Overview
IEC 61156-4-1:2009 is the IEC blank detail specification template for multicore and symmetrical pair/quad cables intended for digital communications in riser applications. It defines the required layout, style and content structure for preparing detailed product specifications that describe riser-rated multicore and pair/quad cables. This edition (3.0, 2009) is a technical revision aligned with IEC 61156-4 and is intended to be read together with IEC 61156-1:2002 and IEC 61156-4:2009.
Key Topics
The standard provides a structured checklist and fields for all essential technical and administrative information. Key topics covered include:
- Cable identification and document metadata: prepared-by, document number, availability and related references.
- Cable description and construction: type and number of elements, nominal impedance, screening, application, category (e.g., category 3 or 5), conductor/insulation/sheath materials and construction details.
- Electrical characteristics: conductor resistance, resistance unbalance, dielectric strength and insulation resistance.
- Transmission characteristics: mutual capacitance, attenuation across frequencies (1 MHz to 100 MHz ranges listed), velocity/phase delay, characteristic impedance, return loss, near-end and far-end crosstalk (NEXT, FEXT).
- Mechanical characteristics: dimensional requirements, sheath thickness, minimum bending radius (static/dynamic), tensile and elongation properties, crush and impact tests.
- Environmental characteristics: temperature range (installation/operation), ageing tests, cold/heat shock, flame propagation and smoke/toxic gas emission tests for riser applications.
- Specification fields and notation: instructions for marking non-applicable items (NA) or not specified (NS), and references to sectional subclauses in IEC 61156-4:2009.
Applications
This blank detail specification is practical for:
- Preparing manufacturer product data sheets and factory test schedules.
- Writing procurement specifications for building cabling projects (riser spaces).
- Defining acceptance test criteria for quality control and type testing.
- Ensuring riser cable selections meet required transmission, mechanical and fire/smoke performance for vertical building runs.
Who uses this standard
- Cable manufacturers and designers
- National standards bodies and technical committees
- Spec writers, procurement teams and consultants for building cabling
- Test laboratories and compliance engineers
- System integrators and installers specifying riser cabling for digital communications
Related Standards
- IEC 61156-1:2002 - Generic specification for multicore and symmetrical pair/quad cables
- IEC 61156-4:2009 - Sectional specification: Riser cables
- ISO/IEC 11801 - Generic cabling for customer premises
Use IEC 61156-4-1:2009 as the authoritative template when drafting detailed riser cable specifications to ensure consistent, comprehensive and testable product documentation.