IEC 61156-4-1:2009

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.