Overview
IEC 61196-8-2:2012 sets the international requirements for 50-047 type semi-flexible coaxial communication cables with solid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulation. Developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard is part of the IEC 61196 series which provides specifications for coaxial communication cables. IEC 61196-8-2 specifically addresses cables designed for radio frequency (RF), microwave, and wireless signal transmission applications operating in the frequency range from 500 MHz up to 18 GHz.
This standard details the construction, electrical, mechanical, and environmental requirements for 50-047 type cables, ensuring their consistent performance across various industries where high-frequency signal integrity is critical.
Key Topics
- Cable Construction: Specifies materials for the inner conductor (silver-plated copper or copper-clad steel), solid PTFE dielectric, tin-soaked copper wire braid for the outer conductor, and optional sheaths (FEP, LSZH, or PVC).
- Electrical Performance: Defines typical characteristics such as:
- Characteristic impedance: 50 Ω ± 2 Ω
- Attenuation and power rating values at various frequencies (as shown in normative annexes)
- Screening attenuation (≥ 100 dB at 1 GHz)
- Capacitance and insulation resistance
- Environmental Endurance: Outlines acceptable temperature ranges, cold bend performance, ageing, and resistance to soldering heat for various sheath types.
- Mechanical Strength: Addresses requirements for minimum bending radius, tensile strength, pinhole limitation, and adherence of conductor and dielectric materials.
- Test Methods: References standard methods from IEC 61196-1 and IEC 61196-8 for evaluating electrical, mechanical, and environmental properties.
Applications
Cables conforming to IEC 61196-8-2:2012 are suited for:
- Microwave and Wireless Equipment: These semi-flexible RF cables are designed for use in wireless communication systems, radar installations, and RF circuit interconnections.
- Signal Transmission Equipment: Ideal for high-frequency signal transmission in communication infrastructure such as broadcasting, satellite, and antenna feeder links.
- Testing and Measurement: Frequently used in laboratory measurement setups and test systems where stable electrical characteristics up to 18 GHz are essential.
- Industrial and Defense: Applicable in specialized environments where robust construction and consistent electrical performance are required for mission-critical applications.
The solid PTFE insulation provides excellent dielectric stability and enables the cable to operate reliably across a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for demanding electronic systems and harsh operating environments.
Related Standards
For full compliance and effective use, IEC 61196-8-2:2012 should be applied in conjunction with these related standards:
- IEC 61196-1:2005: Coaxial Communication Cables - Part 1: Generic Specification (general definitions, requirements, and test methods).
- IEC 61196-8:2012: Coaxial Communication Cables - Part 8: Sectional Specification for Semi-flexible Cables with PTFE Dielectric.
- IEC 61196-1-115: Electrical test methods for regularity of impedance (pulse/step function return loss).
- IEC 61196-8-1:2012: Blank detail specification for semi-flexible cables with PTFE dielectric.
To stay current with requirements for coaxial cable performance, especially in high-frequency and RF communications, aligning with IEC 61196-8-2 ensures robust, safe, and standardized cable design and implementation. This facilitates international interoperability and quality assurance in electronic and telecommunications systems.
Open preview (PDF)Coaxial communication cables - Part 8-2: Detail specification for 50-047 type semi-flexible cables with solid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulation
