IEC 61196-1-113:2009
(Main)Coaxial communication cables - Part 1-113: Electrical test methods - Test for attenuation constant
Coaxial communication cables - Part 1-113: Electrical test methods - Test for attenuation constant
IEC 61196-1-113:2009(E) applies to coaxial communications cables. It specifies a test method for determining the attenuation constant of coaxial cables for use in communications systems. The test is applicable preferably at frequencies ≥ 5 MHz but also for lower frequencies if the magnitude of the complex characteristic impedance is approximately equal to the nominal characteristic impedance of the specimen or if a form fitting function is applied.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 11-Aug-2009
- Technical Committee
- SC 46A - Coaxial cables
- Drafting Committee
- WG 3 - TC 46/SC 46A/WG 3
- Current Stage
- DELPUB - Deleted Publication
- Start Date
- 12-Jan-2018
- Completion Date
- 14-Feb-2026
Relations
- Effective Date
- 10-Feb-2026
- Effective Date
- 05-Sep-2023
Overview
IEC 61196-1-113:2009 specifies the standardized test method for determining the attenuation constant of coaxial communication cables. Developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard is part of the IEC 61196 series, dedicated to ensuring consistent quality and performance of coaxial cables used in communication systems. The method defined here is primarily applicable to frequencies at or above 5 MHz but can also be used for lower frequencies under certain conditions. By providing a reliable way to measure attenuation, this standard supports quality assurance and performance comparison in laboratory and production environments.
Key Topics
- Attenuation Constant Measurement: The standard details how to calculate the attenuation constant, expressed in dB per 100 meters, using input and output power measurements.
- Test Equipment and Setup:
- Utilizes a vector network analyser (VNA) capable of S21 (or S12) measurements.
- Requires impedance matching adapters to align the cable's characteristic impedance with the test equipment, minimizing reflection losses and measurement errors.
- Test Specimen Preparation:
- Cable specimens must have accurately matched connectors and sufficient length to ensure measurement uncertainty does not exceed 3%.
- Special attention is needed at lower frequencies, where complex impedance deviations require either longer specimens or mathematical curve fitting.
- Test Procedure:
- Includes system calibration over the measurement frequency range, temperature recording, and measurement at specified points.
- Measurements are corrected based on calibration and can be further adjusted for temperature variations to a standard reference of 20°C.
- Result Expression and Form Fitting: Attenuation results are standardized; if ripple effects from multiple reflections occur (mainly at lower frequencies), a least-square fitting function can be applied to produce a smooth attenuation curve.
- Test Reporting: Reports must include testing conditions, equipment used, cable details, temperature, specimen length, frequency range, number of frequency points, and whether form fitting was applied.
Applications
IEC 61196-1-113 is essential for:
- Cable Manufacturers: To validate the attenuation performance of coaxial cables during development, quality control, and production.
- Communications System Engineers: To compare cable attenuation specifications, optimize link budgets, and ensure reliable signal transmission in RF, broadband, and telecommunications systems.
- Testing Laboratories: To provide third-party verification and certification of coaxial cable compliance with international standards.
- Procurement and Specification: To support the consistent specification and purchasing of coaxial cables with clearly defined attenuation properties, ensuring interoperability and predictable performance in installations.
The standardized attenuation testing process enables stakeholders to benchmark coaxial cables accurately, reduce system losses, and maintain signal integrity in critical applications.
Related Standards
- IEC 61196-1: General requirements and test methods for coaxial communication cables, of which Part 1-113 is a sub-section focusing on attenuation measurement.
- IEC 61196 Series: A comprehensive family of standards that covers various types of coaxial cables, detail specifications, and performance tests.
- IEC 60096 Series: Older series for radio-frequency cables, partly superseded by the IEC 61196 standard series.
For up-to-date standards and related specifications, consult the IEC webstore or your local standards organization. Employing IEC 61196-1-113 ensures your attenuation testing aligns with globally recognized best practices, supporting international interoperability and product reliability.
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Frequently Asked Questions
IEC 61196-1-113:2009 is a standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its full title is "Coaxial communication cables - Part 1-113: Electrical test methods - Test for attenuation constant". This standard covers: IEC 61196-1-113:2009(E) applies to coaxial communications cables. It specifies a test method for determining the attenuation constant of coaxial cables for use in communications systems. The test is applicable preferably at frequencies ≥ 5 MHz but also for lower frequencies if the magnitude of the complex characteristic impedance is approximately equal to the nominal characteristic impedance of the specimen or if a form fitting function is applied.
IEC 61196-1-113:2009(E) applies to coaxial communications cables. It specifies a test method for determining the attenuation constant of coaxial cables for use in communications systems. The test is applicable preferably at frequencies ≥ 5 MHz but also for lower frequencies if the magnitude of the complex characteristic impedance is approximately equal to the nominal characteristic impedance of the specimen or if a form fitting function is applied.
IEC 61196-1-113:2009 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 33.120.10 - Coaxial cables. Waveguides. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
IEC 61196-1-113:2009 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN 61196-10:2016, IEC 61196-1-113:2018. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
IEC 61196-1-113:2009 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
IEC 61196-1-113 ®
Edition 1.0 2009-08
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Coaxial communication cables –
Part 1-113: Electrical test methods – Test for attenuation constant
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IEC 61196-1-113 ®
Edition 1.0 2009-08
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Coaxial communication cables –
Part 1-113: Electrical test methods – Test for attenuation constant
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
PRICE CODE
H
ICS 33.120.10 ISBN 978-2-88910-440-6
– 2 – 61196-1-113 © IEC:2009(E)
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.3
1 Scope.5
2 Normative references .5
3 Attenuation constant.5
4 Test method .5
4.1 Equipment.5
4.2 Test specimen.6
4.3 Procedure .6
5 Expression of test results .6
5.1 Expression .6
5.2 Temperature correction .7
6 Form fitting.7
7 Test report.8
8 Requirements .8
61196-1-113 © IEC:2009(E) – 3 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
COAXIAL COMMUNICATION CABLES –
Part 1-113: Electrical test methods –
Test for attenuation constant
FOREWORD
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