Overview
IEC TS 62661-2-1:2013 is a technical specification published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides detailed guidelines for creating and evaluating optical backplanes using optical fibre circuit boards and multi-core right angle optical connectors (RAO). This standard focuses specifically on backplanes that utilize low bending loss multimode fibres, referred to as "low-loss RAO", to achieve reliable optical connections between daughter boards and the backplane in electronic equipment assemblies.
Optical backplanes are essential infrastructures in advanced data communication and computing systems, enabling high-speed, parallel optical connections with reduced signal loss and improved reliability. IEC TS 62661-2-1 defines the functional requirements, dimensional conditions, connection arrangements, testing methods, and performance criteria for such backplanes, facilitating standardization and interoperability in fibre optic system design.
Keywords: optical backplane, optical fibre boards, multi-core right angle optical connectors, IEC standard, low-loss RAO, fibre optic connectivity.
Key Topics
Applications
Optical backplanes designed per IEC TS 62661-2-1 are critical in industries where high bandwidth, dense connectivity, and system modularity are essential. Key application areas include:
The specification also supports integration with electromechanical components, making it suitable for hybrid optical-electrical backplane designs.
Related Standards
Several IEC standards and technical specifications are referenced to ensure full compatibility and proper application:
- IEC 60297-3-101: Mechanical structures for electronic equipment - subracks and plug-in units.
- IEC 61300 series: Test and measurement methods for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components.
- IEC 61754-25: Fibre optic connector interfaces, including RAO connector family specification.
- IEC 62496-3 / IEC 62496-3-1: Performance standards and guidance for optical circuit boards.
- IEC 60793-1-22: Optical fibres - length measurement methods.
By following IEC TS 62661-2-1 alongside these related standards, organizations can improve interoperability, enhance system reliability, and ensure compliance with international best practices in fibre optic interconnect design.