IEC 61935-1-1:2019

Overview

IEC 61935-1-1:2019 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that outlines additional requirements for testing balanced and coaxial information technology cabling systems. This standard specifically addresses the measurement of transverse conversion loss (TCL) and equal level transverse conversion transfer loss (ELTCTL) using level V field testers. These measurements are critical for assessing the electromagnetic performance of unscreened cabling, ensuring that installations meet the requirements specified in ISO/IEC 11801-1.

IEC 61935-1-1 supplements IEC 61935-1 by providing detailed reference measurement procedures and explicitly defining field tester accuracy requirements for TCL and ELTCTL. This helps in delivering uniform and reliable testing results, facilitating global consistency and system compliance for data cabling infrastructures.

Key Topics

• Transverse Conversion Loss (TCL): TCL is a measure of the unwanted conversion from differential mode signals to common mode signals in cabling. It is typically expressed in decibels (dB) and serves as a key indicator for electromagnetic noise emission and immunity.
• Equal Level Transverse Conversion Transfer Loss (ELTCTL): ELTCTL measures the difference between the transverse conversion transfer loss and the differential mode insertion loss of a cabling pair.
• Level V Field Testers: IEC 61935-1-1 sets stringent accuracy requirements for field testers classified as level V, ensuring consistent and reliable measurements for TCL and ELTCTL across various cabling installations.
• Reference Measurement Procedures: The standard explains how to conduct laboratory-grade and field measurements, aligning test practices with the expectations of ISO/IEC 11801-1.
• Data Reporting and Accuracy: The document prescribes comprehensive data capture, including PASS/FAIL outcomes, margin calculations, and frequency analysis for both worst-case TCL and ELTCTL values.

Applications

IEC 61935-1-1:2019 is applicable to a wide range of use cases in the design, installation, and maintenance of information technology cabling systems:

• Unscreened Balanced Cabling Evaluation: The standard is essential for verifying the compliance of unscreened balanced cabling, used in structured cabling systems spanning office buildings, data centers, and other commercial premises.
• Quality Assurance and Field Testing: Installers, network designers, and quality assurance professionals rely on this standard when employing field testers to assess cabling performance, minimize electromagnetic interference, and ensure optimal data transmission quality.
• Laboratory and Factory Testing: The procedures prescribed are suitable for both on-site (field) and controlled laboratory measurements of components or complete systems, supporting manufacturers and testing laboratories in validating product conformity.
• Cabling Recertification and System Maintenance: Over time, cabling systems may be retested according to this standard to diagnose issues or recertify compliance following modifications or environmental changes.

Related Standards

• IEC 61935-1: Specification for the testing of balanced and coaxial information technology cabling - General procedures for installed cabling.
• ISO/IEC 11801-1: Generic cabling for customer premises - General requirements, which sets the baseline for system performance criteria, including TCL and ELTCTL.
• Other Parts of IEC 61935 Series: Provide additional testing protocols and requirements for different types of cabling and field tester classes.
• IEC Electropedia: Provides terminology and definitions relevant to electrotechnology and cabling standards.

Practical Value

Adopting IEC 61935-1-1:2019 boosts the robustness and interoperability of IT cabling systems by:

• Enhancing the reliability of network performance and reducing electromagnetic interference risks.
• Enabling precise and harmonized field testing across global markets.
• Assisting manufacturers, installers, and end-users in maintaining compliance with current international requirements for data cabling infrastructure.

By following IEC 61935-1-1, organizations ensure their cabling installations are future-ready and aligned with evolving technology standards.