EN IEC 60966-4-4:2026
(Main)Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies - Part 4-4: Semi-rigid coaxial cable - Detail specification - Frequency range up to 6 000 MHz, type 50-5 multi-channel cables
Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies - Part 4-4: Semi-rigid coaxial cable - Detail specification - Frequency range up to 6 000 MHz, type 50-5 multi-channel cables
IEC 60966-4-4:2025, which is a Detail Specification, relates to multi-channel semi-rigid cable assemblies composed of type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cables with foamed polyethylene dielectric (see Annex A) and connectors such as type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4), type 4.1-9.5 (IEC 61169-11), type N (IEC 61169-16), type S7-16 (IEC 61169-53), type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54), type L32 (IEC 63138-4), type 2.2-5 (IEC 61169-66), type NEX10 (IEC 61169-71), type MQ4 (IEC 63138-2) or type MQ5 (IEC 63138-3). It gives subfamily detail requirements and severities. This document applies to the semi-rigid cable assemblies for mobile communication, in particular for the cable assemblies used between main feeder and antennas or between main feeder and equipment system or between remote radio heads and antennas. The operating frequency is up to 6 000 MHz.
Hochfrequenz- und Koaxialkabelkonfektionen - Teil 4-4: Bauartspezifikation für mehrkanalige halbstarre Kabelkonfektionen, Frequenzbereich bis 6000 MHz, mit halbstarrem Koaxialkabel vom Typ 50-5
Cordons coaxiaux et cordons pour fréquences radioélectriques - Partie 4-4: Spécification particulière pour cordons semi-rigides multicanaux - Plage de fréquences allant jusqu’à 6 000 MHz, câble coaxial semi-rigide de type 50-5
L'IEC 60966-4-4:2025, qui est une spécification particulière, concerne les cordons semi-rigides multicanaux composés de câbles coaxiaux semi-rigides de type 50-5, équipés d'un diélectrique en polyéthylène expansé (voir Annexe A) et de connecteurs de type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4), de type 4.1-9.5 (IEC 61169-11), de type N (IEC 61169-16), de type S7-16 (IEC 61169-53), de type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54), de type L32 (IEC 63138-4), de type 2.2-5 (IEC 61169-66), de type NEX10® (IEC 61169-71), de type MQ4 (IEC 63138-2) ou de type MQ5 (IEC 63138-3). Elle donne les exigences particulières et les sévérités de sous-famille. Le présent document s'applique aux cordons semi-rigides pour les communications mobiles, principalement pour les cordons utilisés entre la ligne d'alimentation principale et les antennes, ou entre la ligne d'alimentation principale et le système d'équipement, ou encore entre les têtes radioélectriques distantes et les antennes. La fréquence de fonctionnement s'étend jusqu'à 6 000 MHz.
Sestavi radiofrekvenčnih in koaksialnih kablov - 4-4. del: Podrobna specifikacija za večkanalne poltoge kabelske sklope, za frekvence do 6000 MHz, s poltogim koaksialnim kablom tipa 50-5
General Information
- Status
- Not Published
- Publication Date
- 19-Feb-2026
- Technical Committee
- CLC/TC 46X - Communication cables
- Current Stage
- 6055 - Ratification Completed (DOR) - Publishing
- Start Date
- 27-Jan-2026
- Completion Date
- 27-Jan-2026
Relations
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 03-Feb-2026
Overview
The prEN IEC 60966-4-4:2025 standard provides a detailed specification for multi-channel semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies using type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cables with foamed polyethylene dielectric. This standard applies to cable assemblies designed for radio frequency applications with an operating frequency range up to 6,000 MHz. It covers assemblies utilized extensively in mobile communication systems, particularly those linking main feeders to antennas, main feeders to equipment systems, and remote radio heads to antennas.
Published by the CLC under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard defines precise requirements, testing methods, and performance criteria to ensure reliability and high performance in demanding RF environments.
Key Topics
Cable Type and Construction
- Type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable with a maximum diameter of less than 8.2 mm.
- Foamed polyethylene dielectric ensures low insertion loss and stable electrical characteristics.
Frequency Range
- Designed for RF signals up to 6,000 MHz, suitable for modern wireless communications including 5G networks.
Connectors Supported
- Comprehensive list of connectors compatible with the assemblies, referencing IEC connector standards including:
- Type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4)
- Type 4.1-9.5 (IEC 61169-11)
- Type N (IEC 61169-16)
- Type S7-16 (IEC 61169-53)
- Type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54)
- Type L32 series (IEC 63138-4)
- Type 2.2-5 and Nex10 (IEC 61169-66, IEC 61169-71)
- Multi-channel circular connectors MQ4 and MQ5 (IEC 63138-2, IEC 63138-3)
- Comprehensive list of connectors compatible with the assemblies, referencing IEC connector standards including:
Performance Criteria
- Characteristic impedance of 50 Ω ± 2 Ω for consistent RF transmission.
- Electrical parameters such as reflection loss, insertion loss, and isolation detailed to ensure signal integrity.
- Mechanical durability includes tensile strength, torque limits, and bending radius for both static and dynamic conditions.
- Environmental resilience with tests for vibration, shock, climatic sequences, damp heat, salt mist, and flammability compliance.
- Screening effectiveness and power ratings specified to meet operational and safety requirements.
Marking and Identification
- Clear marking on the cable sheath including cable assembly type and IEC standard number enhances traceability and compliance verification.
- A systematic naming convention details cable type, connector variants, and length for easy specification.
Applications
The IEC 60966-4-4:2025 standard applies primarily to the following practical scenarios:
Mobile Communication Infrastructure
Used in cable assemblies connecting main feeders to antennas or equipment systems, enabling robust high-frequency signal transmission for cellular networks.Remote Radio Heads
Ensures high-performance cabling between remote radio units and antennas, meeting demanding frequency and environmental requirements in distributed base station designs.High-Frequency Signal Distribution
Suitable for multi-channel RF distribution where precision impedance matching and minimal signal loss are critical, such as in microwave and wireless radio systems.Industrial and Harsh Environments
Designed to endure temperature variations, high humidity, vibration, and chemical exposure, providing reliability in industrial and outdoor telecommunication installations.
Related Standards
This detail specification references and builds upon a suite of international standards to ensure comprehensive coverage and interoperability:
Generic and Sectional Specifications
- IEC 60966-1: Generic specification for RF and coaxial cable assemblies.
- IEC 60966-4: Sectional specification for semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies.
- IEC 60966-4-1: Blank detail specification for semi-rigid coaxial cables.
Connector Standards
- IEC 61169 series for RF coaxial connectors such as 7-16, 4.1-9.5, N, S7-16, 4.3-10, 2.2-5, Nex10.
- IEC 63138 series for multi-channel RF connectors MQ4, MQ5, and L32 types.
Testing and Environmental Standards
- IEC 60068-2-11 for environmental salt mist testing.
- IEC 60529 for IP code (ingress protection) rating tests.
Additional References
- IEC 61196-11: Sectional specification for semi-rigid cables with polyethylene dielectric.
- IEC 63138-1: Generic specification for multi radio frequency channel connectors.
Practical Value
Compliance with the IEC 60966-4-4:2025 standard ensures that multi-channel semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies provide exceptional electrical performance, mechanical robustness, and environmental resilience required for next-generation mobile communication technologies. The clear definitions of connector interfaces and rigorous testing protocols promote interoperability and long-term reliability in diverse applications from urban telecom infrastructure to rural wireless deployments.
Implementing this standard supports manufacturers, system integrators, and network operators in delivering high-quality RF installations that minimize signal degradation and downtime, ultimately contributing to superior user experience and network efficiency. The detailed marking and identification conventions further simplify maintenance and quality assurance processes, facilitating streamlined operations across the telecommunications industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
EN IEC 60966-4-4:2026 is a draft published by CLC. Its full title is "Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies - Part 4-4: Semi-rigid coaxial cable - Detail specification - Frequency range up to 6 000 MHz, type 50-5 multi-channel cables". This standard covers: IEC 60966-4-4:2025, which is a Detail Specification, relates to multi-channel semi-rigid cable assemblies composed of type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cables with foamed polyethylene dielectric (see Annex A) and connectors such as type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4), type 4.1-9.5 (IEC 61169-11), type N (IEC 61169-16), type S7-16 (IEC 61169-53), type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54), type L32 (IEC 63138-4), type 2.2-5 (IEC 61169-66), type NEX10 (IEC 61169-71), type MQ4 (IEC 63138-2) or type MQ5 (IEC 63138-3). It gives subfamily detail requirements and severities. This document applies to the semi-rigid cable assemblies for mobile communication, in particular for the cable assemblies used between main feeder and antennas or between main feeder and equipment system or between remote radio heads and antennas. The operating frequency is up to 6 000 MHz.
IEC 60966-4-4:2025, which is a Detail Specification, relates to multi-channel semi-rigid cable assemblies composed of type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cables with foamed polyethylene dielectric (see Annex A) and connectors such as type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4), type 4.1-9.5 (IEC 61169-11), type N (IEC 61169-16), type S7-16 (IEC 61169-53), type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54), type L32 (IEC 63138-4), type 2.2-5 (IEC 61169-66), type NEX10 (IEC 61169-71), type MQ4 (IEC 63138-2) or type MQ5 (IEC 63138-3). It gives subfamily detail requirements and severities. This document applies to the semi-rigid cable assemblies for mobile communication, in particular for the cable assemblies used between main feeder and antennas or between main feeder and equipment system or between remote radio heads and antennas. The operating frequency is up to 6 000 MHz.
EN IEC 60966-4-4:2026 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 33.120.10 - Coaxial cables. Waveguides. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN IEC 60966-4-4:2026 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN IEC 60966-1:2019, EN IEC 61169-54:2021, EN IEC 63138-1:2019, EN 61169-11:2017, EN IEC 63138-3:2022, EN 61169-53:2016, EN IEC 61169-66:2021, EN IEC 60966-4-1:2024, EN IEC 61169-71:2022, EN IEC 63138-2:2023, EN IEC 60068-2-11:2021, FprEN IEC 63138-4:2025, EN IEC 61169-4:2022, EN IEC 60966-4:2024. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
EN IEC 60966-4-4:2026 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-julij-2025
Sestavi radiofrekvenčnih in koaksialnih kablov - 4-4. del: Podrobna specifikacija za
večkanalne poltoge kabelske sklope, za frekvence do 6000 mhz, s poltogim
koaksialnim kablom tipa 50-5
Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies - Part 4-4: Detail specification for multi
channel semi-rigid cable assemblies, frequency up to 6000mhz, with type 50-5 semi-rigid
coaxial cable
Ensembles de cordons coaxiaux et de cordons pour fréquences radioélectriques - Partie
4-4: Spécification particulière pour ensembles de cordons semi-rigides multicanaux,
fréquences allant jusqu’à 6 000 MHz, avec câble coaxial semi-rigide de type 50-5
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN IEC 60966-4-4:2025
ICS:
33.120.10 Koaksialni kabli. Valovodi Coaxial cables. Waveguides
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
46/1048/CDV
COMMITTEE DRAFT FOR VOTE (CDV)
PROJECT NUMBER:
IEC 60966-4-4 ED1
DATE OF CIRCULATION: CLOSING DATE FOR VOTING:
2025-05-23 2025-08-15
SUPERSEDES DOCUMENTS:
46/968/CD, 46/1000B/CC
IEC TC 46 : CABLES, WIRES, WAVEGUIDES, RF CONNECTORS, RF AND MICROWAVE PASSIVE COMPONENTS AND ACCESSORIES
SECRETARIAT: SECRETARY:
United States of America Mr David Hess
OF INTEREST TO THE FOLLOWING COMMITTEES: HORIZONTAL FUNCTION(S):
SC 46A, SC 46F
ASPECTS CONCERNED:
SUBMITTED FOR CENELEC PARALLEL VOTING NOT SUBMITTED FOR CENELEC PARALLEL VOTING
Attention IEC-CENELEC parallel voting
The attention of IEC National Committees, members of
CENELEC, is drawn to the fact that this Committee Draft for
Vote (CDV) is submitted for parallel voting.
The CENELEC members are invited to vote through the
CENELEC online voting system.
This document is still under study and subject to change. It should not be used for reference purposes.
Recipients of this document are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware
and to provide supporting documentation.
Recipients of this document are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant “In Some Countries” clau ses to be
included should this proposal proceed. Recipients are reminded that the CDV stage is the final stage for submitting ISC claus es. (See
AC/22/2007 or NEW GUIDANCE DOC).
TITLE:
Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies – Part 4-4: Detail specification for multi channel semi-rigid cable
assemblies, frequency up to 6000MHz, with type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable
PROPOSED STABILITY DATE: 2028
NOTE FROM TC/SC OFFICERS:
electronic file, to make a copy and to print out the content for the sole purpose of preparing National Committee positions.
You may not copy or "mirror" the file or printed version of the document, or any part of it, for any other purpose without
permission in writing from IEC.
– 2 – IEC CDV 60966-4-4 © IEC 2025
1 RADIO FREQUENCY AND COAXIAL CABLE ASSEMBLIES –
2 Part 4-4: Detail specification
3 for multi-channel semi-rigid cable assemblies –
4 Frequency range up to 6 000 MHz, type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable
6 1 Scope
7 This part of IEC 60966 is a detail specification that relates to multi-channel semi-rigid cable
8 assemblies composed of type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cables with foamed polyethylene
9 dielectric (see annex A) and connectors such as type 7-16 (IEC 61169-4), type 4.1-9.5 (IEC
10 61169-11), type N(IEC 61169-16), type S7 -16(IEC 61169-53), type 4.3-10 (IEC 61169-54),
11 type L32(IEC 63138-4), type 2.2-5 (IEC 61169-66), type Nex10 (IEC 61169-71), type
12 MQ4(IEC 63138-2) or type MQ5(IEC 63138-3). It gives subfamily detail requirements and
13 severities which shall be applied.
14 This detail specification applies to the semi-rigid cable assemblies for mobile communication,
15 particular for the cable assemblies used between main feeder and antennas or between main
16 feeder and equipment system or between remote radio heads and antennas. The operating
17 frequency is up to 6 000 MHz.
18 2 Normative documents
19 The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
20 content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
21 cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
22 any amendments) applies.
23 IEC 60068-2-11, Environmental testing – Part 2:Tests-Test Ka: Salt mist
24 IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
25 IEC 60966-1:2019, Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies – Part 1: Generic
26 specification – General requirements and test methods
27 IEC 60966-4, Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies – Part 4: Sectional specification
28 for semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies
29 IEC 60966-4-1, Radio frequency and coaxial cable assemblies – Part 4-1: Blank detail
30 specification for semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies
31 IEC 61169-4, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 4: RF coaxial connectors with inner diameter
32 of outer conductor 16 mm(0,63 in) with screw lock – Characteristic impedance 50 Ω (type 7-
33 16)
34 IEC 61169-11, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 11: Sectional specification – RF coaxial
35 connectors with inner diameter of outer conductor 9.5 mm (0,374 in) with screw coupling –
36 Characteristics impedance 50 Ω (type 4.1-9.5)
37 IEC 61169-16, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 16:Sectional specification – RF coaxial
38 connectors with inner diameter of outer conductor 7 mm (0,276 in) with screw coupling –
39 Characteristics impedance 50 Ω (type N)
IEC CDV 60966-4-4 © IEC 2025 – 3 –
40 IEC 61169-53, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 53: Sectional specification – RF coaxial
41 connectors with inner diameter of outer conductor 16 mm (0.630 in) with screw coupling –
42 Characteristics impedance 50 Ω (type S7-16)
43 IEC 61169-54, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 54: Sectional specification – RF coaxial
44 connectors with inner diameter of outer conductor 10 mm (0.394 in) with screw coupling –
45 Characteristics impedance 50 Ω (type 4.3-10)
46 IEC 61169-66, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 66: Sectional specification for RF coaxial
47 connectors with 5 mm inner diameter of outer conductor ， with screw and snap-on
48 coupling ，50 Ω characteristics impedance ，for use up to 6GHz (type 2.2-5)
49 IEC 61169-71, Radio-frequency connectors – Part 71: Sectional specification for RF coaxial
50 connectors with 5 mm inner diameter of outer conductor ，Characteristics impedance50 Ω
51 (type Nex10)
52 IEC 61196-11, Coaxial communication cables – Part 11: Sectional specification for semi-rigid
53 cables with polyethylene (PE) dielectric
54 IEC 63138-1:2019, Multi radio frequency channel connector - Part 1: Generic specification-
55 General requirements and measuring methods
57 IEC 63138-2, Multi radio frequency channel connector - Part 2: Sectional specification for
58 MQ4 series circular connector
60 IEC 63138-3, Multi radio frequency channel connector - Part 3: Sectional specification for
61 MQ5 series circular connector
62 IEC 63138-4, Sectional specification for type L32-4 and L32-5 threaded multi-pin radio-
63 frequency connectors
65 3 Terms and definitions
66 No terms and definitions are listed in this document.
67 ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
68 addresses:
69 IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
70 ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
71 4 Detail specification
– 4 – IEC CDV 60966-4-4 © IEC 2025
[1] Prepared by: [2] Document No.: IEC 60966-4-4
IEC TC 46 Issue: First issue
Date:
[3] Available from: [4] Generic specification: IEC 60966-1
IEC Sectional specification: IEC 60966-4
Blank detail specification: IEC 60966-4-1
[5]
Additional references:
Outline for semi-rigid coaxial cable assemblies
NOTE Example diagram, see Figure 1 and Figure 2, manufacturer to insert actual diagram.
connector B
Type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable
connector A
Type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable connector B
connector A
Figure 2：Multi-channel semi-rigid cable assemblies
Figure 1：Length definition of cable assemblies
with type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable
[6] Maximum diameter of type 50-5 semi-rigid coaxial cable < 8,2 mm
[7] Characteristic impedance: 50 Ω [8] Frequency: up to 6 000 MHz
[9] Typical weight: [10] Minimum inside radius:
Cable: 70 g/m
For static bending: 25 mm
Connector:
Type L32-4: 120 g For dynamic bendin
...
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