Question 11/XV - Characteristics and test methods for single-mode
optical fibre cables
(Continuation of Question 22/XV 1985-88)

Considering

(1) that existing Recommendations G.652, G.653 and G.654 have some items
that are still open for further study;

(2) that requirements for Reference Test Methods and Alternative Test
Methods contained in Recommendations G.652, G.653 and G.654 have some
items that are still open for further study;

(3) that particular applications, e.g., submarine cables, local networks
and coherent transmission systems, may require appropriate choice of
fibre types;

(4) that other types of single-mode fibres (e.g. mid-infrared fibres,
polarization maintenance fibres) are at present under consideration;

(5) that the requirements of those private networks which include
elements of public networks may need to be taken into account;

(6) that there may be requirements for additional Reference Test Methods
for measuring other characteristics of optical cables with single-mode
fibres;

(7) that there may be requirements for additional practical, simple and
cost effective Alternative Test Methods for factory and field
applications,

1. How should Recommendations G.652, G.653 and G.654 be amended and
completed?

2. What new Recommendations should be prepared for other types of
single- mode optical fibres? (e.g. dispersion flattened fibres,
polarization maintaining fibres, mid-infrared fibres);

3. What additional Reference Test Methods and Alternative Test Methods
need to be established?

4. Where should definitions and test methods be located?

Points for study

1.The interrelationship between fibres parameters and transmission
characteristics.

2.The interrelationship between the transmission properties of cable
factory lengths and elementary cable sections.

3.Geometrical, optical and transmission characteristics of different
single-mode optical fibres.

4.Mechanical aspects of fibres and splices.

5.Reliability in various environmental conditions.

6.The extent to which transmission characteristics are affected by:

-the make-up of cables
-methods of installation
- methods of jointing
- maintenance methods.

7. The need for additional Reference Test Methods.

8.The need for additional Alternative Test Methods for factory and field
applications.

9.Fibre characteristics for possible operation with wavelength division
multiplexing systems with bidirectional transmission and coherent
systems.

Notes

1 The study of optical fibres for submarine systems should be
coordinated with the study of Question 13/XV.

2. The study of optical fibres for the local network should be
coordinated with the study of Question 14/XV.

3. The study of this Question should be coordinated with the study of
Question 18/XV.

4.The study of points 4 and 6 should be coordinated with Study Group VI.