IEC 61196-6-1:2009

Overview

IEC 61196-6-1:2009 is a blank detail specification in the IEC 61196 series for coaxial communication cables specifically addressing CATV drop cables. It defines the template and minimum requirements manufacturers and specifiers should complete for drop cables used in cabled television distribution networks. The standard covers cables intended for operation between -40 °C and +70 °C and in the frequency ranges 5 MHz to 1000 MHz or 5 MHz to 3000 MHz, and is intended to be read in conjunction with IEC 61196-1 (generic specification) and IEC 61196-6 (sectional specification).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Blank detail format: provides a pro‑forma layout where manufacturers enter material, dimensions and performance data; uses NS (Not Specified) and NA (Not Applicable) conventions.
• Electrical and transmission requirements:
  • Characteristic impedance: 75 ± 3 Ω.
  • Return loss: specified banded minima (e.g., ≥ 20 dB from 5–1000 MHz, with reduced minima at higher bands).
  • Attenuation: formulaic and discrete limits (see Annex A of the standard for maximum dB/100 m at reference frequencies).
  • Insulation resistance: ≥ 10 MΩ·km.
  • Withstand and spark test voltages: default values provided (e.g., dielectric and sheath withstand voltages; spark test levels).
• Screening and EMC:
  • Screening (shielding) class requirements and post‑flex screening attenuation tests referenced to IEC 62153-4-4.
• Mechanical and environmental tests:
  • Cold bend, water penetration, climatic sequence, damp heat, UV stability, thermal ageing, tensile/crush/abrasion and dimensional tolerances (ovality/eccentricity limits).
  • Flexure/flex tests reference procedures in IEC 61196‑1 series (e.g., specific pulleys, tensions and cycle counts).
• Component tolerances: inner conductor, dielectric, outer conductor, sheath dimensions and tolerances are specified as default or left for manufacturer entry.

Applications

• Specification and procurement of CATV drop cables for residential and commercial cable-TV distribution.
• Design and quality assurance of coaxial drop cables used by cable operators, OEMs and component manufacturers.
• Test laboratories verifying compliance with electrical, mechanical and environmental properties in TV distribution networks.
• Basis for contract documents, supplier declarations and product datasheets.

Who should use this standard

• Cable manufacturers completing detail specifications for product lines.
• System integrators and cable network operators defining acceptance criteria.
• Test houses and conformity assessment bodies performing type and routine tests.
• Procurement specialists and standards committees developing national or supplier-specific requirements.

Related standards

• IEC 61196-1 - Coaxial communication cables: Generic specification (definitions and requirements).
• IEC 61196-6 - Sectional specification for CATV drop cables.
• IEC 62153-4-4 - Metallic communication cable test methods: EMC shielding attenuation measurement.

Keywords: IEC 61196-6-1, CATV drop cables, coaxial communication cables, characteristic impedance, attenuation, screening attenuation, cable specification, IEC 61196-6, IEC 61196-1.