ANSI/TIA-568-C.

0-2009
APPROVED: FEBRUARY 2, 2009

Generic Telecommunications Cabling for

Customer Premises

TIA-568-C.0

February 2009

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ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Generic Telecommunications Cabling for Customer Premises
Table of Contents
FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................................. v
1

SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................. 1

NORMATIVE REFERENCES ................................................................................................................ 1

DEFINITION OF TERMS, ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS, AND UNITS OF MEASURE........... 2

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4

General ........................................................................................................................................... 2
Definitions ....................................................................................................................................... 2
Acronyms and abbreviations .......................................................................................................... 5
Units of measure ............................................................................................................................ 6

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CABLING SYSTEM STRUCTURE ............................................................ 8

4.1 General ........................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2 Topology ......................................................................................................................................... 9
4.2.1 General .................................................................................................................................... 9
4.2.2 Accommodation of non-star configurations ............................................................................. 9
4.3 Equipment outlets ........................................................................................................................... 9
4.4 Distributors ..................................................................................................................................... 9
4.5 Cabling Subsystem 1.................................................................................................................... 10
4.6 Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 ......................................................................... 10
4.7 Recognized cabling ...................................................................................................................... 10
4.8 Cabling lengths ............................................................................................................................. 11
4.8.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 11
4.8.2 Demarcation point .................................................................................................................. 11
4.9 Grounding and bonding considerations........................................................................................ 11

CABLING INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................... 12

5.1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Environmental compatibility .......................................................................................................... 12
5.3 Balanced twisted-pair cabling ....................................................................................................... 12
5.3.1 Maximum pulling tension ....................................................................................................... 12
5.3.2 Minimum bend radius............................................................................................................. 12
5.3.2.1 Cable ............................................................................................................................... 12
5.3.2.2 Cord cable ....................................................................................................................... 12
5.3.3 Cable termination ................................................................................................................... 12
5.3.3.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 12
5.3.3.2 Eight-position modular jack pin-pair assignments ........................................................... 13
5.3.4 Cords and jumpers................................................................................................................. 14
5.3.5 Grounding and bonding requirements for screened cabling.................................................. 14
5.3.6 Separation of power and telecommunications cables ........................................................... 14
5.3.7 Electrostatic discharge ........................................................................................................... 14
5.4 Optical fiber cabling ...................................................................................................................... 15
5.4.1 Minimum bend radius and maximum pulling tension ............................................................. 15
5.4.2 Cord cable .............................................................................................................................. 15
5.4.3 Polarity ................................................................................................................................... 15

CABLING TRANSMISSION PERFORMANCE AND TEST REQUIREMENTS .................................. 16

6.1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 16
6.2 Field-test instrument calibration ................................................................................................... 16
6.3 Balanced twisted-pair transmission performance and test requirements .................................... 16
6.4 Optical fiber transmission performance and test requirements .................................................... 16
6.4.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 16
6.4.2 Field-test instruments............................................................................................................. 16
i

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
6.4.2.1 Multimode ........................................................................................................................ 16
6.4.2.2 Single-mode .................................................................................................................... 17
6.4.3 Link segment performance measurements ........................................................................... 17
6.4.3.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 17
6.4.3.2 Cabling Subsystem 1 link segment ................................................................................. 17
6.4.3.3 Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 link segment ....................................... 17
6.4.3.4 Link attenuation allowance calculation ............................................................................ 17
ANNEX A (NORMATIVE) CENTRALIZED OPTICAL FIBER CABLING .................................................... 18
A.1
A.2

General ......................................................................................................................................... 18
Implementation ............................................................................................................................. 18

ANNEX B (NORMATIVE) MAINTAINING OPTICAL FIBER POLARITY .................................................... 19

B.1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 19
B.2 Component descriptions ............................................................................................................... 19
B.3 Duplex polarity systems................................................................................................................ 19
B.3.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 19
B.3.2 Consecutive-fiber positioning ................................................................................................. 20
B.3.3 Reverse-pair positioning ........................................................................................................ 22
B.4 Array polarity systems .................................................................................................................. 23
B.4.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 23
B.4.2 Connectivity Method A ........................................................................................................... 25
B.4.2.1 Connectivity Method A for duplex signals ....................................................................... 25
B.4.2.2 Connectivity Method A for parallel signals ...................................................................... 26
B.4.3 Connectivity Method B ........................................................................................................... 27
B.4.3.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 27
B.4.3.2 Connectivity Method B for duplex signals ....................................................................... 27
B.4.3.3 Connectivity Method B for parallel signals ...................................................................... 28
B.4.4 Connectivity Method C for duplex signals.............................................................................. 29
ANNEX C (INFORMATIVE) MULTI-TENANT CABLING SUBSYSTEM 2 AND CABLING SUBSYSTEM 3
.................................................................................................................................................................... 30
C.1
C.2
C.3

General ......................................................................................................................................... 30
Existing Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both cabling ........................................ 30
New Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both cabling ............................................. 30

ANNEX D (INFORMATIVE) APPLICATION SUPPORT INFORMATION .................................................. 31

D.1
D.2
D.3

General ......................................................................................................................................... 31
Balanced twisted-pair cabling supportable distances .................................................................. 31
Optical fiber cabling supportable distances .................................................................................. 32

ANNEX E (INFORMATIVE) GUIDELINES FOR FIELD-TESTING LENGTH, LOSS AND POLARITY OF

OPTICAL FIBER CABLING ........................................................................................................................ 34
E.1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 34
E.2 Test criteria ................................................................................................................................... 34
E.2.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 34
E.2.2 Tier 1 ...................................................................................................................................... 34
E.2.3 Tier 2 (Optional) ..................................................................................................................... 35
E.3 Test instruments ........................................................................................................................... 35
E.3.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 35
E.3.2 Optical loss test set ................................................................................................................ 35
E.3.3 Visible light source ................................................................................................................. 35
E.3.4 Optical time domain reflectometer ......................................................................................... 36
E.4 Precautions to measurement testing ............................................................................................ 36
E.5 Test measurement methods ......................................................................................................... 37
E.5.1 Optical link attenuation........................................................................................................... 37
ii

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
E.5.1.1 General ............................................................................................................................ 37
E.5.1.2 Verifying test jumper quality ............................................................................................ 37
E.5.1.3 Multimode ........................................................................................................................ 38
E.5.1.3.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 38
E.5.1.3.2 Setting the reference .................................................................................................. 39
E.5.1.3.3 Measuring link attenuation ......................................................................................... 39
E.5.1.4 Single-mode .................................................................................................................... 40
E.5.1.4.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 40
E.5.1.4.2 Setting the reference .................................................................................................. 40
E.5.1.4.3 Measuring link attenuation ......................................................................................... 41
E.5.1.5 Calculating link attenuation ............................................................................................. 41
E.5.2 Length .................................................................................................................................... 41
E.5.3 Polarity ................................................................................................................................... 41
E.5.4 OTDR trace ............................................................................................................................ 42
E.6 Documentation ............................................................................................................................. 43
E.7 Mandrel wrap usage for multimode fiber testing with an OLTS LED source ............................... 43
E.8 Interpreting length, attenuation rate, and insertion loss from an OTDR trace.............................. 45
E.8.1 Length .................................................................................................................................... 45
E.8.2 Attenuation rate ...................................................................................................................... 46
E.8.3 Insertion loss .......................................................................................................................... 47
ANNEX F (INFORMATIVE) ENVIRONMENTAL CLASSIFICATIONS ....................................................... 48
ANNEX G (INFORMATIVE) BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................ 51
List of Tables
Table 1 Maximum pair un-twist for category cable termination ............................................................... 13
Table 2 Maximum tensile load and minimum bend radius....................................................................... 15
Table 3 Acceptable mandrel diameters for common multimode cable types (five wraps) ...................... 16
Table 4 Summary of components used for duplex signals ...................................................................... 24
Table 5 Summary of components used for parallel signals ..................................................................... 24
Table 6 Maximum supportable distances for balanced twisted-pair cabling applications ....................... 31
Table 7 Maximum supportable distances and attenuation for optical fiber applications by fiber type ..... 32
Table 8 M, I, C, E environmental conditions ............................................................................................ 48
List of Figures
Figure 1 Illustrative relationship between the TIA-568-C Series and other relevant TIA standards ......... vi
Figure 2 Functional elements that comprise a generic cabling system ..................................................... 8
Figure 3 Illustration of interconnection and cross-connection.................................................................. 10
Figure 4 Front view of eight position jack pin/pair assignments (T568A) ................................................ 13
Figure 5 Front view of optional eight-position jack pin/pair assignment (T568B) .................................... 14
Figure 6 Illustration of centralized optical fiber cabling ............................................................................ 18
Figure 7 A-to-B duplex optical fiber patch cord ........................................................................................ 19
Figure 8 Consecutive-fiber positioning shown with horizontally mounted hardware ............................... 20
Figure 9 Consecutive-fiber positioning cabling system example shown with horizontally mounted
hardware .............................................................................................................................................. 21
Figure 10 Reverse-pair positioning shown with horizontally mounted hardware..................................... 22
Figure 11 Reverse-pair positioning cabling system example shown with horizontally mounted hardware
............................................................................................................................................................. 23
Figure 12 Connectivity Method A for duplex signals ................................................................................ 25
Figure 13 Connectivity Method A for parallel signals............................................................................... 26
Figure 14 Connectivity Method B for duplex signals ................................................................................ 27
Figure 15 Connectivity Method B for parallel signals............................................................................... 28
Figure 16 Connectivity Method C for duplex signals ............................................................................... 29

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ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Figure 17 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) with one test jumper (multimode) ................ 38
Figure 18 Example of a measurement (P2) when verifying OLTS test jumpers (multimode) .................. 38
Figure 19 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) with one test jumper (multimode) ................ 39
Figure 20 Example of a multimode link attenuation measurement (P2)................................................... 39
Figure 21 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) one test jumper (single-mode) ..................... 40
Figure 22 Example link attenuation measurement of single-mode cabling using an OLTS .................... 41
Figure 23 OTDR setup illustration of fiber link testing ............................................................................. 42
Figure 24 Effect of mandrel wrap ............................................................................................................. 44
Figure 25 Example OTDR trace illustrating length .................................................................................. 45
Figure 26 Example OTDR trace illustrating attenuation rate ................................................................... 46
Figure 27 Example OTDR trace illustrating insertion loss measurement ................................................ 47

iv

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
FOREWORD
(This foreword is not considered part of this Standard.)
This Standard was developed by TIA Subcommittee TR-42.1.
Approval of this Standard
This Standard was approved by TIA Subcommittee TR-42.1, TIA Engineering Committee TR-42, and the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
ANSI/TIA reviews standards every 5 years. At that time, standards are reaffirmed, withdrawn, or revised
according to the submitted updates. Updates to be included in the next revision should be sent to the
committee chair or to ANSI/TIA.
Contributing organizations
More than 60 organizations within the telecommunications industry contributed their expertise to the
development of this Standard (including manufacturers, consultants, end users, and other organizations).
Documents superseded
This Standard, in part, replaces ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1 dated April 12, 2001 and its addenda.
This Standard incorporates and refines the technical content of:
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1-1, Addendum 1 Minimum 4-Pair UTP and 4-Pair ScTP Patch Cable
Bend Radius
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1-2, Addendum 2 Grounding and Bonding Specifications for Screened
Balanced Twisted-Pair Horizontal Cabling
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1-3, Addendum 3 Supportable Distances and Channel Attenuation for
Optical Fiber Applications by Fiber Type
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1-7, Addendum 7 Guidelines for Maintaining Polarity Using Array
Connectors
TIA/EIA TSB125, Guidelines for Maintaining Optical Fiber Polarity Through Reverse-pair
Positioning
TIA TSB140, Additional Guidelines for Field-Testing Length, Loss and Polarity of Optical Fiber
Cabling Systems
TIA TSB153, Static Discharge Between LAN and Data Terminal Equipment
Relationship to other TIA standards and documents
The following are related standards regarding various aspects of structured cabling that were developed
and are maintained by Engineering Committee TIA TR-42. An illustrative diagram of the TIA-568-C Series
relationship to other relevant TIA standards is given in figure 1.

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard (ANSI/TIA-568-C.1);

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard; Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair
Cabling Components (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2);
Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard (ANSI/TIA-568-C.3);
Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces (TIA-569-B);
Residential Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard (ANSI/TIA-570-B);
Administration
Standard
for
Commercial
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
(ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A);
Commercial Building Grounding (Earthing) and Bonding Requirements for Telecommunications
(ANSI-J-STD-607-A).
Customer-Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard (ANSI/TIA-758-A).
Building Automation Systems Cabling Standard for Commercial Buildings (ANSI/TIA/EIA-862)
Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers (ANSI/TIA-942)
Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Industrial Premises (ANSI/TIA-1005)

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Common
Standards

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Generic
Telecommunications
Cabling for Customer
Premises
TIA-569-B
Commercial Building
Standard for
Telecommunications
Pathways and
Spaces
ANSI/TIA-606-A
Administration
Standard for
Commercial
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
ANSI/TIA-607-B
Telecommunications
Grounding (Earthing)
and Bonding for
Customer Premises

Premises
Standards

ANSI/TIA-568-C.1
Commercial Building
Telecommunications
Cabling Standard

ANSI/TIA-570-B
Residential
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
Standard

Component
Standards

ANSI/TIA-568-C.2
Balanced TwistedPair
Telecommunications
Cabling and
Components
Standard
ANSI/TIA-568-C.3
Optical Fiber Cabling
Components
Standard

ANSI/TIA-942
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
Standard for Data
Centers
ANSI/TIA-1005
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
Standard for
Industrial Premises

ANSI/TIA-758-A
Customer-Owned
Outside Plant
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
Standard
ANSI/TIA-862
Building Automation
Systems Cabling
Standard for
Commercial
Buildings

Figure 1 Illustrative relationship between the TIA-568-C Series and other relevant TIA standards

vi

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
The following documents may be useful to the reader:
a) National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) (IEEE C2-2007)
b) National Electrical Code (NEC) (NFPA 70-2008)
Useful supplements to this Standard are the following BICSI documents: the Telecommunications
Distribution Methods Manual, the Customer-owned Outside Plant Design Manual, and the Information
Transport Systems Installation Manual. These manuals provide practices and methods by which many of
the requirements of this Standard are implemented.
Other references are listed in annex G.
Annexes
Annexes A and B are normative and considered a requirement of this Standard. Annexes C through G
are informative and not considered a requirement of this Standard.
Introduction
Purpose
The purpose of this Standard is to enable the planning and installation of a structured cabling system for
all types of customer premises. This Standard specifies a system that will support generic
telecommunications cabling in a multi-product, multi-vendor environment.
This Standard is the foundation for premises telecommunications cabling infrastructure. Additional
requirements are detailed in standards specific to the type of premises. For example, ANSI/TIA-568-C.1
contains additional requirements applicable to commercial building cabling.
Stewardship
Telecommunications infrastructure affects raw material consumption. The infra-structure design and
installation methods also influence product life and sustainability of electronic equipment life cycling.
These aspects of telecommunications infrastructure impact our environment. Since building life cycles are
typically planned for decades, technological electronic equipment upgrades are necessary. The
telecommunications infrastructure design and installation process magnifies the need for sustainable
infrastructures with respect to building life, electronic equipment life cycling and considerations of effects
on environmental waste. Telecommunications designers are encouraged to research local building
practices for a sustainable environment and conservation of fossil fuels as part of the design process.
Specification of criteria
Two categories of criteria are specified; mandatory and advisory. The mandatory requirements are
designated by the word "shall"; advisory requirements are designated by the words "should, "may", or
"desirable" which are used interchangeably in this Standard.
Mandatory criteria generally apply to protection, performance, administration and compatibility; they
specify minimally acceptable requirements. Advisory criteria are presented when their attainment may
enhance the general performance of the cabling system in all its contemplated applications.
A note in the text, table, or figure is used for emphasis or offering informative suggestions, or providing
additional information.
Metric equivalents of US customary units
The dimensions in this Standard are metric or US customary with soft conversion to the other.
Life of this Standard
This Standard is a living document. The criteria contained in this Standard are subject to revisions and
updating as warranted by advances in building construction techniques and telecommunications
technology.

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ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
1

SCOPE

This Standard specifies requirements for generic telecommunications cabling. It specifies

requirements for cabling system structure, topologies and distances, installation, performance and
testing.
NOTE The diversity of services currently available, coupled with the continual
addition of new services, means that there may be cases where limitations to desired
performance occur. When applying specific applications to these cabling systems,
the user is cautioned to consult application standards, regulations, equipment
vendors, and system and service suppliers for applicability, limitations, and ancillary
requirements.
2

NORMATIVE REFERENCES

The following standards contain provisions that, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards are subject to
revision, and parties to agreements based on this Standard are encouraged to investigate the
possibility of applying the most recent editions of the standards published by them. ANSI and TIA
maintain registers of currently valid national standards published by them.
a) ANSI-J-STD-607-A-2002, Commercial Building Grounding (Earthing) and Bounding
Requirements For Telecommunications
b) ANSI/TIA-455-78B-2002, Optical Fibres Part 1-40: Measurement Methods and Test
Procedures Attenuation
c) ANSI/TIA-568-C.3-2008, Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard
d) ANSI/TIA-598-C-2005, Optical Fiber Cable Color Coding
e) ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1-2001, Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard;
Part 1: General Requirements
NOTE Cabling requirements (permanent link and channel) for category 3 and
category 5e 100-ohm balanced twisted-pair cabling are currently contained in
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1. When ANSI/TIA-568-C.2 is published the cabling
requirements for category 3 and category 5e 100-ohm balanced twisted-pair cabling
will be specified in that document.
f)

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2-2001, Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard;

Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components
NOTE When ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 is superseded by ANSI/TIA-568-C.2, the latter
will become the referenced standard.

g) ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A-2007, Administration Standard for Commercial Telecommunications

Infrastructure
h) TIA-526-7-2002, Measurement of Optical Power Loss of Installed Single-mode Fiber Cable
Plant - OFSTP-7
i) TIA-526-14-A-2003, Optical Power Loss Measurements of Installed Multimode Fiber Cable
Plant OFSTP-14
j) TIA-569-B-2004, Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and
Spaces

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
3

DEFINITION OF TERMS, ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS, AND UNITS OF MEASURE

3.1 General
For the purposes of this Standard, the following definitions, acronyms, abbreviations and units of
measure apply.
3.2 Definitions
A-to-A patch cord, optical fiber: A duplex patch cord that connects position A on one end of the
patch cord to position A on the other end of the patch cord.
A-to-B patch cord, optical fiber: A duplex patch cord that connects position A on one end of the
patch cord to position B on the other end of the patch cord.
access provider: The operator of any facility that is used to convey telecommunications signals to
and from a customer premises.
adapter: A device that enables any or all of the following:
(1) different sizes or types of plugs to mate with one another or to fit into a
telecommunications outlet,
(2) the rearrangement of leads,
(3) large cables with numerous wires to fan out into smaller groups of wires, and
(4) interconnection between cables.
adapter, optical fiber: A mechanical device designed to align and join two optical fiber connectors
(plugs) to form an optical connection.
adapter; optical fiber array: A mechanical device designed to align and join two array optical fiber
connectors (plugs) to form an optical array connection.
adapter; optical fiber duplex: A mechanical device designed to align and join two duplex optical
fiber connectors (plugs) to form an optical duplex connection.
administration: The method for labeling, identification, documentation and usage needed to
implement moves, additions and changes of the telecommunications infrastructure.
array connector (multi-fiber connector): A single ferrule connector that contains multiple optical
fibers arranged in a row or in rows and columns.
array patch cord: A length of optical fiber cable with an array connector on each end.
attenuation: The decrease in magnitude of transmission signal strength between points, expressed in
dB as the ratio of output to input signal level.
backbone: A facility (e.g., pathway, cable or bonding conductor) for cabling Subsystem 2 and
Cabling Subsystem 3.
bonding: The permanent joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path that will ensure
electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed.
cable: An assembly of one or more insulated conductors or optical fibers, within an enveloping sheath.
cable run: A length of installed media, which may include other components along its path.
cable sheath: A covering over the optical fiber or conductor assembly that may include one or more
metallic members, strength members, or jackets.
cabling: A combination of all cables, jumpers, cords, and connecting hardware.
Cabling Subsystem 1: Cabling from the equipment outlet to Distributor A, Distributor B, or
Distributor C.
Cabling Subsystem 2: Cabling between Distributor A and either Distributor B or Distributor C (if
Distributor B is not implemented).

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Cabling Subsystem 3: Cabling between Distributor B and Distributor C.
campus: The buildings and grounds having legal contiguous interconnection.
centralized cabling: A cabling configuration from an equipment outlet to a centralized cross-connect
in the same building using a continuous cable, an interconnect, or a splice.
channel: The end-to-end transmission path between two points at which application-specific
equipment is connected.
commercial building: A building or portion thereof that is intended for office use.
connecting hardware: A device providing mechanical cable terminations.
connector (plug), duplex; optical fiber: A remateable device that terminates two fibers and mates
with a duplex receptacle.
consolidation point: A connection facility within Cabling Subsystem 1 for interconnection of cables
extending from building pathways to the equipment outlet.
cord (telecommunications): An assembly of cord cable with a plug on one or both ends.
cord cable: A cable used to construct patch, work area, and equipment cords.
cross-connect: A facility enabling the termination of cable elements and their interconnection or
cross-connection.
cross-connection: A connection scheme between cabling runs, subsystems, and equipment using
patch cords or jumpers that attach to connecting hardware on each end.
customer premises: Building(s), grounds and appurtenances (belongings) under the control of the
customer.
demarcation point: A point where the operational control or ownership changes.
Distributor A: Optional connection facility in a hierarchical star topology that is cabled between the
equipment outlet and Distributor B or Distributor C.
Distributor B: Optional intermediate connection facility in a hierarchical star topology that is cabled to
Distributor C.
Distributor C: Central connection facility in a hierarchical star topology.
drop cable: Cable linking a drop terminal (e.g. from a service provider) to a premises terminal.
earth: See ground.
earthing: See grounding.
electromagnetic compatibility: The ability of electronic systems to operate in their intended
electromagnetic environment without suffering performance degradation and without causing
performance degradation in other equipment.
electromagnetic interference: Radiated or conducted electromagnetic energy that has an
undesirable effect on electronic equipment or signal transmissions.
end user: The owner or user of the premises cabling system.
equipment cord: See cord.
equipment outlet: Outermost connection facility in a hierarchical star topology.
fiber optic: See optical fiber.
ground: A conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental, between an electrical circuit (e.g.,
telecommunications) or equipment and the earth, or to some conducting body that serves in place of
earth.
grounding: The act of creating a ground.
3

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
grounding conductor: A conductor used to connect the grounding electrode to the building's main
grounding busbar.
horizontal cross-connect: A cross-connect of horizontal cabling to other cabling, e.g., horizontal,
backbone, equipment.
identifier: An item of information that links a specific element of the telecommunications
infrastructure with its corresponding record.
infrastructure (telecommunications): A collection of those telecommunications components,
excluding equipment, that together provide the basic support for the distribution of information within a
building or campus.
insertion loss: The signal loss resulting from the insertion of a component, or link, or channel,
between a transmitter and receiver (often referred to as attenuation).
interconnection: A connection scheme that employs connecting hardware for the direct connection of
a cable to another cable without a patch cord or jumper.
intermediate cross-connect: Distributor B.
jumper: 1) An assembly of twisted-pairs without connectors, used to join telecommunications
circuits/links at the cross-connect. 2) A length of optical fiber cable with a connector plug on each
end.
keying: The mechanical feature of a connector system that guarantees correct orientation of a
connection, or prevents the connection to a jack, or to an optical fiber adapter of the same type intended
for another purpose.
link: A transmission path between two points, not including equipment and cords.
main cross-connect: Distributor C.
media (telecommunications): Wire, cable, or conductors used for telecommunications.
mode: A path of light in an optical fiber.
modular jack: A female telecommunications connector that may be keyed or unkeyed and may
have 6 or 8 contact positions, but not all the positions need be equipped with jack contacts.
modular plug cord: A length of cable with a modular plug on both ends.
multimode optical fiber: An optical fiber that carries many paths of light.
multipair cable: A cable having more than four pairs.
optical fiber: Any filament made of dielectric materials that guides light.
optical fiber cable: An assembly consisting of one or more optical fibers.
optical fiber duplex connection: A mated assembly of two duplex connectors and a duplex
adapter.
outlet/connector (telecommunications): An equipment outlet used in commercial and residential
cabling.
outside plant: Telecommunications infrastructure designed for installation exterior to buildings.
patch cord: 1) A length of cable with a plug on one or both ends. 2) A length of optical fiber cable
with a connector on each end.
patch panel: A connecting hardware system that facilitates cable termination and cabling
administration using patch cords.
pathway: A facility for the placement of telecommunications cable.
plug: A male telecommunications connector.

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
pull strength: See pull tension.
pull tension: The pulling force that can be applied to a cable.
record: A collection of detailed information related to a specific element of the telecommunications
infrastructure.
screen: An element of a cable formed by a shield.
service provider: The operator of any service that furnishes telecommunications content
(transmissions) delivered over access provider facilities.
sheath: See cable sheath.
shield: 1) A metallic layer placed around a conductor or group of conductors. 2) The cylindrical
outer conductor with the same axis as the center conductor that together form a coaxial transmission
line.
single-mode optical fiber: An optical fiber that carries only one path of light.
splice: A joining of conductors, meant to be permanent.
star topology: A topology in which telecommunications cables are distributed from a central point.
telecommunications: Any transmission, emission, and reception of signs, signals, writings, images,
and sounds, that is, information of any nature by cable, radio, optical, or other electromagnetic systems.
telecommunications infrastructure: See infrastructure (telecommunications).
topology: The physical or logical arrangement of a telecommunications system.
transition, optical fiber: An assembly of optical fibers and connectors, with an array connector on
one end and simplex or duplex connectors on other end.
transition point: A connection between round cable and flat undercarpet cable in Cabling
Subsystem 1.
wire: An individually insulated solid or stranded metallic conductor.
3.3 Acronyms and abbreviations
ADSL
asymmetrical digital subscriber line
AHJ

authority having jurisdiction

ANSI

American National Standards Institute

ATM

asynchronous transfer mode

BRI

basic rate interface

CPR

coupled power ratio

EIA

Electronic Industries Alliance

EMI

electromagnetic interference

EO

equipment outlet

FCC

Federal Communications Commission

FDDI

fiber distributed data interface

FOCIS

Fiber Optic Connector Intermateability Standard

FTR

Federal Telecommunications Recommendation

HC

horizontal cross-connect

IC

intermediate cross-connect

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
IEC

International Electrotechnical Commission

IEEE

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

ISDN

integrated services digital network

LAN

local area network

LED

light emitting diode

LSA

least squares analysis

MC

main cross-connect

MICE

mechanical, ingress, climatic/chemical, electromagnetic

NCS

National Communications System

NEC

National Electrical Code

NESC

National Electrical Safety Code

NFPA

National Fire Protection Association

NIST

National Institute of Standards and Technology

OLTS

optical loss test set

OTDR

optical time domain reflectometer

PRI

primary rate interface

RF

radio frequency

ScTP

screened twisted-pair

TGB

telecommunications grounding busbar

TIA

Telecommunications Industry Association

TMGB

telecommunications main grounding busbar

TSB

Telecommunications System Bulletin

US

United States

UTP

unshielded twisted-pair

VDSL

very-high-speed digital subscriber line

VFL

visual fault locator

3.4
dB

Units of measure
decibel

dBm

decibel (referenced to milliwatts)

degrees Celsius

ft

foot

Hz

hertz

in

inch

joule

kb/s

kilobit per second

kHz

kilohertz

km

kilometer
6

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
kV

kilovolt

lbf

pound force

meter

Mb/s

megabits per second

MHz

megahertz

mm

millimeter

m/s

acceleration of gravity in SI (1g = 9.7536 m/s2)

Newton

nm

nanometer

micrometer (micron)

volt

V/m

volts per meter

V rms

volts root mean square

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
4

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CABLING SYSTEM STRUCTURE

4.1 General
Figure 2 illustrates a representative model of functional elements that comprise a generic cabling
system. It depicts the relationship between the elements and how they may be configured to create a
total system. The functional elements are equipment outlets, "Distributors" and "Cabling
Subsystems", which together comprise a generic telecommunications cabling system.
NOTE As an example, in a typical commercial building where ANSI/TIA-568-C.1
applies, Distributor C represents the main cross-connect (MC), Distributor B
represents the intermediate cross-connect (IC), Distributor A represents the
horizontal cross-connect (HC), and the equipment outlet (EO) represents the
telecommunications outlet/connector.

Figure 2 Functional elements that comprise a generic cabling system

8

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
4.2

Topology

4.2.1 General
Generic cabling shall be installed in a hierarchal star topology. There shall be no more than two
Distributors between Distributor C and an EO. Centralized optical fiber cabling is a hierarchal star
topology that extends from Distributor B or Distributor C, through Distributor A (if present) to an EO.
See annex A for additional optical fiber centralized cabling information.
NOTES
1 The topology specified by this Standard has been selected because of its
acceptance and flexibility.
2 It may be necessary to divide the facility (e.g., a campus) into smaller areas
within the scope of this Standard and then connect these areas together.
4.2.2 Accommodation of non-star configurations
The use of appropriate interconnections, electronics, or adapters can often accommodate systems
that are designed for non-star configurations such as ring, bus, or tree.
4.3 Equipment outlets
EOs provide the outermost location to terminate the cable in a hierarchal star topology. It is also a
location for administration, reconfigurations, connection of equipment and for testing.
4.4 Distributors
Distributors provide a location for administration, reconfiguration, connection of equipment, and for
testing. Distributors can be configured as interconnections or cross-connections (see figure 3). The
various premises cabling standards (e.g., those listed in the Foreword) may contain additional types
of implementations at a Distributor.

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Distributor A
Active equipment

Interconnection

Cross-connection

Cord

Cord
Connecting hardware
Patch cord

Connecting hardware

Connecting hardware

Equipment outlet

Equipment outlet

Figure 3 Illustration of interconnection and cross-connection

4.5 Cabling Subsystem 1
The function of Cabling Subsystem 1 is to provide a signal path between Distributor A, Distributor B
or Distributor C and an EO (see figure 2). Cabling Subsystem 1 shall contain no more than one
transition point or consolidation point. Splices shall not be installed as part of balanced twisted-pair
Cabling Subsystem 1. Splitters shall not be installed as part of optical fiber Cabling Subsystem 1.
4.6 Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3
Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 provide signal paths between Distributors (see figure
2). See annex C for information regarding multi-tenant Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling
Subsystem 3.
NOTE The use of Distributor B is optional. It may be used, for example, to
overcome distance limitations of the application or media. The use of Distributor B
may allow a greater selection of media types for Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling
Subsystem 3.
4.7 Recognized cabling
The recognized media, which shall be used individually or in combination, are:
a) 100-ohm balanced twisted-pair cabling (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1 and ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2);
b) multimode optical fiber cabling (ANSI/TIA-568-C.3); and,
c) single-mode optical fiber cabling (ANSI/TIA-568-C.3).
Cabling media other than those recognized above may be specified by the appropriate premises
cabling standards (e.g., those listed in the foreword).

10

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Recognized cabling components shall meet applicable requirements specified in
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2, ANSI/TIA-568-C.3 and, if applicable, the specific premises cabling standard.
4.8

Cabling lengths

4.8.1 General
Cabling lengths are dependent upon the application and upon the specific media chosen (see
annex D). Specific premises cabling standards (e.g., those listed in the foreword) may specify
additional cabling length limitations.
4.8.2 Demarcation point
The cabling length between the demarcation point and Distributor C shall be included in the total
distance calculations. The length and type of media (including gauge size for balanced twisted-pair
cabling) shall be recorded in administration documentation. For more details on administration see
ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A.
4.9 Grounding and bonding considerations
Grounding and bonding systems are an integral part of the signal or telecommunications cabling
system. In addition to helping protect personnel and equipment from hazardous voltages, a proper
grounding and bonding system will improve the electromagnetic compatibility performance of the
cabling system. Improper grounding and bonding can allow induced voltages and conducted noise,
which can disrupt signal transmission. The media should be chosen or the cabling pathways should
be designed to meet the specified transmission performance in the environment where installed (see
annex F). The telecommunications grounding and bonding system shall conform to local codes and
ANSI-J-STD-607-A requirements.

11

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
5

CABLING INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

5.1 General
Cabling and its installation shall comply with the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) and applicable
regulations.
Cable stress, such as that caused by tension in suspended cable runs and tightly cinched bundles,
should be minimized. Cable bindings, if used to tie multiple cables together, should be irregularly
spaced and should be loosely fitted (easily moveable).
The cable shall not be subjected to pulling tension exceeding the pulling strength rating of the cable.
The cable bend radius shall be greater than or equal to the minimum bend radius requirement during
and after installation.
5.2 Environmental compatibility
The cabling system should be designed to be compatible with its worst case environment.
Compatibility of the cabling with the environment can be achieved with enhanced cabling components
or by means of separation or isolation. Separation and isolation methods can be used to convert the
environment to be compatible with the cabling system. In some cases, a combination of component
enhancements, isolation and separation may be used (see annex F).
5.3

Balanced twisted-pair cabling

5.3.1 Maximum pulling tension

The pulling tension for a 4-pair balanced twisted-pair cable shall not exceed 110 N (25 lbf) during
installation. For multipair cable, manufacturers pulling tension guidelines shall be followed.
5.3.2

Minimum bend radius

5.3.2.1 Cable
Cable bend radius may vary depending on the cable condition during installation (tensile load) and
after installation when the cable is at rest (no-load).
The minimum inside bend radius, under no-load or load, for 4-pair balanced twisted-pair cable shall
be four-times the cable diameter. For example, a cable diameter of 9 mm (0.354 in) requires a
minimum bend radius of 36 mm (1.5 in).
The minimum bend radius, under no-load or load, for multipair cable shall follow the manufacturers
guidelines.
5.3.2.2 Cord cable
The minimum inside bend radius for 4-pair balanced twisted-pair cord cable shall be one-times the
cord cable diameter.
5.3.3

Cable termination

5.3.3.1 General
Cables should be terminated with connecting hardware of the same performance (category) or
higher. The installed transmission performance of cabling where components of different performance
category requirements are used shall be classified by the least-performing component. The category
of the installed link should be suitably marked and noted in the administration records.
It is essential to maintain the design performance of connecting hardware when terminated to a
balanced twisted-pair cable, and this shall be achieved by terminating the appropriate connecting
hardware for that balanced twisted-pair cable in accordance with the connecting hardware
manufacturers instructions. Where no connecting hardware manufacturers instructions exist, then

12

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
the cable geometry shall be maintained as close as possible to the connecting hardware, and its
cable termination points and the maximum pair un-twist for the balanced twisted-pair cable
termination shall be in accordance with table 1.
Table 1 Maximum pair un-twist for category cable termination
Maximum pair un-twist
mm (in)
75 (3)
13 (0.5)
13 (0.5)
13 (0.5)

Category
3
5e
6
6A

5.3.3.2 Eight-position modular jack pin-pair assignments

Pin/pair assignments shall be as shown in figure 4 or, optionally, per figure 5 if necessary to
accommodate certain 8-pin cabling systems. The colors shown are associated with 4-pair cable.
NOTE - The choice of pin/pair assignment designation can be customer specific. For
example, see US Federal Government publication NCS, FTR 1090-1997 for US
Federal Government installations.

Pair 2
Pair 3

Pair 1

Pair 4

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8

W-G G W-O BL W-BL O W-BR BR

Figure 4 Front view of eight position jack pin/pair assignments (T568A)

13

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Figure 5 Front view of optional eight-position jack pin/pair assignment (T568B)

5.3.4 Cords and jumpers
Cross-connect jumpers and modular plug cords should be of the same category or higher as the
category of the cabling to which they connect. Due to performance and testing requirements, it is
recommended that modular cords be factory manufactured.
5.3.5 Grounding and bonding requirements for screened cabling
Grounding and bonding of the screen and associated connecting hardware shall meet the
requirements of this Standard and the manufacturer installation instructions.
Equipment is usually grounded through the equipment power connection. The screen of screened
twisted-pair (ScTP) cables shall be bonded to the telecommunications grounding busbar (TGB) or
telecommunications main grounding busbar (TMGB). To extend the screen of Cabling Subsystem 1
at the equipment outlet (EO) to the equipment, use an ScTP cord. Voltage of greater than 1.0 V rms
between the screen of Cabling Subsystem 1 at the EO and the ground wire of the corresponding
electrical outlet expected to provide power to the equipment indicates improper grounding and is not
recommended. The bonding and grounding infrastructure should be modified so that this voltage is
less than 1.0 V rms.
5.3.6 Separation of power and telecommunications cables
Lack of separation between power and telecommunications cabling may have transmission
performance implications. Refer to TIA-569-B for pathway separation from electromagnetic
interference (EMI) sources guidelines and the specific premises cabling standard (e.g., those listed in
the foreword) for additional performance considerations.
5.3.7 Electrostatic discharge
Electrostatic charges are generated when different materials come into contact and are then
separated. This charging effect is made even greater by friction such as the rubbing of two materials
together. A good conducting path will allow this stored charge to dissipate rapidly.

14

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Cables can acquire an electrostatic charge during installation when they are unreeled from a cable
reel, or dragged across a floor. Before connecting equipment to installed cabling, discharge the
electrostatic charges to ground.
5.4

Optical fiber cabling

5.4.1 Minimum bend radius and maximum pulling tension

Non-circular cable bend diameter requirements are to be determined using the minor axis as the
cable diameter and bending in the direction of the preferential bend. See table 2 for maximum tensile
load and minimum bend radius.
Table 2 Maximum tensile load and minimum bend radius

Cable type and installation details

Maximum
tensile load
during
installation

Minimum bend radii

while subjected to
maximum tensile
load (during
installation)

no tensile load
(after
installation)

220 N
(50 lbf)

50 mm
(2 in)

25 mm
(1 in)

Per manufacturer

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Indoor/outdoor cable with up to

12 fibers

1335 N
(300 lbf)

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Indoor/outdoor cable with more than

12 fibers

2670 N
(600 lbf)

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Outside plant cable

2670 N
(600 lbf)

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Drop cable installed by pulling

1335 N
(300 lbf)

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Drop cable installed by directly

buried, trenched or blown into ducts

440 N
(100 lbf)

20-times the cable

outside diameter

10-times the cable

outside diameter

Inside plant cable with 2 or 4 fibers

installed in Cabling Subsystem 1
Inside plant cable with more than
4 fibers

5.4.2 Cord cable

Optical fiber cord cable shall have the same fiber type as the optical fiber cabling and meet the
requirements of ANSI/TIA-568-C.3.
5.4.3 Polarity
To support bi-directional communication systems that use separate optical fibers in each direction,
the cabling system shall provide means to maintain correct signal polarity so that the transmitter on
one end of the channel will connect to the receiver on the other end of the channel. Maintaining the
correct transmit-to-receive polarity throughout the cabling system is crucial for system operation.
annex B describes methods for maintaining polarity.

15

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
6

CABLING TRANSMISSION PERFORMANCE AND TEST REQUIREMENTS

6.1 General
Transmission performance depends on cable characteristics, length, connecting hardware, cords,
cross-connect wiring, the total number of connections, and the care with which they are installed and
maintained. This clause addresses field-test specifications for post-installation performance
measurements of cabling.
6.2 Field-test instrument calibration
The test instrument documentation shall include certification of calibration according to the
manufacturers requirements. Additionally, the test instrument shall report the date and time of its
current calibration.
6.3 Balanced twisted-pair transmission performance and test requirements
Cabling requirements (permanent link and channel) for category 3 and category 5e 100-ohm
balanced twisted-pair cabling are specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1. Cabling requirements
(permanent link and channel) for category 6 and category 6A 100-ohm balanced twisted-pair cabling
are specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2. For balanced twisted-pair cabling and component
transmission performance, and associated field test equipment requirements, see
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2.
6.4

Optical fiber transmission performance and test requirements

6.4.1 General
This clause contains the performance measurement specifications for field testing premises optical
fiber cabling. See annex E for guidelines when field-testing length, loss and polarity of optical fiber
cabling.
6.4.2

Field-test instruments

6.4.2.1 Multimode
Field-test instruments for multimode fiber cabling shall meet the requirements of TIA-526-14-A. The
light source shall meet the launch requirements of ANSI/TIA-455-78B. This launch condition can be
achieved either within the field-test instrument or by use of an external mandrel wrap with a
Category 1 light source.
When using a mandrel wrap, the source reference jumper should be wrapped in five non-overlapping
turns around a smooth round mandrel (rod) during the reference calibration of the source to the
detector and for all loss measurements. The mandrel diameter size is dependent upon the fiber core
size and shall be chosen as specified in table 3.
Table 3 Acceptable mandrel diameters for common multimode cable types (five wraps)
Fiber
core/cladding
size
(m)

900 m
buffered
fiber
mm (in)

2.0 mm
jacketed
cable
mm (in)

2.4 mm
jacketed
cable
mm (in)

3.0 mm
jacketed
cable
mm (in)

50/125

25 (0.98)

23 (0.91)

23 (0.91)

22 (0.87)

62.5/125

20 (0.79)

18 (0.71)

18 (0.71)

17 (0.67)

NOTE The mandrel diameters are based on nominal values of 20 mm (0.79 in) and
25 mm (0.98 in)) reduced by the cable diameter and rounded up.

16

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
6.4.2.2 Single-mode
Field test instruments for single-mode fiber cabling shall meet the requirements of TIA-526-7.
6.4.3

Link segment performance measurements

6.4.3.1 General
Link attenuation is measured using the reference methods specified by TIA-526-14-A for multimode
and TIA-526-7 for single-mode. The one cord reference method is preferred for both multimode and
single-mode. Other methods as detailed in the above standards may be applied. Test documentation
should include the test method applied.
Link attenuation does not include any active devices or passive devices other than cable, connectors,
and splices (i.e., link attenuation does not include such devices as optical bypass switches, couplers,
repeaters or optical amplifiers).
6.4.3.2 Cabling Subsystem 1 link segment
Cabling Subsystem 1 link segments need to be tested in one direction at one wavelength, either
850 nm or 1300 nm for multimode, and either 1310 nm or 1550 nm for single-mode.
6.4.3.3 Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 link segment
Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 link segments shall be tested in at least one direction
at both operating wavelengths to account for attenuation differences associated with wavelength.
Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 multimode link segments shall be tested at 850 nm
and 1300 nm. Cabling Subsystem 2 and Cabling Subsystem 3 single-mode link segments shall be
tested at 1310 nm and 1550 nm.
6.4.3.4 Link attenuation allowance calculation
The link attenuation allowance is calculated as:
Link Attenuation Allowance (dB) = Cable Attenuation Allowance (dB) + Connector
Insertion Loss Allowance (dB) + Splice Insertion Loss Allowance (dB)

(1)

where:
Cable Attenuation Allowance (dB) = Maximum Cable Attenuation Coefficient (dB/km) Length (km)
Connector Insertion Loss Allowance (dB) = Number of Connector Pairs Connector Loss Allowance (dB)
Splice Insertion Loss Allowance (dB) = Number of Splices Splice Loss Allowance (dB)
NOTE Component loss allowances are provided in ANSI/TIA-568-C.3.

17

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX A (NORMATIVE) CENTRALIZED OPTICAL FIBER CABLING

This annex is normative and is considered part of this Standard.
A.1 General
Centralized optical fiber cabling is intended for users who desire to deploy centralized electronics.
Centralized cabling provides connections from the equipment outlet to centralized cross-connects by
allowing the use of pull-through cables (continuous sheath cables), an interconnect, or a splice
(see figure 6).
Distributor A

Cabling
Subsystem 1

Equipment
outlet

Cabling
Subsystem 1

Equipment
outlet

(splice or
interconnect)
Cabling Subsystem 2
Distributor A

(pull-through
cable)
Cabling Subsystem 1

Equipment

Centralized
cross-connect

Distributor B or C

Figure 6 Illustration of centralized optical fiber cabling

A.2 Implementation
Implementation of centralized cabling shall be within the same building as the areas served.
Centralized cabling design shall allow for migration (in part or in total) of the pull-through,
interconnect, or splice implementation to a cross-connection implementation. The design should allow
sufficient length (service loop) to facilitate this migration. Service loops may be stored as cable or
unjacketed fiber (buffered or coated). Service loop storage shall provide bend radius control so that
cable and fiber bend radius limitations are not violated.
Administration of moves and changes shall be performed at the centralized cross-connect.

18

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX B (NORMATIVE) MAINTAINING OPTICAL FIBER POLARITY

B.1 General
Several methods are used to maintain polarity for optical fiber cabling systems. The guidelines
described and illustrated in this annex are separated into clauses to portray duplex connector
systems and array connector systems. Following one duplex polarity method and one array polarity
method consistently will simplify channel connectivity in an installation.
Optical fiber cable shall be color-coded or marked as specified in ANSI/TIA-598-C. For illustrative
purposes, the figures throughout this document depict the 568SC duplex connector and the
12-position MPO array connector. Other connector types are permitted, provided the fiber ordering
arrangement is maintained relative to the plugs keying features, as shown in the figures.
B.2 Component descriptions
Component requirements for duplex and array connector systems, as described in this clause, are
specified in ANSI/TIA-568-C.3.
B.3

Duplex polarity systems

B.3.1 General
The two positions of the 568SC connector and adapter shall be identified as Position A and
Position B as specified in ANSI/TIA-568-C.3. Alternative connector designs shall employ similar
labeling and identification schemes to that of the 568SC. For alternative connector designs utilizing
latches, the latch defines the positioning in the same manner as the key and keyways of the 568SC
connector. Labeling may be either field or factory installed. Duplex systems shall use A-to-B patch
cords illustrated in figure 7.
Keys Up

Keys Up

Figure 7 A-to-B duplex optical fiber patch cord

Fibers shall be grouped in pairs following the color-coding or numbering sequence specified in
ANSI/TIA-598-C. The pairs form 2-fiber transmission paths that shall be associated with Position A
and Position B of a duplex adapter at each end of the cable. The first fiber of a pair shall be attached
to Position A at one end and Position B at the other end. The second fiber of the pair shall be
attached to Position B at one end and Position A at the other end.
Two methods of implementation are defined for these requirements. One is called consecutive-fiber
positioning and the other is called reverse-pair positioning.

19

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.3.2 Consecutive-fiber positioning

Consecutive-fiber positioning shall be implemented by installing the adapters in opposite orientations
on each end of the link (i.e., A-B, A-B... on one end and B-A, B-A... on the other) and then attaching
fibers to the adapters in consecutive order (i.e., 1,2,3,4...) on both ends. This implementation is
illustrated in figure 8 and figure 9.

Cable
Consecutive fiber
order

B
1

A
2

Fiber
n-1
number
. .

. .

Consecutive fiber
order

Top view

Front view

3 4
n-1 n
Panel position number

A
. .

B-A Adapter order (keyways up)

Fiber
n-1
number
. . .

3 4
n-1 n
Panel position number

A-B Adapter order (keyways down)

Legend
Position A Position B Patch panel
shading
shading
enclosure
Note: Shading for illustration clarity only

Adapter views
with keyways up

Adapter views with

keyways down

Simplex connector
Key up Key down

Odd numbered
fiber

Even numbered
fiber

Figure 8 Consecutive-fiber positioning shown with horizontally mounted hardware

20

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Cabling Subsystem 3
Distributor C

A-to-B
Patch cord

Cabling Subsystem 2

Distributor B

Cabling Subsystem 1

Distributor A

A-to-B Patch cord

Consolidation
point
interconnection

Equipment
outlet

A-to-B
Patch cord

A-to-B Patch cord

Top view

Rx Tx

Rx Tx

Legend
Rx Tx
Two simplex connectors
mated to duplex
connector in adapter with
keyways up keyways down

Four simplex
connectors mated
in adapter with
keyways up

Duplex connector
mated to
transceiver with
keyways up

Position A Position B Patch panel

shading
shading
enclosure
Note: Shading for illustration clarity only
Odd numbered
fiber

Even numbered
fiber

Figure 9 Consecutive-fiber positioning cabling system example shown with horizontally

mounted hardware

21

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.3.3 Reverse-pair positioning

Reverse-pair positioning shall be implemented by installing the adapters in the same orientation on
each end of the link (i.e., A-B, A-B... or B-A, B-A...) and then attaching fibers to the adapters in
consecutive order (i.e., 1,2,3,4...) on one end and in reverse-pair order (i.e., 2,1,4,3) on the other
end. This implementation is illustrated in figure 10 and figure 11.
Cable
Consecutive fiber
order

Fiber
n-1
number
. . .

Top view

B
. .

Reverse-pair fiber
order

Front view

3 4
n-1 n
Panel position number

n-1

B
. .

B-A Adapter order (keyways up)

Fiber
n
number
. . .

3 4
n-1 n
Panel position number

B-A Adapter order (keyways up)

Legend
Position A Position B Patch panel
shading
shading
enclosure
Note: Shading for illustration clarity only
Adapter views
with keyways up

Simplex connector
Key up Key down

Odd numbered
fiber

Even numbered
fiber

Figure 10 Reverse-pair positioning shown with horizontally mounted hardware

22

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Cabling Subsystem 3
Distributor C

A-to-B
Patch cord

Cabling Subsystem 2

Distributor B

Distributor A

A-to-B Patch cord

Cabling Subsystem 1
Consolidation
point
interconnection

Equipment
outlet

A-to-B
Patch cord

A-to-B Patch cord

Top view

Rx Tx

Rx Tx

Legend
Rx Tx
Two simplex connectors
mated to duplex
connector in adapter with
keyways up

Four simplex
connectors mated
in adapter with
keyways up

Duplex connector
mated to
transceiver with
keyways up

Position A Position B Patch panel

shading
shading
enclosure
Note: Shading for illustration clarity only
Odd numbered
fiber

Even numbered
fiber

Figure 11 Reverse-pair positioning cabling system example shown with horizontally

mounted hardware
B.4

Array polarity systems

B.4.1 General
All array connectivity methods have the same goal: to create an optical path from the transmit port of
one device to the receive port of another device. Different methods to accomplish this goal may be
implemented; however these different methods may not be interoperable. It is recommended that a
method be selected in advance and maintained consistently throughout an installation. While many
methods are available to establish polarity, this Standard outlines sample methods that may be
employed for array cabling systems where the connectors have one row of fibers only. For
convenience, these sample methods are referred to as Methods A, B, and C. No preference or
priority is implied by this notation.
Any connectivity method requires a specific combination of components to maintain polarity. Some of
the components may be common to other connectivity methods. The components associated with the
three illustrated array polarity methods are given in table 4 and table 5.

23

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Table 4 Summary of components used for duplex signals
Connectivity
method

Array connector
cable Type

Array adapter
Type

Duplex patch cord type

One A-to-B and

one A-to-A per duplex channel

A-to-B

A-to-B

Table 5 Summary of components used for parallel signals

Connectivity
method

Array connector
cable Type

Array adapter
Type

Array patch cord type

One Type-A and one Type-B

Type-B

Parallel optical fiber links integrate multiple transmitters in one transmitter module, multiple fibers in
fiber array connectors, and multiple receivers in one receiver module. Multiple transmitters and
receivers may also be integrated together in a transceiver module.
When mating connectors that use alignment pins (e.g., MPO, MT-RJ), it is critical that one plug is
pinned and the other plug is unpinned. The pinned connector is typically located inside the panel (i.e.,
the fixed connector is pinned and the connector that is frequently removed and handled is unpinned).
As MPO and MT-RJ transceivers typically have pins, this convention leads to the following
implementation on initial build out:
Patch cords from transceiver to panel are typically unpinned on both ends.
Transitions (mounted behind the panel) are typically pinned.
Cables from rack to rack are typically unpinned on both ends.

24

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.4.2

Connectivity Method A

B.4.2.1 Connectivity Method A for duplex signals

Figure 12 illustrates connectivity Method A for duplex signals.
When connecting multiple duplex optical transceiver ports, the Type-A backbone (composed of one
or many Type-A array connector cables mated in Type-A adapters) is connected on each end to a
transition. On one end of the optical link, A-to-B patch cords are used to connect ports on the
transition to their respective duplex transceiver ports. On the other end of the optical link, A-to-A
patch cords are used to connect ports on the transition to their respective duplex transceiver ports. In
each duplex optical path there shall be one A-to-A patch cord.

Type-A Array
connector cable

A-to-B
patch cord

A-to-A
patch cord

Example optical path

NOTE The Type-A cable is illustrated with a twist.
Figure 12 Connectivity Method A for duplex signals

25

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.4.2.2 Connectivity Method A for parallel signals

Figure 13 illustrates connectivity Method A for parallel signals.
When connecting arrays for parallel signals, the Type-A backbone (composed of one or many Type-A
array connector cables mated in Type-A adapters) is connected on each end to a patch panel. On
one end of the optical link, a Type-A array patch cord is used to connect patch panel ports to their
respective parallel transceiver ports. On the other end of the optical link, a Type-B array patch cord is
used to connect panel ports to their respective parallel transceiver ports. In each optical path there
shall be only one Type-B array patch cord.

Type-A array
connector
patch cord
Type-A Array
connector cable

Type-B array
connector
patch cord

Example optical path

Figure 13 Connectivity Method A for parallel signals

26

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.4.3

Connectivity Method B

B.4.3.1 General
MPO connectors shall be 0 contact angle (or flat) when connectivity Method B is deployed.
B.4.3.2 Connectivity Method B for duplex signals
Figure 14 illustrates connectivity Method B for duplex signals.
When connecting multiple duplex optical transceiver ports, the Type-B backbone (composed of one
or many Type-B array connector cables mated in Type-B adapters) is connected on each end to a
transition. The transitions are mounted in two orientations such that their duplex adapter key
orientation on one end of the backbone is rotated 180-degrees relative to their adapter key orientation
on the other end of the backbone. For example, one transition is installed with keyways up and the
other with keyways down. A-to-B patch cords are then used to connect ports on the transition to their
respective duplex transceiver ports.

Type-B Array
connector cable

A-to-B
patch cord

A-to-B
patch cord

Example optical path

NOTES
1 The Type-B cable is illustrated with a twist.
2 For ease of illustration, the lower transceiver connection is shown inverted (key
down); the transceiver would be mounted key up as normal.
Figure 14 Connectivity Method B for duplex signals
27

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
B.4.3.3 Connectivity Method B for parallel signals
Figure 15 illustrates connectivity Method B for parallel signals.
When connecting parallel signals, the Type-B backbone (composed of one or many Type-B array
connector cables mated in Type-B adapters) is connected on each end to a patch panel. Type-B
array patch cords are then used to connect the patch panel ports to their respective parallel
transceiver ports.

Type-B array
connector
patch cord

Type-B Array
connector cable

Type-B array
connector
patch cord

Example optical path

Figure 15 Connectivity Method B for parallel signals

28

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

B.4.4 Connectivity Method C for duplex signals

Figure 16 illustrates connectivity Method C for duplex signals.
When connecting multiple duplex optical transceiver ports, one and only one Type-C array connector
cable is connected on each end to a transition. A Type-C array connector cable uses reverse pair
positioning so that on one end the fiber strands are 1,2,3,4 while at the other end, the fiber strands
are 2,1,4,3for proper polarity. A-to-B patch cords are then used to connect ports on the transition to
their respective duplex transceiver ports.

A-to-B
patch cord

Type C Array
connector cable

A-to-B
patch cord
Example optical path
NOTE The Type-C cable is illustrated with a twist.
Figure 16 Connectivity Method C for duplex signals

29

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX C (INFORMATIVE)
SUBSYSTEM 3

MULTI-TENANT

CABLING

SUBSYSTEM 2

AND

CABLING

This annex is informative and not part of this Standard.

C.1 General
Responsibility and ownership of multi-tenant Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3 or both may
vary by region. It is incumbent on the owner to become familiar with local conditions before making
relevant decisions.
C.2 Existing Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both cabling
Existing Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both cabling may be owned and
administered by an access provider, or by the building owner or their agents depending upon
regulatory conditions. In some locations, ownership and responsibility for the cabling has been
transferred to the building owner or their agents. In other localities, the ownership and responsibility
for the cabling has been retained by the entity that installed the cable.
C.3 New Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both cabling
Ownership of new multi-tenant Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both is determined at
the time that the decision is made to build, and may be constrained by regulatory conditions.
When the decision is made to deploy a multi-tenant Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or
both, the selection of media type should be based on the following criteria:

User type (e.g., residential, commercial) initial and forecast

Frequency of tenant changes
Applications supported initial and forecast
Design
Cabling distances

The deployment of an appropriate range of media types is recommended.

New multi-tenant Cabling Subsystem 2, Cabling Subsystem 3, or both will typically serve tenant
needs for many years. They should be sized to accommodate anticipated growth in user demand,
and in a configuration that supports the limitations and requirements of the anticipated medium.
See annex D for application support information regarding media types.

30

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX D (INFORMATIVE) APPLICATION SUPPORT INFORMATION

This annex is informative and not part of this Standard.
D.1 General
This clause provides information regarding applications support for many of the available applications
across media types recognized in this Standard. This compilation allows the user to easily access
enough basic information to make informed decisions about media choices and system design. With
a predetermined knowledge of the required distances, the anticipated applications, and the cabling
system design, the user can determine the most appropriate media for their needs. Still, this
information is not intended to constitute a design guideline. Application standards and cabling system
manufacturers should be consulted to establish complete requirements and capabilities of specific
cabling alternatives.
NOTE Premises standards may impose distance limitations shorter than those
listed due to the scope of the standard.
D.2 Balanced twisted-pair cabling supportable distances
Table 6 lists maximum supportable distances for applications using copper cabling. The table is
based on the minimum performance requirements of specific balanced twisted-pair cabling
established by ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2. Applications are identified using both industry standard and
common names.
Table 6 Maximum supportable distances for balanced twisted-pair cabling applications
Application

Media

Distance m (ft)

Comments

Ethernet
10BASE-T

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

Ethernet
100BASE-TX

category 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

Ethernet
1000BASE-T

category 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

Ethernet
10GBASE-T

category 6A

100 (328)

ADSL

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

5,000 (16404)

1.5 Mb/s to 9 Mb/s

VDSL

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

5,000 (16404)

1500 m (4900 ft) for 12.9 Mb/s;

300 m (1000 ft) for 52.8 Mb/s

Analog Phone

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

800 (2625)

FAX

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

5,000 (16404)

ATM 25.6

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

ATM 51.84

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

ATM 155.52

category 5e, 6, 6A

100 (328)

ATM 1.2G

category 6, 6A

100 (328)

ISDN BRI

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

5,000 (16404)

128 kb/s

ISDN PRI

category 3, 5e, 6, 6A

5,000 (16404)

1.472 Mb/s

31

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
D.3 Optical fiber cabling supportable distances
Table 7 lists maximum supportable distances and maximum channel attenuation for applications
using optical fiber cabling. The table is based on the minimum performance requirements of
62.5/125 m, 50/125 m, 850 nm laser-optimized 50/125 m, and single-mode fiber established by
ANSI/TIA-568-C.3. Applications are identified using industry standard names.
Table 7 Maximum supportable distances and attenuation for optical fiber applications by
fiber type
Multimode

Application
Ethernet
10/100BASE-SX

Ethernet
100BASE-FX

Ethernet
1000BASE-SX

Ethernet
1000BASE-LX

Ethernet
10GBASE-S

Ethernet
10GBASE-LX4

Ethernet
10GBASE-L

Ethernet
10GBASE-LRM
Fibre Channel
100-MX-SN-I
(1062 Mbaud)

Parameter
Nominal
wavelength (nm)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)

Single-mode

62.5/125 m

50/125 m

850 nm laseroptimized
50/125 m

TIA 492CAAA
(OS1)

TIA 492AAAA
(OM1)

TIA 492AAAB
(OM2)

TIA 492AAAC
(OM3)

TIA 492CAAB
(OS2)

850

1300

850

1300

850

1300

1310

1550

4.0

4.0

4.0

300
(984)

300
(984)

300
(984)

11.0

6.0

6.0

2000
(6560)

2000
(6560)

2000
(6560)

2.6

3.6

4.5

275
(900)

550
(1804)

800
(2625)

2.3

2.3

2.3

4.5

550
(1804)

550
(1804)

550
(1804)

5000
(16405)

2.4

2.3

2.6

33
(108)

82
(269)

300
(984)

2.5

2.0

2.0

6.3

300
(984)

300
(984)

300
(984)

10000
(32810)

6.2

10000
(32810)

1.9

1.9

1.9

220
(720)

220
(720)

220
(720)

3.0

3.9

4.6

300
(984)

500
(1640)

860
(2822)

32

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Table 7 (Concluded)
Multimode

Single-mode

62.5/125 m

50/125 m

850 nm laseroptimized
50/125 m

TIA 492CAAA
(OS1)

TIA 492AAAA
(OM1)

TIA 492AAAB
(OM2)

TIA 492AAAC
(OM3)

TIA 492CAAB
(OS2)

850

1300

850

1300

850

1300

1310

1550

7.8

10000
(32810)

2.1

2.6

3.3

150
(492)

300
(984)

500
(1640)

7.8

10000
(32810)

1.8

2.1

2.5

70
(230)

150
(492)

270
(886)

7.8

10000
(32810)

2.4

2.2

2.6

33
(108)

82
(269)

300
(984)

6.0

10000
(32810)

11.0

6.0

6.0

2000
(6560)

2000
(6560)

2000
(6560)

10.0

10000
(32810)

Parameter
Application
Fibre Channel
100-SM-LC-L
(1062 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
200-MX-SN-I
(2125 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
200-SM-LC-L
(2125 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
400-MX-SN-I
(4250 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
400-SM-LC-L
(4250 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
1200-MX-SN-I
(10512 Mbaud)
Fibre Channel
1200-SM-LL-L
(10512 Mbaud)
FDDI PMD
ANSI X3.166
FDDI
SMF-PMD
ANSI X3.184

Nominal
wavelength (nm)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)
Channel
attenuation (dB)
Supportable
distance m (ft)

33

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX E (INFORMATIVE) GUIDELINES FOR FIELD-TESTING LENGTH, LOSS AND POLARITY

OF OPTICAL FIBER CABLING

E.1 General
Accurate characterization and testing of installed optical fiber cabling is crucial to ensuring overall
network integrity and performance. An optical fiber cabling link may consist of a fiber or concatenated
fibers (spliced, cross-connected or interconnected) with a connector or adapter on each end. The
fiber type, link length, the number and quality of terminations and splices, cable stresses, and
wavelength can all affect attenuation measurements. For example, link attenuation can be negatively
influenced by severe cable bends, poorly installed connectors or even the presence of dirt on the
endface of connectors. The attenuation measurement result should always be less than the designed
link attenuation allowance (also known as loss budget) that is based on the number of terminations,
the number of splices and cable length. Documenting the test results provides the information that
demonstrates the acceptability of the cabling system or support of specific networking technologies.
Testing installed optical fiber cabling for attenuation with an optical loss test set (OLTS), as described
in cabling standards, and verifying the cabling length and polarity constitutes Tier 1 testing. Tier 2
testing, which is optional, includes the Tier 1 tests plus the addition of an optical time domain
reflectometer (OTDR) trace. An OTDR trace can be used to characterize the installed fiber link
resulting in an indication of the uniformity of cable attenuation and connector insertion loss. See
clause E.5 for descriptions of test measurement methods.
Testing conducted on optical fiber cabling should be in accordance with a published standard
(see table 7 for examples of applications). This annex describes field-testing of length, optical
attenuation and polarity in optical fiber cabling using an OLTS, OTDR and a visible light source such
as a visual fault locator (VFL). The purpose of this annex is to clarify, not replace, TIA-526-7 and
TIA-526-14-A.
Tier 1 criteria, unless otherwise instructed or requested, constitutes testing in accordance with this
annex.
WARNING All tests performed on optical fiber cabling that use a laser or light
emitting diode (LED) in a test set are to be carried out with safety precautions in
accordance with ANSI Z136.2.
E.2

Test criteria

E.2.1 General
Optical fiber link attenuation, the optical power loss measured between two points, is a result of the
effects of the cable type, cable length and condition, quality and quantity of splices and connectors,
and the wavelength of transmission. Cabling designers generally provide the link attenuation
allowance criteria for optical fiber links that are eventually installed and tested.
E.2.2 Tier 1
When conducting Tier 1 testing, each optical fiber link is measured for its attenuation with an OLTS.
Fiber length verification may be obtained from cable sheath markings or via the OLTS (if the OLTS
has length measurement capability). Polarity can be verified with the OLTS while performing
attenuation tests. A visible light source, such as a VFL, can also be use to verify polarity.
NOTE The optical lengths of certain cables (e.g., stranded loose tube) may be
longer than the cable sheath due to the fiber lay within the cable sheath.
For multimode cabling, cabling standards describe that attenuation measurements are taken
according to TIA-526-14-A, Method B. Additionally, the light source is to meet the launch
requirements of ANSI/TIA-455-78B. This launch condition can be achieved either within the field-test

34

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
instrument by the manufacturer, or by use of an external mandrel wrap (see table 3 and clause E.7)
applied to the source test jumper with a Category 1 Coupled Power Ratio (CPR) light source.
NOTE Refer to TIA-526-14-A for details on measuring source CPR.
For single-mode cabling, cabling standards describe that attenuation measurements be taken in
accordance to TIA-526-7, Method A.1. When performing single-mode attenuation measurements, a
single 30 mm (1.2 in) diameter loop applied to the source test jumper is often used to ensure singlemode operation (see ANSI/TIA-455-78B).
NOTE TIA-526-14-A and TIA-526-7 contain a discussion of three reference
methods. The one jumper reference methods (Method B and Method A.1,
respectively) provide test results inclusive of the connections made at the test
jumpers to the cabling link and all connections and splices that may be within the
cabling link. Certain fiber optic connector types, including array connectors, cannot
be tested using Method B or Method A.1. In such cases, the two or three jumper
methods may be required. Such testing is permitted but the test method should be
documented with the measurement results.
Testing can be conducted at one or more wavelengths and in one or both directions. A published
standard should be referenced to identify the wavelength(s) and direction(s) required for the test.
The polarity of duplex or multi-fiber cabling systems can be verified to ensure that a transmitter on
one end of the fiber connects to a corresponding receiver on the other end. See annex B for
information that describes maintaining polarity.
E.2.3 Tier 2 (Optional)
Tier 2 testing supplements Tier 1 testing with the addition of an OTDR trace of the cabling link. The
wavelength(s) used in creating the OTDR trace should be the same as that used with the OLTS when
measuring link loss. The OTDR trace characterizes elements along a fiber link, including fiber
segment length, attenuation uniformity and attenuation rate, connector location and insertion loss,
splice location and splice loss, and other power loss events such as a sharp bend that may have
been incurred during cable installation. The OTDR trace does not replace the need for OLTS testing,
but is used for supplemental evaluation of the cabling link.
E.3

Test instruments

E.3.1 General
This clause describes the functional use of the OLTS, OTDR, and visible light source. Although these
functions are described as separate instruments, they can be combined into a single test instrument.
For example, a VFL can be contained within an OLTS or OTDR to facilitate multi-functional use.
Calibration of these instruments should be performed at intervals specified by the manufacturer.
E.3.2 Optical loss test set
The most basic optical fiber measurement is that of received optical power. An OLTS includes an
optical power meter to measure received optical power and a light source that closely resembles a
system transmitter (e.g., an LED for multimode optical links, a laser for single-mode optical links). An
OLTS may be a single instrument or separable optical power meter and light source.
E.3.3 Visible light source
A visible light source is a visible incandescent, LED or laser source used to trace fibers. Applications
of using a visible light source include end-to-end continuity verification, identification of connectors in
patch panels or outlets, and identification of fibers. One such visible light source is a VFL. The VFL is
a visible red laser source (630-665 nm) that, in addition to identifying or tracing cabled fibers, can aid
in troubleshooting faults on optical fiber cables. The VFL can often identify breaks or bends in cables
(if the jacket is not opaque to the laser), faulty connectors or some types of splices, and other causes
of signal loss.
35

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
NOTE A VFL normally uses a Class 2 light source and should not be directly
viewed. Safe usage of the tool requires indirect viewing of the light source by pointing
the end of the fiber at an adjacent surface (or introducing another surface in front of a
fixed mounted connector) until the presence of light is determined.
E.3.4 Optical time domain reflectometer
An OTDR can be used to measure fiber length, to characterize anomalies or damaged areas along
installed fiber, and to evaluate uniformity of connections (connectors and splices). An OTDR sends
high-powered pulses of light into an optical fiber and measures the strength of the power returned to
the instrument as a function of time. This returned power is produced by backscattering of light from
the fiber material (Rayleigh scattering) and by changes in the index of refraction at fiber joints. Light
pulses injected into the fiber by the OTDR are attenuated outbound and on the return to the OTDR.
An OTDR characterizes optical fiber links with a graphical signature (trace) on a display screen,
which may be interpreted into a table and subsequently downloaded to a personal computer. The
OTDR, by use of movable cursors on the display or software, has the capability to measure the length
of the fiber and estimate the power loss between any two points along the optical fiber link.
E.4 Precautions to measurement testing
Several precautions should be taken when measuring the performance of optical fiber cabling. Some
of these precautions include:
Using appropriate mating adapters to interface test jumpers (used with OLTSs) or launch
fibers (used with OTDRs) with the cabling and instrumentation.
Ensuring that all connectors, mating adapters, and test jumpers or launch fibers are clean
prior to and during the test measurement.
Ensuring that all test jumpers are verified per clause E.5.1.2.
Using test jumpers that are of acceptable quality as they are subject to heavy use. Replace
test jumpers when no longer meeting the criteria established in clause E.5.1.2.
Keeping endface inspection equipment nearby to help ascertain connector quality.
Ensuring that the power meter and light source are set to the same wavelength.
Ensuring that optical sources are turned on for sufficient time prior to testing to stabilize per
manufacturer recommendations.
Ensuring that test jumpers and launch fibers are of recommended length for the OLTS and
the OTDR, and are of the same fiber core size as the cable under test (e.g., use 50/125 m
test jumpers with 50/125 m cable).
NOTE When an overfilled light launch is transmitted from a 62.5/125 m fiber into a
50/125 m fiber, a coupling loss increase of about 4.7 dB is possible.

36

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.5
E.5.1

Test measurement methods

Optical link attenuation

E.5.1.1 General
The link attenuation of optical fiber cabling, whether multimode or single-mode, should be measured
with an OLTS to ensure acceptable overall quality and performance of the installed components. The
use of an OLTS requires the use of quality test jumpers, referencing the light source output to an
optical power meter, and access to both ends of the cabling under test. The measured cabling
attenuation is then compared to the reference for calculating the resulting link attenuation so it is
important to properly set and maintain the reference measurement.
NOTES
1 Absolute optical power levels are measured in dBm [dBm = 10 log (mW)],
calibrated to NIST or other appropriate standards. 0 dBm is equivalent to 1 mW of
power, hence the m in dBm. Loss in dB is a relative measurement equal to input
power minus output power represented in dBm. The loss of passive networks will be
greater than 0 dB.
2 On test equipment where loss is represented by a positive value, a negative
value may represent an improper reference. However, some test equipment
represents loss with negative values, in which case a positive value may indicate an
improper reference. In either case, consult equipment manufacturer documentation to
determine how the loss results are presented.
3 It is important to leave the test jumper connected to the source after referencing
so as not to adversely influence the attenuation measurement. Removal and
reattachment of the test jumper connection from the source may result in a change of
coupled power that affects the referenced power level. Re-referencing is to be
performed if the test jumper is disconnected from the light source.
4 Proper cleaning of each connector is essential for meaningful attenuation
measurements. If higher than expected losses are measured, clean the connectors
and retest. If the test jumpers continue to test high, replace each test jumper with a
new one until the measured attenuation is in the appropriate range.
5 Mated connector insertion loss is also a function of the mating adapter. Mating
adapters are a potential source of additional insertion loss as they become dirty or
wear out. Choose high quality mating adapters and limit the number of uses per
manufacturer recommendations.
E.5.1.2 Verifying test jumper quality
The following procedure will verify that test jumpers are in acceptable condition for either multimode
or single-mode cabling. The example herein describes the process for verifying the quality of
multimode fiber test jumpers with the jumper connected to the source having five non-overlapping
wraps of multimode fiber on a mandrel (see table 3 and clause E.7). The procedure is also applicable
to single-mode cabling, however, the five non-overlapping wraps of multimode fiber would be
replaced with a single 30 mm (1.2 in) diameter loop of single-mode fiber.
To verify that the test jumpers are in acceptable condition, first reference the light source to the
optical power meter (see figure 17). Disconnect test jumper (J1) from the power meter (only) and
insert a second test jumper (J2) by connecting it to the power meter and to (J1) with a mating adapter
(see figure 18) and record the measurement. Disconnect both ends of J2, interchange the ends, and
reconnect it and record the measurement. The resulting measurements, Pverify, should be within the
appropriate connector loss specification. For example, if the connector used is specified at 0.75 dB,
the reading on the power meter should be within 0.75 dB of P1.

37

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Mandrel

J1

850 nm

-18.0
dBm

Light
Source

Optical
Power Meter

Figure 17 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) with one test jumper (multimode)
Mandrel

0.3 dB
J1

850 nm

Light
Source

J2
Mated connector pair
(2 connectors coupled
together in a connector
mating adapter)

Pverify = P1 P2
= -18.0 dBm (-18.3 dBm)
= 0.3 dB

-18.3
dBm

Optical
Power Meter

Figure 18 Example of a measurement (P2) when verifying OLTS test jumpers (multimode)
E.5.1.3

Multimode

E.5.1.3.1
General
TIA-526-14-A, Method B is used to test multimode cabling attenuation. This method references the
optical power source to the optical power meter by connecting them with one test jumper (J1) that
meets the conditions of clause E.5.1.2. The link measurement is then performed by disconnecting this
test jumper from the optical meter (only), placing a second jumper (J2) that meets the conditions of
clause E.5.1.2 on the meter, and then measuring the link attenuation by connecting the test jumper of
the source to one end of the cabling link and the test jumper of the meter to the other end of the
cabling link. The test jumpers should be 1 m (3.3 ft) to 5 m (16.4 ft) in length and should be verified to
ensure they are of acceptable quality.
The basic steps taken to measure and calculate multimode cabling attenuation include:
1. Verifying test jumper quality (once before testing; see clause E.5.1.2)
2. Setting the reference (once before testing; see clause E.5.1.3.2)
3. Measuring link attenuation (each link; see clause E.5.1.3.3)
4. Calculating link attenuation (each link; see clause E.5.1.5)

38

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.5.1.3.2
Setting the reference
When referencing the light source to the power meter, one test jumper (J1) is to be connected
between the light source and the power meter (see figure 19) and a reference measurement taken
(P1[dBm]). When the test source is a Category 1 CPR source, a mandrel wrap mode filter (see table
3 and clause E.7) is applied to the test jumper (J1) prior to setting the reference and for all
subsequent measurements.
NOTE To improve the stability of the reference reading and for easier handling, it
may be helpful to secure the mandrel to the light source by some means such as a
cable tie or tape. Care should be taken to ensure that the fiber jacket is not deformed
or damaged when using a cable tie or tape.
Mandrel

J1

850 nm

-18.0
dBm

Light
Source

Optical
Power Meter

Figure 19 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) with one test jumper (multimode)
E.5.1.3.3
Measuring link attenuation
Connect the end of test jumper (J1) (source end) to one end of the link, and connect an acceptable
test jumper (J2) between the other end of the link and the meter (see figure 20). The optical power
reading is P2 (dBm).
1.3 dB

Link
under
test

Mandrel

J2

J1
Mated connector
pair with mating
adapter

Mated connector
pair with mating
adapter
850 nm

Light
Source

-19.3
dBm

Attenuation = P1 P2
=-18.0 dBm (-19.3 dBm)
= 1.3 dB

Optical
Power Meter

Figure 20 Example of a multimode link attenuation measurement (P2)

39

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
E.5.1.4

Single-mode

E.5.1.4.1
General
TIA-526-7, Method A.1 is used for testing single-mode cabling attenuation. This method references
the optical power source to the optical power meter by connecting them with one test jumper (J1) that
meets the conditions of clause E.5.1.2. The link measurement is then performed by disconnecting this
test jumper from the optical meter (only) and placing a second jumper (J2) that meets the conditions
of clause E.5.1.2 on the meter, and then measuring the link attenuation by connecting the test jumper
of the source to one end of the cabling link and the test jumper of the meter to the other end of the
cabling link. The test jumpers should be 1 m (3.3 ft) to 5 m (16.4 ft) in length and should be verified to
ensure they are of acceptable quality.
The basic steps taken to measure and calculate single-mode cabling attenuation include:
1. Verifying test jumper quality (once before testing; see clause E.5.1.2)
2. Setting the reference (once before testing; see clause E.5.1.4.2)
3. Measuring link attenuation (each link; see clause E.5.1.4.3)
4. Calculating link attenuation (each link; see clause E.5.1.5)
E.5.1.4.2
Setting the reference
When referencing the light source to the power meter, a single 30 mm (1.2 in) diameter loop is
applied to the test jumper (J1) prior to setting the reference and for all subsequent measurements to
ensure single-mode operation (see ANSI/TIA-455-78B). The test jumper (J1) is to be connected
between the light source and the power meter (see figure 21) and a reference measurement taken
(P1[dBm]).
Single 30 mm
(1.2 in) loop

J1

1310 nm

-20.0
dBm

Optical
Power Meter

Light
Source

Figure 21 Example of OLTS reference measurement (P1) one test jumper (single-mode)

40

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.5.1.4.3
Measuring link attenuation
Connect the end of test jumper (J1) (source end) to one end of the link, and connect an acceptable
test jumper (J2) between the other end of the link and the meter (see figure 22). The optical power
reading is P2 (dBm).
1.3 dB

Link
under
test

Single 30 mm
(1.2 in) loop

J2
J1

Mated connector
pair with mating
adapter

Mated connector
pair with mating
adapter

-21.3
dBm

1310 nm

Light
Source

Attenuation = P1 P2
=-20.0 dBm (-21.3 dBm)
= 1.3 dB

Optical
Power Meter

Figure 22 Example link attenuation measurement of single-mode cabling using an OLTS

E.5.1.5 Calculating link attenuation
Equation E.1 is used to determine the fiber cabling link loss (attenuation).

Attenuation (dB ) = P1 (dBm) P2 (dBm)

(E.1)

where:
P1 = Reference power measurement
P2 = Cabling test power measurement
E.5.2 Length
Fiber length verification may be obtained from cable sheath markings or may be estimated by the
OLTS (if the OLTS has length measurement capability and assuming equipment is capable of
measuring the fiber length under test) or an OTDR.
NOTE The optical lengths of certain cables (e.g., stranded loose tube) may be
longer than the cable sheath due to the fiber lay within the cable sheath.
E.5.3 Polarity
Polarity can be verified with an OLTS while performing attenuation tests, by checking the labeling or
identifying marks, or by using a visible light source, such as a VFL. A visible light source connects
directly to the cable under test or to one end of a test jumper and the other end of the test jumper
connected to the cable under test. The light can be used to visually identify polarity of fiber pairs or
fibers that may be transposed in a patch panel. As an example, an equipment outlet identified as 3
could be transposed with the patch panel position identified as 7.
NOTE A VFL normally uses a Class 2 light source and should not be directly
viewed. Safe usage of the tool requires indirect viewing of the light source by

41

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
pointing the end of the fiber at an adjacent surface (or introducing another surface in
front of a fixed mounted connector) until the presence of light is determined.
E.5.4 OTDR trace
The OTDR takes multiple measurements and presents the results on a display as a trace. The
vertical scale provides relative power level measured in dB while the horizontal scale provides length.
The trace can identify fiber length, and loss events such as connectors, splices and fiber bends.
An OTDR is connected to the optical fiber link with a length of cable that has commonly been called a
launch fiber, dead zone cable, pulse suppressor, test fiber box or access jumper. The length of
the launch fiber should follow the OTDR manufacturers recommendation. In the absence of
manufacturer recommendations a launch fiber length of 100 m (328 ft) for multimode and 300 m
(984 ft) for single-mode is usually acceptable. The launch fiber allows the OTDR receiver to recover
from the overload caused by the back reflection from the connection on the OTDR to the launch fiber
and allows measuring the insertion loss of the initial connector on the cable being tested. To view the
far-end connector of the link, a sufficient length of fiber may be coupled to the far-end connector (also
know as a receive fiber). Where additional fiber is coupled to the far-end connector as a receive
fiber, it should be recorded in the documentation. Figure 23 illustrates the connection setup for an
OTDR.
NOTE An OTDR has a more controlled launch condition over that of an OLTS and
does not need a mandrel wrap.
Launch fiber
Optional added
length of cable
(receive fiber)
Fiber link
under test

OTDR

Figure 23 OTDR setup illustration of fiber link testing

Selectable parameters affecting the OTDR measurement may include the test source wavelength,
pulse duration or signal strength, length range, backscatter coefficient, signal averaging (time or
count) and the group index of the fiber (also known as the index of refraction or the refractive index).
The display should be adjusted to view the region of interest on the trace on both the horizontal and
vertical axes. Cursors on the display can be used to determine length or power loss between any two
points along the trace of the fiber link. See clause E.8 for basic information on interpreting a trace.

42

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.6 Documentation
Test results documentation are generally recorded and stored by the test instrument for subsequent
downloading to a personal computer.
Documentation that should be recorded for OLTS test results include:
Date of the test
Test personnel
Description of the field-test instrument used (including the source CPR Category for
multimode measurements); manufacturer model number and serial number
Date of the latest field-test instrument calibration
Type and length of test jumpers
Fiber identifier (ID)
Test
procedure and method used (TIA-526-14-A, Method B
for
multimode;
TIA-526-7, Method A.1 for single-mode) to include launch condition description (for
multimode, record the mandrel diameter and number of turns; for single-mode, record the
diameter of the mode suppression loop and number of turns)
Link loss results (including direction) at tested wavelength(s)
Documentation that should be recorded for OTDR test results include:
Date of the test
Test personnel
Description of the field-test instrument used; manufacturer model number and serial number
Date of the latest field-test instrument calibration
Type and length of launch fiber
Fiber identifier (ID)
Trace file including OTDR selectable parameters
Tested wavelength(s)
E.7 Mandrel wrap usage for multimode fiber testing with an OLTS LED source
Multimode optical fiber has a core surrounded by a cladding layer. A plastic buffer coating, that both
protects the glass fiber and removes any light that enters the cladding, covers the fiber. The index of
refraction profile of the core is designed to confine and propagate multiple modes or paths of light
within the core.
Overfilled or Category 1 CPR light sources, including some LED sources used in OLTSs, launch light
at a spot size and numerical aperture greater than that of standard multimode fiber, exciting both loworder (tightly coupled) and high-order (loosely coupled) modes. Low-order modes have low angles
relative to the core and are confined to the inner region of the core. High-order modes have high
angles relative to the core and travel throughout the core. Light launched into the core at angles
greater than the numerical aperture of the fiber, as well as light launched directly into the cladding,
are quickly absorbed by the buffer coating.
Because they are loosely coupled, the highest order modes excited by overfilled LED sources
experience higher loss in the fiber, at fiber bends, and connections than low order modes. A mandrel
wrap placed on the test jumper that is attached to the source during referencing and during testing of
the cabling serves as a high-order mode filter and will provide greater consistency of measurements
than using a Category 1 CPR source without a mandrel wrap. The effect of a mandrel-wrap on an
overfilled light source is illustrated in figure 24.

43

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

Cladding modes are

removed by the buffer.

Highest-order core modes are

removed by the mandrel wrap.

125 m
50
or
62.5 m

Overfilled
LED
source
Core
Cladding
Buffer
Before mandrel wrap

After mandrel wrap

Figure 24 Effect of mandrel wrap

The mandrel-wrap is installed on the transmit test jumper of an OLTS having an overfilled launch
when it is used to measure the link loss of multimode fiber links. The installation of the mandrel wrap
is performed by wrapping a length of fiber around a smooth round mandrel (rod) for a total of five (5)
non-overlapping wraps. A mandrel wrap is never installed on the receive test jumper (optical power
meter). Table 3 shows mandrel diameters for typical cabled fiber types.
The advantage of using the overfilled LED source to test multimode fiber is that the same light source
or OLTS can be used to test either 62.5 m or 50 m fiber links by using the appropriate core size
test jumpers with a mandrel.

44

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.8

Interpreting length, attenuation rate, and insertion loss from an OTDR trace

dB

E.8.1 Length
When measuring length, observe the OTDR manufacturers recommendations for optimum settings.
To measure the length of any segment except the first segment attached to an OTDR, place two
cursors on the trace. For reflective events, such as connectors or mechanical splices, the first cursor
is placed at the lowest point of the trace before the peak which indicates the reflective event at the
beginning of the segment (Z0, in figure 25). The second cursor is placed at the lowest point of the next
straight line trace, again before the peak of a reflective event (Z1) which indicates the end of the same
segment. The fiber length is the difference between these two distances (Z1 Z0).

Figure 25 Example OTDR trace illustrating length

45

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.8.2 Attenuation rate

When estimating attenuation rate, observe the OTDR manufacturers recommendations for optimum
settings. To measure the attenuation rate of a cable segment or link terminated with reflective
connections (connectors or mechanical splices), place two cursors on the trace. Both cursors are
placed in the same straight-line trace with no features (i.e., reflections or drops) between the cursors.
The first cursor is placed near the beginning of the straight-line trace but not in the decay of the peak
(Z1, figure 26). The second cursor is placed at or near the end of the same straight-line trace (Z2).
The attenuation rate, calculated by the OTDR in dB/km, is the power difference (P1 - P2) divided by
the distance between the cursors, Z2 - Z1. Note that the two cursors can be moved slightly closer to
one another to avoid being in either peak. Such movement will change the value of the attenuation
rate slightly, but not the interpretation of the rate (acceptable or unacceptable).

dB

NOTE Most OTDRs can also measure the attenuation coefficient using a statistical
method called least squares analysis (LSA). The OTDR calculates the best straight
line between the two cursors reducing the errors caused by non-linearities of
reflective events or noisy traces.

Figure 26 Example OTDR trace illustrating attenuation rate

46

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

E.8.3 Insertion loss

When measuring insertion loss (connector pair or splice), observe the OTDR manufacturers
recommendations for optimum settings. To measure the insertion loss using the two point method,
place two cursors on the trace at opposite sides of the event (connector pair or splice). The cursors
are placed in the straight-line trace and not in the peak or drop. The first cursor is placed near the end
of the straight-line trace before the peak of a reflective event; e.g., a connection (Z1, figure 27) or drop
if the event is non-reflective; e.g., a splice. The second cursor is placed at or near the beginning of
the straight-line trace (Z2) after the peak or drop. The insertion loss is the power difference, (P1 - P2).

dB

NOTE A method to measure insertion loss, which is built into many OTDRs, uses
least squares analysis (LSA).

Figure 27 Example OTDR trace illustrating insertion loss measurement

NOTES
1 OTDRs rely on fiber backscatter for measurements. Connections between two
fibers of different backscatter coefficients may cause connection or splice loss errors.
Testing in both directions and averaging will reduce this error.
2 Large backscatter differences in fibers can cause connectors or splices to show a
gain instead of a loss. Testing in the reverse direction and averaging will provide a
more accurate measurement.
3 When testing short cables with an OTDR, large reflections from connectors may
cause anomalous events called ghosts which can be confused with actual
connections. Refer to OTDR instructions regarding ghosts.

47

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX F (INFORMATIVE) ENVIRONMENTAL CLASSIFICATIONS

Environmental classifications have been developed for the purpose of describing areas in which
cabling is placed. The specifications of MICE include: M - mechanical; I - ingress; C - climatic; and,
E - electromagnetic. Compatibility with the environment can be achieved with enhanced cabling
components or through protection, separation or isolation. Table 8 provides thresholds for
environmental conditions. MICE 1 (M1I1C1E1) generally relates to environmentally controlled areas
such as commercial building offices, MICE 2 (M2I2C2E2) generally relates to a light industrial
environment and MICE 3 (M3I3C3E3) generally relates to an industrial environment. The classification
for areas with mixed environments may be described by including the classification level for each
variable as a subscript (e.g., M1I2C3E1). If a cabling system component crosses an environmental
boundary, the component or mitigation technique should be selected to be compatible with the worst
case environment to which it is exposed.
Table 8 M, I, C, E environmental conditions
Mechanical

M1

M2

M3

Shock/bump (see a)
Peak acceleration

40 m/s

-2

100 m/s

-2

250 m/s

-2

Vibration
Displacement amplitude
(2 Hz to 9 Hz)
Acceleration amplitude
(9 Hz to 500 Hz)
Tensile force

1.5 mm
5 m/s

7.0 mm

-2

20 m/s

-2

15.0 mm
50 m/s

-2

See b)

See b)

See b)

Crush

45 N
over 25 mm (linear) min.

1 100 N
over 150 mm (linear) min.

2 200 N
over 150 mm (linear) min.

Impact

1J

10 J

30 J

See b)

See b)

See b)

I1

I2

I3

12.5 mm

50 m

50 m

None

Intermittent liquid jet

12.5 l/min
6.3 mm jet
> 2.5 m distance

Intermittent liquid jet

12.5 l/min
6.3 mm jet
> 2.5 m distance
and immersion
(1 m for <=30 minutes)

Bending, flexing and torsion

Ingress
Particulate ingress (dia. max)

Immersion

48

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Table 8 (Continued)
Climatic and chemical

C1

C2

C3

Ambient temperature

-10 C to +60 C

-25 C to +70 C

-40 C to +70 C

Rate of change of temperature

0.1 C per minute

1.0 C per minute

3.0 C per minute

Humidity

5 % to 85 %
(non-condensing)

5 % to 95 %
(condensing)

5 % to 95 %
(condensing)

Solar radiation

700 Wm

Liquid pollution (see c))

Contaminants
Sodium chloride (salt/sea water)

-2

Concentration x 10

1 120 Wm
-6

-2

Concentration x 10

1 120 Wm
-6

-2

Concentration x 10

-6

<0,3

<0,3

<0,005

<0,5

Sodium stearate (soap)

None

>5 x 10 aqueous nongelling

>5 x 10 aqueous gelling

Detergent

None

ffs

ffs

Conductive materials

None

Temporary

Present

Mean/Peak
-6
(Concentration x 10 )

Mean/Peak
-6
(Concentration x 10 )

Mean/Peak
-6
(Concentration x 10 )

<0.003/<0,01

<0.05/<0,5

<10/<50

Sulphur dioxide

<0.01/<0.03

<0.1/<0,3

<5/<15

Sulphur trioxide (ffs)

<0.01/<0.03

<0.1/<0.3

<5/<15

Chlorine wet (>50 % humidity)

<0.000 5/<0.001

<0.005/<0.03

<0.05/<0.3

Chlorine dry (<50 % humidity)

<0.002/<0.01

<0.02/<0.1

<0.2/<1.0

Hydrogen chloride

-/<0.06

<0.06/<0.3

<0.6/3.0

Hydrogen fluoride

<0.001/<0.005

<0.01/<0.05

<0.1/<1.0

<1/<5

<10/<50

<50/<250

<0.05/<0.1

<0.5/<1

<5/<10

<0.002/<0.005

<0.025/<0.05

<0.1/<1

Oil (dry-air concentration)

(for oil types see b)

Gaseous pollution (see Note 3)

Contaminants
Hydrogen sulphide

Ammonia
Oxides of Nitrogen
Ozone

49

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
Table 8 (Concluded)
Electromagnetic

E1

E2

E3

Electrostatic discharge Contact

(0,667 C)

4 kV

4 kV

4 kV

Electrostatic discharge Air

(0,132 C)

8 kV

8 kV

8 kV

3 V/m at (80 to
1 000 MHz)

3 V/m at (80 to
1 000 MHz)

10 V/m at (80 to
1 000 MHz)

3 V/m at (1 400 to
2 000 MHz)

3 V/m at (1 400 to
2 000 MHz)

3 V/m at (1 400 to
2 000 MHz)

1 V/m at (2 000 to
2 700 MHz)

1 V/m at (2 000 to
2 700 MHz)

1 V/m at (2 000 to
2 700 MHz)

Conducted RF

3 V at 150kHz to 80MHz

3 V at 150kHz to 80MHz

10 V at 150kHz to 80MHz

EFT/B (comms)

500 V

1 kV

1 kV

Surge (transient ground potential

difference) - signal, line to earth

500 V

1 kV

1 kV

Magnetic Field (50/60 Hz)

1 Am

-1

3 Am

Radiated RF - AM

Magnetic Field
(60 Hz to 20 000 Hz)

ffs

-1

ffs

30 Am

-1

ffs

NOTES
1 Bump: the repetitive nature of the shock experienced by the channel shall be taken into account.
2 This aspect of environmental classification is installation-specific and should be considered in association with
IEC 61918 and the appropriate component specification.
-6

3 A single dimensional characteristic, i.e. Concentration x 10 , was chosen to unify limits from different
standards.

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ANSI/TIA-568-C.0

ANNEX G (INFORMATIVE) BIBLIOGRAPHY

This annex is informative only and is not part of this Standard.
The following is a list of some generally applicable basic standards and guides that are relevant to the
requirements of this Standard. Other American National Standards also may be relevant.

ANSI Z136.2, ANS For Safe Use Of Optical Fiber Communication Systems Utilizing
Laser Diode And LED Sources

ANSI/TIA-568-C.1, Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard

ANSI/TIA-568-C.2, Balanced
Components Standard

ANSI/TIA-604-3, FOCIS 3, Fiber Optic Connector Intermateability Standard, Type SC

and SC-APC

ANSI/TIA-604-5, FOCIS-5, Fiber optic Intermateability Standard, Type MPO

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Washington D.C., The Code of Federal

Regulations, FCC 47 CFR 68

Federal Telecommunications Recommendation 1090-1997, Commercial Building

Telecommunications Cabling Standard, 11 August 1997, by National Communications
System (NCS).

IEEE C2-2007, National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)

IEEE 802.3-2005, Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD)
Access Method and Physical Layer Specifications

IEC 61918-2007, Industrial Communication Networks - Installation of Communication

Networks in Industrial Premises

NFPA 70, National Electrical Code

TIA-492AAAA, Detail Specification For 62.5-m Core Diameter/125-m Cladding

Diameter Class IA Graded-Index Multimode Optical Fibers

TIA-492AAAB, Detail Specification For 50-m Core Diameter/125-m Cladding Diameter

Class IA Graded-Index Multimode Optical Fibers

TIA-492AAAC, Detail Specification For 850-nm Laseer-optimized, 50-m Core

Diameter/125-m Cladding Diameter Class IA Graded-Index Multimode Optical Fibers

TIA-492CAAA, Detail Specification For Class IVA Dispersion-Unshifted Single-Mode

Optical Fibers

TIA-492CAAB, Detail Specification For Class IVA Dispersion-Unshifted Single-Mode

Optical Fibers With Low Water Peak

TIA TSB-31-C, Telephone Terminal Equipment Rationale and Measurement Guidelines

for US Network Protection

Twisted-Pair

51

Telecommunications

Cabling

and

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
The organizations listed below can be contacted to obtain reference information.
ANSI
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
11 W 42 St.
New York, NY 10032
USA
(212) 642-4900
www.ansi.org
BICSI
BICSI
8610 Hidden River Parkway
Tampa, FL 33637-1000
USA
(800) 242-7405
www.bicsi.org
FCC
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Washington, DC 20554
USA
(301) 725-1585
www.fcc.org
Federal and Military Specifications
National Communications System (NCS)
Technology and Standards Division
701 South Court House Road Arlington, VA 22204-2198
USA
(703) 607-6200
www.ncs.gov
IEC
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
Sales Department
PO Box 131
3 rue de Varemb
CH-1211 Geneva 20
Switzerland
+41 22 919 02 11
www.iec.ch
IEEE
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Inc (IEEE)
IEEE Service Center
445 Hoes Ln., PO Box 1331
Piscataway, NJ 08855-1331
USA
(732) 981-0060
www.ieee.org

52

ANSI/TIA-568-C.0
NFPA
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
USA
(617) 770-3000
www.nfpa.org
TIA
Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)
2500 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22201-3836
USA
(703) 907-7700
www.tiaonline.org

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