scope:

This standard specified the electrical characteristics of unbalanced voltage digital interface circuits normally implemented in integrated circuit technology that are to be employed for the interchange of serial binary data, timing, and control signals between voice or data telecommunication equipment where information is being conveyed at the DC baseband level at data signaling rates up to 100 kilobits/s. The functional and mechanical (connector) characteristics of the interface between data terminal equipment and data circuit-terminating equipment employing interface circuits compliant with this standard are described in other Federal Standards (e.g., Federal Standard 1031). In those applications where a connector is not required for interfacing equipment employing interface circuits compliant with this standard, the functional and mechanical characteristics of the interface shall be as defined in the applicable procurement specification.

The purpose of this standard is to facilitate interoperability between telecommunication facilities and systems of the Federal Government and compatibility of these facilities and system at the computer-communications interface with data processing equipment (systems) of the Federal Government.

This standard shall be used by all Federal departments and agencies in the design and procurement of telecommunication equipment employing unbalanced voltage digital interface circuits. It is to be used with other applicable Federal standards or design specifications describing functional, mechanical, and procedural characteristic as necessary to achieve compatible interfaces.