Overview
IEC 61196-3-2:1997 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies coaxial cables designed for digital communication in horizontal floor wiring of buildings. This part of the IEC 61196 series covers detailed specifications for coaxial cables with solid polyethylene dielectric, tailored for local area networks (LANs) with up to 185 meters reach and data transmission speeds up to 10 Mb/s. It complements the general requirements outlined in IEC 61196-1 and the sectional specification in IEC 61196-3.
The standard targets high-quality coaxial cables suitable for 10 BASE 2 applications, ensuring compatibility with ISO/IEC 8802-3 networking specifications. Its scope includes mechanical, electrical, and transmission characteristics necessary for reliable and efficient data communication within building infrastructure.
Key Topics
Applications
IEC 61196-3-2 cables are ideal for:
- Local Area Networks (LANs) employing coaxial cable infrastructure with data rates up to 10 Mb/s
- Horizontal floor wiring in commercial and residential buildings, supporting backbone and backbone-to-workstation connections
- 10 BASE 2 Ethernet implementations compliant with ISO/IEC 8802-3
- Environments requiring reliable fixed installations with controlled electromagnetic compatibility
- Installations demanding robust mechanical properties and fire resistance in line with international safety standards
By adhering to IEC 61196-3-2, manufacturers and network designers ensure:
- Standardized cable performance that aligns with global LAN requirements
- Compatibility with common connector systems and network devices
- Enhanced installation reliability through stringent mechanical and electrical specifications
- Assurance of long-term cable integrity under normal building environmental conditions
Related Standards
- IEC 61196-1: Generic specifications for radio frequency cables-general requirements applicable to coaxial cable families
- IEC 61196-3: Sectional specification for coaxial cables used in digital communication outside the scope of solid dielectric cables specified in IEC 61196-3-2
- ISO/IEC 8802-3: Network standards for IEEE 802.3 Ethernet, particularly 10 BASE 2 application guidelines compatible with this cable specification
- IEC 60169-8: Specification for BNC-type coaxial connectors used with these cables
- IEC 60332-1: Test for flame retardance of cables under vertical flame conditions
By implementing IEC 61196-3-2 compliant coaxial cables, network installers and manufacturers optimize the performance, safety, and interoperability of digital communication systems in horizontal floor wiring, supporting the infrastructure of modern local area networks. This ensures high-quality data transmission over distances up to 185 meters with proven electrical and mechanical reliability.
Open preview (PDF)Radio frequency cables - Part 3-2: Coaxial cables for digital communication in horizontal floor wiring - Detail specification for coaxial cables with solid dielectric for local area networks for 185 m reach and up to 10 Mb/s.
