prEN 50411-3-2

1.1 Product definition This document contains the initial, start of life dimensional, optical, mechanical and environmental performance requirements, which single mode mechanical splice needs to meet in order for it to be categorized as a European standard product. Although, in this document, the product is qualified for EN IEC 60793 2 50 type B-652.D single mode fibres, it is also suitable for mechanical splicing of other single mode fibres with 125 µm diameter glass cladding. 1.2 Interoperability The installed mechanical splice fits into optical fibre management system with optical splice cassettes or splice trays as defined in EN IEC 61756 1. This document specifies the following two physical interface dimensions: — cross sectional profile with width, height or diameter (in millimetres); — length (in millimetres). 1.3 Expected performance In this document, the performance of the mechanical splice is given with identical fibres only as specified in Annex A. Losses associated with tolerances in fibre cladding diameter and mode field mismatch are not taken into account. The measured attenuation is a function of the core concentricity, cladding non-circularity and alignment capability. The optical return loss performance is a function of the index matching gel and the fibre end face preparation 1.4 Operating environment The tests selected combined with the severities and durations are representative of an outdoor enclosed environment defined as category OP in EN IEC 61753 1. To ensure that the product can be used in outdoor closures, boxes or street cabinets for categories A, G or S (as defined in EN IEC 61753 1) the specified lower temperature is extended to −40 °C and a water immersion requirement for temporary flooding conditions has been added. 1.5 Reliability Whilst the anticipated service life expectancy of the product in this environment is at least 20 years, compliance with this specification does not guarantee the reliability of the product. This is expected to be predicted using a recognized reliability assessment programme. 1.6 Quality assurance Compliance with this specification does not guarantee the manufacturing consistency of the product. This is expected to be maintained using a recognized quality assurance programme.