EN IEC 61753-021-03:2026

Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Performance standard - Part 021-03: Single-mode fibre optic connectors terminated as pigtails and patchcords for category OP - Outdoor protected environment EN IEC 61753-021-03:2026

Publication date:   Jul 15, 2026

Scope

IEC 61753-021-03:2026 defines minimum initial test and measurement requirements and severities which single-mode fibre optic connectors terminated as a pigtail or a patchcord satisfy in order to be categorized as meeting the IEC standard category OP (outdoor protected environment), as defined in IEC 61753-1. If tests are performed on the connectors terminated as pigtails or patchcords for category OPHD, OP+ or OP+HD and the product passes these tests, the product will be automatically qualified or categorized as meeting the IEC standard for category OP. If tests are performed on the connectors terminated as pigtails or patchcords for category OP, and the product passes these tests, the product will be automatically qualified or categorized as meeting the IEC standard for category C or CHD.

This first edition cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 61753-021-3 published in 2012.

This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:

a) update of environmental categories (from U to OP), tests and their severities in accordance with IEC 61753‑1;

b) changes in the terms and definitions of the different types of test samples (pigtail test samples and patchcord test samples) used in the various tests to avoid confusion;

c) update of fibre naming conventions in accordance with IEC 60793‑2‑50 and addition of provisions for B‑657 fibres;

d) addition of all the attenuation and return loss grades defined in IEC 61753‑1;

e) deletion of the static side load test;

f) addition of provisions for rectangular ferrule connectors;

g) addition of the fibre optic connector proof test with static load – side pull;

h) update of the flexing of the strain relief test to use change of attenuation instead of transient loss;

i) addition of Annex B for visual examination of the outer cable sheath movement of reinforced cables as an additional requirement for change of temperature, cable retention and flexing of the strain relief tests.