Overview
IEC 61300-2-55:2017 specifies a test procedure to measure the mounting strength of a fibre optic adaptor or receptacle when fixed to a panel or fixture. Part of the IEC 61300 series on basic test and measurement procedures, this standard defines how to apply and measure axial loads on mounted adaptors to verify mechanical integrity and resistance to mounting forces. Typical targets include SC, LC and MPO adaptors using the cut-out guidance in Annex A.
Keywords: IEC 61300-2-55, strength of mounted adaptor, fibre optic adaptor test, optical adaptor mounting strength, SC LC MPO adaptor.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Test procedure for axial loading of an adaptor or receptacle mounted in a fixture or panel.
- Loading methods: Two defined methods for force application:
- Method A - load applied via a holding fixture coupled to the DUT (e.g., connector plug) and force gauge.
- Method B - load applied directly to the DUT via the force gauge.
- Apparatus:
- Force generator capable of smooth application at specified rate.
- Force gauge with specified uncertainty to record axial load.
- Holding fixture (for Method A) designed to avoid compressive deformation.
- Rigid fixture/panel with cut-outs (Annex A provides dimensions for SC, LC, MPO).
- Timer to measure duration of applied load.
- Procedure steps:
- Pre-conditioning (≥ 2 h under standard atmospheric conditions).
- Initial visual examination and measurements (see IEC 61300-3-1).
- Mounting the DUT and applying axial load at specified rate to the specified force and holding for the required duration.
- Recovery (10 min under standard conditions) followed by final visual inspection for cracking, permanent deformation or other damage.
- Recommended severity (when not otherwise specified): Category C, U, E - 70 N, 5 N/s rate, 10 s duration (categories defined in IEC 61753-1).
- Details to specify in a product or test specification: method (A or B), applied force, rate, duration, fixture cut-out and panel thickness, pass/fail criteria.
Applications and users
- Who uses it: fibre optic component manufacturers, test laboratories, QA and reliability engineers, product designers, and procurement/certification teams.
- Practical uses:
- Product qualification and acceptance testing of adaptors and receptacles.
- Verification of panel-mounted adaptor robustness in telecom, datacom and datacenter equipment.
- Ensuring mechanical reliability for installation and field handling.
- Supporting compliance claims and supplier evaluations.
Related standards
- IEC 61300-1 - General and guidance for basic test procedures.
- IEC 61300-3-1 - Visual examination and measurements.
- IEC 61754 series - Connector interface dimensions (SC, MPO, LC).
- IEC 61753-1 - Defines performance categories referenced for severity values.
This standard helps ensure that mounted optical adaptors meet repeatable, industry-recognized mechanical strength criteria, improving interoperability and long-term reliability of fibre optic installations.
Open preview (PDF)Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Basic test and measurement procedures - Part 2-55: Tests - Strength of mounted adaptor
