IEC 61300-2-43-2022 PDF

Full title and description

St IEC 61300-2-43-2022 — Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components — Basic test and measurement procedures — Part 2-43: Tests — Screen testing of return loss of single‑mode PC optical fibre connectors. This document specifies a screening test method for assessing return loss of single‑mode physical contact (PC) connector plugs (cylindrical ferrule type) used in patch cords and pigtails, to ensure minimum return loss when screened plugs are randomly mated in the field.

Abstract

This third edition (2022) updates the procedure for return‑loss screening of single‑mode PC connectors. It provides definitions, test apparatus and conditions, sample selection, measurement procedure, reporting requirements and acceptance criteria guidance for screening connector plugs based on return‑loss performance. The method is intended to be used alongside applicable product specifications and other IEC 61300 series test methods (visual inspection, insertion loss, durability, etc.).

General information

• Status: International Standard (current).
• Publication date: 1 September 2022 (Edition 3.0).
• Publisher: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
• ICS / categories: 33.180.20 — Fibre optic interconnecting devices.
• Edition / version: Edition 3.0 (2022); cancels and replaces the 2014 edition.
• Number of pages: 32 pages (IEC publication).

Scope

The standard applies to screening single‑mode PC optical fibre connector plugs (cylindrical ferrule type) of patch cords and pigtails in terms of return loss. Its purpose is to ensure a minimum return‑loss level when connector plugs screened by this method are randomly mated in service. The document gives the screening test procedure, required apparatus, measurement conditions, sample handling, test sequence and reporting but does not replace product‑specific performance or reliability standards.

Key topics and requirements

• Purpose and applicability: screening single‑mode PC connector plugs to control return loss for field mating.
• Terms and definitions: includes clause of standardized terminology relevant to return‑loss screening.
• Test apparatus and measurement conditions: optical sources, detectors/meters, launch and polarization considerations, fixtures for holding plugs.
• Sample selection and conditioning: number of samples, pre‑test inspection and environmental/handling conditions.
• Measurement procedure: step‑by‑step screening measurements, averaging/measurement timing, and handling of marginal results.
• Acceptance and reporting: recommended reporting fields and how to document pass/fail outcomes (acceptance limits are to be specified by the purchaser or product specification where applicable).
• Relation to visual inspection and cleaning: emphasizes that screening complements visual inspection/cleaning procedures (refer to IEC cleaning guidance and visual inspection parts).

Typical use and users

Used by connector and patch‑cord manufacturers, incoming‑inspection and quality laboratories, contract test houses, OEMs and procurement/specification engineers who need to screen production lots of single‑mode PC patch cords or pigtails for return‑loss performance prior to shipment or installation. Also useful for product development teams establishing screening procedures and for quality managers defining acceptance criteria in purchase specifications.

Related standards

Part of the IEC 61300 series of basic test and measurement procedures. Commonly used companion documents include IEC 61300‑1 (general guidance), IEC 61300‑3‑35 (visual inspection of connector end faces), IEC 61300‑3‑4 and IEC 61300‑3‑3 (attenuation/measurement methods), IEC 61300‑2‑2 (mating durability) and IEC TR 62627‑01 (connector cleaning methods). Product performance standards (for example IEC 61753 family) and applicable national/adopted EN versions should also be considered when specifying acceptance limits.

Keywords

return loss; screening; single‑mode; PC connector; cylindrical ferrule; patch cord; pigtail; IEC 61300; optical connector testing; visual inspection; cleaning.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: St IEC 61300-2-43-2022 is the IEC test method for screen testing the return loss of single‑mode physical contact (PC) optical fibre connector plugs (cylindrical ferrule type). It defines how to screen connector plugs to control return‑loss performance when they are mated in the field.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the scope and purpose of screening, terminology, required test apparatus and measurement conditions, sample selection and conditioning, the step‑by‑step screening procedure, reporting requirements and guidance on acceptance decisions. It is a screening test method and is intended to be used with product specifications and other IEC test parts.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Connector and patch‑cord manufacturers, quality and incoming‑inspection laboratories, independent test houses, OEMs, procurement/specification engineers and others responsible for ensuring connector return‑loss performance before deployment.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: Current. The 2022 edition (Edition 3.0) supersedes the previous edition (2014) and constitutes a technical revision that updates terms and test details.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is Part 2‑43 of the IEC 61300 series (Basic test and measurement procedures for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components). It is intended to be used alongside other IEC 61300 parts (for example Part 1, many Part 2 and Part 3 documents) and related technical reports on cleaning and inspection.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Return loss, screening, single‑mode, PC connector, cylindrical ferrule, patch cord, pigtail, IEC 61300, optical connector testing, visual inspection, cleaning.