IEC 61753-087-6:2012

Overview

IEC 61753-087-6:2012 specifies minimum initial performance, test and measurement requirements for non-connectorised single‑mode bidirectional WWDM (wide wavelength division multiplexing) devices with 1 310 nm upstream and 1 490 nm downstream channels. It applies to fibre‑optic pigtailed PON WWDM devices intended to meet category O (uncontrolled environment) requirements as defined in IEC 61753‑1. The standard defines what manufacturers and test labs must verify to demonstrate compliance for field-deployed passive optical network (PON) components.

Key topics and requirements

The standard focuses on measurable optical and mechanical performance parameters and test methods (primarily referencing IEC 61300 series). Key technical requirements include:

• Insertion loss: ≤ 0.8 dB (measured over the operating wavelength ranges 1260–1360 nm and 1480–1500 nm; launch patchcord ≥ 2 m).
• Wavelength isolation: ≥ 20 dB between 1260–1360 nm and 1480–1500 nm.
• Directivity: ≥ 50 dB across operating ranges; non‑tested ports must be terminated to avoid reflections.
• Return loss: ≥ 50 dB (Grade U) at 1310 nm ±20 nm and 1490 nm ±10 nm.
• Polarization dependent loss (PDL): ≤ 0.2 dB.
• Optical power handling / damage threshold: device must tolerate ≥ 300 mW total (sum of power in both wavelength ranges) without exceeding insertion loss or isolation limits after testing.
• Sample preparation and test sequencing: defined sample sizes, grouping and order are given in Annex A; measurements at standard atmosphere per IEC 61300‑1.
• Test uncertainties: measurement uncertainty requirements are specified for each measurement (e.g., ±0.1 dB for insertion loss).

Applications and users

This standard is targeted at stakeholders involved in optical access networks and passive optical components:

• Manufacturers of WWDM splitters, multiplexers/demultiplexers and pigtailed PON devices ensuring product compliance for uncontrolled environments.
• Test laboratories and quality assurance teams performing standardized verification and test reporting.
• Network operators and integrators deploying GPON/EPON/other PON systems who require components meeting defined optical performance (1310/1490 nm WWDM).
• Certification bodies assessing conformity to IEC performance categories.

Practical applications include central office and customer‑side WWDM components used in fiber‑to‑the‑home / business (FTTx) access networks, enabling bidirectional upstream (1310 nm) and downstream (1490 nm) channels on single‑mode fibre.

Related standards

• IEC 61753‑1 (general and guidance for performance standards)
• IEC 61300 series (basic test and measurement procedures)
• IEC 60793‑2‑50 (single‑mode fibre product specs)
• IEC 62074‑1 (WDM generic specification)
• ITU‑T and IEEE recommendations cited for wavelength ranges (e.g., ITU‑T G.983.3, G.984.2, IEEE 802.3ah)

Keywords: IEC 61753-087-6, WWDM, PON, 1310 nm, 1490 nm, non‑connectorised, single‑mode, category O, insertion loss, isolation, PDL, optical power handling.