 61930, Fibre optic graphic symbology
IEC 61931, Fibre optic terminology
ISO 129, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances – Part 1: General
principles
ISO 286-1, ISO system of limits and fits – Part 1: Bases of tolerances, deviations and fits
ISO 370:1975, Toleranced dimensions – Conversion from inches into millimetres and vice
versa
ISO 1101, Geometrical product specifications – Technical drawings – Geometrical tolerancing
– Tolerances of form, orientation, location and run-out
ISO 8601, Data elements and interchange formats – Information interchange – Representation
of dates and times
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this part of IEC 60874, the definitions contained in IEC 60050(731) and
IEC 61931, as well as the following definitions, apply.
3.1
adaptor
a component in which two or more ferrules are aligned
3.2
alignment pins
cylindrical rods used for alignment in some types of connectors. Typically they are used in pairs
and inserted into specific guide holes in the two plugs (usually for multifibre connectors) to
provide the alignment
________
1)
To be published.
60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 15 –
3.3
APC connector
connector with angled convex end-face ferrule capable of making an angled physical contact
between the fibres
3.4
butting optical coupling
coupling in which the optical ports are in contact with each other
3.5
expanded beam optical coupling
coupling in which the optical ports use lens technology
3.6
ferrule
precise part of the plug, usually aligned in the sleeve of an adaptor. It confines the end(s) of a
single or of multiple optical fibres
3.7
fully intermateable connector set
connector sets from different sources are considered fully intermateable when connector
components from one source will mate with complementary components from other sources
without mechanical damage and with optical properties maintained within specified limits
3.8
interchangeable connector set
connector sets are considered to be interchangeable when they share common installation
geometry and have the same functional performance
3.9
mating face dimension
dimension of the features which determine the mating fit between components of an optical
connector set
3.10
mechanical intermateable connector set
connector sets from different sources are considered mechanical intermateable when
connector components from one source will mate with complementary components from other
sources without mechanical damage but without regard to optical properties
3.11
mechanical reference plane (datum plane)
the plane of a plug or adaptor which is perpendicular to the fibre axis and is located on a
physical feature of the component. It is the datum plane from which all features of the
component are measured in the direction of the fibre axis
NOTE The mechanical reference planes of the plug and the adaptor should coincide when the two components are
properly mated. Accordingly, each should be located on the feature that fixes or establishes the relative position of
the two components when they are properly mated.
3.12
non-butting optical coupling
coupling in which the ports are not in contact with each other

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 17 –
3.13
optical datum target
theoretical datum point on a connector interface where the optical fibre core centre should be
positioned by the plug or by the adaptor receptacle
3.14
optical fibre connector
component normally attached to an optical cable or piece of apparatus, for the purpose of
providing frequent optical interconnection/disconnection of optical fibres or cables. This usually
consists of two plugs mated together in an adaptor
3.15
optical fibre connector set
complete assembly of components (plug-adaptor-plug) required to provide demountable
coupling between two or more optical fibre cables
3.16
optical fibre connector set kit
series of components necessary to make a complete connector set
3.17
optical fibre patchcord or jumper
length of optical fibre or cable, permanently terminated at both ends with two plugs
3.18
optical fibre pigtail
length of optical fibre or cable, permanently terminated at one end with a plug
3.19
PC connector
connector with convex end-face ferrule capable of making a physical contact between the
fibres
3.20
plug
male-type part of a connector
3.21
plug-adaptor-plug configuration
configuration in which two plugs mate through an adaptor. The mechanical coupling takes
place between the plugs and the adaptor
3.22
plug-receptacle configuration
configuration in which a plug mates in a receptacle
3.23
receptacle
structure for interfacing a plug with an active component. Typically it is formed by a semi-
adaptor and a structure containing and aligning the active component

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 19 –
3.24
reference connector component
tighter toleranced or selected connector component (e.g. plug, adaptor, etc.) which is used for
measuring purposes
NOTE Test and measurement methods may refer to it. The characteristics or the selection procedure are given in
the relevant specification.
3.25
sleeve
precision part of the adaptor used to mechanically align two ferrules
3.26
small form factor connector (SFF)
an optical fibre connector with a ferrule with an outside diameter of less than 2.0 mm or a
connector designed to accommodate two or more optical fibres with at least the same
mounting density as the RJ-45 connector. SFF connectors have a smaller cross-sectional area,
about one-half that of traditional connectors.
3.27
socket
the female part of a two part connector
4 Requirements
The requirements for connectors covered by this generic specification are specified in this
clause and in the detail specification.
4.1 Classification
Fibre optic connector sets are classified, either totally or in part, according to the following
categories (see Table 1):
– type;
– arrangement;
– style;
– interface standard;
– standardization system;
– variant;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.
See Table 1 for an example of a complete connector set classification.

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 21 –
4.1.1 Type
Connector set types shall be defined by four elements: the type name, the configuration, the
coupling mechanism and the mating face dimensions.
Examples of type names:
– type SC;
– type LC.
Examples of configurations:
– plug-adaptor-plug configuration;
– plug-receptacle configuration.
Examples of coupling mechanisms:
– screw thread;
– bayonet;
– push-pull.
Table 1 – Example of a typical connector set classification
Type – Name: type SC
– Configuration: plug-adaptor-plug
– Coupling: push -pull
– Mating face dimensions:
a
plug: see Figure 2
a
adaptor: see Figure 4
Arrangement – Kit
Style – Fibre retention: adhesive
– Cable retention: crimp
– Optical coupling: PC
– Alignment: resilient bushing
Variants – Twelve plug permutations of:
• fibre diameters
0,125 mm
• cable jacket diameters
2,4 mm
3,0 mm
• coupling styles:
push –pull plastic housing.
– Two adaptor variants:
• non-mountable (in-line)
• four-hole flange mount
a
Indicates figures in a hypothetical detail specification

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 23 –
4.1.2 Arrangement
The connector set arrangement shall define the delivered connector set form.
Examples of connector set arrangements:
– kit arrangement for plug and adaptor;
– pigtail arrangement for plug;
– patch-cord arrangement for plugs.
4.1.3 Style
The connector set style shall be defined by four elements: the fibre retention technology, the
cable retention technology, the optical coupling technology and the alignment technology.
Examples of fibre retention technologies:
– adhesive fibre retention;
– crimp fibre retention.
Examples of cable retention technologies:
– adhesive cable retention;
– crimp cable retention.
Examples of optical coupling technologies:
– non-butting;
– physical contact (PC)
– angled physical contact (APC);
– expanded beam.
Examples of alignment technologies:
– clearance fit alignment;
– resilient bushing alignment;
– resilient tip alignment;
– spherical alignment;
– solid bore alignment sleeve;
– resilient alignment sleeve;
– V-groove alignment;
– guide pin alignment.
4.1.4 Interface standard
The connector interface standard defines the dimensions and the physical features essential
for mating and unmating a fibre optic connector with other connectors or components
conforming to the same standard interface (see 4.3.1).

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 25 –
4.1.5 Variant
The connector set variant defines the variety of structurally similar components (see 5.2).
Examples of feature variables which create variants:
– fibre type (category, core and cladding diameter);
– cable type and size;
– mounting scheme;
– coupling nut design (hexagonal, knurled, etc.).
4.1.6 Assessment level
Assessment level defines the inspection levels and the acceptable quality level (AQL) of groups
A and B, and the periodicity of inspection of groups C and D. Detail specifications shall specify
one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be designated by a capital letter.
The following are preferred levels.
• Assessment level A
– group A inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 4 %
– group B inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 4 %
– group C inspection: 24-month periods
– group D inspection: 48-month periods
• Assessment level B
– group A inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 1 %
– group B inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 1 %
– group C inspection: 18-month periods
– group D inspection: 36-month periods
• Assessment level C
– group A inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 0,4 %
– group B inspection: inspection level 11, AQL = 0,4 %
– group C inspection: 12-month periods
– group D inspection: 24-month periods
4.1.7 Normative reference extensions
Normative reference extensions are used to identify integration of independent standards
specifications or other reference documents into blank detail specifications.
Unless a specified exception is noted, additional requirements imposed by an extension are
mandatory. Usage is primarily intended to merge associated components to form hybrid
devices, or can involve integrated functional application requirements that are dependent on
technical expertise other than fibre optics.
Published reference documents produced by ITU consistent with the scope statements of the
relevant IEC specification series may be used as extensions. Published documents produced
by other regional standardization bodies such as TIA, ETSI, JIS, etc, may be referenced in an
informative annex attached to the generic specification.

60874-1 © IEC:2006 – 27 –
Some optical fibre splice configurations require special qualification provisions which shall not
be imposed universally. These accommodate individual component design configurations,
specialised field tooling, or specific application processes and involve requirements necessary
to assure repeatable performance or adequate safety. They also provide additional guidance
for complete product specification. Such extensions are mandatory whenever used in the
preparation, assembly or installation of an optical fibre splice, either for field application usage
or preparation of qualification test specimens. The relevant specification shall clarify all
stipulations. However, design and style dependent extensions shall not be imposed universally.
In the event of conflicting requirements, precedence shall be given, in descending order, as
follows: generic over mandatory extension, over blank detail, over detail, over application
specific extension.
Examples of optical connector extensions include:
– using IEC 61754-2 and IEC 61754-4 to partially define a future specification within the
IEC 60874 series for a duplex type “SC/BFOC/2,5” hybrid connector adaptor;
– using IEC 61754-13 to partially define a future specification within the IEC 60874 series for
an integrated type “FC” preset attenuated optical connector;
– using IEC 61754-2 to partially define a specification within the IEC 60874 series for a
duplex “BFOC/2,5” receptacle incorporating integral mechanical splices.
Other examples of requirements in normative extensions:
– some commercial or residential building applications may require direct reference to
specific safety codes and regulations, or incorporate other specific material flammability or
toxicity requirements for specialised locations;
– specialised field tooling may require an extension to implement specific ocular safety,
electrical shock, or burn hazard avoidance requirements, or require isolation procedures to
prevent potential ignition of combustible gases.
4.2 Documentation
4.2.1 Symbols
Graphical and letter symbols shall, whenever possible, be taken from IEC 60027, IEC 60617
and IEC 61930.
4.2.2 Specification system
This specification is part of a three-level IEC specification system. Subsidiary specifications
shall consist of blank detail specifications and detail specifications. This system is shown in
Table 2.
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Table 2 – Three-level specification structure
Specification level Examples of information to be included Applicable to
– Assessment system rules
Two or more component families or
– Inspection rules
subfamilies
– Optical measurement methods
– Environmental test methods
– Sampling plans
– Identification rule
– Marking standards
Basic
– Interface dimensions
– Dimensional standards
– Terminology
– Symbol standards
– Preferred number series
– SI units
– Specific terminology
– Specific symbols
– Specific units
– Preferred values
Generic – Marking Component family
– Quality assessment procedures
– Selection test
– Qualification approval procedures
– Capability approval procedure
– Quality conformation test schedule
Groups of types having a common test
a
– Inspection requirements
Blank detail
schedule
– Information common to a number of types
– Individual values
Detail Individual type
– Specific information
– Completed quality conformance test schedules
a
Blank detail specifications do not, by themselves, constitute a specification level. They are associated to the
generic specification
4.2.2.1 Blank detail specifications
A blank detail specification shall contain:
– the minimum mandatory test schedules and performance requirements;
– one or more assessment levels;
– the preferred format for stating the required information in the detail specification;
– in the case of hybrid components, including connectors, addition of appropriate entry fields
to show the reference normative document, document title and issue date.
4.2.2.2 Detail specifications
Detail specifications shall specify the following as a minimum:
– type name (see 4.1.1);
– arrangement (see 4.1.2);
– connector set style (see 4.1.3);

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– interface standards(4.1.4);
– variants (see 4.1.5);
– assessment level (see 4.1.6);
– qualification procedure method (see 5.3);
– part identification number for each variant (see 4.7.1);
– drawings, dimensions and performance criteria necessary to produce all required reference
components (see 4.2.3);
– drawings and dimensions necessary to produce all required gauges (see 4.2.3);
– quality assessment test schedules;
– performance requirements (see 4.6).
4.2.3 Drawings
The drawings and dimensions given in documents covered by this specification shall not
restrict the details of construction nor shall they be used as manufacturing drawings.
4.2.3.1 Projection system
Either first angle or third angle projection shall be used for the drawings in documents covered
by this specification. All drawings within a document shall use the same projection system and
the drawings shall state which system is used.
4.2.3.2 Dimensional system
All dimensions shall be given in accordance with ISO 129, ISO 286-1 and ISO 1101.
The metric system shall be used in all specifications.
Dimensions shall not contain more than five significant digits.
Conversion between systems of units shall comply with ISO 370:1975. When units are
converted, a note shall be added in each relevant specification.
4.2.3.3 lntermateability
The requirements for mechanical intermateability are defined in the interface standards series
IEC 61754.
The requirements for optical intermateability are defined in the optical interface standards
series IEC 61755.
4.2.4 Performance
The performance requirements for fibre optic connectors are defined in the performance
standard series IEC 61753.
4.2.5 Measurements
4.2.5.1 Measurement method
The size measurement method to be used shall be specified in the specification for dimensions
which are specified within a total tolerance zone of 0,01 mm (0,0004 in) or less.

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4.2.5.2 Reference components
Reference components, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
4.2.5.3 Gauges
Gauges, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
4.2.6 Test reports
Test reports shall be prepared for each test conducted. The reports shall be included in the
qualification approval report (see 5.3.7) and in the periodic inspection report (see 5.4.2.6).
Test reports shall contain the following information as a minimum:
– title of test and date;
– specimen description, including the type of fibre. The description shall also include the
variant identification number (see 4.7.1);
– test equipment used and date of latest calibration;
– all applicable test details;
– all measurement values and observations;
– sufficiently detailed documentation to provide traceable information for failure analysis
(see 5.4.2.5).
4.2.7 Instructions for use
Instructions for use shall be given by the manufacturer and shall consist of:
– assembly and termination instructions;
– cleaning method;
– additional information as necessary.
4.3 Standardization system
4.3.1 Interface standards
Interface standards provide both manufacturer and user with all the information required to
manufacture or use the product in conformity with the physical features foreseen by that
standard interface. Interface standards fully define and dimension the features essential for the
mating and unmating of optical fibre connectors and other components. They also serve to
position the optical datum target, where defined, relative to other reference data.
Interface standards ensure that connectors and adaptors complying with the standard fit
together. The standards may also contain tolerance grades for ferrules and alignment devices.
Tolerance grades are used to provide different levels of alignment precision.
The interface dimensions may also be used to design other components that will mate with the
connectors. For example, an active device mount can be designed using the adaptor interface
dimensions. The use of these dimensions combined with those of a standard plug provides the
designer with assurance that standard plugs will fit into the optical device mount. They also
provide the location of the plug optical datum target.

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Standardised interface dimensions do not, by themselves, guarantee optical performance. They
guarantee connector mating at a specified fit. Optical performance is ensured by compliance
with the requirements of the optical interface standard series. Products from the same or
different manufacturing specifications using the same standard interface will always fit together.
A guarantee of performance can be given by any individual manufacturer only for products
delivered according to the same manufacturing specification. However, it can be reasonably
expected that a certain level of performance will be obtained by mating products from different
manufacturing specifications, although this level of performance cannot be expected to be any
better than that of the lowest specified performance.
4.3.2 Performance standards
Performance standards contain a series of test and measurements sets (which, depending on
the requirements of the standard, may or may not be grouped into a specified schedule) with
clearly defined conditions, severities and pass/fail criteria. The tests are intended to be run on
a “once-off” basis to prove the ability of a given product to satisfy the “performance standards”
requirement. Each performance standard has a different set of tests, and/or severities (and/or
groupings) and represents the requirements of a market sector, user group or system location.
A product that has been shown to meet all the requirements of a performance standard can be
declared as complying with that standard, but should then be controlled by a quality assurance/
quality conformance programme.
A key point of the performance standards is the selection of tests and severities from the tests
and measurements standards, for application in conjunction with interface standards on inter-
product compatibility (this particularly relates to attenuation and return loss). The certain
conformance of each individual product to this standard will be ensured.
4.3.3 Optical interface standards
An optical interface standard is a multi-part collection of the physica
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