Overview
IEC TR 62901:2016 - Guidance for the selection of drop cables - is a Technical Report published by the IEC (TC 86 / SC 86A). It defines the term drop cable, describes typical application spaces and the consequent performance requirements, explains cable design options that are not yet covered by existing product specifications, and gives guidance on testing focused on performance aspects not addressed in current standards. This report is informative and not intended as a product standard.
Key Topics and Technical Requirements
- Definitions and scope: Clarifies what constitutes a drop cable in FTTH and related access networks.
- Application spaces: Detailed review of environments where drop cables are used, including:
- Installation between poles (aerial)
- Installation in ducts
- Installation in sewer, water and gas pipes
- Direct-buried deployment
- Facade and building wall installations
- Installation options and techniques: Covers self-supporting, lashed and suspended aerial cables; duct techniques (pulling, jetting, blowing, pushing); facade attachment methods.
- Cable design considerations: Explains design options driven by specific applications - for example, strength member arrangements, messenger-integrated designs, removable sheaths for indoor/outdoor drops, and robust low-diameter direct-buried designs.
- Testing and performance guidance: Recommends both standard test procedures and additional tests for performance gaps in existing standards, such as:
- Abrasion resistance against wind-induced vibration in contact with rough surfaces
- Tensioning performance tests and other mechanical assessments
- Examples and illustrations: Includes typical cable designs and deployment diagrams for practical selection guidance.
Practical Applications
IEC TR 62901:2016 is directly applicable to:
- FTTH and access network planning and design
- Selection of appropriate drop cables for aerial, duct, facade or buried installations
- Developing supplier specifications where standard product specs do not yet exist
- Defining test regimes for new cable designs and field acceptance testing
Typical use cases:
- Network operators choosing drop cables for last-mile connections
- Cable manufacturers designing drop cable constructions tailored to specific installation environments
- Installation contractors and test laboratories validating mechanical and environmental performance
Who Should Use This Report
- Network planners and engineers (FTTH/ access networks)
- Cable designers and manufacturers
- Installation contractors and field technicians
- Test labs and QA teams
- Standards developers and specification writers within IEC TC 86 / SC 86A
Related Standards
IEC TR 62901 is a Technical Report produced by IEC TC 86 (Fibres and cables). It complements existing product specifications and international standards for fibre optic cables by addressing selection, design variations and additional test requirements where product standards are not yet specified.
Keywords: IEC TR 62901:2016, drop cable, cable design, FTTH, aerial drop, duct installation, direct-buried cable, cable testing.