Overview
IEC 62255-4:2005 is the IEC sectional specification for aerial drop cables used in outside plant broadband digital communications (high bit rate digital access telecommunication networks). It complements the generic requirements in IEC 62255-1 and applies to self-supporting aerial drop cables typically available in 2 to 6 pairs, with copper conductors, a thermoplastic jacket, and solid or cellular polyolefin insulation. Cables covered are classified by maximum reference frequency (30 MHz, 60 MHz, or 100 MHz) and may include a metallic screen, water-blocking/flooding compounds, strength members, and other common outside plant features.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope & application: Aerial, self-supporting drop cables for outside plant subscriber connection to high bit rate networks.
- Conductor: Solid annealed copper, diameter between 0.5 mm and 0.9 mm; factory joints permitted with specified breaking-strength requirements.
- Insulation: Polyolefin-based, solid and/or cellular constructions; multilayer skins allowed; thickness must meet finished-cable performance.
- Core and make-up: Twisted pairs/quads assembled into circular cores, with optional non-hygroscopic protective wraps.
- Filling/flooding compounds: Water-blocking materials (e.g., polyethylene-modified petroleum jelly, superabsorbent polymers, gels) to prevent moisture ingress.
- Screening & sheath: Optional metallic screening; thermoplastic sheaths (LDPE/MDPE/HDPE/PVC) with carbon black for UV protection; sheath typically black.
- Strength members & rip-cords: Steel wire or glass/synthetic fiber options; rip-cords non-hygroscopic.
- Identification & marking: Manufacturer, year, pair count, conductor diameter, and length markings required on the sheath.
- Characteristics & testing: Clauses cover electrical, transmission, mechanical/dimensional and environmental requirements. The standard includes tables for conductor resistance, test voltages, attenuation, PSNEXT, PSELFEXT and return loss.
Applications and who uses IEC 62255-4
- Cable manufacturers designing and specifying aerial drop cables for broadband deployment.
- Telecommunications operators and network designers selecting compliant outside plant components for high bit rate access networks.
- Installers and field engineers following installation considerations and mechanical requirements for aerial self-supporting drops.
- Test laboratories and procurement teams verifying electrical, transmission and environmental performance against the sectional specification.
Related standards
- IEC 62255-1 (Generic specification) - read in conjunction with Part 4.
- IEC 62255 series (Parts 2, 3, 4-1, 5, etc.) - other sectional and blank detail specifications for outside plant cables.
- IEC 60304 - standard colours for insulation referenced for pair identification.
This specification ensures interoperability, durability and predictable performance for aerial drop cables in high bit rate digital access networks, helping manufacturers and operators deploy robust outside plant infrastructure.