[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 185 (Thursday, September 24, 1998)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 51018-51031]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-25575]
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Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
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Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 185 / Thursday, September 24, 1998 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 51018]]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Utilities Service
7 CFR Part 1755
RUS Specification for Telecommunications Cable Splicing
Connectors
AGENCY: Rural Utilities Service, USDA.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to amend its
regulations on Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for
Materials, Equipment, and Construction, by rescinding RUS Bulletin 345-
54, RUS Specification for Telephone Cable Splicing Connectors, PE-52,
and codifying the revised specification, RUS Specification for
Telecommunications Cable Splicing Connectors. The revised specification
will update the relevant engineering and technical requirements for
telecommunications splicing connectors including provisions for
mechanical fiber optic splicing connectors.
DATES: Comments concerning this proposed rule must be received by RUS
or be postmarked no later November 23, 1998.
ADDRESSES: Comments should be mailed to Orren E. Cameron III, Director,
Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural Utilities Service, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 1598,
Washington, DC 20250-1598. RUS requests an original and three copies of
all comments (7 CFR part 1700). All comments received will be made
available for public inspection at room 2835, South Building, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 1598
Washington, DC 20250-1598 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through
Friday, except holidays, (7 CFR 1.27(b)).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Charlie I. Harper, Jr., Chief, Outside
Plant Branch, Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural Utilities
Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW,
STOP 1598, Washington, DC 20250-1598, telephone (202) 720-0667.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Executive Order 12866
This proposed rule has been determined to be not significant for
the purposes of Executive Order 12866 and therefore has not been
reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Executive Order 12988
This proposed rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988,
Civil Justice Reform. RUS has determined that this proposed rule meets
the applicable standards provided in section 3 of the Executive Order.
In accordance with the Executive Order and the rule: (1) All state
and local laws and regulations that are in conflict with this rule will
be preempted; (2) no retroactive effect will be given to the rule; and,
(3) administrative proceedings are required to be exhausted prior to
initiating litigation against the Department. (See 7 U.S.C. 6912).
Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification
The Administrator of RUS has determined that this proposed rule
will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small
entities, as defined by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq.), and therefore, the Regulatory Flexibility Act does not apply to
this rule. This proposed rule involves standards and specifications,
which may increase the short-term direct costs to the RUS borrower.
However, the long-term direct economic costs are reduced through
greater durability and lower maintenance cost over time.
Information Collection and Recordkeeping Requirements
The information collection and recordkeeping requirements contained
in this proposed rule were approved by OMB pursuant to the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C Chapter 35, as amended) under control
number 0572-0059. Comments concerning these requirements should be
directed to F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Development and
Regulatory analysis, USDA, RUS, Stop 1522, Washington, DC 20250-1522.
National Environmental Policy Act Certification
The Administrator of RUS has determined that this proposed rule
will not significantly affect the quality of the human environment as
defined by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C.
4321 et seq.). Therefore, this action does not require an environmental
impact statement or assessment.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
The program described by this proposed rule is listed in the
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance programs under No. 10.851, Rural
Telephone Loans and Loan Guarantees, and No. 10.852, Rural Telephone
Bank Loans. This catalog is available on a subscription basis from the
Superintendent of Documents, United States Government Printing Office,
Washington, DC 20402.
Executive Order 12372
This proposed rule is excluded from the scope of Executive Order
12372, Intergovernmental Consultation, which may require consultation
with State and local officials. A final rule related notice entitled,
``Department Programs and Activities Excluded from Executive Order
12372'' (50 FR 47034) excludes RUS and RTB loans and loan guarantees,
and RTB bank loans, to governmental and nongovernmental entities from
coverage under this Order.
Unfunded Mandates
This proposed rule contains no federal mandates (under the
regulatory provision of Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act)
for State, local, and tribal governments or the private sector. Thus
this proposed rule is not subject to the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
Background
RUS issues publications titled ``Bulletin'' which serve to guide
borrowers regarding already codified policy, procedures, and
requirements needed to manage loans, loan guarantee programs, and the
security instruments which provide for and secure RUS financing. RUS
issues standards and specifications for the construction of
telecommunications facilities financed with RUS loan funds. RUS is
proposing to rescind Bulletin 345-54, ``RUS
[[Page 51019]]
Specification for Telephone Cable Splicing Connectors, PE-52,'' and to
codify the revised standard at 7 CFR 1755.521, ``RUS Specification for
Telecommunications Cable Splicing Connectors.''
RUS Bulletin 345-54 (PE-52) contains mechanical and environmental
requirements, desired design features, and test methods for evaluation
of copper cable splicing connectors. Because of technological
advancements made in materials used to fabricate copper cable splicing
connectors and test methods used to demonstrate the functional
reliability of copper cable splicing connectors over the past 25 years,
the current mechanical and environmental performance requirements and
test methods for evaluating the reliability of copper cable splicing
connectors specified in the current specification have become outdated.
To allow RUS borrowers to take advantage of these improved materials
and test methods, the current specification will be revised to update
the mechanical and environmental performance requirements and test
methods used to evaluate the reliability of copper cable splicing
connectors.
The current specification does not include a section for evaluating
the mechanical, electrical, and environmental reliability of mechanical
fiber optic splicing connectors because at the time the specification
was written, no such requirements were needed because no such type of
splicing connectors existed. Since that time, splicing connectors
designed for use with fiber optic cables have been fabricated. Since
RUS borrowers are providing telecommunication services over fiber optic
cables, the current specification will be revised to include end
product performance requirements and test methods used to evaluate the
mechanical, electrical, and environmental reliability of splicing
connectors designed for use with fiber optic cables.
List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1755
Loan programs-telecommunications, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirement, Rural areas, Telecommunications.
For reasons set out in the preamble, RUS proposes to amend Chapter
XVII of title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:
PART 1755--TELECOMMUNICATIONS STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION.
1. The authority citation for part 1755 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 901 et seq., 1921 et seq., 6941 et seq.
Sec. 1755.97 [Amended]
2. Section 1755.97 is amended by removing the entry RUS Bulletin
345-54 from the table.
3. Section 1755.98 is amended by adding the entry 1755.521 to the
table in numerical order to read as follows:
Sec. 1755.98 List of telephone standards and specifications included
in other 7 CFR parts.
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section Issue date Title
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
1755.521...................... [Effective date RUS Specification for
of final rule]. Telecommunications
Cable Splicing
Connectors.
* * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Section 1755.521 is added to read as follows:
Sec. 1755.521 RUS specification for telecommunications cable splicing
connectors.
(a) Scope. (1) The purpose of this specification is to inform
manufacturers and users of copper cable splicing connectors and
mechanical fiber optic splicing connectors of the engineering and
technical requirements that are considered necessary for satisfactory
performance in rural outside plant environments. Included are the
relevant electrical, mechanical, optical, and environmental
requirements, desired design features, and test methods for evaluation
of copper cable splicing connectors and fiber optic splicing
connectors.
(2) All connectors purchased after this specification takes effect,
for projects involving RUS loan funds subject to this specification,
must have been accepted by RUS Technical Standards Committee ``A''
(Telecommunications).
(i) Connectors that have been previously accepted by Technical
Standards Committee ``A'' (Telecommunications) prior to the effective
date of this specification must qualify to this specification.
Manufacturers will be given up to nine months to qualify to this
specification after the effective date.
(ii) All changes in design of connectors must be submitted to RUS
for acceptance. RUS will be the sole authority on what constitutes a
design change.
(3) American Society for Testing and Materials Specifications
(ASTM) G 21-90, Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic
Polymeric Materials to Fungi; ASTM A 276-91a, Specification for
Stainless and Heat-Resisting Steel Bars and Shapes; and ASTM D 4566-94,
Standard Test Methods for Electrical Performance Properties of
Insulations and Jackets for Telecommunications Wire and Cable,
referenced in this section are pending approval of incorporation by
reference by the Office of the Federal Register. Copies of ASTM
standards are available for inspection during normal business hours at
RUS, room 2843, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-1598 or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC
20001. Copies are available from ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, W.
Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428-2959, telephone number (610) 832-9585.
(4) Electronics Industries Association Standards (EIA)-455-4A,
Fiber Optic Connector/Component Temperature Life; EIA-455-6A, Cable
Retention Test Procedure for Fiber Optic Cable Interconnecting Devices;
EIA-455-21, Mating Durability of Fiber Optic Interconnecting Devices;
EIA-455-34, Interconnection Device Insertion Loss Test; and EIA-455-
171, Attenuation by Substitution Measurement--for Short-Length
Multimode Graded-Index and Single-Mode Optical Fiber Cable Assemblies,
referenced in this section are pending approval of incorporation by
reference by the Office of the Federal Register. Copies of EIA
standards are available for inspection during normal business hours at
RUS, room 2843, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence
Avenue, SW.,
[[Page 51020]]
Washington, DC 20250-1598 or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC 20001. Copies are
available from Global Engineering Documents, 15 Inverness Way East,
Englewood, CO 80112, telephone number (303) 792-2181.
(5) Electronic Industries Association/Telecommunications Industries
Association Standards (EIA/TIA)-455-3A, Procedure to Measure
Temperature Cycling Effects on Optical Fibers, Optical Cable, and Other
Passive Fiber Optic Components; EIA/TIA-455-12A, Fluid Immersion Test
for Fiber Optic Components; and EIA/TIA-455-107, Return Loss for Fiber
Optic Components, referenced in this section are pending approval of
incorporation by reference by the Office of the Federal Register.
Copies of EIA/TIA standards are available for inspection during normal
business hours at RUS, room 2843, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-1598 or at the Office of
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700,
Washington, DC 20001. Copies are available from Global Engineering
Documents, 15 Inverness Way East, Englewood, CO 80112, telephone number
(303) 792-2181.
(6) Telecommunications Industries Association/Electronics
Industries Association Standards (TIA/EIA)-455-5B, Humidity Test
Procedure for Fiber Optic Components; and TIA/EIA-455-11B, Vibration
Test Procedure for Fiber Optic Components and Cables, referenced in
this section are pending approval of incorporation by reference by the
Office of the Federal Register. Copies of TIA/EIA standards are
available for inspection during normal business hours at RUS, room
2843, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington DC 20250-1598 or at
the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW.,
suite 700, Washington DC. Copies are available from Global Engineering
Documents, 15 Inverness Way East, Englewood, CO 80112, telephone number
(303) 792-2181.
(b) Materials. (1) The plastic components used in splicing
connectors shall be resistant to chemical attack, fungus growth, and
growth of contaminating films as specified in ASTM G 21-90. Metallic
materials used in splicing connectors shall have a corrosion resistance
equivalent to nickel-chrome stainless steel in accordance with ASTM A
276-91a.
(2) All splicing connectors shall be filled.
(3) The manufacturer shall demonstrate that a quality assurance
program, satisfactory to RUS, is in place to guarantee all material and
product specifications are met. The program shall include the
following:
(i) Incoming inspection of raw materials;
(ii) In-process inspection of the splice components;
(iii) Final inspection of the splice product;
(iv) Calibration procedures for all test equipment used in the
qualification of the product; and
(v) Recall procedures in the event out-of-calibration equipment is
identified.
(c) Performance criteria and test procedures for copper cable
splicing connectors.--(1) General Information. (i) Copper cable
splicing connectors have the function of splicing one or more
combinations of No. 19 through No. 26 American Wire Gauge (AWG) copper
conductors. Cable used for these tests shall be RUS accepted.
(ii) The manufacturer shall specify the wire gauge range for the
connector or connectors submitted to RUS for acceptance. The stripping
of conductor insulation shall not be permitted.
(iii) The manufacturer shall specify the splicing configuration for
the connector, i.e., inline, butt, tap, or other.
(iv) The manufacturer shall perform adequate inspections and tests
to demonstrate that copper cable splicing connectors and their
components comply with RUS requirements.
(v) Unless otherwise specified, all tests shall be performed at a
temperature of 24 3 deg.C (75 5 deg.F) and a
relative humidity (RH) of up to 55 percent (%).
(2) Test samples. (i) Unless otherwise specified, all test samples
shall be assembled for each connector type as follows:
(A) Largest specified gauge wire connected with largest specified
gauge wire;
(B) Smallest specified gauge wire connected with smallest specified
gauge wire; and
(C) Smallest specified gauge wire connected with largest specified
gauge wire. For connectors which can connect more than 2 wires,
assemble the greatest number of smallest gauge wires connected with one
of the largest gauge wires.
(ii) For each test required, 5 samples from each of the categories
in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section shall be tested. A total of 15
samples will be needed for each test.
(iii) The test results for each sample shall be submitted in
tabulated form.
(3) Connection resistance test. (i) Thirty (30) 4 inch (in.) [102
millimeter (mm)] pieces shall be cut from appropriate gauged wire and
assembled in the connectors in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this
section using the connector manufacturer's instructions. For resistance
measurements, expose the copper conductors of the test leads by
removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the end
of the test leads.
(ii) Fifteen (15) 8 in. (203 mm) pieces shall be cut from the
appropriate gauged wire for use as control wire samples.
(iii) The resistance of each test sample and a corresponding
control wire shall be measured and recorded. The resistance of each
test sample shall not exceed the resistance of the corresponding
control wire sample by more than 7 percent.
(iv) Each test sample shall be held and each connector shall be
twisted 90 degrees around the wire axis once in each direction. After
twisting, the resistance of the test sample shall be measured and
recorded. The resistance of each test sample shall not exceed the
resistance of the corresponding control wire sample by more than 9
percent.
(4) Heat-cold cycling test. (i) After completion of the connection
resistance test, the test samples shall be subjected to the heat-cold
cycling test.
(ii) The test samples shall be placed in an environmental test
chamber and exposed to the temperature cycle of Figure 1 for five
complete cycles. The step function nature of the temperature changes
may be achieved by insertion and removal of the test samples from the
chamber. The soak time at each temperature shall be four hours. The
test samples shall be removed from the test chamber at the conclusion
of the five-cycle period and shall be allowed to return to room
temperature. Figure 1 is as follows:
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P
[[Page 51021]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.025
[[Page 51022]]
(iii) No measurements shall be made at this time.
(5) Vibration. (i) After the completion of the heat-cold cycling
test, the test samples shall be subjected to the vibration test.
(ii) A vibration machine shall be used which produces a simple
harmonic motion having .06 inch (1.52 mm) maximum total excursion,
cycling from 10 to 55 to 10 Hertz within 1 minute. A monitoring circuit
shall be used which is capable of detecting momentary opens of 10
microseconds or longer.
(iii) Each test sample shall be supported by a pegboard as
indicated in Figure 2, which is attached to the vibration machine. The
test samples and monitoring circuit shall be electrically connected in
series. Wires shall not be cut short. Figure 2 is as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.026
[[Page 51023]]
(iv) The test samples shall be vibrated for a total of 3 hours, 1
hour in each of the 3 mutually exclusive planes as indicated in Figure
3. The direct current (dc) through the test samples shall be monitored
for any fluctuations or momentary opens. Fluctuations or momentary
opens shall be less than or equal to 10 microseconds. Figure 3 is as
follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.027
[[Page 51024]]
(v) After completion of the vibration test, the test samples shall
be removed from the vibration machine and the connection resistance of
each test sample shall be measured. The resistance of each test sample
shall not exceed the resistance of the corresponding control wire
sample by more than 13 percent.
(vi) The test samples may be discarded after completion of the
vibration test.
(6) Insulation resistance--humidity cycle. (i) Thirty (30) 15 in.
(381 mm) pieces shall be cut from the appropriate gauged wire and
assembled in the connectors in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this
section using the connector manufacturer's instructions. For insulation
resistance measurements, expose the copper conductors of the test leads
by removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the
ends of the test leads. The exposed copper conductors of the test leads
shall be twisted together as indicated in Figure 4 as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.028
[[Page 51025]]
(ii) The test samples shall be placed in an environmental test
chamber at 95 3% RH and temperature cycled per Figure 5
for a period of 30 days. Figure 5 is as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.029
BILLING CODE 3410-15-C
[[Page 51026]]
(iii) After the test samples have been allowed to stabilize at room
temperature and humidity, the insulation resistance of the test sample
leads to ground shall be greater than or equal to 100,000 megohms when
tested in accordance with ASTM D 4566-94 using a test voltage of 250
volts dc.
(7) Insulation resistance--water soak: (i) Thirty (30) 15 in. (381
mm) pieces shall be cut from the appropriate gauged wire and assembled
in the connectors in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section
using the connector manufacturer's instructions. For insulation
resistance measurements, expose the copper conductors of the test leads
by removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the
ends of the test leads. The exposed copper conductors of the test leads
shall be twisted together as indicated in Figure 4.
(ii) A solution of distilled or tap water and sodium chloride (5
percent by weight) shall be prepared and placed in a glass container.
(iii) The connectors of the test samples shall be immersed in the
solution except for the twisted test leads of the test samples. A
copper electrode shall be inserted into the solution.
(iv) After the system (immersed connectors and solution) has
stabilized for 2 hours, the first insulation resistance measurement of
the test sample leads to the copper electrode shall be taken. The
insulation resistance shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D
4566-94 using 100 volts dc.
(v) The test samples shall be removed from the solution after 72
hours and allowed to stabilize at room temperature and humidity for an
additional 72 hours. The procedure shall be repeated for a total of 5
cycles. Insulation resistance measurements of the test sample leads to
the copper electrode shall be taken for each day that the test samples
are immersed in solution. Report resistance readings in megohms. The
insulation resistance shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D
4566-94 using 100 volts dc.
(vi) The insulation resistance of the test sample leads to the
copper electrode shall be greater than or equal to 100 megohms.
(8) Dielectric breakdown (dry). (i) Thirty (30) 15 in. (381 mm)
pieces shall be cut from the appropriate gauged wire and assembled in
the connectors in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section
using the connector manufacturer's instructions. For dielectric
breakdown measurements, expose the copper conductors of the test leads
by removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the
ends of the test leads. The exposed copper conductors of the test leads
shall be twisted together.
(ii) An alternating current (ac) power source capable of applying
8,000 volts in 500 volt root-mean-squared per second (rms/s) steps
shall be used. The unit shall be equipped with a circuit breaker to
disconnect the power source at breakdown and a voltmeter to indicate
the rms voltages.
(iii) The high voltage lead of the power source shall be attached
to the test sample lead and the ground voltage lead of the power source
shall be attached to ground. The voltage shall be applied to the test
sample in 500 volt rms/s steps until either breakdown or 8,000 volts
rms is reached. The dielectric strength shall be recorded in rms
voltage at the point of breakdown. Breakdown occurring at less than
2,500 volts rms shall constitute a failure.
(iv) The dielectric breakdown test shall be repeated for all the
remaining test samples prepared in accordance with paragraph (c)(8)(i)
of this section. The test results shall be reported for each test
sample.
(9) Dielectric breakdown (wet). (i) Thirty (30) 15 in. (381 mm)
pieces shall be cut from the appropriate gauged wire and assembled in
the connectors in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section
using the connector manufacturer's instructions. For dielectric
breakdown measurements, expose the copper conductors of the test leads
by removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the
ends of the test leads. The exposed copper conductors of the test leads
shall be twisted together.
(ii) A solution of distilled or tap water and sodium chloride (5
percent by weight) shall be prepared and placed in a glass container.
(iii) An alternating current (ac) power source capable of applying
8,000 volts in 500 volt root-mean-squared per second (rms/s) steps
shall be used. The unit shall be equipped with a circuit breaker to
disconnect the power source at breakdown and a voltmeter to indicate
the rms voltages.
(iv) The connectors of the test samples shall be immersed in the
solution except for the twisted test leads of the test samples. Insert
a copper ground electrode into the solution. The high voltage lead of
the power source shall be attached to the test sample lead and the
ground voltage lead of the power source shall be attached to ground.
The voltage shall be applied to the test sample in 500 volt rms/s steps
until either breakdown or 8,000 volts rms is reached. The dielectric
strength shall be recorded in rms voltage at the point of breakdown.
Breakdown occurring at less than 2,500 volts rms shall constitute a
failure.
(v) The dielectric breakdown test shall be repeated for all the
remaining test samples prepared in accordance with paragraph (c)(9)(i)
of this section. The test results shall be reported for each test
sample.
(10) Current Cycle: (i) Twenty (20) 4 in. (102 mm) pieces shall be
cut from the appropriate gauged wire and assembled in the connectors in
accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section using the connector
manufacturer's instructions. For the current cycling, only the first
two types of samples specified in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section
shall be used for a total of ten (10) samples to be tested. For the
current cycling test, expose the copper conductors of the test leads by
removing 0.5 in. to 1 in. (12 mm to 25 mm) of insulation from the ends
of the test leads.
(ii) A rack with mounting lugs spaced 5 in. (127 mm) apart shall be
used for the test. The test leads of the first five (5) test samples
shall be carefully bent and straightened so that the test samples lie
approximately midway between the mounting lugs. The test leads between
the mounting lugs shall be under no tension. The ends of the test leads
shall be soldered to the mounting lugs. The test setup shall be as
shown in Figure 6. Figure 6 is as follows:
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P
[[Page 51027]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.030
BILLING CODE 3410-15-C
[[Page 51028]]
(iii) The first set of five (5) test samples shall be connected in
series with an ammeter and a power source. The power source shall be
adjusted to the ``Initial'' current specified in Table 1. The voltage
drop across each test sample at the mounting lugs shall be measured.
The power source shall then be adjusted to the ``Test'' current
specified in Table 1. The ``Test'' current shall be applied to the test
samples for 45 minutes and then off for 15 minutes. The application of
the ``Test'' current for a period of 45 minutes on and a period of 15
minutes off shall constitute one (1) cycle. Fifty (50) current cycles
shall be applied to the test samples.
Table 1.--Test Currents
------------------------------------------------------------------------
``Initial''
and Test
Wire size (AWG) ``Final'' current
current (amps)
(amps)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
19............................................ 11 14
22............................................ 9 11
24............................................ 4.5 5.6
26............................................ 3 3.8
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(iv) At the completion of the fifty (50) cycles, the current on the
test samples shall be reduced to the ``Final'' current indicated in
Table 1. The voltage drop across each test sample at the lug shall be
measured and compared with the initial measurements specified in
paragraph (c)(10)(iii) of this section. An increase in the voltage drop
greater than 5 percent for each test sample shall constitute failure.
(v) The second set of five (5) samples shall be tested in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraphs (c)(10)(iii) and
(c)(10)(iv) of this section. The connectors shall be tested using the
appropriate current for the specific wire size indicated in Table 1.
(11) Tensile test. (i) Thirty (30) 10 in. (254 mm) pieces shall be
cut from appropriate gauged wire and assembled in the connectors in
accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section using the connector
manufacturer's instructions.
(ii) Three (3) samples of each control wire gauge shall be tested
using a tensile machine with a jaw separation speed of 2 in. (51 mm)
per minute, to determine average breaking strength of each control wire
gauge.
(iii) Each test sample assembled in accordance with paragraph
(c)(11)(i) of this section shall be tested for either ``Pull-out'' or
``Break'' using a tensile machine with a jaw separation speed of 2 in.
(51 mm) per minute. The test setup for the ``Pull-out'' or ``Break''
test shall be in accordance with Figure 7. The ``Pull-out'' or
``Break'' shall not be less than 60 percent of the average breaking
strength of each control wire size recorded in paragraph (c)(11)(ii) of
this section. For the five (5) test samples that include the largest
and smallest gauge wires, the ``Pull-out'' or ``Break'' measurement
shall be compared to the smallest control wire gauge breaking strength
recorded in paragraph (c)(11)(ii) of this section. Figure 7 is as
follows:
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P
[[Page 51029]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24SE98.031
BILLING CODE 3410-15-C
[[Page 51030]]
(d) Performance criteria and test procedures for mechanical fiber
optic splices--(1) Mechanical fiber optic splices shall be classified
according to their functions listed below. (i) Passive splicing--
mechanically joining two fibers.
(ii) Tunable splicing--mechanically joining two fibers using an
active loss measuring system for adjusting splice elements for the
lowest loss during assembly.
(iii) Mass splicing--mechanically joining multiple fibers
simultaneously.
(2) A mechanical fiber optic splice shall be so constructed that
when assembled it shall have a resistance to optical decoupling. The
mechanical splice assembly shall not optically decouple at less than a
specified value of axial tension.
(3) Optical requirements for multimode and single mode optical
splices shall be in accordance with Table 2. Methods of test to
determine insertion and return loss shall be in accordance with EIA-
455-34, EIA-455-171, or EIA/TIA-455-107.
Table 2.--Optical Requirements; Mechanical Fiber Optic Splices
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Single mode Multimode
--------------------------------------------------------
Splice type Insertion loss Insertion Loss
[Decibels (dB)] Return Loss (dB) (dB)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Passive................................................ 0.20 -35 0.15
Tunable................................................ 0.05 -35 0.15
* Mass................................................. 0.50 -35 0.15
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Loss results for mass splicing techniques must be averaged.
(4) Mechanical fiber optic splices shall be capable of resisting
mechanical stresses associated with installation and service without
impairment of the splice integrity.
(5) Single mode and multimode mechanical fiber optic splices shall
be tested for mechanical reliability in accordance with the test
methods specified in Table 3. After each mechanical test, the single
mode and multimode mechanical fiber optic splices shall be in
accordance with the requirements specified in Table 2 of paragraph
(d)(3) of this section.
Table 3.--Mechanical Tests; Mechanical Fiber Optic Splices
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Procedure Requirement
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Re-coupling durability (if appropriate).......... EIA-455-21 25 Cycles.
Fiber Retention.................................. EIA-455-6A 0.45 Kilograms Force (1.0
Pounds).
Vibration........................................ TIA/EIA-455-11B 10-55 Hertz, 10 Grams.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(6) Single mode and multimode mechanical fiber optic splices shall
be tested for environmental reliability in accordance with the test
methods specified in Table 4. After each environmental test, the single
mode and multimode mechanical fiber optic splices shall be in
accordance with the requirements specified in Table 2 of paragraph
(d)(3) of this section.
Table 4.--Environmental Tests; Mechanical Fiber Optic Splices
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Procedure Requirement
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Humidity......................................... TIA/EIA-455-5B >90% Relative Humidity, 40
deg.C, 240 Hours.
Thermal Cycling.................................. EIA/TIA-455-3A -40 deg.C to 80 deg.C, 100
Cycles.
Water Immersion.................................. EIA/TIA-455-12 40 deg. C, 240 Hours.
Material Aging................................... EIA-455-4A 84 deg. C, 2000 Hours.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) Packaging, identification, and documentation. (1) The packaging
shall include identification of the manufacturer, splice model number,
and date of manufacture. All necessary parts shall be shipped in one
container unless significant advantages to the user will result
otherwise.
(2) Complete documentation shall be included with the packaging to
provide the following information:
(i) Use and application;
(ii) Set-up and assembly;
(iii) Testing;
(iv) Repair;
(v) Field installation;
(vi) Auxiliary Equipment; and
(vii) Storage Instructions.
(f) RUS acceptance procedure. (1) The tests described in this
specification are required for acceptance of product designs and major
modifications of accepted designs. All modifications shall be
considered major unless otherwise declared by RUS. These tests are
intended to demonstrate the capability of the manufacturer to produce
splice components which meet service requirements of RUS
Telecommunications borrowers.
(2) For initial acceptance the manufacturer shall:
(i) Certify that the product fully complies with each paragraph of
this specification, and submit supporting test data;
(ii) Submit catalog numbers for the splice;
(iii) Submit quality assurance data which is representative of at
least three production lots and which demonstrate the reliability of an
ongoing quality assurance program;
(iv) Certify whether the product complies with the domestic origin
manufacturing provisions of the ``Buy American'' Requirement of the
Rural Electrification Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C 903 note), as amended (the
``REA Buy American Provision'');
(v) Submit at least three user testimonials concerning field
performance of the product;
(vi) Submit descriptive information concerning the splice;
[[Page 51031]]
(vii) Submit assembly and usage instructions for the splice;
(viii) Submit product identification information;
(ix) Submit information concerning the packaging and shipment of
the splice to customers;
(x) Submit an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Material Safety Data Sheet for the appropriate splice components;
(xi) Submit one production sample of the splice;
(xii) Submit one sample of a completed splice;
(xiii) Agree to provide plant inspections by RUS; and
(xiv) Provide any other nonproprietary data deemed necessary by the
Chief, Outside Plant Branch (Telecommunications).
(3) Requalification of a manufacturer's product shall be required
every 2 years after initial acceptance of that product. In order for
RUS to consider a manufacture's request that a product be requalified,
the manufacturer shall certify, that the product:
(i) Fully complies with each paragraph of this specification; and
(ii) Does or does not comply with the domestic origin manufacturing
provisions of the REA ``Buy American'' provisions. The required
certifications shall be dated within 90 days of the submission.
(4) Initial and requalification acceptance requests should be
addressed to: Chairman, Technical Standards Committee ``A''
(Telecommunications), Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural
Utilities Service, 1400 Independence Ave, SW, STOP 1598, Washington, DC
20250-1598.
Dated: September 17, 1998.
Jill Long Thompson,
Under Secretary, Rural Development.
[FR Doc. 98-25575 Filed 9-23-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P
