Overview
IEC 61196-6:2009 - "Coaxial communication cables - Part 6: Sectional specification for CATV drop cables" defines requirements for coaxial CATV drop cables used in cabled television distribution networks. It applies to cables operating between −40 °C and +70 °C and in the frequency ranges 5 MHz–1 000 MHz or 5 MHz–3 000 MHz. This sectional specification is intended to be read in conjunction with IEC 61196-1 (generic requirements) and specifies construction, materials, electrical, environmental and mechanical performance criteria for CATV drop cables.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Cable construction and materials
- Inner conductor: single wire or tube; material and nominal diameter specified in detail specifications (max tolerance ±0.03 mm).
- Dielectric: type, diameter, ovality and eccentricity specified (diameter tolerance ±0.15 mm).
- Outer conductor/screen: construction and nominal diameter specified (tolerance ±0.20 mm).
- Sheath: thermoplastic outer sheath (where provided); nominal thickness and diameter specified (tolerance ±0.25 mm). For black polyethylene outdoor sheaths, carbon black content is specified.
- Electrical and transmission parameters
- Characteristic impedance: 75 Ω ± 3 Ω.
- Return loss requirements: ≥ 20 dB (5–1 000 MHz); progressively relaxed to ≥ 16 dB up to 3 000 MHz.
- Attenuation: defined by a frequency-dependent formula; discrete values provided in detail specifications (measurements at 200 MHz and 800 MHz often used).
- Screening / transfer impedance classes: Screening attenuation and transfer impedance limits define Screening Classes A+, A, B, C with specified dB and mΩ/m thresholds (triaxial test methods after flexure).
- Environmental and mechanical tests
- Temperature cycling, cold-bend, damp heat, UV stability (for outdoor), thermal ageing and optional water penetration tests.
- Mechanical tolerances for dielectric/sheath ovality and eccentricity, tensile/elongation and adhesion tests for dielectric-to-conductor bond.
- Identification and marking
- Cable type number and manufacturer markings applied to sheath or outer conductor; labelling per IEC 61196-1.
Applications and users
- Primary application: CATV drop cables connecting network taps to subscriber premises in cable television and related RF/broadband distribution systems.
- Typical users:
- Cable manufacturers specifying and certifying CATV drop products.
- System designers and network planners selecting cables for frequency and environmental requirements.
- Test laboratories performing IEC-conformant electrical, mechanical and environmental tests.
- Procurement and compliance teams ensuring product conformity to international standards.
Related standards
Keywords: IEC 61196-6:2009, CATV drop cables, coaxial communication cables, cable specification, characteristic impedance, return loss, attenuation, screening classes, cable testing, IEC 61196-1.
Open preview (PDF)Coaxial communication cables - Part 6: Sectional specification for CATV drop cables
