IEC 61753-031-3:2014

Overview

IEC 61753-031-3:2014 is an IEC performance standard for non-connectorized single‑mode non-wavelength selective branching devices (NWBD), covering 1×N and 2×N configurations intended for use in an IEC Category U environment (Uncontrolled environment). The standard defines minimum initial tests, measurement requirements and severities that NWBDs must meet to be classified for use - especially in Passive Optical Network (PON) applications. This 2nd edition introduces two performance classes for balanced devices (Class A = premium, Class B = standard) and updates test scope, spectral bands and normative references.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Device types covered
  • Balanced, bidirectional non‑connectorized single‑mode 1×N and 2×N NWBDs (balanced devices include Class A and Class B performance levels).
  • Unbalanced, bidirectional non‑connectorized single‑mode NWBDs limited to 1×2 and 2×2 (most commonly used unbalanced types).
• Performance metrics
  • Attenuation and uniformity requirements (numerical values and calculation methods are provided in Annex A).
  • Two performance classes for balanced NWBDs: Class A (premium/extended reach PON) and Class B (standard/normal reach PON).
• Test methods
  • All test methods are drawn from the IEC 61300 basic test and measurement procedures (vibration, cold, dry heat, change of temperature, shock, torsion, return loss, directivity, transient loss, etc.).
  • Samples must be terminated on single‑mode fibres per IEC 60793-2-50 category B1.1/B1.3/B.6.
  • Devices are validated over defined spectral bands:
    • Spectral band I: 1 260–1 360 nm and 1 480–1 625 nm
    • Spectral band II: 1 260–1 360 nm and 1 480–1 660 nm
• Test reporting and sampling
  • Fully documented test reports and evidence are required; sample sizes and test details are in Annex B and Table 1.
  • During environmental monitoring, all ports of the NWBD shall be monitored.

Practical applications and users

• Targeted for manufacturers, test laboratories, product designers, system integrators and network operators working with fibre access networks and PON deployments.
• Used to qualify non-wavelength selective branching device (NWBD) components for field (Category U) installations where predictable attenuation and uniformity are critical for link budgeting and service reliability.
• Helpful for procurement and compliance teams specifying splitter/brancher performance (Class A vs Class B) for extended‑reach or standard‑reach optical networks.

Related standards

• IEC 61300 series - basic test and measurement procedures for fibre optic components.
• IEC 60793-2-50 - single‑mode fibre product specifications.
• IEC 61753 - the broader family of performance standards for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components.

Keywords: IEC 61753-031-3:2014, non-wavelength selective branching device (NWBD), IEC Category U environment, 1×N, 2×N, PON, attenuation, uniformity, IEC 61300.