Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic passive power control devices - Part 1: Generic specification

IEC 60869-1:2012 applies to fibre optic power control devices. These have all of the following general features:
- they are passive in that they contain no opto-electronic or other transducing elements;
- they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control the transmitted power in a fixed or variable fashion;
- the ports are unconnectorized optical fibre tails or optical fibre pigtails with connectors. This standard establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices:
- optical attenuator;
- optical fuse;
- optical power limiter. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 1999, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- the terms and definitions were reconsidered;
- the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System was reconsidered;
- the clause concerning quality assessment procedures was deleted. Keywords: fibre optic power control devices

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques - Dispositifs à fibres optiques passifs de contrôle de la puissance - Partie 1: Spécification générique

La CEI 60869-1:2012 s'applique aux dispositifs de contrôle de la puissance à fibres optiques. Ceux-ci présentent toutes les caractéristiques générales suivantes:
- ils sont passifs dans le sens où ils ne contiennent aucun élément optoélectronique ou autre élément transducteur;
- ils disposent de deux ports pour la transmission de la puissance optique et ils contrôlent l'énergie transmise de manière fixe ou variable;
- les ports sont des fibres amorces non-connectorisées ou des fibres amorces à fibres optiques avec connecteurs. La présente norme établit les exigences génériques pour les dispositifs optiques passifs suivants:
- affaiblisseur optique;
- fusible optique limiteur de puissance optique. Cette quatrième édition annule et remplace la troisième édition, parue en 1999, et constitue une révision technique. Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l'édition précédente:
- les termes et définitions ont été revus;
- l'exigence concernant le système CEI d'assurance de la qualité a été revue;
- l'article concernant les procédures d'assurance de la qualité a été supprimé. Mots clés: dispositifs de contrôle de la puissance à fibres optiques

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
11-Dec-2012
Drafting Committee
WG 7 - TC 86/SC 86B/WG 7
Current Stage
DELPUB - Deleted Publication
Start Date
16-Nov-2018
Completion Date
30-Jun-2017

Relations

Effective Date
05-Sep-2023
Effective Date
05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 60869-1:2012 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines generic specifications for fibre optic passive power control devices. These devices are critical components in fibre optic communication systems, providing essential power management functions while remaining completely passive, without any opto-electronic or active components. This fourth edition, released in 2012, updates previous versions by revising terminology and quality assessment requirements to reflect the latest technological and market needs.

This standard specifically covers devices with two optical ports-either unconnectorized fibre tails or pigtails with connectors-that control transmitted optical power in a fixed or variable manner. It sets out the requirements for three main categories of passive devices:

  • Optical attenuators
  • Optical fuses
  • Optical power limiters

IEC 60869-1:2012 establishes performance, design, documentation, and safety criteria ensuring interoperability and reliability in fibre optic networks.

Key Topics

Passive Fibre Optic Power Control Devices

  • Passive nature: Devices contain no active electronics or opto-electronic transducers.
  • Two-port configuration: These components have input and output ports for optical power transmission.
  • Power control range: Cover fixed and variable attenuation or limitation based on device type.

Device Types Defined

  • Optical Attenuators: Reduce optical signal power to prevent overload or match power levels.
  • Optical Fuses: Act as protection components by breaking the optical link when power exceeds a threshold.
  • Optical Power Limiters: Automatically limit the maximum optical power transmitted, protecting downstream equipment.

Standard Requirements

  • Classification: Devices are classified by type, wavelength band, style, variant, and assessment level.
  • Performance Metrics: Includes parameters such as insertion loss, attenuation stability, threshold powers, and response times.
  • Documentation: Symbol usage, specification system, drawings, test data sheets, and user instructions are standardized.
  • Design and Quality: Materials, workmanship, marking, packaging, storage conditions, and safety considerations are specified.

Technical Changes in the 2012 Edition

  • Updated terms and definitions to harmonize terminology.
  • Reconsidered IEC Quality Assessment System requirements leading to the removal of certain quality assessment procedures.
  • Emphasis on clear requirements to support global interoperability.

Applications

IEC 60869-1:2012 applies universally across fibre optic communication systems where passive power control is necessary. Typical applications include:

  • Telecommunications Networks: Managing optical power levels in fibre links to optimize transmission quality and protect equipment.
  • Data Centres: Ensuring signal integrity by preventing excessive optical power that can damage receivers.
  • Test and Measurement: Providing precise attenuation for calibration and diagnostic purposes.
  • Optical Safety Systems: Using optical fuses and power limiters to safeguard sensitive components.
  • Military and Aerospace: Reliable passive components meeting strict international standards for mission-critical communication.

Adhering to IEC 60869-1 enables manufacturers to produce compatible and reliable passive power control devices that integrate seamlessly into different fibre optic infrastructures worldwide.

Related Standards

For comprehensive coverage in fibre optic components and systems, IEC 60869-1:2012 is often implemented alongside related IEC and ISO standards:

  • IEC 61754 Series – Fibre optic connector interfaces.
  • IEC 61300 Series – Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components test procedures.
  • IEC 60874 Series – Optical fibre connector families.
  • ISO/IEC 11801 – Generic cabling for customer premises including fibre optic installations.
  • IEC 61280 Series – Fibre optic communication subsystem test methods.

These complementary standards cover physical interfaces, testing methodologies, and generic cabling specifications, providing a full framework for optical fibre component standardization and quality assurance.


By conforming to IEC 60869-1:2012, stakeholders in the fibre optic industry benefit from clear specifications for passive power control devices that enhance system performance, reliability, and global compatibility in modern telecommunication and data networks.

Standard

IEC 60869-1:2012 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic passive power control devices - Part 1: Generic specification Released:12/12/2012

English and French language
69 pages
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Frequently Asked Questions

IEC 60869-1:2012 is a standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its full title is "Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Fibre optic passive power control devices - Part 1: Generic specification". This standard covers: IEC 60869-1:2012 applies to fibre optic power control devices. These have all of the following general features: - they are passive in that they contain no opto-electronic or other transducing elements; - they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control the transmitted power in a fixed or variable fashion; - the ports are unconnectorized optical fibre tails or optical fibre pigtails with connectors. This standard establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices: - optical attenuator; - optical fuse; - optical power limiter. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 1999, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the terms and definitions were reconsidered; - the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System was reconsidered; - the clause concerning quality assessment procedures was deleted. Keywords: fibre optic power control devices

IEC 60869-1:2012 applies to fibre optic power control devices. These have all of the following general features: - they are passive in that they contain no opto-electronic or other transducing elements; - they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control the transmitted power in a fixed or variable fashion; - the ports are unconnectorized optical fibre tails or optical fibre pigtails with connectors. This standard establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices: - optical attenuator; - optical fuse; - optical power limiter. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 1999, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - the terms and definitions were reconsidered; - the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System was reconsidered; - the clause concerning quality assessment procedures was deleted. Keywords: fibre optic power control devices

IEC 60869-1:2012 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 33.180.20 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

IEC 60869-1:2012 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to IEC 60869-1:2018, IEC 60869-1:1999. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

You can purchase IEC 60869-1:2012 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 IEC standards.

Standards Content (Sample)


IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 4.0 2012-12
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic
passive power control devices –
Part 1: Generic specification
Dispositifs d’interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –
Dispositifs à fibres optiques passifs de contrôle de la puissance –
Partie 1: Spécification générique

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IEC 60869-1 ®
Edition 4.0 2012-12
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic

passive power control devices –

Part 1: Generic specification
Dispositifs d’interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –

Dispositifs à fibres optiques passifs de contrôle de la puissance –

Partie 1: Spécification générique

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX V
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-83220-544-0

– 2 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4

1 Scope . 6

2 Normative references . 6

3 Terms and definitions . 7

3.1 Basic terms . 7

3.2 Component terms . 7

3.3 Performance terms . 8

4 Description of devices . 9
4.1 Optical attenuator . 9
4.2 Variable optical attenuator (VOA) . 10
4.3 Optical fuse . 10
4.4 Optical power limiter . 10
5 Requirements . 11
5.1 Classification . 11
5.1.1 General . 11
5.1.2 Type . 11
5.1.3 Wavelength band . 12
5.1.4 Style . 12
5.1.5 Variant. 13
5.1.6 Assessment level . 13
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions . 13
5.2 Documentation . 14
5.2.1 Symbols . 14
5.2.2 Specification system . 14
5.2.3 Drawings . 16
5.2.4 Tests and measurements . 16
5.2.5 Test data sheets . 16
5.2.6 Instructions for use . 17
5.3 Standardization system . 17
5.3.1 Interface standards . 17
5.3.2 Performance standards . 17
5.3.3 Reliability standards . 18

5.3.4 Interlinking. 18
5.4 Design and construction . 20
5.4.1 Materials . 20
5.4.2 Workmanship . 20
5.5 Quality . 20
5.6 Performance . 20
5.7 Identification and marking . 20
5.7.1 General . 20
5.7.2 Variant identification number . 20
5.7.3 Component marking. 20
5.7.4 Package marking . 21
5.8 Packaging . 21
5.9 Storage conditions. 21
5.10 Safety. 21

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 3 –
Annex A (informative) Optical fuse configuration and performance examples . 22

Annex B (informative) Optical fuse application notes . 24

Annex C (informative) Optical power limiter configuration and performance examples . 25

Annex D (informative) Optical power limiter application notes . 28

Annex E (informative) Fixed optical attenuator application note . 30

Annex F (informative) Variable, manual or electrical optical attenuator application note . 31

Bibliography . 33

Figure 1 – Optical attenuator operation curve . 9
Figure 2 – Optical fuse operation curve . 10
Figure 3 – Optical power limiter operation curve . 11
Figure 4 – Configuration A . 12
Figure 5 – Configuration B . 12
Figure 6 – Configuration C . 12
Figure 7 – Standardization structure . 19
Figure A.1 – Optical fuse, pigtail style . 22
Figure A.2 – Optical fuse, plug style (LC plug) . 22
Figure A.3 – Response time curve of an optical fuse . 23
Figure A.4 – Optical fuse, power threshold ~30 dBm (1W), output power drop at
threshold ~25 dB . 23
Figure B.1 – Optical fuse . 24
Figure C.1 – Optical power limiter, pigtail style . 25
Figure C.2 – Optical power limiter, plug style (LC plug) . 25
Figure C.3 – Optical power limiter – Experimental . 26
Figure C.4 – Schematic optical power limiter response time . 26
Figure C.5 – Schematic power definitions . 27
Figure C.6 – Optical power limiter, input power definitions . 27
Figure D.1 – Optical power limiter and optical fuse, combined, operation curve . 29
Figure E.1 – Fixed optical attenuator . 30
Figure F.1 – The variable, manual or electrical, optical attenuator . 32

Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure . 15
Table 2 – Standards interlink matrix . 19

– 4 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION

____________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONECTING DEVICES

AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.

9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60869-1 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC TC 86: Fibre optics.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 1999, and constitutes a
technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
– the terms and definitions were reconsidered;
– the requirement concerning the IEC Quality Assessment System was reconsidered;
– the clause concerning quality assessment procedures was deleted.

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 5 –
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:

FDIS Report on voting
86B/3505/FDIS 86B/3551/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on

voting indicated in the above table.

This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

A list of all the parts in the IEC 60869 series, under the general title Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic passive power control devices,
can be found on the IEC website.
Future standards will carry the new general title as cited above.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 6 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONECTING DEVICES

AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
FIBRE OPTIC PASSIVE POWER CONTROL DEVICES –

Part 1: Generic specification
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60869 applies to fibre optic power control devices. These have all of the
following general features:
– they are passive in that they contain no opto-electronic or other transducing elements;
– they have two ports for the transmission of optical power and control the transmitted
power in a fixed or variable fashion;
– the ports are unconnectorized optical fibre tails or optical fibre pigtails with connectors.
This standard establishes generic requirements for the following passive optical devices:
– optical attenuator;
– optical fuse;
– optical power limiter.
Test and measurement procedures for the above products are described in IEC 61300-1, the
IEC 61300-2 series and the 61300-3 series [1,2,3] .
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60027, Letter symbols to be used in electrical technology
IEC 60050-731, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Chapter 731: Optical fibre
communication
IEC 60617, Graphical symbols for diagrams. Available from
IEC 60695-11-5, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle-flame test method –
Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance
IEC 60825 (all parts), Safety of laser products
ISO 129, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances
ISO 286-1, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – ISO coding system for tolerances of
linear sizes – Part 1: Bases of tolerances and fits
—————————
References in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 7 –
ISO 1101, Geometrical product specifications (GPS) – Geometrical tolerancing – Tolerances

of form, orientation, location and run-out

ISO 8601, Data elements and interchange formats – Information interchange –

Representation of dates and times

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the definitions given in IEC 60050-731 as well as the

following apply.
NOTE Definitions are given in three sub-groups; basic terms, component terms and performance terms.
3.1 Basic terms
3.1.1
insertion loss
reduction in optical power between an input and output port of a passive device, intended to
be transparent, expressed in decibel
Note 1 to entry: This is defined as follows:
IL = –10 log (P /P )= 10 log (P /P )
10 1 0 10 0 1
where P is the optical power launched into the input port, and P the optical power received from the output port.
3.1.2
operating wavelength
nominal wavelength λ at which a passive device is designed to operate with the specified
performance
3.1.3
operating wavelength range –passband
specified range of wavelengths from λ to λ about a nominal operating wavelength λ ,
i min i max i
within which an optical passive device is designed to operate with the specified performance
3.1.4
return loss
fraction of optical input power that is returned from the port of a passive device
Note 1 to entry: This is defined as follows:
RL = –10 log (P /P )= 10 log (P / P )
10 0 10 0 1
where P is the optical power launched into the port, and P the optical power received back from the same port.
0 1
3.2 Component terms
3.2.1
optical attenuator
passive device, which produces a controlled signal attenuation in an optical fibre transmission
line. An attenuator is intended to be wavelength independent
3.2.2
variable optical attenuator
VOA
optically passive device, an attenuator that regulates the optical power in fibres, producing a
controlled, optical output power, as a result of manual or electrical control input

– 8 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
3.2.3
optical fuse
passive device, which produces a controlled, permanent, signal blocking at a predetermined

power threshold in an optical fibre transmission line

3.2.4
optical power limiter
passive device that regulates the optical power in fibres, producing a controlled, constant

optical output power P , as a result of varying optical input power higher than P , and has
limit limit
no influence at optical powers below P
limit
3.2.5
plug style device
device having a combination of two interfacing features, a plug on one end and a socket on
the other
3.2.6
adaptor style device
device having a combination of two sockets as interfacing features
3.3 Performance terms
3.3.1
optical fuse power threshold
optical input power, into an optical fuse, in which the optical output power is blocked
Note 1 to entry: The optical fuse power threshold P is expressed in Watt or dBm.
th
3.3.2
optical fuse response time
total time when the optical fuse output power level is higher than the optical fuse power
threshold by 1 dB, staring when the rising power passes the power fuse power threshold plus
1 dB and ending when the declining power passes the fuse power threshold plus 1 dB on its
way down
3.3.3
optical fuse blocking attenuation at threshold
drop of optical power through the optical fuse when exposed to more than the optical fuse
power threshold P , and responds by blocking the power, expressed in dB
th
3.3.4
optical power limiter response time

total time where the optical power limiter output power level is higher than limit power + 1 dB,
staring when the rising power passes the limit power plus 1 dB and ending when the declining
power passes the limit power plus 1 dB on its way down
3.3.5
optical limit power
optical input power, into an optical power limiter, in which the optical output power is latched
and cannot exceed this value. The optical limit power P is expressed in Watt or dBm
limit
3.3.6
minimum insertion loss
term applicable only to variable optical attenuators, (VOAs); it is the lowest insertion loss to
which the device may be adjusted
3.3.7
variable attenuation range
range of insertion loss to which the device may be adjusted

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 9 –
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.

3.3.8
insertion loss setting resolution
minimal adjustable step size or difference of the insertion loss of the device

Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.

3.3.9
accuracy of setting value of attenuation

difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and the manually or

electrically nominal adjusted value of the insertion loss

Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.3.10
repeatability of setting attenuation value
difference between the insertion loss of the device at a given setting and the value of the
insertion loss in previous same settings
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable only to VOAs.
3.3.11
maximum allowed power input
maximum input power that the device can handle without causing dysfunction or permanent
damage, expressed in Watt or dBm
Note 1 to entry: This term is applicable to all passive power control devices.
4 Description of devices
4.1 Optical attenuator
The optical attenuator is a passive device used for optical power reduction into or out of an
optical device. The optical attenuator is normally used for a broad range of wavelengths,
attenuating the power at a predetermined level.
The performance curve of an optical attenuator is shown in Figure 1, where the attenuated
power is always lower than the non-attenuated power and proportional to it.

Non-attenuated
Optical power input = output
output
power
Attenuated power
Optical input power
IEC  2314/12
Figure 1 – Optical attenuator operation curve

– 10 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
4.2 Variable optical attenuator (VOA)

The performance curve of a VOA is similar to Figure 1 of an attenuator, where the attenuated

power is always lower than the non-attenuated power and proportional to it. The VOA

produces a controlled, optical output power, as a result of manual or electrical control input.

The VOA is a passive device used for optical power reduction into or out of an optical device.
The optical attenuator is normally used for a broad range of wavelengths, attenuating the

power at a pre-adjusted level.

4.3 Optical fuse
The optical fuse (see Figure 2) is a passive device, designed to protect equipment and fibre

cables from damage due to optical overpower, spikes and surges. When the input power is
lower than a predetermined threshold power, the optical fuse remains transparent. However,
the optical fuse becomes permanently opaque when the optical power exceeds the specified
predetermined threshold level. The optical fuse is wavelength independent in the region of its
transparency. The optical fuse is bi-directional.

Optical fuse
Optical
power threshold
output
power
Blocking attenuation
at threshold
Optical input power
IEC  2315/12
Figure 2 – Optical fuse operation curve
The optical fuse protects against power spikes and surges. The optical fuse is placed either at
the input port of an optical device, such as a detector, or at the output port of a high power
device, such as a laser or optical amplifier. An activated (burnt) fuse permanently blocks the
forward optical power without enlarging the reflected power, thus preventing damage. The
optical fuse can be used as an eye safety device.
4.4 Optical power limiter
The optical power limiter (see Figure 3) is a passive device that regulates the optical power in
fibres, producing a controlled, constant output power P , as a result of varying input power
limit
higher than P , and has no influence at powers below P . Under normal operation, when
limit limit
the input power is low, the optical power limiter has no effect on the system. However, when
the input power is high, the optical output power is limited to a predetermined level (P ).
limit
The optical power limiter can typically operate under CW input up to 5 dB above P , and
limit
can sustain short duration pulses and spikes (a second in every minute) up to 8 dB above
P .
limit
60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 11 –
Optical
output
power
P
limit
Optical input power
IEC  2316/12
Figure 3 – Optical power limiter operation curve
The optical power limiter is used at the input of power-sensitive equipment and at the output
of high power devices, such as amplifiers, or wherever power regulation is required. The
optical power limiter can serve as an eye safety device. The optical power limiter is
wavelength independent in the region of its transparency. The optical power limiter is bi-
directional. The optical power limiter is, in some cases, combined in line with an optical fuse,
ensuring that at high powers, when the optical power limiter fails, the following device is not
exposed to damaging power.
5 Requirements
5.1 Classification
5.1.1 General
Power control devices are classified by the following categories:
– type;
– wavelength band;
– style;
– variant;
– environmental category;
– assessment level;
– normative reference extensions.

An example of a typical power control device classification is as follows:
Type:
– continuously variable
Wavelength band: – L band
Style: – Configuration C
– LC-LC connectors
Variant: – Means of mounting
Assessment level: – A
5.1.2 Type
Power control devices types are defined by their intended function.
There are three types of optical attenuators:

– 12 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
– fixed;
– continuously variable;
– discrete step variable.
There is one type of optical fuse, having discrete predetermined threshold power.

There is one type of optical power limiter, having discrete predetermined limit power.

There are various combinations of the above-mentioned devices, e.g. a fixed optical
attenuator and an optical power limiter in one device, or an optical power limiter and an
optical fuse in one device.
5.1.3 Wavelength band
Power control devices types are defined by their wavelength band, O, C or L, and sometimes
two or more bands.
5.1.4 Style
Power control devices may be classified into styles based upon fibre type, connector type,
and cable type, housing shape and dimensions and configuration.
The configuration of the power control device ports is classified as follows:
– Configuration A – A device as shown in Figure 4 containing integral optical pigtails without
connectors.
Power control device
dB
IEC  2317/12
Figure 4 – Configuration A
– Configuration B – A device as shown in Figure 5 containing integral optical pigtails, with a
connector on each pigtail.
Power control device
dB
IEC  2318/12
Figure 5 – Configuration B
– Configuration C – A device as shown in Figure 6 containing fibre optic connectors as an
integral part of the device housing.

Power control device
dB
IEC  2319/12
Figure 6 – Configuration C
60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 13 –
– Configuration D – A device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the

preceding configurations.
5.1.5 Variant
The power control device variant identifies those features which encompass structurally

similar components.
Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to, the following:

– orientation of ports on housing;

– means for mounting.
5.1.6 Assessment level
The detail specification shall include all required tests for quality assessment.
Each test shall be assigned to one of four groups labelled A, B, C and D.
The detail specification shall specify one or more assessment levels, each of which shall be
designated by a capital letter. The assessment level defines the relationship between the
inspection levels/AQLs of groups A and B and the inspection periods of groups C and D.
The following are preferred levels:
– Assessment level A
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 4 %
• group C inspection: 24-month periods
• group D inspection: 48-month periods
– Assessment level B
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 1 %
• group C inspection: 18-month periods
• group D inspection: 36-month periods
– Assessment level C
• group A inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %

• group B inspection: inspection level II, AQL = 0,4 %
• group C inspection: 12-month periods
• group D inspection: 24-month periods
Groups A and B are subject to lot-by-lot inspection and groups C and D are subject to periodic
inspection. One additional assessment level (other than those specified above) may be added
in the detail specification. In this case, it shall be designated by the capital letter X.
NOTE AQL = Acceptable Quality Level.
5.1.7 Normative reference extensions
Normative reference extensions are used to identify integrated independent standard
specifications or other reference documents into blank detail specifications.
Unless specified exceptions are noted, additional requirements imposed by an extension are
mandatory. Usage is primarily intended to merge associated components to form hybrid

– 14 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
devices, or integrated functional application requirements that are dependent on technical

expertise other than fibre optics.

Published reference documents produced by ITU, consistent with the scope statements of the

relevant IEC specification series, may be used as extensions. Published documents produced

by regional standardization bodies such as TIA, CENELEC, JIS, etc. may be referenced in an

informative annex attached to the generic specification.

Some optical fibre splice configurations require special qualification provisions which shall not

be imposed universally. These cases encompass individual component design configurations,

specialised field tooling, or specific application processes. In these cases requirements are

necessary to assure repeatable performance or adequate safety, and provide additional
guidance for complete product specification. These extensions are mandatory whenever used
to prepare, assemble or install an optical fibre splice either for field application usage or
preparation of qualification test specimens. The relevant specification shall clarify all
stipulations. However, design and style dependent extensions shall not be imposed
universally.
In the event of conflicting requirements, precedence, in descending order, shall be "generic"
over "mandatory extension", over "blank detail", over "detail", over "application specific
extension".
Examples of optical connector extensions are given as follows:
– using IEC 61754-4 and IEC 61754-2 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex type "SC/BFOC/2,5" hybrid connector adaptor;
– using IEC 61754-13 and IEC 60869-1 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for an integrated type "FC" preset attenuated optical connector;
– using IEC 61754-2 and IEC 61073-4 to partially define a future IEC 60874 series
specification for a duplex "BFOC/2,5" receptacle incorporating integral mechanical splices.
Other examples of requirements to normative extensions are the following: some commercial
or residential building applications may require direct reference to specific safety codes and
regulations or incorporate other specific material flammability or toxicity requirements for
specialised locations.
Specialized field tooling may require an extension to implement specific ocular safety,
electrical shock, burn hazard avoidance requirements, or require isolation procedures to
prevent potential ignition of combustible gases.
5.2 Documentation
5.2.1 Symbols
Graphical and letter symbols shall, whenever possible, be taken from the IEC 60027 and the
IEC 60617 series unless superseded by this part of IEC 60859.
5.2.2 Specification system
5.2.2.1 General
This specification forms part of a three-level IEC specification system. Subsidiary
specifications shall consist of blank detail specifications and detail specifications. This system
is shown in Table 1. There are no sectional specifications for power control devices.

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 15 –
Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure

Specification Examples of information Applicable to

level to be included
– Assessment system rules
– Inspection rules
– Optical measurement methods
– Sampling plans
– Identification rule
Two or more component
– Marking standards
Basic
families or subfamilies
– Dimensional standards
– Terminology
– Symbols
– Preferred number series
– SI units
– Specific terminology
– Specific symbols
– Specific units
– Preferred values
Generic – Marking Component family
– Quality assessment procedures
– Selection of tests
– Qualification approval and/or capability approval
procedures
– Quality conformance test schedule
Groups of types having
Blank detail – Inspection requirements
a common test schedule
– Information common to a number of types
– Individual values
Detail – Specific information Individual type
– Completed quality conformance test schedules

5.2.2.2 Blank detail specification
The blank detail specification lists all the parameters and features applicable to power control
devices including the type, operating characteristics, housing configurations, test methods
and performance requirements. The blank detail specification is applicable to any power
control device design and quality assessment requirement. The blank detail specification
contains the preferred format for stating the required information in the detail specification.
5.2.2.3 Detail specification
A specific power control device is described by a corresponding detail specification, which is
prepared by filling in the blanks of the blank detail specification. Within the constraints
imposed by this generic specification, the blank detail specification may be filled in by any
national committee of the IEC, thereby defining as an official IEC standard a particular power

control device design.
Detail specifications shall specify the following as applicable:
– type (see 5.1.2);
– wavelength band (see 5.1.3);
– style (see 5.1.4);
– variant(s) (see 5.1.5);
– variant identification number(s) (see 5.7.2);
– all tests required;
– assessment level (see 5.1.6);
– performance requirements (see 5.6).

– 16 – 60869-1 © IEC:2012
5.2.3 Drawings
5.2.3.1 General
The drawings and dimensions given in detail specifications shall not restrict details of
construction, nor shall they be used as manufacturing drawings.

5.2.3.2 Projection system
Either first-angle or third-angle projection shall be used for the drawings in documents

covered by this specification. All drawings within a document shall use the same projection

system and the drawings shall state which system is used.

5.2.3.3 Dimensional system
All dimensions shall be given in accordance with ISO 129, ISO 286-1 and ISO 1101.
The metric system shall be used in all specifications.
Dimensions shall not contain more than five significant digits.
When units are converted, a note shall be added in each relevant specification and the
conversion between systems of units shall use a factor of 25,4 mm to 1 inch.
5.2.4 Tests and measurements
5.2.4.1 Measurement method
The size measurement method to be used for dimensions shall be specified in the detail
specification for any dimensions which are specified within a total tolerance zone of 0,01 mm
or less.
5.2.4.2 Reference components
Reference components for measurement purposes, if required, shall be specified in the detail
specification.
5.2.4.3 Gauges
Gauges, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
5.2.5 Test data sheets
Test data sheets shall be prepared for each test conducted as required by a detail
specification. The data sheets shall be included in the qualification report and in the periodic
inspection report.
Data sheets shall contain the following information as a minimum:
– title of test and date;
– specimen description including the variant identification number (see 5.7.2);
– test equipment used;
– all applicable test details;
– all measurement values and observations;
– sufficient detailed documentation to provide traceable information for failure analysis.

60869-1 © IEC:2012 – 17 –
5.2.6 Instructions for use
Instructions for use, when required, shall be given by the manufacturer and shall consist of

– assembly and connection instructions,

– cleaning method,
– safety aspects,
– additional information as necessary.

5.3 Standardization system
5.3.1 Interface standards
The interface standards provide both manufacturer and user with all the information they
require to make or use the product in conformity with the physic
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