IEC 61196-10:2014

Overview

IEC 61196-10:2014 - "Coaxial communication cables - Part 10: Sectional specification for semi-rigid cables with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) dielectric" - defines construction, rating and test requirements for semi‑rigid coaxial cables using a PTFE dielectric and tubular outer conductor. These cables are intended for microwave and wireless equipment or other signal‑transmission units operating above 500 MHz. This edition includes the February 2016 corrigendum and is to be read in conjunction with IEC 61196‑1:2005.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Cable type and use: Semi‑rigid coaxial cables - not intended to be flexed after initial forming; typical construction uses a solid metallic inner conductor, PTFE dielectric and seamless metallic tubing outer conductor.
• Materials and construction:
  • Dielectric: solid PTFE, low‑density PTFE or other PTFE types as specified.
  • Inner conductor: smooth, continuous; nominal diameter and tolerance (±3 %) specified in detail specifications.
  • Outer conductor: copper or aluminum tubing (with or without coating); nominal diameter tolerance ±1 %.
  • Sheath (optional): thermoplastic material and dimensions specified where applicable.
• Performance characteristics and ratings:
  • Characteristic impedance, rated temperature range and electrical parameters are specified and referenced to IEC 61196‑1 electrical test methods.
  • Separate tables detail electrical, environmental and mechanical requirements for finished cables.
• Testing and conformity:
  • Normative references include IEC electrical and mechanical test methods (e.g., tests for impedance, attenuation, return loss, insulation resistance) and environmental testing standards.
  • Annex A covers quality assessment, qualification approval, capability approval and sampling/inspection (ISO 2859‑1 referenced).
• Identification, marking and labeling, as well as delivery and storage requirements, are defined.

Practical applications

• Use this standard when specifying, designing, procuring or testing semi‑rigid coaxial cables for microwave, RF and wireless systems (satellite ground equipment, base stations, test benches, high‑frequency interconnects).
• Ensures predictable RF performance (impedance stability, low attenuation, good return loss) and mechanical/environmental reliability for high‑frequency signal paths.

Who should use IEC 61196-10:2014

• Cable manufacturers and designers producing semi‑rigid PTFE coaxial assemblies.
• RF/microwave systems engineers and procurement specialists specifying interconnects for frequencies above 500 MHz.
• Test laboratories and compliance teams performing qualification, acceptance and quality conformance inspections.

Related standards

• IEC 61196‑1 series (generic requirements and test methods)
• IEC 61169‑4 (RF connectors)
• IEC 60068‑1 (environmental testing)
• ISO 2859‑1 (sampling procedures)

Keywords: IEC 61196-10:2014, semi-rigid coaxial cables, PTFE dielectric, microwave cables, RF interconnects, characteristic impedance, IEC 61196-1.