4.1.3 Style 4.1.3.1 Ge eral Non-wavelen th-selective bran hin devices may b clas ified into styles b sed on the fibre typ s, the con ector typ s, the ca le typ s, the hou in s a e, an th
Basic terms and definitions
3.1 1 port optical fibre or optical connector attached to a passive component for the entry (input port) and/or exit (output port) of the optical power
3.1 2 optical pigtail short length of jumper or cable forming an optical port for an optic component
The optical properties of a non-wavelength-selective optic branching device can be characterized using an n × n transfer matrix of coefficients Here, \( n \) represents the number of ports, and the coefficients indicate the fractional optical power transferred between the specified ports.
Note 1 to entry: In general, the transfer matrix T is as follows:
1 1 where tij is the ratio of the optical power P ij transferred out of port j with respect to input power Pi into port i, that is: t ij = P ij/ P i
The transfer matrix is used to classify the different types of non-wavelength-selective branching devices which are specified in this generic specification
In a non-wavelength-selective branching device, the coefficients \( t_{ij} \) can depend on factors such as input wavelength, input polarization, or modal power distribution Detailed specifications for these parameters are provided when necessary.
Single-mode, non-wavelength-selective branching devices can function coherently with multiple inputs As a result, the transfer coefficients are influenced by the relative phase and intensity of simultaneous coherent optical power inputs from two or more ports.
3.1 4 transfer coefficient element t ij of the transfer matrix
3.1 5 conducting port pair two ports i and j between which t ij is nominally greater than zero
3.1 6 isolated port pair two ports i and j between which t ij is nominally zero, and a ij is nominally infinite
Component definitions
3.2.1 non-wavelength-selective branching device
An optical splitter is a bidirectional passive component with three or more ports that operates non-selectively across a specified wavelength range It divides or combines optical power from one or more input ports to one or more output ports in a predetermined manner, without the need for amplification, switching, or active modulation.
3.2.2 bidirectional non-wavelength-selective branching device device whose transfer matrix element of t ij is equal to t ji for all i and j
3.2.3 non bidirectional non-wavelength-selective branching device device which at least one transfer matrix element of t ij is not equal to t ji
3.2.4 balanced coupler non-wavelength-selective branching device which is designed and intended to produce that each output port power from the same input port is equal
3.2.5 unbalanced coupler non-wavelength-selective branching device which is designed and intended to produce that at least one output port power from the same input port is not equal
3.2.6 tap-coupler unbalanced coupler, typically the coupling ratio is from 1 % to 20 %
Performance parameter definitions
3.3.1 insertion loss reduction in optical power between an input and output port of a passive component expressed in decibels and defined as a = –1 0 log 1 0 ( P 1 / P 0 ) where
P 0 is the optical power launched into the input port;
P 1 is the optical power received from the output port
3.3.2 return loss fraction of input power that is returned from a port of a passive component expressed in decibelsand defined as
P 0 is the optical power launched into a port;
P r is the optical power received back from the same port
3.3.3 directivity optical attenuation expressed in decibels between ports which have conducting connections at any state within isolated port pairs
Note 1 to entry: It is a positive value expressed in dB Generally, directivity for a passive device is defined as the minimum value of directivities of all ports
Note 2 to entry: Directivity is the optical loss between ports which has no conducting connections within all operating wavelength ranges
Directivity refers to the characteristics of port pairs that are anticipated to be isolated, although they are not specifically designed for isolation This implies that these port pairs are expected to effectively minimize the presence of leak light and stray light.
3.3.4 excess loss total power lost in a non-wavelength-selective branching device when an optical signal is launched into port i, defined as
EL where the summation is performed only over those values j for which i and j are conducting ports
Note 1 to entry: For a non-wavelength-selective branching device with n input ports, there is an array of n values of excess loss, one for each input port i
3.3.5 uniformity difference between the maximum and minimum attenuation measured for all output ports for one input port
For each input port, the maximum value is determined across the operating wavelength range In devices with multiple input ports, uniformity is defined as the highest uniformity value among all input ports.
Note 2 to entry: Uniformity is expressed as the difference of maximum and minimum value of each insertion loss from a common input port It is expressed in decibels
Note 3 to entry: Generally, uniformity for a passive device is defined as maximum value of uniformities of all ports
3.3.6 coupling ratio splitting ratio for a given input port i, the ratio of light at a given output port k to the total light from all output ports and defined as
CR i where j represents the operational output ports
3.3.7 operating wavelength nominal wavelength λ, at which a passive component is designed to operate with the specified performance
3.3.8 operating wavelength range specified range of wavelengths from λ i min to λ i max about a nominal operating wavelength λ i , within which a passive component is designed to operate with the specified performance
Note 1 to entry: For a non-wavelength-selective branching device with more than one operating wavelength, the corresponding wavelength ranges are not necessarily equal
PDL maximum variation of insertion loss due to a variation of the state of polarization (SOP) over all the SOPs
Note 1 to entry: This note applies to the French language only
Note 2 to entry: This note applies to the French language only
Classification 1 0
Non-wavelength-selective branching devices shall be classified as follows:
The main characteristics of each type are as follows:
– any combination of the above
Non-wavelength-selective branching devices can be categorized by various styles, including the types of fiber, connectors, and cables used, as well as the shape of the housing and the configuration The ports of these branching devices are classified based on their specific configurations.
Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails, without connectors (see Figure 1 )
Figure 1 – Non-wavelength-selective branching device
Device containing integral fibre optic pigtails, with a connector on each pigtail (see Figure 2)
Figure 2 – Non-wavelength-selective branching device
Device containing fibre optic connectors as an integral part of the device housing (see Figure 3)
Figure 3 – Non-wavelength-selective branching device
Device containing some combination of the interfacing features of the preceding configurations (see Figure 4)
Figure 4 – Non-wavelength-selective branching device
The branching device variant identifies those common features which encompass structurally similar components
Examples of features which define a variant include, but are not limited to the following:
Normative reference extensions are used to identify the integration of independent standards specifications or other reference documents into blank detail specifications
Additional requirements set by an extension are mandatory unless stated otherwise The primary purpose of usage is to combine related components to create hybrid devices or integrated functional applications that rely on technical expertise beyond just fiber optics.
Published reference documents produced by ITU, consistent with the scope of the relevant IEC specification series may be used as extension
Certain optical splice configurations necessitate specific qualification provisions that are not universally applicable This flexibility allows for variations in component design, specialized field tools, and unique application processes Essential requirements must be established to ensure consistent performance and safety, along with comprehensive product specifications These mandatory extensions apply to the preparation, assembly, or installation of optical splices for both field applications and qualification test specimens Relevant specifications should clearly outline all requirements, while design-dependent extensions should not be universally enforced.
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.
Documentation 1 2
Symbols 1 2
Graphical and letter symbols shall, whenever possible, be taken from IEC 60027, IEC 6061 7 and IEC 61 930.
Specification system 1 2
This specification is a component of a three-tier IEC specification system, which includes blank detail specifications and detail specifications Notably, there are no sectional specifications available for non-wavelength-selective branching devices.
Table 1 – Three-level IEC specification structure
Specification level Examples of information to be included Applicable to
Inspection rules Optical measuring methods Environmental test methods Sampling plans
Identification rule Marking standards Dimensional standards Terminology standards Symbol standards Preferred number series
Two or more component families or sub- families
Specific symbols Specific units Preferred values Marking
Quality assessment procedures Selection of tests
Qualification approval and/or capability approval procedures
Blank detail Quality conformance test schedule
Inspection requirements Information common to a number of types
Groups of types having a common test schedule
Specific information Completed quality conformance test schedules
Blank detail specifications are not, by themselves, a specification level They are associated with the generic specification
Each blank detail specification shall be limited to one environmental category
Each blank detail specification shall contain:
– minimum mandatory test schedules and performance requirements;
– one or more assessment levels;
– the preferred format for stating the required information in the detail specification;
– in case of hybrid components, including connectors, addition of appropriate entry fields to show the reference normative document, document title and issue date
A non-wavelength-selective branching device is defined by a detailed specification that can be customized by national committees of the IEC This customization occurs within the framework of a generic specification, allowing for the establishment of a specific design as an IEC standard.
Detail specifications shall specify the following, as applicable:
– part identification number for each variant (see 4.7.2);
Drawings 1 4
The drawings and dimensions given in detail specifications shall not restrict themselves to details of construction, nor shall they be used as manufacturing drawings
All drawings in documents governed by this specification must utilize either first angle or third angle projection Consistency is key; therefore, all drawings within a document should adhere to the same projection system, clearly indicating which system is employed.
All dimensions shall be given in accordance with ISO 1 29-1 , ISO 286-1 and ISO 1 1 01
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.
Measurements 1 4
The measurement method for optical, mechanical, climatic, and environmental characteristics of branching devices to be used shall be defined and selected preferentially from the IEC 61 300 series
The size measurement method to be used shall be specified in the detail specification for any dimensions which are specified within a total tolerance zone of 0,01 mm or less
Reference components for measurement purposes, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification
Gauges, if required, shall be specified in the relevant specification.
Test data sheets 1 5
Test data sheets must be created for every test performed in accordance with the relevant specifications These data sheets are to be included in both the qualification report and the periodic inspection report.
Data sheets shall contain the following information as a minimum:
– title of test and date;
– specimen description including the type of fibre and the variant identification number (see 4.7.2);
– test equipment used and date of latest calibration;
– all measurement values and observations;
Instructions for use 1 5
Instructions for use, when required, shall be given by the manufacturer and shall include:
Standardization system 1 5
Interface standards 1 5
Interface standards offer crucial information for manufacturers and users to ensure products meet specific physical characteristics They detail the dimensions necessary for the proper mating and unmating of optical connectors and related components, while also establishing the positioning of the optical datum target in relation to other reference points.
Interface standards guarantee compatibility among connectors and adaptors, ensuring they fit together seamlessly These standards often include tolerance grades for ferrules and alignment devices, which define varying levels of alignment precision.
The interface dimensions are essential for designing compatible components that connect with the connectors For instance, these dimensions can be utilized to create an active device mount, ensuring that standard plugs fit seamlessly into the optical device mount Additionally, they indicate the position of the plug's optical datum target, providing designers with confidence in their designs.
Standard interface dimensions ensure connector mating but do not guarantee optical performance Optical performance is assured through manufacturing specifications, allowing products from the same or different specifications to fit together seamlessly A single manufacturer can only guarantee performance for products adhering to the same specification While some level of performance can be anticipated from products with differing specifications, it is unlikely to exceed the performance of the lowest specified product.
Performance standards 1 6
Performance standards consist of various tests and measurements, which may be organized into a specific schedule based on the standard's requirements These standards include clearly defined conditions, severities, and pass/fail criteria, ensuring that the tests are conducted under consistent parameters.
Products can be evaluated on a "once-off" basis to determine their compliance with the performance standards of a specific market sector, user group, or system location Once a product meets all performance standard requirements, it can be officially declared compliant; however, it must then be monitored through a quality assurance and quality conformance program.
The test and measurement standards, especially concerning insertion loss and return loss, are crucial for ensuring interproduct compatibility Adhering to these standards guarantees that each product conforms to the required specifications.
Reliability standards 1 6
Reliability standards are intended to ensure that a component can meet performance specifications under stated conditions for a stated time period
For each type of component, the following shall be identified (and shall appear in the standard):
– failure modes (observable, general mechanical or optical effects of failure);
– failure mechanisms (general causes of failure common to several components);
– failure effects (detailed cause of failure, specific to component)
These are all related to environmental and material aspects
After the manufacturing of components, they undergo an "infant mortality phase" where many may fail if used immediately To prevent early failures in the field, a factory screening process is implemented, exposing components to environmental stresses such as mechanical, thermal, or humidity-related conditions This process accelerates known failure mechanisms in a controlled environment, allowing for early detection Components that successfully pass this screening have a significantly reduced failure rate, as potential issues have been addressed before sale.
Screening is an optional aspect of manufacturing that does not influence a component's "useful life," which is the duration it operates according to specifications Over time, various failure mechanisms emerge, leading to an increase in the failure rate beyond an acceptable threshold Once this occurs, the useful life concludes, and the "wear-out period" commences, necessitating the replacement of the component.
At the start of a component's useful life, performance testing is conducted by the supplier, manufacturer, or a third party to verify that it meets performance specifications across various intended environments In contrast, reliability testing ensures that the component adheres to performance standards for a defined minimum useful lifetime or a maximum allowable failure rate This testing typically builds upon performance testing by extending the duration and increasing the severity to expedite the failure mechanisms.
Reliability theory connects the testing of component reliability to their parameters and the associated lifetime or failure rate during testing It further extrapolates these findings to predict life or failure rates under less demanding service conditions The reliability specifications outline the necessary component parameter values to guarantee a minimum lifetime or a maximum failure rate during operation.
Interlinking 1 7
Current standards in development are illustrated in Figure 5 Numerous test and measurement standards are already established, and quality assurance qualification approval standards have been in place for many years.
When interface, performance and reliability standards are in place, the matrix given in Table 2 demonstrates some of the options available for product standardization
Product A is a product that is fully IEC standardized, having a standard interface and meeting defined performance standards and reliability standards
Product B is a product with a proprietary interface, but which meets a defined IEC performance standard and reliability standard
Product C is a product which complies with an IEC standard interface but does not meet the requirement of either an IEC performance standard or reliability standard
Product D is a product which complies with an IEC interface standard and with a performance standard, but does not meet a reliability requirement
The matrix is inherently complex, encompassing various interrelated interface, performance, and reliability standards Additionally, all products may adhere to established quality assurance programs or national/company quality assurance systems Table 3 outlines the options for qualification approval, capability approval, and technology approval within a quality assurance framework.
Test and measurement Interface Performance Reliability Quality specification IEC structure – Generic specification Sectional specification Blank detail specification Detail
IEC 61 300-XX (IEC 60068-ZZ) IEC 61 754-XX IEC 61 753-XX IEC 62005-XX specifcation
Interface standard Performance standard Reliability standard
QA a CA b TA c QA a CA b TA c QA a CA b TA c
Product D x x x a Qualification approval b Capability approval c Technology approval
Design and construction 1 8
Materials 1 8
All materials used in the construction shall be corrosion resistant or suitably finished to meet the requirements of the relevant specification
When non-flammable materials are required, the requirement shall be specified in the specification and reference shall be made to IEC 60695-1 1 -5.
Workmanship 1 8
All components and related hardware must be produced to consistent quality standards, ensuring they are free from sharp edges, burrs, or any defects that could impact their service life, functionality, or aesthetic appeal Special emphasis should be placed on the precision and quality of marking, plating, soldering, and bonding processes.
Quality 1 8
Non-wavelength-selective branching devices shall be controlled by the quality assessment procedures The measurement and test procedures from the IEC 61 300 series shall be used, as applicable.
Performance requirements 1 8
Branching devices shall meet the performance requirements specified in the relevant IEC performance standard.
Identification and marking 1 9
General 1 9
Components, associated hardware, and packages shall be permanently and legibly identified and marked when this is required by the detail specification.
Variant identification number 1 9
Each variant in a detail specification must have a unique variant identification number This number includes the detail specification number, followed by a four-digit sequence and a letter indicating the assessment level The first digit of the four-digit sequence is assigned sequentially to each component type, while the last three digits are assigned sequentially to each variant of that component.
Component marking 1 9
Component marking requirements will be outlined in the detail specification, with the preferred marking order being: a) port identification, b) manufacturer's part number (including serial number if applicable), c) manufacturer's identification mark or logo, d) manufacturing date, e) variant identification number, and f) any additional markings specified in the detail specification.
In cases where space is insufficient for all necessary markings on a component, each unit must be individually packaged with a data sheet that includes all required information that cannot be marked directly.
Package marking 1 9
Several non-wavelength-selective branching devices may be packed together for shipment
Package marking requirements should be outlined in the detail specification, with the preferred order being: a) manufacturer's identification mark or logo, b) manufacturer's part number, c) manufacturing date code (year/week as per ISO 8601), d) variant identification number(s), e) type designation, and f) any additional markings specified in the detail specification.
Individual unit packages must be labeled with the reference number of the certified record of released lots, the manufacturer's factory identity code, and the component identification when applicable.
Safety
Non-wavelength-selective branching devices, when used on an optical transmission system and/or equipment, may emit potentially hazardous radiation from an uncapped or unterminated output port or end
Manufacturers of non-wavelength-selective branching devices must provide adequate information to inform system designers and users about potential hazards, as well as outline necessary precautions and safe working practices.
In addition, each detail specification shall include the following:
When handling small diameter fiber optics, it is crucial to exercise caution to avoid skin punctures, particularly around the eyes It is advised against directly viewing the end of an optical fiber or connector while it is transmitting energy, unless it has been confirmed that the energy output level is safe.
Reference shall be made to the IEC 60825 series, the relevant standard on safety
Annex A (informative) Examples of technology of fibre optic branching devices
Non-wavelength-selective branching devices primarily utilize two optical technologies, one of which is fused biconic taper (FBT) technology This method is commonly employed for 1 (2) × 2, 1 (3) × 3, and 1 (4) × 4 couplers or splitters FBT devices are created by closely aligning multiple optical fibers and fusing them using a burner or heater system, relying on evanescent effects The fused fibers are typically secured to a glass half-tube with adhesive, which is then encased in a hard pipe.
Planar lightwave circuit (PLC) technology, illustrated in Figure A.2, is primarily utilized for 1 (2) × n (where n ranges from 4 to 128) couplers or splitters A PLC-based fiber optic branching device comprises a PLC chip and optical fibers that are bonded to the chip's facets using adhesive, as depicted in Figure A.2 Typical fabrication methods for PLC chips are detailed in Annex B.
Figure A.1 – FBT-type optical branching device technology
Figure A.2 – PLC-type optical branching device technology
Glass block with V-groove Adhesive connection Y-branch splitter
Annex B (informative) Examples of fabrication technology of PLC chips
The typical fabrication methods for photonic light circuits (PLCs) include flame hydrolysis deposition (FHD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) In the FHD method, SiO2 and GeO2 particles are deposited onto a substrate through a reaction of reactant gas in an oxyhydrogen flame, followed by etching to mold the light waveguide Conversely, the CVD method involves etching the cores created by reacting reactant gas to shape the light waveguide.
The ion-exchange method involves molding a light waveguide by increasing the refractive index in areas where Na\(^+\) ions in glass are replaced with Ag\(^+\) ions from molten salt This process is achieved by soaking glass containing Na\(^+\) in molten salt that includes Ag\(^+\).
Figure B.1 – Fabrication by FHD method
SiO 2 -GeO 2 glass layer Silica substrate
SiO 2 -GeO 2 glass layer Silica substrate
Silica substrate SiO 2 glass layer
Figure B.2 – Fabrication by CVD method
Figure B.3 – Fabrication by ion-exchange method
Photo mask Photo resist Silica substrate
IEC 60050-731 , International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Chapter 731: Optical fibre communication
IEC 60068 (all parts), Environmental testing
IEC 6041 0, Sampling plans and procedures for inspection by attributes
IEC 60974 (all parts), Arc welding equipment
IEC 61 300-1 , Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and measurement procedures – Part 1: General and guidance
IEC 61 300-2 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and measurement procedures – Part 2: Tests
IEC 61 300-3 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and measurement procedures – Part 3: Examinations and measurements
IEC 61 753 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components performance standard
IEC 61 754 (all parts), Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Fibre optic connector interfaces
IEC TR 61 931 , Fibre optic – Terminology
IEC 62005 (all parts), Reliability of fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive optical components
IEC Guide 1 04, The preparation of safety publications and the use of basic safety publications and group safety publications
ITU-T Recommendation G.671 , Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems
3 Termes et définitions 31 3.1 Termes et définitions fondamentaux 31 3.2 Définitions des composants 32 3.3 Définitions des paramètres de performance 32
The article outlines essential requirements for optical coupling devices, including a classification system that covers generalities, types, models, variants, and normative reference extensions It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive documentation, detailing symbols, specification structures, plans, measurements, technical test sheets, and user instructions The standardization system is discussed, highlighting interface, performance, and reliability standards, along with cross-references Key aspects of design and construction are addressed, focusing on materials and execution quality Performance requirements, identification, and marking protocols are also outlined, including general identification, variant identification numbers, and component and packaging markings Finally, safety considerations are emphasized, supplemented by informative annexes on optical coupling device technologies and PLC chip manufacturing examples, along with a bibliography for further reference.
The figures illustrate a wavelength-independent coupling device, showcasing its design and functionality Each figure provides a visual representation of the device, emphasizing its consistent performance across various wavelengths.
The article discusses various optical coupling devices, highlighting a wavelength-independent coupling device in Figure 4 It also outlines relevant standards in Figure 5 Additionally, it presents technologies for FBT-type optical coupling devices in Figure A.1 and PLC-type fiber optic coupling devices in Figure A.2 The manufacturing processes are detailed, showcasing FHD in Figure B.1, CVD in Figure B.2, and ion exchange methods in Figure B.3.
Tableau 1 – Structure à trois niveaux des spécifications de l'IEC 37Tableau 2 – Matrice de correspondances croisées des normes 42Tableau 3 – Options d'assurance de la qualité 42
DISPOSITIFS D'INTERCONNEXION ET COMPOSANTS PASSIFS À FIBRES OPTIQUES – DISPOSITIFS DE COUPLAGE À FIBRES OPTIQUES NE DÉPENDANT PAS DE LA LONGUEUR D'ONDE –
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