Fibre optic active components and devices. Package and interface standards. General and guidance
1Key Takeaways
Scope The purpose of this part of IEC 621-48 is to ensure the interchangeability of physical interfaces between fibre optic active components and equipment supplied by different manufacturers. It does not guarantee that these equipment will operate properly with each other.
2Expert Interpretation
This in-depth analysis of BS EN IEC 62148-1:2018, the international standard for fiber optic active device packaging and interfaces, covers six physical interface categories, optical/electrical interface specifications, mechanical dimensional requirements, and technology evolution analysis, providing implementation recommendations and compliance guidance.
Interpretation of the Standard's Core Content
BS EN IEC 62148-1:2018, the UK equivalent of IEC 62148-1:2017, replaces the 2002 version. This standard establishes uniform requirements for the physical interfaces of fiber optic active components, ensuring mechanical interchangeability between products from different manufacturers.
Technological Evolution and Major Changes
| Version Comparison Dimensions | BS EN 62148-1:2002 | BS EN IEC 62148-1:2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Interface Type | Category 4 (Connector/Pigtail) | Category 6 (Added Free Space Coupling) |
| Electrical Interface Specification | Citation of IEC 60191-1 | Extension to IEC 60603/60793 Series |
| Mechanical Tolerance Requirements | Basic Geometric Tolerances | Complies with ISO 1101 GPS Standard |
Key Interface Technical Requirements
1. Optical Interface Classification
- Type 1/2: Fiber Optic Connector Interface (Distinguishing between Soldering/Pluggable Electrical Terminals)
- Type 3/4: Pigtail Interface (Must Comply with IEC 60794 Cable Standard)
- Type 5/6: Free-Space Coupling Interface (Additional Requirements for Three-Dimensional Beam Energy Distribution)
2. Electrical Interface Specifications
Typical Application Case: When the SFP+ optical module adopts the Type 2 interface, its 20-pin electrical connector must comply with IEC 61076-4-104 mechanical dimensional tolerance (±0.15mm).
Implementation recommendations
- New designs should give priority to using Type 5/6 free space interfaces to achieve high-density integration
- Mechanical drawings must include GD&T annotations as specified in ISO 1101
- Electrical terminal assignment tables should be included as necessary attachments to technical documentation
Key points for compliance verification
Manufacturers need to demonstrate compliance through the following tests:
- Interchangeability test: Verification of mechanical fit with standard reference devices
- Dimensional inspection: Verification of critical dimensional tolerances using a 3D optical scanner
- Interface durability: Insertion and removal cycle test (≥500 times for connectors)