IEC/TR 62221:2012(E) describes four methods (A, B, C and D) for the measurement of microbending sensitivity of optical fibres. These four methods are distinguished by the equipment being used for measurements and their applications:
- method A using an expandable drum and applies to category A1 and class B fibres;
- method B using a fixed diameter drum and applies to category A1 and class B fibres;
- method C using a plate and applied loads and applies to category A1 and class B fibres;
- method D using a "basketweave" wrap on a fixed diameter drum, and applies to category A1 and class B fibres. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001, and constitutes a technical and editorial revision. The main changes with respect to the previous edition are:
- updates related to B6 (bend-insensitive) category single-mode fibres;
- inclusion of a definition for microbending and general properties;
- expansion of general considerations;
- more details given for each method;
- addition of an Annex A. Key words: measurement of microbending sensitivity of optical fibres