EN 50173-20:2022
(Main)Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling configurations
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling configurations
This document specifies: a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6; b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to EN 50173-1. NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6. Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697. Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are covered by other standards and regulations.
Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20: Alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage générique - Partie 20: Configurations alternatives de câblage
Le présent document spécifie: a) les configurations de câblage qui utilisent des composants satisfaisant aux exigences de l'EN 50173-1 mais qui ne sont pas conformes à la structure du câblage générique spécifié dans les documents spécifiques aux locaux des EN 50173-2 à EN 50173-6; b) les exigences de transmission de canaux et de performances d’environnement, y compris celles incluses en faisant référence à l'EN 50173-1. NOTE Les configurations du présent document ne remplacent pas les solutions de câblage générique des EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 et EN 50173-6. Les procédures d’essai visant à vérifier la conformité des configurations de câblage à paires symétriques aux exigences de performances de transmission du câblage, données dans le présent document, sont détaillées dans l'EN 50697. Les exigences relatives à la sécurité et à la compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) ne relèvent pas du domaine d’application du présent document et sont couvertes par d’autres normes et réglementations.
Informacijska tehnologija - Generični kabelski sistemi - 20. del: Alternativne kabelske konfiguracije
Ta dokument določa:
a) kabelske konfiguracije s komponentami, ki izpolnjujejo zahteve standarda EN 50173-1, vendar niso v skladu s strukturo generičnih kablov, določenih v delih standarda EN 50173-X, ki se navezujejo na prostore;
b) zahteve za kanalni prenos in okoljske lastnosti, vključno s tistimi, ki se sklicujejo na standard EN 50173-1.
Preskusni postopki za preverjanje skladnosti uravnoteženih kabelskih konfiguracij z zahtevami glede zmogljivosti kabelskega prenosa iz tega dokumenta so navedeni v predlogu standarda prEN 50697.
Varnostne zahteve in zahteve za elektromagnetno združljivost (EMC) ne spadajo na področje uporabe tega dokumenta ter so obravnavane v drugih standardih in predpisih. Vendar so lahko informacije iz tega dokumenta v pomoč pri izpolnjevanju teh standardov in predpisov.
1.2 Skladnost
Za napeljavo kablov v skladu s tem dokumentom velja naslednje:
a) Konfiguracija in struktura kablov je v skladu z zahtevami iz točke 4.
b) Okoljske lastnosti izpolnjujejo zahteve iz točke 5.1.
c) Zmogljivost prenosa izpolnjuje zahteve iz točke 5.2.
Za uravnotežene kable so preskusne metode za oceno skladnosti z zahtevami glede zmogljivosti prenosa določene v predlogu standarda prEN 50697.
Za optične kable so preskusne metode za oceno skladnosti z zahtevami glede zmogljivosti prenosa določene v dodatkih A, B in C.
d) Izpolnjene so zahteve skupine standardov EN 50174 in EN 50310.
Ta dokument podaja zahteve in priporočila za preskušanje, medtem ko so zahteve za ravni vzorčenja navedene v dodatku F standarda EN 50174-1:2018.
Preskusni parametri, ki jih je treba izmeriti, ravni vzorčenja in obdelava rezultatov meritev, ki se uporabljajo za določeno inštalacijo, so opredeljeni v specifikaciji naprave in načrtih kakovosti za to inštalacijo, pripravljenih v skladu s standardom EN 50174-1.
General Information
Overview
EN 50173-20:2022 - Information technology · Generic cabling systems · Part 20: Alternative cabling configurations (CLC / CENELEC) defines permitted cabling arrangements that use components conforming to EN 50173-1 but do not follow the premises-specific generic cabling topologies of EN 50173‑2 to EN 50173‑6. The standard sets channel transmission and environmental performance requirements for these alternative configurations and references test methods (notably EN 50697) to verify conformance. Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) are outside its scope.
Key topics and requirements
- Defined configurations
- Direct attach cabling: cables with free connectors at both ends that connect two pieces of equipment without intermediate hardware.
- End-to-end (E2E) links: transmission paths terminated with free connectors at both ends; can include structured cabling portions.
- Modular plug terminated links (MPTL): links with a free connector on one end and a fixed connector on the other.
- Performance requirements
- Transmission and environmental performance criteria for both balanced cabling and optical fibre are specified (balanced cabling performance is expressed by Class to show application support per EN 50173-1).
- Optical fibre performance references application support parameters in EN 50173-1; specific fibre test methods are included in annexes.
- Conformance & testing
- Test procedures for balanced cabling conformance are provided in EN 50697; normative annexes (A–D) cover transmission limits for direct attach, E2E and MPTL and testing regimes.
- Scope limits
- The document does not replace the premises‑specific EN 50173 parts; EMC and safety compliance must be addressed by other standards and regulations.
Practical applications
EN 50173-20:2022 is intended where the structured generic cabling model is impractical or not required - for example, direct equipment-to-equipment connections, short end-to-end runs, or links terminated with modular plugs. Use cases include flexible installations in offices, industrial zones, or retrofit projects where standard structured layouts cannot be implemented but predictable transmission performance is still required.
Who should use this standard
- Network designers and system architects specifying non‑standard cabling topologies
- Cabling installers and contractors implementing alternative link types
- Test laboratories and quality-assurance teams verifying transmission performance (using EN 50697)
- Manufacturers of cabling components and connectors seeking conformity guidance
Related standards
- EN 50173-1 (general requirements)
- EN 50173-2 … EN 50173-6 (premises‑specific generic cabling)
- EN 50697 (test procedures for E2E, MPTL, direct attach)
- EN 50174 series (installation planning and quality)
- EN 50310 (bonding and earthing requirements)
Keywords: EN 50173-20:2022, alternative cabling configurations, direct attach cabling, E2E link, MPTL, balanced cabling, optical fibre, transmission performance, EN 50697, EN 50173 series.
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 50173-20:2022 is a standard published by CLC. Its full title is "Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling configurations". This standard covers: This document specifies: a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6; b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to EN 50173-1. NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6. Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697. Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are covered by other standards and regulations.
This document specifies: a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6; b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to EN 50173-1. NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6. Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697. Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are covered by other standards and regulations.
EN 50173-20:2022 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 35.110 - Networking. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
You can purchase EN 50173-20:2022 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of CLC standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2023
Informacijska tehnologija - Generični kabelski sistemi - 20. del: Alternativne
kabelske konfiguracije
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling
configurations
Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20:
Alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage générique - Partie 20:
Configurations alternatives de câblage
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 50173-20:2022
ICS:
33.040.50 Vodi, zveze in tokokrogi Lines, connections and
circuits
35.110 Omreževanje Networking
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 50173-20
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM October 2022
ICS 35.110
English Version
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20:
Alternative cabling configurations
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale
générique - Partie 20: Configurations alternatives de Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20: Alternative
câblage Verkabelungskonfigurationen
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2022-10-17. 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 CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre 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 CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2022 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN 50173-20:2022 E
Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 8
3.1 Terms and definitions . 8
3.2 Abbreviations . 9
3.3 Symbols . 9
4 Conformance . 10
5 Cabling configurations . 10
5.1 Direct attach cabling . 10
5.1.1 General . 10
5.1.2 Performance requirements . 11
5.1.3 Design objectives . 11
5.2 End-to-end (E2E) link . 12
5.2.1 General . 12
5.2.2 Performance requirements . 13
5.2.3 Design objectives . 13
5.3 Modular plug terminated links (MPTL) . 14
5.3.1 General . 14
5.3.2 Performance requirements . 15
5.3.3 Design objectives . 15
6 Cabling performance . 16
6.1 Environmental performance . 16
6.2 Transmission performance . 16
6.2.1 Balanced cabling performance . 16
6.2.2 Optical fibre cabling performance . 17
7 Performance verification . 17
Annex A (normative) Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling . 18
A.1 Balanced cabling of Class D to Class II . 18
A.2 Optical fibre cabling . 19
Annex B (normative) Transmission performance limits for E2E links . 20
B.1 Balanced cabling . 20
B.2 Optical fibre cabling . 21
Annex C (normative) Transmission performance limits for modular plug terminated links . 22
C.1 Balanced cabling . 22
C.2 Optical fibre cabling . 23
Annex D (normative) Testing procedures to assess conformance . 24
D.1 General . 24
D.2 Performance testing . 24
Bibliography . 28
Figures
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards . 6
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration. 10
Figure 3 — E2E link configurations . 13
Figure 4 — MPTL configuration . 14
Tables
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for information
technology cabling systems . 6
Table A.1 — Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling of Class D to Class II. 18
Table B.1 — Transmission performance requirements for E2E links . 20
Table C.1 — Transmission performance requirements for MPTL of Class D to Class II . 22
Table D.1 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for balanced cabling . 26
Table D.2 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for optical fibre cabling . 27
European foreword
This document (EN 50173-20:2022) has been prepared by CLC/TC 215, "Electrotechnical aspects of
telecommunication equipment".
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which this document has to be (dop) 2023-10-17
implemented at national level by publication of
an identical national standard or by
endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards (dow) 2025-10-17
conflicting with this document have to be
withdrawn
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national committee. A complete
listing of these bodies can be found on the CENELEC website.
Introduction
This document contains requirements for cabling configurations which use cabling components meeting the
requirements of EN 50173-1 but in configurations that do not conform to the structure of generic cabling in the
premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6.
These configurations are described as:
a) direct attach cabling;
b) end-to-end (E2E) links;
c) modular plug terminated links (MPTL).
The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using balanced cabling components is
specified in terms of Class in order to indicate their ability to support the relevant applications of EN 50173-1.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using optical fibre cabling components is
not specified and refers the application support parameters of EN 50173-1.
Remote powering is covered in EN 50174-1 (Planning) and in EN 50174-2 (installation).
The cabling configurations of this document are passive systems and cannot be tested for EMC compliance
individually. Application-specific equipment, designed for one or more cabling media, is required to meet
relevant EMC standards on those media. Care should be taken that the installation of any of those media in a
cabling system does not degrade the characteristics of the cabling. The installation methods of EN 50174
series should be used to minimise the effect of electromagnetic disturbances.
Figure 1 and Table 1 show the schematic and contextual relationships between the standards produced by
TC 215 for information technology cabling, namely:
1) this and other parts of the EN 50173 series;
2) installation (EN 50174 series);
3) bonding (EN 50310).
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for
information technology cabling systems
Building design Generic cabling Specification Installation Operation phase
phase design phase phase phase
EN 50174-1
Planning phase
EN 50174-2
EN 50173-XX
EN 50310 EN 50174-3 EN 50174-1
EN 50174-2
EN 50310
EN 50174-3
EN 50310
In addition, a number of Technical Reports have been developed to support or extend the application of these
standards, including:
— CLC/TR 50173-99-1, Cabling guidelines in support of 10 GBASE-T;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-2, Information technology — Implementation of BCT applications using cabling in
accordance with EN 50173-4;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-3, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 99-3: Home cabling
infrastructures up to 50 m in length to support simultaneous and non simultaneous provision of
applications.
In addition, a number of cabling design standards have been developed using components of EN 50173-1 (e.g.
EN 50098 series and EN 50700).
1 Scope
This document specifies:
a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not
conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to
EN 50173-6;
b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to
EN 50173-1.
NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission
performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697.
Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are
covered by other standards and regulations.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements 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.
EN 50173-1:2018, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 1: General requirements
EN 50174-1:2018, Information technology — Cabling installation — Part 1: Installation specification and quality
assurance
EN 50174 (series), Information technology — Cabling installation
EN 50310, Telecommunications bonding networks for buildings and other structures
EN 50697, Information technology — Measurement of end-to-end links, modular plug terminated links and
direct attach cabling
EN 60603-7(series), Connectors for electronic equipment — Part 7: Detail specification for 8-way, shielded,
free and fixed connectors
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the terms and definitions of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following
apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
As impacted by EN 50174-1:2018/A1:2020.
3.1.1
bulkhead connector
connection that serves as an interconnection point located through an enclosure wall
3.1.2
direct attach cabling
cable with free connectors at each end, and with no intermediate connecting hardware, that connects two
pieces of equipment
3.1.3
end-to-end link
end-to-end transmission path terminated with a free connector on each end
Note 1 to entry: It can be formed by structured cabling based on passive components including the portion of the end
connection that is attached to the link and the portion of the end connection that is attached to the end equipment.
3.1.4
modular plug terminated link
link terminated with a free connector on one end and a fixed connector at the other end
3.2 Abbreviations
For the purposes of this document the abbreviations of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following apply.
CA coupling attenuation
E2E end-to-end
ffs for further study
MPTL modular plug terminated link
3.3 Symbols
For the purposes of this document the following symbols apply.
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by ≥ 0,1 m (acting as two
connections)
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by < 0,1 m (acting as one
connection)
connection
fixed connector
free connector
4 Conformance
For a cabling to conform to this document the following applies:
a) The configuration and structure of the cabling shall conform to the requirements of Clause 5.
b) The environmental performance shall meet the requirements of 6.1.
c) The transmission performance shall meet the requirements of 6.2.
For balanced cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in EN 50697.
For optical fibre cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in Annexes A, B and C.
d) The requirements of EN 50174 series standards and EN 50310 shall be met.
This document provides the requirements and recommendations for testing, while the sampling levels shall
comply with EN 50174-1:2018, Annex F.
The test parameters to be measured, the sampling levels and the treatment of measured results to be applied
for a particular installation shall be defined in the installation specification and quality plans for that installation
prepared in accordance with EN 50174-1.
5 Cabling configurations
5.1 Direct attach cabling
5.1.1 General
Direct attach cabling can be used to connect items of information technology equipment but does not constitute
any part of, and cannot be exchanged with any part of, the generic cabling structures specified in EN 50173-2,
EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 or EN 50173-6.
The configuration of direct attach cabling is shown in Figure 2 and comprises a length L of cable terminated in
free connectors. As a result, it can have the physical attributes of an equipment cord or patch cord as defined
in EN 50173-1 but its function is different.
The performance of the terminating free connectors is included in the specification of direct attach cabling.
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration
5.1.2 Performance requirements
5.1.2.1 Balanced direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.1.1 and 6.2.1.2.
5.1.2.2 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.2.1 and 6.2.2.2.
5.1.3 Design objectives
5.1.3.1 General
Direct attach cabling connects a single port of one device to a single port of another device.
Although direct attach cabling can appear a simple and cost-effective method of providing connections, for
several reasons this cabling type should only be used for connections within the same or adjacent cabinets,
frames or racks.
Direct attach cabling is often not reusable as equipment types and locations change and a particular direct
attach cabling can have a limited lifetime. Continuous changes to the required interconnections increase both
the planning and the operational resources required for each change and increases the risk of interfering with
other infrastructures - including those for environmental control.
Direct attach cabling shall only be used subject to the following restrictions:
a) the mechanical performance of cables used for direct attach cabling shall meet the requirements of the
installation environment (e.g. pathway systems);
b) free connectors shall be protected against damage during installation, disconnection or removal;
c) direct attach cabling shall be managed so as to avoid mechanical damage and/or accidental disconnection
to adjacent connections during insertion or removal;
d) direct attach cabling shall be labelled at both ends to show their origin and destination in accordance with
the level 3 administration requirements of EN 50174-1:2018 ;
e) the impact of direct attach cabling on the fire load of cabling shall be assessed and mitigation provided if
necessary;
f) direct attach cabling shall not be located where they restrict cooling airflow towards active equipment.
5.1.3.2 Balanced direct attach cabling
Balanced direct attach cabling can be employed to connect any two items of information technology equipment.
Balanced cabling implementations provide generic application support for the transmission of information using
an application listed in EN 50173-1:2018, Annex F, and belonging to Classes A to F , I and II.
A
A more obvious, and lower risk, solution would be to use a factory-terminated cord of the required Category
necessary to deliver the required application Class as specified in EN 50173-1.
Where there are concerns about the “installability” of a pre-terminated cable, e.g. due to routing restrictions, a
user can terminate a cable in-situ. In such a situation the user can obtain knowledge regarding the performance
of the terminating free connectors applied to the cable following its installation.
The performance requirements are specified in Annex A, because direct attach cabling is required to act as a
direct connection rather than a component within a cabling subsystem.
The transmission performance requirements of Annex A are different to those of a patch cord of
EN 50173-1:2018, Clause 9, being more comprehensive but not as stringent as those of a cord in accordance
with EN 50173-1.
As a result, compliance of direct attach cabling to the performance requirements of Annex A does not allow
direct attach cabling to be used as cords within any generic cabling channel since they deplete the channel
performance preventing any other cabling components to be included within the channel.
Where direct attach cabling is proposed to be used but which could be confused with the cords of generic
cabling then either:
a) the direct attach cabling shall be labelled or otherwise identified to indicate its nature;
b) cords in accordance with EN 50173-1 (of the appropriate Category) shall be used in place of the direct
attach cabling.
Failure to apply one of these solutions would risk potential disruption to generic cabling function and associated
costs of downtime and fault-finding.
5.1.3.3 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
Optical fibre direct attach cabling shall be constructed using components with performance specified in
EN 50173-1.
As such optical fibre direct attach cabling is required to meet the requirements of a cord in accordance with
EN 50173-1. However, it may only be exchanged with a cord within any generic cabling cha
...
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2023
Informacijska tehnologija - Generični kabelski sistemi - 20. del: Alternativne
kabelske konfiguracije
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling
configurations
Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20:
Alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage générique - Partie 20:
Configurations alternatives de câblage
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 50173-20:2022
ICS:
33.040.50 Vodi, zveze in tokokrogi Lines, connections and
circuits
35.110 Omreževanje Networking
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 50173-20
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM October 2022
ICS 35.110
English Version
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20:
Alternative cabling configurations
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale
générique - Partie 20: Configurations alternatives de Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20: Alternative
câblage Verkabelungskonfigurationen
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2022-10-17. 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 CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre 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 CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2022 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN 50173-20:2022 E
Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 8
3.1 Terms and definitions . 8
3.2 Abbreviations . 9
3.3 Symbols . 9
4 Conformance . 10
5 Cabling configurations . 10
5.1 Direct attach cabling . 10
5.1.1 General . 10
5.1.2 Performance requirements . 11
5.1.3 Design objectives . 11
5.2 End-to-end (E2E) link . 12
5.2.1 General . 12
5.2.2 Performance requirements . 13
5.2.3 Design objectives . 13
5.3 Modular plug terminated links (MPTL) . 14
5.3.1 General . 14
5.3.2 Performance requirements . 15
5.3.3 Design objectives . 15
6 Cabling performance . 16
6.1 Environmental performance . 16
6.2 Transmission performance . 16
6.2.1 Balanced cabling performance . 16
6.2.2 Optical fibre cabling performance . 17
7 Performance verification . 17
Annex A (normative) Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling . 18
A.1 Balanced cabling of Class D to Class II . 18
A.2 Optical fibre cabling . 19
Annex B (normative) Transmission performance limits for E2E links . 20
B.1 Balanced cabling . 20
B.2 Optical fibre cabling . 21
Annex C (normative) Transmission performance limits for modular plug terminated links . 22
C.1 Balanced cabling . 22
C.2 Optical fibre cabling . 23
Annex D (normative) Testing procedures to assess conformance . 24
D.1 General . 24
D.2 Performance testing . 24
Bibliography . 28
Figures
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards . 6
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration. 10
Figure 3 — E2E link configurations . 13
Figure 4 — MPTL configuration . 14
Tables
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for information
technology cabling systems . 6
Table A.1 — Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling of Class D to Class II. 18
Table B.1 — Transmission performance requirements for E2E links . 20
Table C.1 — Transmission performance requirements for MPTL of Class D to Class II . 22
Table D.1 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for balanced cabling . 26
Table D.2 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for optical fibre cabling . 27
European foreword
This document (EN 50173-20:2022) has been prepared by CLC/TC 215, "Electrotechnical aspects of
telecommunication equipment".
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which this document has to be (dop) 2023-10-17
implemented at national level by publication of
an identical national standard or by
endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards (dow) 2025-10-17
conflicting with this document have to be
withdrawn
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national committee. A complete
listing of these bodies can be found on the CENELEC website.
Introduction
This document contains requirements for cabling configurations which use cabling components meeting the
requirements of EN 50173-1 but in configurations that do not conform to the structure of generic cabling in the
premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6.
These configurations are described as:
a) direct attach cabling;
b) end-to-end (E2E) links;
c) modular plug terminated links (MPTL).
The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using balanced cabling components is
specified in terms of Class in order to indicate their ability to support the relevant applications of EN 50173-1.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using optical fibre cabling components is
not specified and refers the application support parameters of EN 50173-1.
Remote powering is covered in EN 50174-1 (Planning) and in EN 50174-2 (installation).
The cabling configurations of this document are passive systems and cannot be tested for EMC compliance
individually. Application-specific equipment, designed for one or more cabling media, is required to meet
relevant EMC standards on those media. Care should be taken that the installation of any of those media in a
cabling system does not degrade the characteristics of the cabling. The installation methods of EN 50174
series should be used to minimise the effect of electromagnetic disturbances.
Figure 1 and Table 1 show the schematic and contextual relationships between the standards produced by
TC 215 for information technology cabling, namely:
1) this and other parts of the EN 50173 series;
2) installation (EN 50174 series);
3) bonding (EN 50310).
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for
information technology cabling systems
Building design Generic cabling Specification Installation Operation phase
phase design phase phase phase
EN 50174-1
Planning phase
EN 50174-2
EN 50173-XX
EN 50310 EN 50174-3 EN 50174-1
EN 50174-2
EN 50310
EN 50174-3
EN 50310
In addition, a number of Technical Reports have been developed to support or extend the application of these
standards, including:
— CLC/TR 50173-99-1, Cabling guidelines in support of 10 GBASE-T;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-2, Information technology — Implementation of BCT applications using cabling in
accordance with EN 50173-4;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-3, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 99-3: Home cabling
infrastructures up to 50 m in length to support simultaneous and non simultaneous provision of
applications.
In addition, a number of cabling design standards have been developed using components of EN 50173-1 (e.g.
EN 50098 series and EN 50700).
1 Scope
This document specifies:
a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not
conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to
EN 50173-6;
b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to
EN 50173-1.
NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission
performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697.
Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are
covered by other standards and regulations.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements 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.
EN 50173-1:2018, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 1: General requirements
EN 50174-1:2018, Information technology — Cabling installation — Part 1: Installation specification and quality
assurance
EN 50174 (series), Information technology — Cabling installation
EN 50310, Telecommunications bonding networks for buildings and other structures
EN 50697, Information technology — Measurement of end-to-end links, modular plug terminated links and
direct attach cabling
EN 60603-7(series), Connectors for electronic equipment — Part 7: Detail specification for 8-way, shielded,
free and fixed connectors
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the terms and definitions of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following
apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
As impacted by EN 50174-1:2018/A1:2020.
3.1.1
bulkhead connector
connection that serves as an interconnection point located through an enclosure wall
3.1.2
direct attach cabling
cable with free connectors at each end, and with no intermediate connecting hardware, that connects two
pieces of equipment
3.1.3
end-to-end link
end-to-end transmission path terminated with a free connector on each end
Note 1 to entry: It can be formed by structured cabling based on passive components including the portion of the end
connection that is attached to the link and the portion of the end connection that is attached to the end equipment.
3.1.4
modular plug terminated link
link terminated with a free connector on one end and a fixed connector at the other end
3.2 Abbreviations
For the purposes of this document the abbreviations of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following apply.
CA coupling attenuation
E2E end-to-end
ffs for further study
MPTL modular plug terminated link
3.3 Symbols
For the purposes of this document the following symbols apply.
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by ≥ 0,1 m (acting as two
connections)
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by < 0,1 m (acting as one
connection)
connection
fixed connector
free connector
4 Conformance
For a cabling to conform to this document the following applies:
a) The configuration and structure of the cabling shall conform to the requirements of Clause 5.
b) The environmental performance shall meet the requirements of 6.1.
c) The transmission performance shall meet the requirements of 6.2.
For balanced cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in EN 50697.
For optical fibre cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in Annexes A, B and C.
d) The requirements of EN 50174 series standards and EN 50310 shall be met.
This document provides the requirements and recommendations for testing, while the sampling levels shall
comply with EN 50174-1:2018, Annex F.
The test parameters to be measured, the sampling levels and the treatment of measured results to be applied
for a particular installation shall be defined in the installation specification and quality plans for that installation
prepared in accordance with EN 50174-1.
5 Cabling configurations
5.1 Direct attach cabling
5.1.1 General
Direct attach cabling can be used to connect items of information technology equipment but does not constitute
any part of, and cannot be exchanged with any part of, the generic cabling structures specified in EN 50173-2,
EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 or EN 50173-6.
The configuration of direct attach cabling is shown in Figure 2 and comprises a length L of cable terminated in
free connectors. As a result, it can have the physical attributes of an equipment cord or patch cord as defined
in EN 50173-1 but its function is different.
The performance of the terminating free connectors is included in the specification of direct attach cabling.
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration
5.1.2 Performance requirements
5.1.2.1 Balanced direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.1.1 and 6.2.1.2.
5.1.2.2 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.2.1 and 6.2.2.2.
5.1.3 Design objectives
5.1.3.1 General
Direct attach cabling connects a single port of one device to a single port of another device.
Although direct attach cabling can appear a simple and cost-effective method of providing connections, for
several reasons this cabling type should only be used for connections within the same or adjacent cabinets,
frames or racks.
Direct attach cabling is often not reusable as equipment types and locations change and a particular direct
attach cabling can have a limited lifetime. Continuous changes to the required interconnections increase both
the planning and the operational resources required for each change and increases the risk of interfering with
other infrastructures - including those for environmental control.
Direct attach cabling shall only be used subject to the following restrictions:
a) the mechanical performance of cables used for direct attach cabling shall meet the requirements of the
installation environment (e.g. pathway systems);
b) free connectors shall be protected against damage during installation, disconnection or removal;
c) direct attach cabling shall be managed so as to avoid mechanical damage and/or accidental disconnection
to adjacent connections during insertion or removal;
d) direct attach cabling shall be labelled at both ends to show their origin and destination in accordance with
the level 3 administration requirements of EN 50174-1:2018 ;
e) the impact of direct attach cabling on the fire load of cabling shall be assessed and mitigation provided if
necessary;
f) direct attach cabling shall not be located where they restrict cooling airflow towards active equipment.
5.1.3.2 Balanced direct attach cabling
Balanced direct attach cabling can be employed to connect any two items of information technology equipment.
Balanced cabling implementations provide generic application support for the transmission of information using
an application listed in EN 50173-1:2018, Annex F, and belonging to Classes A to F , I and II.
A
A more obvious, and lower risk, solution would be to use a factory-terminated cord of the required Category
necessary to deliver the required application Class as specified in EN 50173-1.
Where there are concerns about the “installability” of a pre-terminated cable, e.g. due to routing restrictions, a
user can terminate a cable in-situ. In such a situation the user can obtain knowledge regarding the performance
of the terminating free connectors applied to the cable following its installation.
The performance requirements are specified in Annex A, because direct attach cabling is required to act as a
direct connection rather than a component within a cabling subsystem.
The transmission performance requirements of Annex A are different to those of a patch cord of
EN 50173-1:2018, Clause 9, being more comprehensive but not as stringent as those of a cord in accordance
with EN 50173-1.
As a result, compliance of direct attach cabling to the performance requirements of Annex A does not allow
direct attach cabling to be used as cords within any generic cabling channel since they deplete the channel
performance preventing any other cabling components to be included within the channel.
Where direct attach cabling is proposed to be used but which could be confused with the cords of generic
cabling then either:
a) the direct attach cabling shall be labelled or otherwise identified to indicate its nature;
b) cords in accordance with EN 50173-1 (of the appropriate Category) shall be used in place of the direct
attach cabling.
Failure to apply one of these solutions would risk potential disruption to generic cabling function and associated
costs of downtime and fault-finding.
5.1.3.3 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
Optical fibre direct attach cabling shall be constructed using components with performance specified in
EN 50173-1.
As such optical fibre direct attach cabling is required to meet the requirements of a cord in accordance with
EN 50173-1. However, it may only be exchanged with a cord within any generic cabling cha
...
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-januar-2023
Informacijska tehnologija - Osnovni kabelski sistemi - 20. del: Alternativne
kabelske konfiguracije
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20: Alternative cabling
configurations
Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20:
Alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage générique - Partie 20:
Configurations alternatives de câblage
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 50173-20:2022
ICS:
33.040.50 Vodi, zveze in tokokrogi Lines, connections and
circuits
35.110 Omreževanje Networking
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 50173-20
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM October 2022
ICS 35.110
English Version
Information technology - Generic cabling systems - Part 20:
Alternative cabling configurations
Technologies de l'information - Systèmes de câblage Informationstechnik - Anwendungsneutrale
générique - Partie 20: Configurations alternatives de Kommunikationskabelanlagen - Teil 20: Alternative
câblage Verkabelungskonfigurationen
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2022-10-17. 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 CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre 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 CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2022 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN 50173-20:2022 E
Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 5
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 8
3.1 Terms and definitions . 8
3.2 Abbreviations . 9
3.3 Symbols . 9
4 Conformance . 10
5 Cabling configurations . 10
5.1 Direct attach cabling . 10
5.1.1 General . 10
5.1.2 Performance requirements . 11
5.1.3 Design objectives . 11
5.2 End-to-end (E2E) link . 12
5.2.1 General . 12
5.2.2 Performance requirements . 13
5.2.3 Design objectives . 13
5.3 Modular plug terminated links (MPTL) . 14
5.3.1 General . 14
5.3.2 Performance requirements . 15
5.3.3 Design objectives . 15
6 Cabling performance . 16
6.1 Environmental performance . 16
6.2 Transmission performance . 16
6.2.1 Balanced cabling performance . 16
6.2.2 Optical fibre cabling performance . 17
7 Performance verification . 17
Annex A (normative) Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling . 18
A.1 Balanced cabling of Class D to Class II . 18
A.2 Optical fibre cabling . 19
Annex B (normative) Transmission performance limits for E2E links . 20
B.1 Balanced cabling . 20
B.2 Optical fibre cabling . 21
Annex C (normative) Transmission performance limits for modular plug terminated links . 22
C.1 Balanced cabling . 22
C.2 Optical fibre cabling . 23
Annex D (normative) Testing procedures to assess conformance . 24
D.1 General . 24
D.2 Performance testing . 24
Bibliography . 28
Figures
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards . 6
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration. 10
Figure 3 — E2E link configurations . 13
Figure 4 — MPTL configuration . 14
Tables
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for information
technology cabling systems . 6
Table A.1 — Transmission performance requirements for direct attach cabling of Class D to Class II. 18
Table B.1 — Transmission performance requirements for E2E links . 20
Table C.1 — Transmission performance requirements for MPTL of Class D to Class II . 22
Table D.1 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for balanced cabling . 26
Table D.2 — Test regime for reference conformance and installation conformance for optical fibre cabling . 27
European foreword
This document (EN 50173-20:2022) has been prepared by CLC/TC 215, "Electrotechnical aspects of
telecommunication equipment".
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which this document has to be (dop) 2023-10-17
implemented at national level by publication of
an identical national standard or by
endorsement
• latest date by which the national standards (dow) 2025-10-17
conflicting with this document have to be
withdrawn
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national committee. A complete
listing of these bodies can be found on the CENELEC website.
Introduction
This document contains requirements for cabling configurations which use cabling components meeting the
requirements of EN 50173-1 but in configurations that do not conform to the structure of generic cabling in the
premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6.
These configurations are described as:
a) direct attach cabling;
b) end-to-end (E2E) links;
c) modular plug terminated links (MPTL).
The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using balanced cabling components is
specified in terms of Class in order to indicate their ability to support the relevant applications of EN 50173-1.
The transmission performance of these configurations implemented using optical fibre cabling components is
not specified and refers the application support parameters of EN 50173-1.
Remote powering is covered in EN 50174-1 (Planning) and in EN 50174-2 (installation).
The cabling configurations of this document are passive systems and cannot be tested for EMC compliance
individually. Application-specific equipment, designed for one or more cabling media, is required to meet
relevant EMC standards on those media. Care should be taken that the installation of any of those media in a
cabling system does not degrade the characteristics of the cabling. The installation methods of EN 50174
series should be used to minimise the effect of electromagnetic disturbances.
Figure 1 and Table 1 show the schematic and contextual relationships between the standards produced by
TC 215 for information technology cabling, namely:
1) this and other parts of the EN 50173 series;
2) installation (EN 50174 series);
3) bonding (EN 50310).
Figure 1 — Schematic relationship between the EN 50173 series and other relevant standards
Table 1 — Contextual relationship between EN 50173 series and other standards relevant for
information technology cabling systems
Building design Generic cabling Specification Installation Operation phase
phase design phase phase phase
EN 50174-1
Planning phase
EN 50174-2
EN 50173-XX
EN 50310 EN 50174-3 EN 50174-1
EN 50174-2
EN 50310
EN 50174-3
EN 50310
In addition, a number of Technical Reports have been developed to support or extend the application of these
standards, including:
— CLC/TR 50173-99-1, Cabling guidelines in support of 10 GBASE-T;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-2, Information technology — Implementation of BCT applications using cabling in
accordance with EN 50173-4;
— CLC/TR 50173-99-3, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 99-3: Home cabling
infrastructures up to 50 m in length to support simultaneous and non simultaneous provision of
applications.
In addition, a number of cabling design standards have been developed using components of EN 50173-1 (e.g.
EN 50098 series and EN 50700).
1 Scope
This document specifies:
a) configurations of cabling which use components meeting the requirements of EN 50173-1 but do not
conform to the structure of generic cabling specified in the premises-specific documents EN 50173-2 to
EN 50173-6;
b) channel transmission and environmental performance requirements including those by reference to
EN 50173-1.
NOTE The configurations of this document do not replace the generic cabling solutions of EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3,
EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 and EN 50173-6.
Test procedures to verify conformance of the balanced cabling configurations to the cabling transmission
performance requirements of this document are provided in EN 50697.
Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are outside the scope of this document and are
covered by other standards and regulations.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements 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.
EN 50173-1:2018, Information technology — Generic cabling systems — Part 1: General requirements
EN 50174-1:2018, Information technology — Cabling installation — Part 1: Installation specification and quality
assurance
EN 50174 (series), Information technology — Cabling installation
EN 50310, Telecommunications bonding networks for buildings and other structures
EN 50697, Information technology — Measurement of end-to-end links, modular plug terminated links and
direct attach cabling
EN 60603-7(series), Connectors for electronic equipment — Part 7: Detail specification for 8-way, shielded,
free and fixed connectors
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the terms and definitions of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following
apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
As impacted by EN 50174-1:2018/A1:2020.
3.1.1
bulkhead connector
connection that serves as an interconnection point located through an enclosure wall
3.1.2
direct attach cabling
cable with free connectors at each end, and with no intermediate connecting hardware, that connects two
pieces of equipment
3.1.3
end-to-end link
end-to-end transmission path terminated with a free connector on each end
Note 1 to entry: It can be formed by structured cabling based on passive components including the portion of the end
connection that is attached to the link and the portion of the end connection that is attached to the end equipment.
3.1.4
modular plug terminated link
link terminated with a free connector on one end and a fixed connector at the other end
3.2 Abbreviations
For the purposes of this document the abbreviations of EN 50173-1 and EN 50174-1 and the following apply.
CA coupling attenuation
E2E end-to-end
ffs for further study
MPTL modular plug terminated link
3.3 Symbols
For the purposes of this document the following symbols apply.
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by ≥ 0,1 m (acting as two
connections)
bulkhead connector assembly with connections separated by < 0,1 m (acting as one
connection)
connection
fixed connector
free connector
4 Conformance
For a cabling to conform to this document the following applies:
a) The configuration and structure of the cabling shall conform to the requirements of Clause 5.
b) The environmental performance shall meet the requirements of 6.1.
c) The transmission performance shall meet the requirements of 6.2.
For balanced cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in EN 50697.
For optical fibre cabling, test methods to assess conformance with the transmission performance
requirements are specified in Annexes A, B and C.
d) The requirements of EN 50174 series standards and EN 50310 shall be met.
This document provides the requirements and recommendations for testing, while the sampling levels shall
comply with EN 50174-1:2018, Annex F.
The test parameters to be measured, the sampling levels and the treatment of measured results to be applied
for a particular installation shall be defined in the installation specification and quality plans for that installation
prepared in accordance with EN 50174-1.
5 Cabling configurations
5.1 Direct attach cabling
5.1.1 General
Direct attach cabling can be used to connect items of information technology equipment but does not constitute
any part of, and cannot be exchanged with any part of, the generic cabling structures specified in EN 50173-2,
EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 or EN 50173-6.
The configuration of direct attach cabling is shown in Figure 2 and comprises a length L of cable terminated in
free connectors. As a result, it can have the physical attributes of an equipment cord or patch cord as defined
in EN 50173-1 but its function is different.
The performance of the terminating free connectors is included in the specification of direct attach cabling.
Figure 2 — Direct attach cabling configuration
5.1.2 Performance requirements
5.1.2.1 Balanced direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.1.1 and 6.2.1.2.
5.1.2.2 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
See 6.1, 6.2.2.1 and 6.2.2.2.
5.1.3 Design objectives
5.1.3.1 General
Direct attach cabling connects a single port of one device to a single port of another device.
Although direct attach cabling can appear a simple and cost-effective method of providing connections, for
several reasons this cabling type should only be used for connections within the same or adjacent cabinets,
frames or racks.
Direct attach cabling is often not reusable as equipment types and locations change and a particular direct
attach cabling can have a limited lifetime. Continuous changes to the required interconnections increase both
the planning and the operational resources required for each change and increases the risk of interfering with
other infrastructures - including those for environmental control.
Direct attach cabling shall only be used subject to the following restrictions:
a) the mechanical performance of cables used for direct attach cabling shall meet the requirements of the
installation environment (e.g. pathway systems);
b) free connectors shall be protected against damage during installation, disconnection or removal;
c) direct attach cabling shall be managed so as to avoid mechanical damage and/or accidental disconnection
to adjacent connections during insertion or removal;
d) direct attach cabling shall be labelled at both ends to show their origin and destination in accordance with
the level 3 administration requirements of EN 50174-1:2018 ;
e) the impact of direct attach cabling on the fire load of cabling shall be assessed and mitigation provided if
necessary;
f) direct attach cabling shall not be located where they restrict cooling airflow towards active equipment.
5.1.3.2 Balanced direct attach cabling
Balanced direct attach cabling can be employed to connect any two items of information technology equipment.
Balanced cabling implementations provide generic application support for the transmission of information using
an application listed in EN 50173-1:2018, Annex F, and belonging to Classes A to F , I and II.
A
A more obvious, and lower risk, solution would be to use a factory-terminated cord of the required Category
necessary to deliver the required application Class as specified in EN 50173-1.
Where there are concerns about the “installability” of a pre-terminated cable, e.g. due to routing restrictions, a
user can terminate a cable in-situ. In such a situation the user can obtain knowledge regarding the performance
of the terminating free connectors applied to the cable following its installation.
The performance requirements are specified in Annex A, because direct attach cabling is required to act as a
direct connection rather than a component within a cabling subsystem.
The transmission performance requirements of Annex A are different to those of a patch cord of
EN 50173-1:2018, Clause 9, being more comprehensive but not as stringent as those of a cord in accordance
with EN 50173-1.
As a result, compliance of direct attach cabling to the performance requirements of Annex A does not allow
direct attach cabling to be used as cords within any generic cabling channel since they deplete the channel
performance preventing any other cabling components to be included within the channel.
Where direct attach cabling is proposed to be used but which could be confused with the cords of generic
cabling then either:
a) the direct attach cabling shall be labelled or otherwise identified to indicate its nature;
b) cords in accordance with EN 50173-1 (of the appropriate Category) shall be used in place of the direct
attach cabling.
Failure to apply one of these solutions would risk potential disruption to generic cabling function and associated
costs of downtime and fault-finding.
5.1.3.3 Optical fibre direct attach cabling
Optical fibre direct attach cabling shall be constructed using components with performance specified in
EN 50173-1.
As such optical fibre direct attach cabling is required to meet the requirements of a cord in accordance with
EN 50173-1. However, it may only be exchanged with a cord within any generic cabling chan
...
Die Norm EN 50173-20:2022 bietet eine umfassende Spezifikation für alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen innerhalb von Informationssystemen. Der Geltungsbereich dieser Norm ist klar umrissen und umfasst Konfigurationen, die zwar die Anforderungen der EN 50173-1 erfüllen, jedoch nicht der generischen Verkabelungsstruktur in den spezifischen Dokumenten EN 50173-2 bis EN 50173-6 entsprechen. Dies erlaubt eine größere Flexibilität bei der Implementierung von Verkabelungslösungen, die an spezifische Bedürfnisse und Bedingungen angepasst werden können. Ein herausragendes Merkmal dieser Norm ist die detaillierte Beschreibung der Kanalübertragungs- und Umweltleistungsanforderungen. Diese Anforderungen sind entscheidend für die Gewährleistung einer stabilen und effizienten Datenübertragung in Netzwerken, die alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen nutzen. Zudem bietet EN 50173-20 Testverfahren, um die Konformität der ausgewogenen Verkabelungskonfigurationen mit den Übertragungsleistungsanforderungen der Norm zu überprüfen. Dies erhöht das Vertrauen in die Anwendbarkeit der beschriebenen Lösungen und unterstützt die Anwender dabei, die Qualität und Zuverlässigkeit ihrer Netzwerkinstallationen sicherzustellen. Die Relevanz dieser Norm zeigt sich besonders in ihrer Komplementarität zu den bestehenden Dokumenten der EN 50173-Serie. Sie bietet wertvolle Ergänzungen, ohne die generischen Verkabelungslösungen der EN 50173-2 bis EN 50173-6 in Frage zu stellen oder zu ersetzen. Dies fördert eine breite Akzeptanz und Anwendung in der Branche, wodurch die Norm für viele Fachleute und Unternehmen von hoher Bedeutung ist. Darüber hinaus wird in der Norm darauf hingewiesen, dass Sicherheits- und elektromagnetische Verträglichkeitsanforderungen (EMC) nicht im Rahmen von EN 50173-20 behandelt werden, sondern durch andere Standards abgedeckt sind. Dies verdeutlicht den fokussierten Rahmen der Norm und nimmt den Anwender von der Verantwortung, die Sicherheits- und EMC-Anforderungen in Verbindung mit den spezifischen Verkabelungslösungen selbst beurteilen zu müssen. Insgesamt stärkt die EN 50173-20:2022 die Position der Norm als eine wesentliche Ressource im Bereich der Informations-Technologie und generischen Verkabelungssysteme, indem sie klare Richtlinien und Anforderungen für alternative Verkabelungskonfigurationen bereitstellt.
標準EN 50173-20:2022は、情報技術の分野における一般的な配線システムに関する重要な文書であり、代替配線構成に特化しています。この文書の範囲は、EN 50173-1の要件を満たすコンポーネントを使用する配線構成を指定しており、EN 50173-2からEN 50173-6までの敷地特有の文書で指定された一般的な配線の構造には準拠していない点が特徴です。これにより、様々な環境や条件下での性能を確保するための柔軟性が提供されています。 この標準の強みは、チャネル伝送と環境性能要件を明確に定義している点です。特に、EN 50173-1への参照を通じて、ネットワーク配線の伝送性能に対する要求が詳細に示されています。また、バランス配線構成がこの文書の伝送性能要件に適合しているかを検証するための試験手順も示されており、実際の実装時における信頼性が向上します。 さらに、EN 50173-20:2022は、他の一般的な配線ソリューション（EN 50173-2、EN 50173-3、EN 50173-4、EN 50173-5、EN 50173-6）を置き換えるものではないことを明確にしているため、既存のシステムとの互換性が保たれます。このように、標準は新しい技術要件に対応しつつも、従来の構成との整合性を確保しています。 最後に、これは安全性や電磁両立性（EMC）に関する要件を含まない点にも注意が必要であり、これらの要件は他の標準や規制により網羅されています。したがって、EN 50173-20:2022は、配線設計者、エンジニア、及びネットワーク運用者にとって、現在の技術環境に対応した非常に重要かつ関連性のあるドキュメントです。
La norme EN 50173-20:2022, intitulée « Systèmes de câblage générique - Partie 20 : Configurations de câblage alternatives », s'inscrit dans le cadre des systèmes de câblage utilisés pour les technologies de l'information. Son champ d'application est particulièrement pertinent pour les professionnels de l'IT et du câblage, car elle définit des configurations de câblage qui utilisent des composants conformes aux exigences de l'EN 50173-1, tout en s'écartant des structures de câblage générique spécifiées dans les documents EN 50173-2 à EN 50173-6. L'un des points forts de cette norme est sa capacité à fournir des critères de performance de transmission et d'environnement pour les canaux, ce qui est essentiel pour assurer un fonctionnement optimal des systèmes de câblage dans divers environnements. Cela inclut des exigences spécifiques en matière de performances qui font référence à l'EN 50173-1, garantissant ainsi une continuité et une compatibilité avec les normes existantes. De plus, il est crucial de noter que les configurations définies dans cette norme ne remplacent pas les solutions de câblage génériques établies dans les normes précédentes (EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5 et EN 50173-6). Cela souligne l'importance de la norme EN 50173-20:2022 en tant qu'extension des options de câblage disponibles, permettant aux professionnels d'adopter des configurations adaptées à des besoins spécifiques sans renoncer à la conformité avec les standards plus larges. Les procédures d'essai pour vérifier la conformité des configurations de câblage équilibré aux exigences de performance de transmission sont également fournies dans l'EN 50697, ajoutant ainsi une couche de fiabilité dans l'évaluation de la performance. Enfin, il est important de souligner que bien que cette norme aborde en détail les performances de câblage, les exigences en matière de sécurité et de compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM) dépassent le cadre de ce document et sont traitées par d'autres normes et régulations. Cela permet de concentrer les efforts sur l’amélioration et l'optimisation des systèmes de câblage générique tout en maintenant une approche intégrée avec les autres obligations réglementaires. En somme, l'EN 50173-20:2022 est une norme essentielle pour les acteurs du secteur des technologies de l'information, enrichissant le paysage des solutions de câblage tout en respectant les standards établis.
SIST EN 50173-20:2023 표준 문서는 정보 기술 분야의 일반적인 배선 시스템을 위한 중요한 추가 자료로, 대체 배선 구성에 대한 명확한 지침을 제공합니다. 이 표준의 범위는 EN 50173-1의 요구 사항을 충족하는 구성 요소를 사용하는 배선 구성을 정의하며, EN 50173-2부터 EN 50173-6에서 규정한 일반 배선 구조를 따르지 않는 경우에 적용됩니다. 이 표준의 주요 강점 중 하나는 특정 환경과 요구 사항에 적합한 채널 전송 및 환경 성능 기준을 포함하는 것입니다. 또한 EN 50697를 참고하여, 균형 잡힌 배선 구성의 시험 절차를 명확하게 제시하고 있어 사용자가 성능 요건을 쉽게 검증할 수 있습니다. 이를 통해 사용자는 배선 시스템의 안정성과 신뢰성을 높일 수 있습니다. EN 50173-20:2022는 기존의 EN 50173-2, EN 50173-3, EN 50173-4, EN 50173-5, EN 50173-6의 일반 배선 솔루션을 대체하지는 않지만, 대안적인 배선 구성을 필요로 하는 다양한 환경에서 유용하게 활용될 수 있습니다. 따로 다루어지는 안전 및 전자기 호환성(EMC) 요구 사항을 통해 이 표준은 특정 상황에서 더욱 효과적으로 적용될 수 있는 기반을 제공하고 있습니다. 따라서, SIST EN 50173-20:2023 표준은 정보 기술 배선의 다양한 요구 사항을 충족하기 위한 필수 문서로, 현재와 미래의 기술 발전에 대응할 수 있는 유연성과 신뢰성을 확립하는 데 기여하고 있습니다.
The EN 50173-20:2022 standard represents a significant advancement in the field of information technology, specifically within the realm of generic cabling systems. Its scope is well-defined, targeting cabling configurations that utilize components compliant with the requirements outlined in EN 50173-1, while offering flexibility beyond the conventional generic cabling structures dictated by premises-specific documents such as EN 50173-2 to EN 50173-6. One of the strengths of this standard lies in its comprehensive approach to channel transmission and environmental performance requirements, which are essential for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of cabling systems in diverse environments. By referencing EN 50173-1 for these performance metrics, the standard ensures consistency and adherence to a recognized framework, thereby facilitating a level of confidence for IT professionals in the deployment of alternative cabling solutions. Moreover, the explicit clarification that the configurations outlined do not replace existing generic cabling solutions further enhances its relevance. This distinction is crucial for organizations seeking to innovate or adapt their cabling solutions without disrupting their existing infrastructure. The inclusion of test procedures for verifying the conformance of balanced cabling configurations precisely aligns with the cabling transmission performance requirements of this document, providing a clear methodology for assessment. While the EN 50173-20:2022 standard is focused on cabling performance, it rightly indicates that safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements are addressed by other standards and regulations. This delineation ensures that professionals in the information technology sector can seamlessly integrate the EN 50173-20 into a broader compliance framework without redundancy or confusion. Overall, this standard not only strengthens the foundation of generic cabling systems but also offers a practical guide for implementing alternative solutions that adhere to established performance criteria. Its relevance in guiding modern cabling practices cannot be overstated, making it an indispensable reference for IT infrastructure development.
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