What is IEC 60793-2-70:2012?

IEC 60793-2-70:2012 is an international standard that defines the requirements for optical fibers used in fiber optic communication systems. It is part of the International Electrotechnical Commission's series of standards for optical fibers.

Optical Fiber Types

Under IEC 60793-2-70:2012, optical fibers are divided into different types based on their performance and characteristics. These types include:

1. B1.1: This type of fiber is designed for indoor applications, such as local area networks (LANs) and data centers. It has a high bandwidth and low attenuation, making it suitable for high-speed data transmission over short distances.

2. B1.3: This fiber type is also intended for indoor use but with improved resistance to bending and higher mechanical strength. It is commonly used in harsh environments where the fiber may be subjected to tighter bends or physical stress.

3. B6a: Designed for outdoor aerial installations, B6a optical fibers have enhanced mechanical and environmental properties compared to indoor fibers. They are capable of withstanding exposure to extreme weather conditions and have better resistance to moisture and UV radiation.

Key Specifications and Testing Methods

IEC 60793-2-70:2012 specifies various parameters for each optical fiber type. These parameters include core and cladding diameter, numerical aperture, chromatic dispersion, and attenuation.

To ensure compliance with the standard, optical fibers undergo several testing methods. These tests include measurement of the fiber geometry, refractive index profile, tensile strength, bend resistance, and attenuation. Such tests guarantee that the manufactured fibers meet the required specifications and can perform optimally in their intended applications.

Conclusion

IEC 60793-2-70:2012 plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of optical fibers used in fiber optic communication systems. Compliance with this standard enables seamless data transmission over long distances and in various environmental conditions. The definition of different fiber types and their corresponding specifications allows for proper selection based on specific application requirements. Manufacturers and users alike benefit from IEC 60793-2-70:2012 as it sets the benchmark for performance and quality assurance in the field of optical fiber technology.