scope:

This Standard covers performance requirements for limited power hybrid copper and fiber communications cables intended for use in the buildings, or for short distances external to the building of communications users. The optical fiber is intended for communications use while the copper conductors are intended for limited power applications in accordance with Articles 725 and 800 of the National Electric Code (NEC) ANSI/NFPA 70. Typically, these cables utilize conductor sizes that range from 10 AWG to 20 AWG. Generally these cables are limited to a maximum of 100 VA. However, refer to NEC document for detailed requirements. Materials, constructions and performance requirements are included in the Standard, together with applicable test procedures.

Products covered by this standard are intended only for operation under conditions normally found in communication systems. Typically, these products are installed both in exposed areas (surface mounted to walls or building baseboards or in non-stationary configurations) and in concealed areas (within walls, attics, etc.), with or without external protection (such as conduit), depending upon product type and specific use. These products normally convey communications signals (voice, video, data, etc.) from place to place within a building. Products covered by this Standard may be factory terminated with connectors or splicing modules.

This standard is intended to serve as a reference to the most recent appropriate standards; ICEA S-83-596 for optical fiber communications cables intended for indoor use, ICEA S-104-696 for optical fiber communications cables intended for indooroutdoor use and UL13 for Power Limited Circuit Cables with the addition of any additional requirements to ensure a functional cable design.

This standard is written from the application perspective of an Distributed Antenna System (DAS), however, other use cases that involve hybrid fiber/copper in a Limited Power application as defined by the National Electric Code, are considered to apply.