ITU-T Recommendation G671, G703

I n t e r n a t i o n a l T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n U n i o n
ITU-T G.671
TELECOMMUNICATION (08/2019)
STANDARDIZATION SECTOR
OF ITU
SERIES G: TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA,

DIGITAL SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS
Transmission media and optical systems characteristics –
Characteristics of optical components and subsystems
Transmission characteristics of optical

components and subsystems
Recommendation ITU-T G.671

ITU-T G-SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS
TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA, DIGITAL SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS
INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS AND CIRCUITS G.100–G.199

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS COMMON TO ALL ANALOGUE CARRIER- G.200–G.299
TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS
INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE G.300–G.399
SYSTEMS ON METALLIC LINES
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE G.400–G.449
SYSTEMS ON RADIO-RELAY OR SATELLITE LINKS AND INTERCONNECTION
WITH METALLIC LINES
COORDINATION OF RADIOTELEPHONY AND LINE TELEPHONY G.450–G.499
TRANSMISSION MEDIA AND OPTICAL SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS G.600–G.699
General G.600–G.609
Symmetric cable pairs G.610–G.619
Land coaxial cable pairs G.620–G.629
Submarine cables G.630–G.639
Free space optical systems G.640–G.649
Optical fibre cables G.650–G.659
Characteristics of optical components and subsystems G.660–G.679
Characteristics of optical systems G.680–G.699
DIGITAL TERMINAL EQUIPMENTS G.700–G.799
DIGITAL NETWORKS G.800–G.899
DIGITAL SECTIONS AND DIGITAL LINE SYSTEM G.900–G.999
MULTIMEDIA QUALITY OF SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE – GENERIC AND G.1000–G.1999
USER-RELATED ASPECTS
TRANSMISSION MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS G.6000–G.6999
DATA OVER TRANSPORT – GENERIC ASPECTS G.7000–G.7999
PACKET OVER TRANSPORT ASPECTS G.8000–G.8999
ACCESS NETWORKS G.9000–G.9999
For further details, please refer to the list of ITU-T Recommendations.

Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems
Summary
Recommendation ITU-T G.671 covers the transmission-related aspects of all types of optical
components used in long-haul networks and access networks. A broad range of types of optical
components is included in this Recommendation. This Recommendation also includes transmission
characteristics of optical components under the full range of operating conditions, but does not specify
the operating service conditions, installation aspects or other aspects of components not affecting the
optical transmission path. This Recommendation also draws upon the relevant IEC definitions and test
methods where applicable.
History
Edition Recommendation Approval Study Group Unique ID*
1.0 ITU-T G.671 1996-11-11 15 11.1002/1000/3814
2.0 ITU-T G.671 2001-02-09 15 11.1002/1000/5349
3.0 ITU-T G.671 2002-06-29 15 11.1002/1000/6075
4.0 ITU-T G.671 2005-01-13 15 11.1002/1000/7470
4.1 ITU-T G.671 (2005) Amd. 1 2006-03-29 15 11.1002/1000/8754
4.2 ITU-T G.671 (2005) Amd. 2 2006-12-14 15 11.1002/1000/8978
4.3 ITU-T G.671 (2005) Amd. 3 2008-03-29 15 11.1002/1000/9368
5.0 ITU-T G.671 2009-01-13 15 11.1002/1000/9645
6.0 ITU-T G.671 2012-02-13 15 11.1002/1000/11481
7.0 ITU-T G.671 2019-08-29 15 11.1002/1000/13994
Keywords
Optical components, optical subsystems.
* To access the Recommendation, type the URL http://handle.itu.int/ in the address field of your web
browser, followed by the Recommendation's unique ID. For example, http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/1000/11
830-en.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) i

FOREWORD
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency in the field of
telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The ITU Telecommunication
Standardization Sector (ITU-T) is a permanent organ of ITU. ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them with a view to standardizing
telecommunications on a worldwide basis.
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA), which meets every four years, establishes
the topics for study by the ITU-T study groups which, in turn, produce Recommendations on these topics.
The approval of ITU-T Recommendations is covered by the procedure laid down in WTSA Resolution 1.
In some areas of information technology which fall within ITU-T's purview, the necessary standards are
prepared on a collaborative basis with ISO and IEC.
NOTE
In this Recommendation, the expression "Administration" is used for conciseness to indicate both a
telecommunication administration and a recognized operating agency.
Compliance with this Recommendation is voluntary. However, the Recommendation may contain certain
mandatory provisions (to ensure, e.g., interoperability or applicability) and compliance with the
Recommendation is achieved when all of these mandatory provisions are met. The words "shall" or some other
obligatory language such as "must" and the negative equivalents are used to express requirements. The use of
such words does not suggest that compliance with the Recommendation is required of any party.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ITU draws attention to the possibility that the practice or implementation of this Recommendation may involve
the use of a claimed Intellectual Property Right. ITU takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of claimed Intellectual Property Rights, whether asserted by ITU members or others outside of
the Recommendation development process.
As of the date of approval of this Recommendation, ITU had received notice of intellectual property, protected
by patents, which may be required to implement this Recommendation. However, implementers are cautioned
that this may not represent the latest information and are therefore strongly urged to consult the TSB patent
database at http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ipr/.
 ITU 2019
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of ITU.
ii Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Table of Contents
Page
1 Scope............................................................................................................................. 1
2 References..................................................................................................................... 2
3 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................... 4
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere ................................................................................ 4
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation ......................................................... 4
4 Abbreviations and acronyms ........................................................................................ 22
5 Parameter test methods and values ............................................................................... 23
5.1 Optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystems (for WDM) ................... 24
5.2 Asymmetric branching component (wavelength non-selective) .................... 25
5.3 Optical attenuator ........................................................................................... 26
5.4 Optical branching component (wavelength non-selective) ............................ 26
5.5 Optical branching component (wavelength non-selective) for PONs ............ 27
5.6 Optical connector............................................................................................ 30
5.7 Delay line interferometer ................................................................................ 30
5.8 Dynamic channel equalizer (DCE) ................................................................. 31
5.9 Optical filter.................................................................................................... 31
5.10 Optical isolator ............................................................................................... 32
5.11 Passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator .................................................. 32
5.12 Single optical channel passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator ............. 33
5.13 Optical splice .................................................................................................. 33
5.14 Optical switch ................................................................................................. 34
5.15 Optical termination ......................................................................................... 35
5.16 Tuneable (chromatic) dispersion compensator ............................................... 35
5.17 Tuneable filter ................................................................................................ 35
5.18 Optical wavelength MUX/DMUX ................................................................. 36
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) iii

Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems
1 Scope
The object of this Recommendation is to identify the transmission-related parameters for each of the
components listed below and define the values of such parameters specifiable for each of the most
relevant system applications. Where applicable, IEC definitions will be used. Applicable systems are
anticipated to be covered by the following ITU-T Recommendations:
• Long-haul terrestrial networks: networks using equipment with interfaces according to
[ITU-T G.957], and Recommendations of optical interfaces for single channel and
multichannel systems with optical amplifiers including [ITU-T G.691], [ITU-T G.692]
and [ITU-T G.959.1].
• Access networks: networks using equipment according to [ITU-T G.982] and the
ITU-T Recommendation of optical access networks to support services greater than the ISDN
primary bit-rate (when published).
This Recommendation covers optical components used in the optical networks described in the
Recommendations above. Where possible, common parameter values will be defined across all
applications but, where necessary, specific values to each of the application groups may be given.
This Recommendation covers the transmission characteristics in the various operating conditions of
the following optical components (listed in alphabetical order):
• optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystem;
• asymmetric branching component;
• optical attenuator;
• optical branching component (wavelength non-selective);
• optical connector;
• delay line interferometer;
• dynamic channel equalizer (DCE);
• optical filter;
• optical isolator;
• passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator;
• single optical channel passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator;
• optical splice;
• optical switch;
• optical termination;
• tuneable (chromatic) dispersion compensator;
• tuneable filter;
• optical wavelength multiplexer (MUX)/demultiplexer (DMUX);
– coarse WDM device;
– dense WDM device;
– wide WDM device.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 1

This Recommendation does not cover:
• Installation aspects, service conditions and environmental and mechanical characteristics not
affecting the optical transmission path of the various optical components.
• Specific details of test methods. According to an agreement with IEC TC 86 and its
subcommittees, the guidelines to be followed for the measurement of most of the parameters
defined in clause 5 are given in the IEC 61300-3 series of transmission and geometric test
methods. The tables in clause 5 indicate the recommended test methods, collecting the test
parameters into homogeneous groups and quoting for each group the relevant IEC basic
specification number(s).
2 References
The following ITU-T Recommendations and other references contain provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this Recommendation. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All Recommendations and other references are subject to revision;
users of this Recommendation are therefore encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the
most recent edition of the Recommendations and other references listed below. A list of the currently
valid ITU-T Recommendations is regularly published. The reference to a document within this
Recommendation does not give it, as a stand-alone document, the status of a Recommendation.
[ITU-T G.650.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.650.1 (2004), Definitions and test methods for
linear, deterministic attributes of single-mode fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.650.2] Recommendation ITU-T G.650.2 (2007), Definitions and test methods for
statistical and non-linear related attributes of single-mode fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.652] Recommendation ITU-T G.652 (in force), Characteristics of a single-mode
optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.653] Recommendation ITU-T G.653 (in force), Characteristics of a
dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.654] Recommendation ITU-T G.654 (2006), Characteristics of a cut-off shifted
single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.655] Recommendation ITU-T G.655 (in force), Characteristics of a non-zero
dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.661] Recommendation ITU-T G.661 (2007), Definition and test methods for the
relevant generic parameters of optical amplifier devices and subsystems.
[ITU-T G.662] Recommendation ITU-T G.662 (2005), Generic characteristics of optical
amplifier devices and subsystems.
[ITU-T G.691] Recommendation ITU-T G.691 (in force), Optical interfaces for single channel
STM-64 and other SDH systems with optical amplifiers.
[ITU-T G.692] Recommendation ITU-T G.692 (1998), Optical interfaces for multichannel
systems with optical amplifiers.
[ITU-T G.693] Recommendation ITU-T G.693 (2006), Optical interfaces for intra-office
systems.
[ITU-T G.694.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.694.1 (2002), Spectral grids for WDM
applications: DWDM frequency grid.
[ITU-T G.694.2] Recommendation ITU-T G.694.2 (2003), Spectral grids for WDM
applications: CWDM wavelength grid.
2 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

[ITU-T G.698.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.698.1 (2006), Multichannel DWDM applications
with single-channel optical interfaces.
[ITU-T G.957] Recommendation ITU-T G.957 (2006), Optical interfaces for equipments and
systems relating to the synchronous digital hierarchy.
[ITU-T G.959.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.959.1 (in force), Optical transport network
physical layer interfaces.
[ITU-T G.982] Recommendation ITU-T G.982 (1996), Optical access networks to support
services up to the ISDN primary rate or equivalent bit rates.
[ITU-T G.983.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.983.1 (2005), Broadband optical access systems
based on Passive Optical Networks (PON).
[ITU-T G.983.3] Recommendation ITU-T G.983.3 (2001), A broadband optical access system
with increased service capability by wavelength allocation.
[ITU-T G.984.2] Recommendation ITU-T G.984.2 (2003), Gigabit-capable Passive Optical
Networks (GPON): Physical Media Dependent (PMD) layer specification.
[IEC 60869-1] IEC 60869-1:2018, Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive
components – Fibre optic passive power control devices – Part 1: Generic
specification.
<http://webstore.iec.ch/webstore/webstore.nsf/artnum/60884>
components – Non-wavelength-selective fibre optic branching devices – Part 1:
Generic specification.
<https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/22396>
components – Fibre optic spatial switches – Part 1: Generic specification.
components – Fibre optic isolators – Part 1: Generic specification.
[IEC 61300-3-2] IEC 61300-3-2:2009, Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive
components – Basic test and measurement procedures – Part 3-2: Examination
and measurements – Polarization dependent loss in a single-mode fibre optic
device.
components – Basic test and measurement procedures – Part 3-4:
Examinations and measurements – Attenuation.
Examinations and measurements – Return loss.
Examinations and measurements – Wavelength dependence of attenuation and
return loss.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 3

Examinations and measurements – Polarization dependence of return loss of a
single-mode fibre optic component.
Examinations and measurements – Group delay, chromatic dispersion and
phase ripple.
[IEC/TR 61931] IEC/TR 61931:1998, Fibre optic – Terminology.
3 Terms and definitions
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere

None.
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation

Most of the definitions of parameters specified in this Recommendation, for each of the
above-mentioned passive components, are given in the corresponding IEC generic specification.
Where IEC definitions are used, they are noted as such. Additional parameters under study or not
defined in IEC documents are also given in this clause.
This Recommendation defines the following terms:
3.2.1 Component definitions
3.2.1.1 optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystem: A wavelength selective branching
device (used in WDM transmission systems) having a wavelength "drop" function in which one or
more optical signals can be transferred from an input port to either an output port or drop port(s)
depending on the wavelength of the signal and also having a wavelength "add" function in which
optical signals presented to the add port(s) are also transferred to the output port as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1 – Optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystem
4 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

3.2.1.2 asymmetric branching component: A passive component (wavelength non-selective)
possessing three or more ports which shares optical power among its ports in a predetermined fashion,
without any amplification, switching or other active modulation (clause 1.1 in [IEC 60875-1]). A tap
coupler is used as a synonym for an asymmetric branching device.
The majority of the optical power is normally transferred to the main port of a tap coupler while a
small fraction (1% to 20%) is transferred to the tap port. The ratio of the optical power in the main
port to the tap port as a percentage is called the coupling fraction F.
Optical branching devices can be divided into categories of symmetric and asymmetric. A device
whose transfer matrix is diagonally asymmetric, i.e., where for all i and o, tio and toi are nominally
unequal (clause 1.3.19 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.1.3 optical attenuator: A passive component that produces a controlled signal attenuation in an
optical fibre transmission line (clause 1.3.1 in [IEC 60869-1]).
3.2.1.4 optical branching component (wavelength non-selective): A passive component
(wavelength non-selective) possessing three or more ports which shares optical power among its ports
in a predetermined fashion, without any amplification, switching or other active modulation (clause
1.1 in [IEC 60875-1]). The term coupler (splitter-combiner) is used as a synonym for a branching
device. The term is also used to define a structure for transferring optical power between two fibres
or between an active device and a fibre (clause 1.3.2 in [IEC 60875-1]).
Optical branching devices can be divided into categories of symmetric and asymmetric. A symmetric
branching component is a device whose transfer matrix is diagonally symmetric, i.e., where for all i
and o, tio and toi are nominally equal (clause 1.3.18 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.1.5 optical connector: A component normally attached to an optical cable or piece of apparatus
for the purpose of providing frequent optical interconnection/disconnection of optical fibres or cables
(clause 6.01 in [IEC/TR 61931]).
3.2.1.6 delay line interferometer: A component used to demodulate a phase-modulated optical
signal by converting the phase modulation into an amplitude modulation. The device has a single
input and two output ports. The optical input signal is split into two beams with nominally equal
power. The beams traverse the arms of a Mach-Zehnder or Michelson interferometer. One beam is
delayed compared to the other (by an amount τ which depends on the particular application) before
the beams are re-combined and interfere with each other constructively for one output and
destructively for the other. The resultant two output signals are amplitude modulated signals, where
the phase to amplitude conversion at one output is the inverse of that for the other.
3.2.1.7 dynamic channel equalizer (DCE): A device that is capable of transforming, by internal or
external automatic control, a multichannel input signal with time-varying averaged powers into an
output signal in which all working channel powers are nominally equal or are set for a required level
of pre-emphasis.
NOTE – This device may also provide the extinction of one or more of the input channels.
3.2.1.8 optical filter: A passive component used to modify the optical radiation passing through it,
generally by altering the spectral distribution (clause 2.6.35 of [IEC/TR 61931]). Alternative: In
particular, optical filters are usually employed to reject or absorb optical radiation in particular ranges
of wavelength, while transmitting optical radiation in other ranges of wavelength.
NOTE – A tuneable optical filter has the ability to track the signal wavelength variation over its operating
wavelength range. A non-tuneable optical filter has a fixed value over the operating wavelength range.
3.2.1.9 optical isolator: A non-reciprocal optical device intended to suppress backward reflections
along an optical fibre transmission line while having minimum insertion loss in the forward direction
(clause 1.3.1 in [IEC 61202-1]).
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 5

3.2.1.10 passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator: A passive component used to compensate
the chromatic dispersion of an optical path.
3.2.1.11 single optical channel passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator: A passive
component used to compensate the chromatic dispersion of an optical path where the parameters are
only required to be met within the frequency range of a single optical channel.
3.2.1.12 optical splice: A permanent or semi-permanent joint whose purpose is to couple optical
power between two optical fibres (clause 6.08 in [IEC/TR 61931]).
Fusion splice: A splice in which the fibre ends are joined in a permanent manner by means of fusion
Mechanical splice: A splice in which the fibre ends are joined in a permanent or separable manner by
means other than fusion (clause 6.10 in [IEC/TR 61931]).
3.2.1.13 optical switch: A passive component possessing two or more ports which selectively
transmits, redirects or blocks optical power in an optical fibre transmission line (clause 1.3.1 in
[IEC 60876-1]).
3.2.1.14 optical termination: A component used to terminate a fibre (connectorized or not) in
order to suppress reflections.
3.2.1.15 tuneable (chromatic) dispersion compensator: A component used to compensate the
chromatic dispersion of an optical path where the magnitude of dispersion compensation can be
adjusted within a defined range.
3.2.1.16 tuneable filter: See clause 3.2.1.8.
3.2.1.17 optical wavelength multiplexer (MUX)/demultiplexer (DMUX): WDM device: A
wavelength selective branching device (used in WDM transmission systems) in which optical signals
can be transferred between two predetermined ports, depending on the wavelength of the signal
Both wavelength multiplexers (MUXs) and wavelength demultiplexers (DMUXs) are generally
called 'WDM devices' since often the same device can be used to multiplex and demultiplex channels.
Wavelength MUX: A branching device with two or more input ports and one output port where the
light in each input port is restricted to a preselected wavelength range and the output is the
combination of the light from the input ports (clause 6.52 in [IEC/TR 61931]).
Wavelength DMUX: A device which performs the inverse operation of a wavelength multiplexer,
where the input is an optical signal comprising two or more wavelength ranges and the output of each
port is a different preselected wavelength range (clause 6.53 in [IEC/TR 61931]).
3.2.1.17.1 coarse WDM (CWDM) device: A class of WDM devices that have a channel
wavelength spacing less than 50 nm but greater than 1000 GHz (about 8 nm at 1 550 nm and 5.7 nm
at 1 310 nm). Devices within this class can cover several spectral bands.
3.2.1.17.2 dense WDM (DWDM) device: A class of WDM devices that have a channel spacing
less than or equal to 1000 GHz. Devices within this class can cover one or more spectral bands.
3.2.1.17.3 wide WDM (WWDM) device: A class of WDM devices that have a channel wavelength
spacing greater than or equal to 50 nm. This device class typically separates a channel in one
conventional transmission window (e.g., 1 310 nm) from another (e.g., 1 550 nm).
3.2.2 Parameter definitions
NOTE – Not all of the definitions cited in this clause apply to all devices. The relevance of a particular
definition to a specific type of device can be found in clause 5.
3.2.2.1 1 dB and 3 dB passband width: The 1 dB passband width D1 of an optical filter is the total
frequency range over which the filter is required to have less than 1 dB of loss with respect to the
6 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

minimum loss within that range. The 1 dB passband width is symmetrical with respect to the nominal
centre frequency fc of the filter, i.e., the loss is required to be within 1 dB of the minimum at all
frequencies between fc – D1/2 and fc + D1/2. This is illustrated in Figure 2.
The 3 dB passband width D3 of an optical filter is the total frequency range over which the filter is
required to have less than 3 dB of loss with respect to the minimum loss within that range. The 3 dB
passband width is symmetrical with respect to the nominal centre frequency fc of the filter, i.e., the
loss is required to be within 3 dB of the minimum at all frequencies between fc – D3/2 and fc + D3/2.
This is illustrated in Figure 2.
Figure 2 – Illustration of 1 dB and 3 dB passband width
3.2.2.2 adjacent channel isolation: The adjacent channel isolation (of a WDM device) is defined to
be equal to the unidirectional (far-end) isolation of that device with the restriction that x, the isolation
wavelength number, is restricted to the channels immediately adjacent to the (channel) wavelength
number associated with port o. This is illustrated in Figure 3.
Figure 3 – Illustration of adjacent channel isolation for a WDM device
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 7

3.2.2.3 attenuation accuracy (optical attenuators only): The difference between nominal and
actual insertion loss of the attenuator.
3.2.2.4 attenuation range (variable attenuators only): The attenuation range (of a variable
attenuator) is the difference (in dB) between the maximum and minimum nominal loss settings.
3.2.2.5 backward loss (isolation) (for an optical isolator): A measure of the decrease in optical
power (dB) resulting from the insertion of an isolator in its backward direction. The launching port is
the output port and the receiving port is the input port of the isolator. It is given by the following
formula:
P 
BL   10 log  ob 
 Pib 
where:
Pob is the optical power emerging from the input port of the isolator when Pib is
launched into the output port. In operating conditions, Pib is the optical power
reflected in the backward direction into the output port of the isolator being
measured (clause 1.3.10 of [IEC 61202-1]).
3.2.2.6 bidirectional (near-end) crosstalk attenuation (for a WDM device): In a bidirectional
WDM-MUX/DMUX device, the bidirectional (near-end) crosstalk attenuation is defined to be:
BCA = amox
where:
amox is an element of the logarithmic transfer matrix where m is the MUX input port
number, o is the DMUX output port number and x is the wavelength number
associated with port m.
3.2.2.7 bidirectional (near-end) isolation (for a WDM device): Because bidirectional
WDM-MUX/DMUX devices have both input channels and output channels at the same side of the
device, input light for one direction can appear on the output port for the other direction.
In the example given below of a four-wavelength bidirectional system, wavelengths 1 and 2 travel
from left to right and wavelengths 3 and 4 from right to left.
Figure 4 – Example of bidirectional (near-end) isolation
The bidirectional (near-end) isolation is therefore defined to be:

IB = amox – adoc
8 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

amox and adoc are elements of the logarithmic transfer matrix where d is the DMUX input port number,
o is the DMUX output port number, c is the (channel) wavelength number associated with port o, m
is the MUX input port number and x is the wavelength number associated with port m.
3.2.2.8 channel attenuation resolution (dynamic channel equalizer only): The channel
attenuation resolution is the maximum difference between the insertion losses within a channel
frequency (or wavelength) range of any two adjacent attenuation settings within the dynamic
attenuation range of a dynamic channel equalizer (in dB).
For the example given above, the bidirectional isolation of port 2 to wavelength 3 is a423 – a121.
3.2.2.9 channel extinction: Within the operating wavelength range, the difference (in dB) between
the maximum insertion loss for the non-extinguished (non-blocked) channels and the minimum
insertion loss for the extinguished (blocked) channels.
It is given by the following formula:
CE = aioe – aiox
The terms aioe and aiox are elements of the logarithmic transfer matrix (defined in clause 3.2.3.5),
where i is the input port number, o is the output port number, e is the (channel) wavelength number
of the extinguished channel and x is the wavelength number of the non-extinguished channel with
highest loss. This is illustrated in Figure 5.
Figure 5 – Illustration of channel extinction of a WDM device

NOTE – A definition of channel extinction that is different from the above is sometimes used, which is the
difference between the insertion loss for the channel when not extinguished (not blocked) and the minimum
insertion loss for the same channel when extinguished (blocked). Channel extinction evaluated by this method
may have a higher value, but under some circumstances the interferometric crosstalk predicted using this
channel extinction may not be the worst-case value.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 9

3.2.2.10 channel frequency range: The frequency range within which a DWDM device is
required to operate with a specified performance. For a particular nominal channel central frequency,
fnomi, this frequency range is from fimin = (fnomi – Δfmax) to fimax = (fnomi + fmax), where fmax is the
maximum channel central frequency deviation or the spectral excursion. Nominal channel central
frequency and maximum channel central frequency deviation are defined in [ITU-T G.692] and
spectral excursion is defined in [ITU-T G.698.1].
3.2.2.11 channel insertion loss (WDM devices): It is the reduction in optical power between an
input and output port of a WDM device in decibels (dB). It is defined as:
P 
IL   10 log  out 
 Pin 
where:
Pin is the optical power launched into the input port and
Pout is the optical power received from the output port.
NOTE – For a WDM device, it is an element aiow of the n × n × k element logarithmic transfer matrix. Here i
is the input port number, o is the output port number and w is the wavelength number associated with port i or
o, n is the total number of input + output ports and k is the total number of wavelengths of the logarithmic
transfer matrix. For WWDM devices, it shall be specified as a maximum value and a minimum value at each
operating wavelength range. For DWDM and CWDM devices, it shall be specified as a maximum value and
a minimum value within the channel frequency (or wavelength) range as illustrated in Figure 6.
Figure 6 – Illustration of maximum and minimum insertion loss of a WDM device
3.2.2.12 channel insertion loss deviation (WDM devices): This is the maximum variation of
insertion loss at any frequency within the channel frequency range (DWDM devices) or channel
wavelength range (CWDM and WWDM devices). This is illustrated in Figure 7.
10 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 7 – Illustration of channel insertion loss variation of a WDM device
3.2.2.13 channel non-uniformity: The difference (in dB) between the powers of the channel with
the most power (in dBm) and the channel with the least power (in dBm). This applies to a
multichannel signal across the operating wavelength range.
3.2.2.14 channel polarization dependent loss (PDL) (for OADM type subsystems): Maximum
variation of insertion loss due to a variation of the state of polarization (SOP) over all SOPs within
the channel frequency range (DWDM devices) or channel wavelength range (CWDM and WWDM
devices).
3.2.2.15 channel polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (for OADM type subsystems): The
polarization mode dispersion as defined in clause 3.2.2.36 within the channel frequency range
(DWDM devices) or channel wavelength range (CWDM and WWDM devices).
3.2.2.16 channel response time: The elapsed time it takes a device to transform a channel from
a specified initial power level to a specified final power level desired state, when the resulting output
channel non-uniformity tolerance is met, measured from the time the actuation energy is applied or
removed.
3.2.2.17 channel spacing: The centre-to-centre difference in frequency or wavelength
between adjacent channels in a WDM device. DWDM channel spacings are based on the grid
found in [ITU-T G.694.1]. CWDM channel spacings are based on the grid found in [ITU-T G.694.2].
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 11

3.2.2.18 channel wavelength range: The wavelength range within which a CWDM or WWDM
device is required to operate with a specified performance. For a particular nominal channel central
wavelength, nomi, this wavelength range is from imin = (nomi – max) to imax = (nomi + max),
where max is the maximum channel wavelength deviation.
3.2.2.19 delay between balanced ports (delay line interferometer only): The optical delay (ps)
between the two output signals obtained at the output ports of a delay line interferometer.
NOTE – This optical delay is different from the delay between the interferometer arms described in
clause 3.2.1.6.
3.2.2.20 demodulation extinction ratio (delay line interferometer only): The intensity
difference (dB) between the transmitted optical intensity maximum and the transmitted optical
minimum when the device is tuned through the FSR.
NOTE – The parameter "demodulation extinction ratio" is measured with CW input light and is sometimes
also referred to as the "isolation" or "extinction ratio" of a delay line interferometer. This is, however, a
different parameter from the "demodulated extinction ratio" which is a characteristic of the result of passing a
phase modulated signal through a delay line interferometer to convert the phase modulation into amplitude
modulation.
3.2.2.21 directivity: For an optical branching component or an optical switch, the value asr of the
logarithmic transfer matrix, where s and r are the port numbers of two nominally isolated ports
(clause 1.3.11 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.2.22 dispersion compensation tuning range (for tuneable dispersion compensator): The
difference between maximum and minimum dispersion (in ps/nm) that can be achieved by the
tuneable dispersion compensator over the channel frequency range.
3.2.2.23 dynamic channel attenuation range (dynamic channel equalizer only): For a
dynamic channel equalizer, this is the difference (in dB) between the insertion loss and the largest
value of channel attenuation for which the other parameter specifications are met.
3.2.2.24 free-spectral range (delay line interferometer only): The spacing (difference) in
optical frequency (GHz) between two successive transmitted optical intensity maxima or minima of
a delay line interferometer.
3.2.2.25 group delay: This is the time required for a signal to propagate through a device (clause 3
in [IEC 61300-3-38]) between the connector end face of the input port and the connector end face of the
output port. If no connectors are provided at the input or output port, a reference plane must be defined in
the optical path of the optical signal. For some devices, the group delay can depend on the signal
wavelength. For multiple input or output ports, the group delay can depend on the input / output port
combination.
The asymmetric group delay of an optical link can be derived from the minimum and maximum group
delay of the devices in the link and the measured group delay of the optical fibre connecting the
devices. The minimum group delay for one direction is obtained by adding the minimum group delay
values for the individual components within the optical path for this direction together with the
measured fibre propagation delay for this direction. A similar calculation is performed by adding the
maximum instead of the minimum group delay values for the individual components to obtain the
maximum group delay for this direction. The minimum and maximum group delays for the opposite
direction are calculated in the same way.
The maximum expected link asymmetry is then obtained by subtracting the minimum delay value for
one direction from the maximum delay value for the opposite direction and vice versa, and then taking
the larger value of the two calculated differences.
12 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

3.2.2.26 incremental attenuation (variable attenuators only): A term applicable only to
variable attenuators. It refers to the difference between the nominal attenuation of the component at
a given setting and the minimum nominal attenuation (clause 1.3.6 in [IEC 60869-1]).
3.2.2.27 insertion loss (delay line interferometer only): It is the reduction in optical power (dB)
between the input and the output ports of a delay line interferometer. It is defined as:
 MinPout1 , Pout 2  
IL   10 log  
 Pin 
where:
Pin is the optical power launched into the input port;
Pout1 is the lowest optical power received from output port 1 when tuned for any
maximum within the operating wavelength range; and
Pout2 is the lowest optical power received from output port 2 when tuned for any
maximum within the operating wavelength range.
3.2.2.28 insertion loss (non-WDM devices): It is the reduction in optical power between an input
and output port of a passive component in decibels. It is defined as:
P 
IL   10 log  out 
 Pin 
where:
Pin is the optical power launched into the input port and
Pout is the optical power received from the output port.
NOTE 1 – For an optical branching component, it is an element aio (where i is the input port number and o is
the output port number) of the logarithmic transfer matrix (clause 1.3.7 in [IEC 60875-1]).
NOTE 2 – For an optical switch, it is an element aio (where i is the input port number and o is the output port
number) of the logarithmic transfer matrix. It depends on the state of the switch (clause 1.3.9 in [IEC 60876-1]).
NOTE 3 – For an optical filter, it shall be specified as a maximum value and a minimum value over each
operating wavelength range.
3.2.2.29 isolation of an optical switch: The isolation of an optical switch is the minimum value
of the ratio of the transfer coefficient of the switch in its on state to the transfer coefficient in its off
state over the operating wavelength range. It is defined as:
t 
IOS  10 log  oio 
 t io 
Where tio is the transfer coefficient (as defined in clause 3.2.3.12) from port i to port o with path io
switched on and toio is the transfer coefficient from port i to port o with path io switched off.
3.2.2.30 non-adjacent channel isolation: The non-adjacent channel isolation (of a WDM device)
is defined to be equal to the unidirectional (far-end) isolation of that device with the restriction that x,
the isolation wavelength number, is restricted to each of the channels not immediately adjacent to the
(channel) wavelength number associated with port o. This is illustrated in Figure 8.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 13

Figure 8 – Illustration of non-adjacent channel isolation for a WDM device
3.2.2.31 operating wavelength range: The specified range of wavelengths from imin to imax
about a nominal operating wavelength i, within which a passive component is designed to operate
with a specified performance (clause 1.3.21 in [IEC 60875-1]).
NOTE 1 – For an optical branching component with more than one operating wavelength, the corresponding
wavelength ranges are not necessarily equal (clause 1.3.21 in [IEC 60875-1]).
NOTE 2 – The components, including attenuators, terminations, connectors and splices may operate with a
specified performance or acceptable performance even outside the specified range of wavelengths.
3.2.2.32 out-of-band attenuation: The minimum attenuation (in dB) of channels that fall outside
of the operating wavelength range.
3.2.2.33 phase ripple: The phase ripple of an optical device is the maximum peak-to-peak
variation of the phase through the device with respect to a quadratic approximation of the phase
characteristic within the channel frequency range (DWDM devices) or channel wavelength range
(CWDM and WWDM devices).
Some optical devices exhibit chromatic dispersion within the channel frequency range. This means
that the optical phase varies (approximately) in a quadratic manner with frequency. The phase ripple
is therefore defined as the peak-to-peak variation in phase with respect to a quadratic change in phase
with frequency.
The relationship between the phase ripple and the optical penalty it causes is dependent on factors
such as the signal bit rate, modulation format, width of the optical spectrum, position of the signal
within the channel frequency range, etc. This means that the value of this parameter must be
determined from the application in the relevant transmission system Recommendation.
14 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

3.2.2.34 polarization dependent frequency shift (delay line interferometer only): The
maximum frequency shift (GHz) of the transmitted optical intensity maxima or minima of a delay
line interferometer among all polarization states.
3.2.2.35 polarization dependent loss (PDL): Maximum variation of insertion loss due to a
variation of the state of polarization (SOP) over all SOPs.
3.2.2.36 polarization dependent reflectance: Maximum variation of reflectance due to a
variation of the state of polarization (SOP) over all SOPs.
3.2.2.37 polarization mode dispersion (PMD): Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) is usually
described in terms of a differential group delay (DGD), which is the time difference between the
principal states of polarization (SOPs) of an optical signal at a particular wavelength and time.
The goal of the PMD specifications in this Recommendation is to be able to define a single parameter
for each component that can be substituted in the equation below, which calculates the maximum
DGD of a link (containing one or more of the components in question) with a defined probability of
being exceeded.
1/ 2
 2 
DGD max link   DGD max 2F  S 2  PMDCi 
 i 
where:
DGDmaxlink: maximum link DGD (ps)
DGDmaxF: maximum concatenated optical fibre cable DGD (ps)
S: Maxwell adjustment factor (see Table 1)
PMDCi: PMD value of the i-th component (ps)
This equation assumes that the statistics of the instantaneous DGD are approximated by a Maxwell
distribution, with the probability of the instantaneous DGD exceeding DGDmaxlink being controlled
by the value of the Maxwell adjustment factor taken from Table 1.
Table 1 – S values and probabilities

Ratio of max. Probability of Ratio of max. Probability of
to mean (S) exceeding max. to mean (S) exceeding max.
3 4.2 × 105 4 7.4 × 109
3.2 9.2 × 106 4.2 9.6 × 1010
3.4 1.8 × 106 4.4 1.1 × 1010
3.6 3.2 × 107 4.6 1.2 × 1011
3.8 5.1 × 108
Within this Recommendation, the PMD value of an optical component is defined as the maximum
DGD over the operating wavelength range unless it can be shown that the component characteristics
are such that the alternative definition of PMD used does not lead to the value of DGDmaxlink
predicted by the above equation being an underestimate for any of the operating wavelengths.
Where it can be established that, for a particular component, the distribution of DGD with time is
approximately Maxwell then the PMD value can be defined to be the value of the time-averaged DGD
at the worst wavelength. If it can also be shown that the distribution of DGD with wavelength is
Maxwell with a mean value approximately the same as for the distribution of DGD with time, then
the PMD value can be defined to be the value of the wavelength-averaged DGD. This condition would
be expected to be true for fibre-based components such as dispersion compensating fibre.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 15

Alternatively, for components where the DGD may vary with wavelength, but not appreciably with
time, and the distribution of DGD versus wavelength is such that the Maxwell distribution does not
underestimate the maximum DGD for probabilities less than 4.2  105, the PMD may also be defined
to be the value of the wavelength-averaged DGD. This, however, also requires that there is negligible
correlation between the DGD of one device and that of another at the same wavelength.
Some optical components consist of multiple optical paths. Examples include WDM MUX/DMUX
and hybrid C-band/L-band amplifiers or compensators. When these multi-path components are
specified with a single value, then the PMD of each distinct optical path should be found separately
and the resulting component PMD defined to be the maximum of these values.
3.2.2.38 reflectance: The ratio of reflected power Pr to incident power Pi at a given port of a
passive component, for given conditions of spectral composition, polarization and geometrical
distribution. Generally expressed in dB as:
P 
R  10 log  r  (clause 1.34 in [IEC/TR 61931])
 Pi 
NOTE 1 –
• For an optical branching component, it is an element aii (where i is the input port number), of the
logarithmic transfer matrix (clause 1.3.8 in [IEC 60875-1]).
• For a WDM device, it is an element aiiw (where i is the input port number, w is the wavelength
number), of the logarithmic transfer matrix. For WWDM devices, it shall be specified as a maximum
value at each operating wavelength range. For CWDM devices, it shall be specified as a maximum
value within the channel wavelength range. For DWDM devices, it shall be specified as a maximum
value within the channel frequency range.
• For an optical switch, it is an element aii (where i is the input port number), of the logarithmic transfer
matrix. It depends on the state of the switch (clause 1.3.10 in [IEC 60876-1]).
• For an optical filter, it shall be specified in each operating wavelength range.
NOTE 2 – For clarity, reflectance values for optical devices do not include the reflectance contributions of
connectors or unterminated optical ports. Reflectance contributions from connectors will be considered
separately.
NOTE 3 – Where the total reflection from the component is made up of reflections from multiple points, the
component reflectance must include all such contributions.
NOTE 4 – Generally, within ITU-T, components are specified in terms of their reflectance (a negative value
in dB) while systems are specified using the term return loss (a positive value in dB). In some IEC documents,
components (which may have multiple interfaces) are normally specified in terms of return loss.
3.2.2.39 repeatability of an optical switch: For further study.
3.2.2.40 reproducibility of passband setting: The variance of the difference between the
demanded centre frequency and the centre of the tuneable filter 3 dB passband when set-up is repeated
many times.
3.2.2.41 response time (variable attenuators only): The response time (of a variable attenuator)
is defined as the time-duration from starting to change its attenuator insertion loss to the time when
the variable attenuator insertion loss converges to within (ffs) dB of its final value.
3.2.2.42 ripple: For WDM devices and tuneable filters, the peak-to-peak difference in insertion
loss within a channel frequency (or wavelength) range. Future work on possible additional
specifications is needed on the use and application of this parameter for cascading of multiple devices.
This is illustrated in Figure 9.
16 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 9 – Illustration of ripple for a WDM device
3.2.2.43 switching time: The elapsed time it takes the switch to turn path io on or off from a
particular initial state, measured from the time the actuation energy is applied or removed
(clause 1.3.19 in [IEC 60876-1]).
3.2.2.44 tuning range (delay line interferometer only): The maximum variation (as a multiple
of the device FSR) of the transmitted optical intensity maxima or minima obtained by tuning the delay
line interferometer.
3.2.2.45 tuning (settling) time: The tuning (settling) time of a tuneable filter is defined as the
time-duration from the start of frequency tuning to the time when the tuneable filter loss converges
to within (ffs) dB of its final value at the demanded filter centre frequency  half of the 3 dB passband
width.
NOTE – 0.1 dB has been proposed.
3.2.2.46 unidirectional (far-end) crosstalk attenuation (for a WDM device): In a WDM device
able to separate k wavelengths (1, 2, ..., k) radiation coming from one input port into k output ports,
each one nominally passing radiation at one specific wavelength only. The unidirectional (far-end)
crosstalk attenuation is a measure of the part of the optical power at each wavelength exiting from
the port at wavelengths different from the nominal wavelength. It is given by the following formula:
UCA = aiox
The term aiox is an element of the logarithmic transfer matrix where i is the input port number, o is
the output port number and x is the isolation wavelength number, where x is any wavelength number
not equal to the (channel) wavelength number associated with port o. In each output port o, there are
k – 1 isolation wavelengths x.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 17

3.2.2.47 unidirectional (far-end) isolation (for a WDM device): In a WDM device able to
separate k wavelengths (1, 2, ..., k) radiation coming from one input port into k output ports, each
one nominally passing radiation at one specific wavelength only. The unidirectional (far-end)
isolation is a measure of the part of the optical power at each wavelength exiting from the port at
wavelengths different from the nominal wavelength relative to the power at the nominal wavelength.
It is given by the following formula:
IU = aiox – aioc
The terms aiox and aioc are elements of the logarithmic transfer matrix (defined in clause 3.2.3.5),
where i is the input port number, o is the output port number, c is the (channel) wavelength number
associated with port o and x is the isolation wavelength number, where x is any wavelength number
not equal to c. In each output port o, there is one channel wavelength c and k – 1 isolation
wavelengths x. This is illustrated in Figure 10.
NOTE – c is used in this Recommendation to denote channel wavelength and not fibre cut-off wavelength.
Figure 10 – Illustration of unidirectional (far-end) isolation of a WDM device
Figure 11 illustrates an example using the transfer matrix defined in clause 3.2.3.13, if powers P1, P2,
P3, ..., Pk were launched into a WDM DMUX device at wavelengths 1, 2, 3, ..., k, respectively, then
the signals emerging from port x would be:
t1x1P1, t1x2P2, t1x3P3, ..., t1xkPk
18 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 11 – Example of WDM demultiplexer device
So the isolation of port 2 to wavelength 3 would be a123 – a121.

3.2.2.48 uniformity: The logarithmic transfer matrix of a component may contain a specified set
of coefficients that are nominally finite and equal. In this case, the range of these coefficients aio,
expressed in decibels, is termed the uniformity of the component (clause 1.3.16 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.2.49 uniformity (delay line interferometer only): The uniformity of the delay line
interferometer is the difference between the insertion loss from input to one output at a transmission
peak wavelength and the insertion loss from input to the other output at its transmission peak
wavelength closest to the first output's transmission peak wavelength.
3.2.3 Definition of terms used in the parameter definitions
The following terms are used in the parameter definitions in clause 3.2.2.
3.2.3.1 conducting port: Two ports i and o between which tio is nominally greater than zero
(clause 1.3.12 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.3.2 coupling ratio: For a given input port i, this is the ratio of light at a given output port o to
the total light from all output ports. It is defined as:
t io
CRio 
Σ n t in
where n are the operational output ports (clause 1.3.17 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.3.3 input/output port pair: Conducting ports i and o (tio nominally greater than zero) that are
isolated from any other ports j (aij nominally infinite).
Figure 12 shows an example of a six-port device, with two input ports and four output ports. The
ports are numbered sequentially, so that the transfer matrix is developed to show all ports and all
possible combinations. The port numbering is arbitrary.
Figure 12 – An example of the port assignments for the transfer matrix
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 19

For the example shown, if there are four operating wavelengths, then the resulting transfer matrix
becomes a 6  6  4 matrix: loss at 1 from port 1 to port 6 would use a161. Reflectance of port 2 at 4
would use a224. Loss from port 5 to port 2 at 3 would use a523.
3.2.3.4 isolated port: Two ports i and o between which tio is nominally zero and aio is nominally
infinite (clause 1.3.13 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.3.5 logarithmic transfer matrix (for an optical switch): A general logarithmic transfer
matrix is shown in Figure 13.
Figure 13 – Logarithmic transfer matrix for an optical switch
where aio is the optical power reduction in decibels out of port o with unit power into port i, i.e.,:
aio = –10 log (tio)
where tio is the transfer matrix coefficient.
Similarly, for the off state, aio = –10 log (tio). This matrix is intended for definition purposes only
(clause 1.3.8 in [IEC 60876-1]).
3.2.3.6 logarithmic transfer matrix coefficient (for optical branching and WDM devices):
In general, the logarithmic transfer matrix is shown in Figure 14.
Figure 14 – Logarithmic transfer matrix
where asrw is the optical power reduction in decibels out of port number r with unit power into port
number s, at wavelength number w, i.e.,:
asrw = –10 log tsrw
where tsrw is the transfer matrix coefficient, s is the port number into which optical power is sent to
the device for measurement, r is the port number used to measure the return and w the wavelength
number of the measurement (i.e., the measurement is performed at wavelength w). This matrix is
intended for definition purposes only (clause 1.3.9 in [IEC 60875-1]).
NOTE – If the device is wavelength insensitive, then A becomes an n  n matrix with elements asr.
3.2.3.7 operating wavelength: A nominal wavelength , at which a passive component is
designed to operate with the specified performance (clause 1.3.20 in [IEC 60875-1]).
20 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

3.2.3.8 port: An optical fibre or an optical fibre connector attached to an optical component for
the entry and/or exit of the optical power (clause 1.3.1 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.3.9 specified by application (sba): In the tables of parameter values in clause 5, some
parameters are given as "sba". This means that the value of this parameter for this component must
be determined from the application in the relevant transmission system Recommendation rather than
being specified here.
3.2.3.10 switching time matrix (for an optical switch): A matrix of coefficients in which each
coefficient sio is the longest switching time to turn path io on or off from any initial state, as shown
in Figure 15. This matrix is intended for definition purposes only (clause 1.3.20 in [IEC 60876-1]).
Figure 15 – Switching time matrix for an optical switch
3.2.3.11 transfer coefficient (for optical branching and WDM devices): An element tio of the
transfer matrix (clause 1.3.8 in [IEC 60875-1]).
3.2.3.12 transfer coefficient (for an optical switch): An element tio or toio of the transfer matrix.
Each coefficient tio is the worst case (minimum) fraction of power transferred from port i to port o for
any state with path io switched on. Each coefficient toio is the worst case (maximum) fraction of power
transferred from port i to port o for any state with path io switched off (clause 1.3.7 in [IEC 60876-1]).
3.2.3.13 transfer matrix (for optical branching and WDM devices): The optical properties of
an optical branching device can be defined in terms of an n  n  k matrix of coefficients, where n is
the total number of (input and output) ports and k is the number of wavelengths. The coefficients
represent the fractional optical power transferred between designated ports. In general, the transfer
matrix T is shown in Figure 16.
Figure 16 – Transfer matrix
where tsrw is the ratio of optical power Pout transferred out of port number r with respect to input power
Pin into port number s at wavelength number w, i.e.,:
tsrw = Pout/Pin at wavelength number w
The first index of the term tsrw is always used to denote the port into which optical power is sent to
the device for measurement, the second index always denotes the port number used to measure the
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 21

return and the third index is always the wavelength number of the measurement (i.e., the measurement
is performed at wavelength w). This matrix is intended for definition purposes only.
NOTE – If the device is wavelength insensitive, then T becomes an n  n matrix with elements tsr.
3.2.3.14 transfer matrix (for an optical switch): The optical properties of an optical switch can
be defined in an n  n matrix of coefficients (n is the total number of ports). The T matrix represents
the on-state paths (worst-case transmission), and the To matrix represents the off-state paths
(worst-case isolation). In general, the transfer matrices are shown in Figure 17. This matrix is intended
for definition purposes only (clause 1.3.6 in [IEC 60876-1]).
Figure 17 – Transfer matrix for an optical switch
4 Abbreviations and acronyms

This Recommendation uses the following abbreviations and acronyms:
CW Continuous Wave
CWDM Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing
DCE Dynamic Channel Equalizer
DGD Differential Group Delay
DWDM Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing
ffs for further study
FSR Free Spectral Range
IL Insertion Loss
ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network
MUX/DMUX Multiplexer/Demultiplexer
na not applicable
OADM Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer
PDL Polarization Dependent Loss
PMD Polarization Mode Dispersion
sba specified by application
SOP State of Polarization
WDM Wavelength Division Multiplexing
WWDM Wide Wavelength Division Multiplexing
22 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5 Parameter test methods and values
Generally, in this Recommendation, the test methods for relevant parameters will not be developed.
However, full reference to existing IEC basic specifications are made according to the lists provided
in the following tables. The measurement and environmental test procedures that are reported in the
IEC generic specifications cited in clause 3 and in the IEC 61300 series on tests and measurement
procedures for interconnecting devices and passive components are referenced to the functional
parameters.
Values for a statistical approach are ffs and will eventually be considered in an appendix.
All table values represent worst-case end-of-life values over all specified temperature, humidity and
perturbations. Unless the context requires otherwise, numerical limits in this standard are to be taken
as exact, irrespective of the number of significant digits or trailing zeros.
For particular applications, tighter reflectance values than those indicated in these tables could be
required.
Inclusion of polarization-dependent reflectance is under study.
For some components (e.g., branching components, fibre optic filters, passive dispersion
compensators, optical connectors and tuneable filters), the values for the maximum insertion loss
reflect the current technological status. Further reduction of the maximum insertion loss is subject to
technological progress and joint engineering.
In the tables below, X = the number of wavelength-specific ports.
The following notes apply in the tables below:
NOTE 1 – Assumes operation at either or both passbands, but if a restricted wavelength range exists over a
passband, then parameter values such as loss apply only over that restricted band as well.
NOTE 2 – The maximum value of allowable input power is under discussion. A value of +20 dBm is
considered a starting point. When high input power is launched into optical components, care must be taken
to eliminate contamination such as dust or particles from the connector end faces.
NOTE 3 – The measurement methods outlined in [ITU-T G.650.2] can be used only where it can be shown
that the use of the wavelength averaged DGD does not lead to an underestimate of the total link DGD.
NOTE 4 – Dual values (a | b) indicate values for "slow" and "fast" switches, respectively.
NOTE 5 – For some passive dispersion compensators, the operating wavelength range can be narrower, but
covering the wavelength range of the used optical source.
For example, there are some passive dispersion compensators that are optimized for the C-band and others that
accommodate the C+L bands.
NOTE 6 – Values of maximum and minimum dispersion at any wavelength λ (in nm) within the operating
wavelength range can be found by substituting the value of λ into the given function and multiplying by the
value of ITU-T G.652 equivalent compensation of the dispersion compensator in km.
For example, for a dispersion compensator with 40 km of ITU-T G.652 equivalent compensation, the limits in
clause 5.10.21 result in the requirements:
40 15.8  0.058(  1550)  D()  40 17.6  0.058(  1550)
Where D(λ) is the dispersion in ps/nm and λ is the wavelength in nm.
Values for compensators of lengths of ITU-T G.653 and ITU-T G.655 fibre are under study.
NOTE 7 – When used over an extended operating temperature range, these values may be exceeded and are
under study.
NOTE 8 – For networks other than those covered by [ITU-T G.982], including other access networks, a value
of –27 dB is allowed; however, care should be taken to ensure system functionality in systems implemented
with several optical components with reflectance values at, or near, this limit. In consideration of future
network evolutions, a value of –40 dB is under study.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 23

NOTE 9 – These values assume the joining of fibre types covered by the same Recommendation. These values
are worst-case over all environments and for a large sample size. Typical values of insertion loss for mechanical
splices are 0.15 dB, actively – aligned fusion splices 0.08 dB and passively – aligned fusion splices 0.15 dB.
NOTE 10 – These values are derived from calculating the minimum loss of one of the ports if all of the other
ports show identical loss while assuming no excess loss and meeting the maximum values of uniformity
requirement. If this is done the minimum loss is:
 U 
Min _ loss  10 Log  
U  X 1
where:
uniformity
U is the linear uniformity, i.e., U  10 10
X is the number of ways of the branching component (2, 4, 8, 16, 32 or 64)
NOTE 11 – While this component has a maximum operating wavelength in range WR2 of 1660 nm, the
operation of optical fibres such as [ITU-T G.652] at wavelengths beyond 1625 nm may not be ensured.
5.1 Optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystems (for WDM)
Clause Parameter Max Min Test method

Channel insertion loss (dB)
5.1.1 Input to output sba sba
5.1.2 Input to drop sba sba
5.1.3 Add to output sba sba
5.1.4 Channel insertion loss deviation (dB) ffs ffs ffs
5.1.5 Reflectance (dB) ffs na
Channel polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB)
5.1.6 Input to output ffs na
5.1.7 Input to drop ffs na
5.1.8 Add to output ffs na
5.1.9 Type of OADM subsystem sba sba
5.1.10 Number of add/drop/through channels sba sba
5.1.11 Type of passband profile (flat-top or Gaussian) ffs ffs
5.1.12 Channel wavelength range (nm) (CWDM and sba sba
WWDM devices)
5.1.13 Channel frequency range (GHz) (DWDM devices) sba sba
5.1.14 1 dB passband width (nm) sba sba
5.1.15 3 dB passband width (nm) sba sba
5.1.16 Ripple (dB) ffs na
Adjacent channel isolation (dB)
5.1.17 Input to drop na sba
Non-adjacent channel isolation (dB)
5.1.18 Input to drop na sba
Channel extinction (dB)
5.1.19 Input to output na sba
24 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.1.20 Allowable input power (dBm) ffs na
(Note 2)
Channel polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 3)
5.1.21 Input to output ffs na
5.1.22 Input to drop ffs na
5.1.23 Add to output ffs na
Group delay (ps) [IEC 61300-3-38]
5.1.24 Input to output sba sba
5.1.25 Input to drop sba sba
5.1.26 Add to output sba sba
5.2 Asymmetric branching component (wavelength non-selective)

Tap couplers with coupling factors F = 20%, 10%, 5%, 2% and 1%.

5.2.1 Insertion loss – main port (dB) See See [IEC 61300-3-4],
table table [IEC 61300-3-7]
below below
5.2.2 Insertion loss – tap port (dB) See See [IEC 61300-3-4],
below below
5.2.3 Reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-6]
Operating wavelength range (nm) (Note 1)
5.2.4 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.2.5 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.2.6 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) – main port (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2]
5.2.7 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) – tap port (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2],
5.2.8 Polarization dependent reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-19]
5.2.9 Allowable input power (dBm) ffs na ffs
(Note 2)
5.2.10 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 3)
5.2.11 Directivity (dB) na ffs ffs
5.2.12 Group delay (ps) sba sba [IEC 61300-3-38]
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 25

Main port Tap port
F
Min. IL (dB) Max. IL (dB) Min. IL (dB) Max. IL (dB)
80/20 ffs ffs ffs ffs
5.3 Optical attenuator

5.3.1 Insertion loss (dB) (fixed attenuator) sba sba [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.3.2 Reflectance (dB) –40 na [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.3.3 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.3.4 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.3.5 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) 0.3 na [IEC 61300-3-2]
(Note 2)
(Note 3)
5.3.9 Attenuation accuracy (dB) sba na ffs
5.3.10 Attenuation range (variable attenuator) (dB) sba sba ffs
5.3.11 Incremental attenuation (variable attenuator) (dB) sba sba ffs
5.3.12 Response time (variable attenuator) (ms) sba sba
5.4 Optical branching component (wavelength non-selective)

1  X and 2  X ports where X = 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24 and 32.

5.4.1 Insertion loss (dB) See See [IEC 61300-3-4],
below below
5.4.3 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.4.4 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.4.5 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) 0.1 (1 + na [IEC 61300-3-2]
log2X)
26 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

(Note 2)
(Note 3)
5.4.9 Directivity (dB) na 50 ffs
1.0
5.4.10 Uniformity (dB) na ffs
log2X
This table assumes symmetrical power distribution between the output ports of the branching device.
1×X 2×X
X
Min. IL (dB) Max. IL (dB) Min. IL (dB) Max. IL (dB)
2 2.6 4.2 2.5 4.5
3 4.1 6.3 4.0 6.6
4 5.4 7.8 5.3 8.1
6 6.8 9.9 6.7 10.2
8 8.1 11.4 8.0 11.7
12 9.5 13.5 9.4 13.8
16 10.8 15.0 10.7 15.3
24 12.0 17.1 11.95 17.4
32 13.1 18.6 13.1 18.9
5.5 Optical branching component (wavelength non-selective) for PONs

N  X where the number of input ports N = 1 or 2 and the number of output ports X = 2, 4, 8, 16, 32
or 64.

5.5.1 Insertion loss (dB) See loss See loss [IEC 61300-3-4],
table below table below [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.5.2 Reflectance (dB) –55 na ffs
Operating wavelength range (nm)
(Note 1)
5.5.3 WR1 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
1550 nm window 1625 1480
5.5.4 WR2 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
1550 nm window 1660 1480
(Note 11)
5.5.5 Polarization-dependent loss (PDL) See PDL na [IEC 61300-3-2]
table below
5.5.6 Polarization dependent reflectance (dB) ffs na ffs
5.5.7 Allowable input power (dBm) ffs (Note 2) na ffs
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 27

(Note 3)
5.5.9 Directivity (dB) na 55 ffs
5.5.10 Uniformity (dB) See na ffs
uniformity
table below
NOTE – The WR2 covers both a wavelength range intended for data signals as well as a wavelength range
intended for maintenance.
Insertion loss requirements

For normal reach For extended reach
WR1 WR2 WR1 WR2
N X
Min. IL Min. IL Min. IL Min. IL Max.
Max. IL Max. IL Max. IL
(dB) (dB) (dB) (dB) IL
(dB) (dB) (dB)
(Note 10) (Note 10) (Note 10) (Note 10) (dB)
1 2 2.8 3.9 2.7 4.0 2.8 3.8 2.8 3.9
1 4 5.4 7.4 5.3 7.6 5.6 7.1 5.4 7.3
1 8 8.2 10.6 7.9 10.9 8.2 10.5 7.9 10.8
1 16 10.8 14.1 10.5 14.5 10.8 13.7 10.5 14.1
1 32 13.3 17.5 12.8 18.1 13.6 17.1 13.0 17.7
1 64 16.1 20.9 15.5 21.5 16.2 20.3 15.6 20.9
2 2 2.6 4.2 2.5 4.3 2.6 4.1 2.6 4.2
2 4 5.1 7.7 4.9 7.9 5.2 7.5 5.0 7.7
2 8 7.6 11.2 7.3 11.5 7.7 10.9 7.4 11.2
2 16 10.1 14.7 9.7 15.1 10.2 14.3 9.8 14.7
2 32 12.7 18.2 12.2 18.7 12.8 17.7 12.3 18.2
2 64 15.2 21.7 14.6 22.3 15.3 21.1 14.7 21.7
Branching component should comply with the insertion loss requirements for both WR1 and WR2.
28 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Polarization-dependent loss requirements
N X Maximum values (dB)
1 2 0.2
1 4 0.2
1 8 0.25
1 16 0.3
1 32 0.4
1 64 0.4
2 2 0.3
2 4 0.3
2 8 0.4
2 16 0.4
2 32 0.5
2 64 0.5
Uniformity requirements
Maximum values (dB)
N X For normal reach For extended reach
WR1 WR2 WR1 WR2
1 2 0.5 0.6 0.4 0.5
1 4 0.8 1.0 0.6 0.8
1 8 1.0 1.3 1.0 1.3
1 16 1.3 1.7 1.3 1.7
1 32 1.8 2.4 1.5 2.1
1 64 2.0 2.6 1.9 2.5
2 2 0.9 1.0 0.8 0.9
2 4 1.3 1.5 1.2 1.4
2 8 1.7 2.0 1.6 1.9
2 16 2.1 2.5 2.0 2.4
2 32 2.5 3.0 2.4 2.9
2 64 2.9 3.5 2.8 3.4
Branching component should comply with uniformity requirements for both WR1 and WR2.
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 29

5.6 Optical connector

Insertion loss (dB)
5.6.1 for single fibre (Note 7) 0.5 na [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.6.2 for multifibre (Note 7) 1.0 na [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
(Notes 7
and 8)
5.6.4 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.6.5 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.6.6 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) 0.1 na [IEC 61300-3-2]
(Note 2)
(Note 3)
NOTE – Insertion loss and reflectance values also include effects of mating durability.
5.7 Delay line interferometer

5.7.1 Operating wavelength range (nm) sba sba
5.7.2 Free spectral range (GHz) sba sba
5.7.3 Insertion loss (dB) sba na
5.7.4 Uniformity (dB) sba na
5.7.5 Demodulation extinction ratio (dB) na sba
5.7.6 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) sba na [IEC 61300-3-2]
5.7.7 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) sba na ffs
(Note 7) (ps)
5.7.8 Reflectance (dB) -35 na [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.7.9 Polarization dependent frequency shift sba na
(% of FSR)
5.7.10 Delay between balanced ports (ps) sba na
5.7.11 Tuning range (times FSR) sba sba
30 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.8 Dynamic channel equalizer (DCE)

5.8.1 Insertion loss (dB) 6 ffs [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.8.2 Reflectance (dB) na –45 [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.8.3 Operating wavelength range (nm) sba sba [IEC 61300-3-7]
Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB)
5.8.4 Over full dynamic channel attenuation 0.4 na [IEC 61300-3-2]
range
5.8.5 Over reduced dynamic channel 0.2 na [IEC 61300-3-2]
attenuation range of 10 dB
(Note 3)
5.8.9 Channel extinction (dB) na 40
5.8.10 Out-of-band attenuation (dB) na 40
5.8.11 Channel attenuation resolution (dB) 0.2 na
5.8.12 Dynamic channel attenuation range (dB) na 20
5.8.13 Ripple (dB) 0.2 na
5.8.14 Channel response time (ms) 30 na
5.8.15 Channel spacing (nm) sba sba
5.8.16 Number of channels sba sba
5.9 Optical filter

Insertion loss (dB)
5.9.1 Pass band sba sba [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.9.2 Stop band na sba
5.9.5 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2]
5.9.8 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) ffs na ffs
5.9.9 Ripple (dB) ffs na ffs
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 31

5.10 Optical isolator

5.10.1 Insertion loss (dB) ffs na
5.10.2 Backward loss (isolation) na sba [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.10.4 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.10.5 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
(Note 3)
5.11 Passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator

Insertion loss (dB) for ITU-T G.652 [IEC 61300-3-4],
equivalent compensation length of: [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.11.1 2.5 km ffs na
5.11.2 5 km ffs na
5.11.3 7.5 km ffs na
5.11.4 10 km ffs na
5.11.5 20 km 3.6 ffs
5.11.6 30 km ffs ffs
5.11.7 40 km 5.5 ffs
5.11.8 50 km ffs ffs
5.11.9 60 km 7.5 ffs
5.11.10 70 km ffs ffs
5.11.11 80 km 9.5 ffs
5.11.12 90 km ffs ffs
5.11.13 100 km 11.5 ffs
5.11.14 110 km ffs ffs
5.11.15 120 km 13.5 ffs
5.11.17 Operating wavelength range (nm) (Note 5) 1616 1525 [IEC 61300-3-7]
32 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.11.21 Dispersion coefficient (ps/nm/km) at –15.8 –17.6 ffs
wavelength  (nm) of ITU-T G.652 –0.058*(λ –0.058*(λ
equivalent compensation –1550) –1550)
(Note 6)
5.11.22 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) ffs ffs [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 7) (Note 3)
5.12 Single optical channel passive (chromatic) dispersion compensator

Dispersion over the channel frequency ffs
range (ps/nm) for ITU-T G.652 equivalent
compensation length of
5.12.1 10 km –168 –178
5.12.2 20 km –337 –356
5.12.3 30 km –506 –533
5.12.4 40 km –675 –711
5.12.5 50 km –844 –888
5.12.6 60 km –1013 –1066
5.12.7 70 km –1182 –1244
5.12.8 80 km –1351 –1421
5.12.9 Insertion loss ffs ffs [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.12.11 Channel frequency range (THz) 192.14 192.06
5.12.15 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 7) (ps) (Note 3)
5.13 Optical splice

Insertion loss (dB) (Note 9) [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.13.1 Mechanical splice 0.50 na
5.13.2 Fusion splice (active alignment) 0.30 na
5.13.3 Fusion splice (passive alignment) 0.50 na
Reflectance (dB) [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.13.4 Mechanical splice –40 na
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 33

5.13.5 Fusion splice –70 na
5.13.6 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.13.7 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
(Note 3)
5.14 Optical switch
1 × X switches 2 × 2 switches
Clause Parameter Test method
Max Min Max Std
5.14.1 Insertion loss (dB) 2.5 | log2X na ffs na [IEC 61300-3-4],
(Note 4) [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.14.2 Reflectance (dB) –40 na –40 na [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.14.3 Operating wavelength range (nm) ffs ffs ffs ffs [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.14.4 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) ffs | 0.1 na ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2]
(dB) (1 + log2X)
(Note 4)
5.14.5 Polarization dependent reflectance ffs na ffs na [IEC 61300-3-19]
(dB)
5.14.6 Allowable input power (dBm) ffs (Note 2) na ffs na ffs
(Note 2)
5.14.7 Polarization mode dispersion ffs na ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(PMD) (ps) (Note 3)
5.14.8 Switching time 10 s | 20 ms na ffs na ffs
(Note 4)
5.14.9 Repeatability (dB) 0.25 na ffs na ffs
5.14.10 Uniformity (dB) ffs | 0.4 na ffs na ffs
log2X
(Note 4)
5.14.11 Isolation (dB) sba na sba na ffs
5.14.12 Directivity (dB) na 50 na ffs ffs
5.14.13 Group delay (ps) sba sba sba sba [IEC 61300-3-38]
NOTE – 2 × X switches are for future study.
34 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.15 Optical termination

5.15.2 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.15.3 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.16 Tuneable (chromatic) dispersion compensator

5.16.1 Dispersion compensation tuning range na 400 ffs
(ps/nm)
5.16.2 Channel frequency range (THz) sba sba
5.16.3 Insertion loss ffs ffs [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.16.8 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 7) (ps) (Note 3)
5.16.9 Phase ripple sba na ffs
5.17 Tuneable filter

Insertion loss (dB) [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.17.1 Pass band sba sba
5.17.2 Stop band na sba
5.17.3 Reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-6]
(Note 3)
5.17.9 1 dB passband width (nm) sba sba ffs
5.17.10 3 dB passband width (nm) sba sba ffs
5.17.11 Ripple (dB) ffs na ffs
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 35

5.17.12 Reproducibility of passband setting (nm) ffs na ffs
5.17.13 Tuning (settling) time (s) sba sba ffs
5.17.14 Channel insertion loss deviation (dB) ffs ffs ffs
5.18 Optical wavelength MUX/DMUX

5.18.1 Coarse WDM (CWDM) device

5.18.1.1 Channel insertion loss (dB) ffs ffs [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.18.1.2 Channel insertion loss deviation (dB) ffs ffs ffs
5.18.1.3 Reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.18.1.4 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2]
5.18.1.5 Polarization dependent reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-19]
5.18.1.6 Allowable input power (dBm) ffs (Note 2) na ffs
5.18.1.7 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 3)
5.18.1.8 Channel wavelength range (nm) sba sba
5.18.1.9 Ripple (dB) ffs ffs
5.18.1.10 Adjacent channel isolation (dB) na sba
5.18.1.11 Non-adjacent channel isolation (dB) na sba
5.18.1.12 Bidirectional (near-end) isolation (dB) na sba
5.18.1.13 Unidirectional (far-end) crosstalk na sba
attenuation (dB)
5.18.1.14 Bidirectional (near-end) crosstalk na sba
attenuation (dB)
5.18.1.15 Group delay (ps) sba sba [IEC 61300-3-38]
5.18.2 Dense WDM (DWDM) device 1  X

5.18.2.1 Channel insertion loss (dB) sba sba [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.18.2.3 Reflectance (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-6]
5.18.2.4 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) ffs na [IEC 61300-3-2]
5.18.2.7 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) (ps) ffs na ffs
5.18.2.8 Channel frequency range (GHz) sba sba ffs
5.18.2.9 Ripple (dB) ffs na ffs
5.18.2.10 Adjacent channel isolation (dB) na sba
36 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.18.2.11 Non-adjacent channel isolation (dB) na sba ffs
5.18.2.12 Bidirectional (near-end) isolation (dB) na sba ffs
5.18.2.13 Unidirectional (far-end) crosstalk na sba ffs
attenuation (dB)
5.18.2.14 Bidirectional (near-end) crosstalk na sba ffs
attenuation (dB)
5.18.3 Wide WDM (WWDM) device 1 × X

5.18.3.1 Channel insertion loss (dB) 1.5 log2X ffs [IEC 61300-3-4],
[IEC 61300-3-7]
5.18.3.3 Reflectance (dB) –40 na [IEC 61300-3-6]
Operating wavelength range (nm)
(Note 1)
5.18.3.4 1310 nm window 1360 1260 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.18.3.5 1550 nm window 1580 1480 [IEC 61300-3-7]
5.18.3.6 Polarization dependent loss (PDL) (dB) 0.1 na [IEC 61300-3-2]
(1 + log2X)
5.18.3.9 Polarization mode dispersion (PMD (ps) ffs na [ITU-T G.650.2]
(Note 3)
5.18.3.10 Unidirectional (far-end) isolation (dB) na sba ffs
5.18.3.11 Bidirectional (near-end) isolation (dB) na sba ffs
5.18.3.12 Unidirectional (far-end) crosstalk na sba ffs
attenuation (dB)
5.18.3.13 Bidirectional (near-end) crosstalk na sba ffs
attenuation (dB)
Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 37

SERIES OF ITU-T RECOMMENDATIONS
Series A Organization of the work of ITU-T

Series D Tariff and accounting principles and international telecommunication/ICT economic and
policy issues
Series E Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors
Series F Non-telephone telecommunication services
Series G Transmission systems and media, digital systems and networks

Series H Audiovisual and multimedia systems
Series I Integrated services digital network

Series J Cable networks and transmission of television, sound programme and other multimedia
signals
Series K Protection against interference

Series L Environment and ICTs, climate change, e-waste, energy efficiency; construction, installation
and protection of cables and other elements of outside plant
Series M Telecommunication management, including TMN and network maintenance
Series N Maintenance: international sound programme and television transmission circuits
Series O Specifications of measuring equipment
Series P Telephone transmission quality, telephone installations, local line networks

Series Q Switching and signalling, and associated measurements and tests
Series R Telegraph transmission

Series S Telegraph services terminal equipment
Series T Terminals for telematic services
Series U Telegraph switching

Series V Data communication over the telephone network
Series X Data networks, open system communications and security
Series Y Global information infrastructure, Internet protocol aspects, next-generation networks,

Internet of Things and smart cities
Series Z Languages and general software aspects for telecommunication systems
Printed in Switzerland
Geneva, 2019
I n t e r n a t i o n a l T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n U n i o n
ITU-T G.703
TELECOMMUNICATION (04/2016)
STANDARDIZATION SECTOR
OF ITU
SERIES G: TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA,

DIGITAL SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS
Digital terminal equipments – General
Physical/electrical characteristics of
hierarchical digital interfaces

ITU-T G-SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS
TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA, DIGITAL SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS
INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS AND CIRCUITS G.100–G.199

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS COMMON TO ALL ANALOGUE CARRIER- G.200–G.299
TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS
INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE G.300–G.399
SYSTEMS ON METALLIC LINES
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE SYSTEMS G.400–G.449
ON RADIO-RELAY OR SATELLITE LINKS AND INTERCONNECTION WITH METALLIC
LINES
COORDINATION OF RADIOTELEPHONY AND LINE TELEPHONY G.450–G.499
TRANSMISSION MEDIA AND OPTICAL SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS G.600–G.699
DIGITAL TERMINAL EQUIPMENTS G.700–G.799
General G.700–G.709
Coding of voice and audio signals G.710–G.729
Principal characteristics of primary multiplex equipment G.730–G.739
Principal characteristics of second order multiplex equipment G.740–G.749
Principal characteristics of higher order multiplex equipment G.750–G.759
Principal characteristics of transcoder and digital multiplication equipment G.760–G.769
Operations, administration and maintenance features of transmission equipment G.770–G.779
Principal characteristics of multiplexing equipment for the synchronous digital hierarchy G.780–G.789
Other terminal equipment G.790–G.799
DIGITAL NETWORKS G.800–G.899
DIGITAL SECTIONS AND DIGITAL LINE SYSTEM G.900–G.999
MULTIMEDIA QUALITY OF SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE – GENERIC AND USER- G.1000–G.1999
RELATED ASPECTS
TRANSMISSION MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS G.6000–G.6999
DATA OVER TRANSPORT – GENERIC ASPECTS G.7000–G.7999
PACKET OVER TRANSPORT ASPECTS G.8000–G.8999
ACCESS NETWORKS G.9000–G.9999
For further details, please refer to the list of ITU-T Recommendations.

Physical/electrical characteristics of hierarchical digital interfaces
Summary
Recommendation ITU-T G.703 specifies the recommended physical and electrical characteristics of
the interfaces at hierarchical bit rates as described in Recommendations ITU-T G.702 (PDH) and
ITU-T G.707 (SDH). The interfaces are defined in terms of general characteristics, specifications at
the output ports and input ports and/or cross-connect points, earthing of outer conductor or screen and
coding rules.
History
Edition Recommendation Approval Study Group Unique ID*
1.0 ITU-T G.703 1972-12-15 11.1002/1000/11264
2.0 ITU-T G.703 1976-10-08 11.1002/1000/9993
3.0 ITU-T G.703 1980-11-21 11.1002/1000/7754
4.0 ITU-T G.703 1984-10-19 11.1002/1000/3630
5.0 ITU-T G.703 1988-11-25 11.1002/1000/894
6.0 ITU-T G.703 1991-04-05 XVIII 11.1002/1000/895
7.0 ITU-T G.703 1998-10-13 15 11.1002/1000/4514
8.0 ITU-T G.703 2001-11-29 15 11.1002/1000/5602
8.1 ITU-T G.703 (2001) Cor. 1 2008-03-29 15 11.1002/1000/9369
8.2 ITU-T G.703 (2001) Amd. 1 2013-08-29 15 11.1002/1000/11989
9.0 ITU-T G.703 2016-04-13 15 11.1002/1000/12788
Keywords
Electrical interface, PDH, plesiochronous digital hierarchy, SDH, synchronous digital hierarchy,
synchronization interface.
* To access the Recommendation, type the URL http://handle.itu.int/ in the address field of your web
browser, followed by the Recommendation's unique ID. For example, http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/1000/11
830-en.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) i

FOREWORD
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency in the field of
telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The ITU Telecommunication
Standardization Sector (ITU-T) is a permanent organ of ITU. ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them with a view to standardizing
telecommunications on a worldwide basis.
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA), which meets every four years, establishes
the topics for study by the ITU-T study groups which, in turn, produce Recommendations on these topics.
The approval of ITU-T Recommendations is covered by the procedure laid down in WTSA Resolution 1.
In some areas of information technology which fall within ITU-T's purview, the necessary standards are
prepared on a collaborative basis with ISO and IEC.
NOTE
In this Recommendation, the expression "Administration" is used for conciseness to indicate both a
telecommunication administration and a recognized operating agency.
Compliance with this Recommendation is voluntary. However, the Recommendation may contain certain
mandatory provisions (to ensure, e.g., interoperability or applicability) and compliance with the
Recommendation is achieved when all of these mandatory provisions are met. The words "shall" or some other
obligatory language such as "must" and the negative equivalents are used to express requirements. The use of
such words does not suggest that compliance with the Recommendation is required of any party.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ITU draws attention to the possibility that the practice or implementation of this Recommendation may involve
the use of a claimed Intellectual Property Right. ITU takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of claimed Intellectual Property Rights, whether asserted by ITU members or others outside of
the Recommendation development process.
As of the date of approval of this Recommendation, ITU had not received notice of intellectual property,
protected by patents, which may be required to implement this Recommendation. However, implementers are
cautioned that this may not represent the latest information and are therefore strongly urged to consult the TSB
patent database at http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ipr/.
 ITU 2016
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of ITU.
ii Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Table of Contents
Page
1 Scope............................................................................................................................. 1
2 References..................................................................................................................... 1
3 Definitions .................................................................................................................... 3
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere ................................................................................ 3
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation ......................................................... 3
4 Abbreviations and acronyms ........................................................................................ 3
5 Conventions .................................................................................................................. 4
6 Interface at 64 kbit/s (E0) ............................................................................................. 4
6.1 Functional requirements ................................................................................. 4
6.2 Electrical characteristics ................................................................................. 6
7 Interface at 1544 kbit/s (E11) ....................................................................................... 14
7.1 General characteristics.................................................................................... 14
7.2 Pulse specification .......................................................................................... 16
7.3 Eye diagrams .................................................................................................. 16
9 Interface at 32 064 kbit/s .............................................................................................. 18
10 Interface at 44 736 kbit/s (E32) .................................................................................... 20
11.2 Specifications at the output ports ................................................................... 22
11.3 Specifications at the input ports ..................................................................... 23
11.4 Grounding of outer conductor or screen ......................................................... 24
12.2 Specification at the output ports ..................................................................... 24
12.4 Grounding of outer conductor ........................................................................ 26
13.2 Specification at the output ports ..................................................................... 27
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) iii

Page
15 2048 kHz synchronization interface (T12) ................................................................... 32
15.4 Grounding of outer conductor or screen ......................................................... 34
16 Interface at 97 728 kbit/s .............................................................................................. 34
17 Interface at 155 520 kbit/s – STM-1 interface (ES1) ................................................... 35
17.4 Specifications at the cross-connect points ...................................................... 36
18 Interface at 51 840 kbit/s (STM-0 interface) ................................................................ 39
18.4 Specifications at the cross-connect points ...................................................... 45
19 Time synchronization interfaces defined in ITU-T G.8271/Y.1366 ............................ 46
19.1 ITU-T V.11-based time/phase distribution interface...................................... 46
19.2 1PPS 50  phase-synchronization measurement interface ............................ 48
20 10 MHz synchronization interface................................................................................ 49
Annex A – Definition of codes ................................................................................................ 51
A.1 Definition of B3ZS (also designated HDB2) and HDB3 ............................... 51
A.2 Definition of B6ZS and B8ZS ........................................................................ 51
A.3 Definition of CMI ........................................................................................... 51
Appendix I – 1544 kbit/s specification in the 1991 version of this Recommendation ............ 52
I.1 General ........................................................................................................... 52
I.2 Interface specification .................................................................................... 52
I.3 Pulse mask ...................................................................................................... 52
Appendix II – 64 and 6312 kHz synchronization interface specification for use in Japan...... 54
II.1 64 kHz synchronization interface ................................................................... 54
II.2 6312 kHz synchronization interface ............................................................... 55
Appendix III – 3152 kbit/s interface specification for use in North America (From
Annex A – [ITU-T G.931) ............................................................................................ 56
Bibliography............................................................................................................................. 57
iv Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Physical/electrical characteristics of hierarchical digital interfaces
1 Scope
This Recommendation provides the recommended physical and electrical characteristics of the
interfaces at hierarchical bit rates as described in [ITU-T G.702] (PDH) and [ITU-T G.707] (SDH),
to enable the interconnection of digital network components (digital sections, multiplex equipment,
exchanges) to form an international digital link or connection. The characteristics given in this
Recommendation should be applied to new equipment (component) designs.
NOTE 1 – The characteristics of interfaces at non-hierarchical bit rates, except n  64 kbit/s interfaces
conveyed by 1544 kbit/s or 2048 kbit/s interfaces and 3152 kbit/s interface in North American hierarchy, are
specified in the respective equipment Recommendations.
NOTE 2 – The jitter specifications contained in this Recommendation are intended to be imposed at
international interconnection points.
NOTE 3 – The interfaces described in clauses 5 to 12 correspond to the ports T (output port) and T (input port)
as recommended for interconnection in [b-ITU-R F.596-1] (Interconnection of digital radio-relay systems).
NOTE 4 – For signals with bit rates of n  64 kbit/s (n = 2 to 31) which are routed through multiplexing
equipment specified for the 2048 kbit/s hierarchy, the interface shall have the same physical/electrical
characteristics as those for the 2048 kbit/s interface specified in clause 9. For signals with bit rates of
n  64 kbit/s (n = 2 to 23) which are routed through multiplexing equipment specified for the 1544 kbit/s
hierarchy, the interface shall have the same physical/electrical characteristics as those for the 1544 kbit/s
interface specified in clause 5.
NOTE 5 – The specifications contained in this Recommendation are related to the physical interface only
(i.e., to characterize the line codes and input/output equipment interfaces); in particular, the required frequency
tolerances do not imply overall equipment performances which may be driven by tighter requirements in
Recommendations for specific network/equipment applications (e.g., [ITU-T G.813] and [b-ITU-T G.783]).
NOTE 6 – When measuring the performance of the output port described in clauses 6.2.1.2, 11.2, 12.2, 13.2,
14.2, 15.2, 17.2, 18.2, and 20.2, the signal attenuation, signal distortion, and length of the cable should be as
small as possible. The length of the cable used could be chosen to be less than three meters, for example.
2 References
The following ITU-T Recommendations and other references contain provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this Recommendation. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All Recommendations and other references are subject to revision;
users of this Recommendation are therefore encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the
most recent edition of the Recommendations and other references listed below. A list of the currently
valid ITU-T Recommendations is regularly published. The reference to a document within this
Recommendation does not give it, as a stand-alone document, the status of a Recommendation.
[ITU-T G.701] Recommendation ITU-T G.701 (1993), Vocabulary of digital transmission
and multiplexing, and pulse code modulation (PCM) terms.
[ITU-T G.702] Recommendation ITU-T G.702 (1988), Digital hierarchy bit rates.
[ITU-T G.704] Recommendation ITU-T G.704 (1998), Synchronous frame structures used at
1544, 6312, 2048, 8448 and 44 736 kbit/s hierarchical levels.
[ITU-T G.707] Recommendation ITU-T G.707/Y.1322 (2007), Network node interface for
the synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH).
[ITU-T G.742] Recommendation ITU-T G.742 (1988), Second order digital multiplex
equipment operating at 8448 kbit/s and using positive justification.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 1

[ITU-T G.747] Recommendation ITU-T G.747 (1988), Second order digital multiplex
equipment operating at 6312 kbit/s and multiplexing three tributaries at
2048 kbit/s.
[ITU-T G.751] Recommendation ITU-T G.751 (1988), Digital multiplex equipments
operating at the third order bit rate of 34 368 kbit/s and the fourth order bit
rate of 139 264 kbit/s and using positive justification.
[ITU-T G.752] Recommendation ITU-T G.752 (1988), Characteristics of digital multiplex
equipments based on a second order bit rate of 6312 kbit/s and using positive
justification.
[ITU-T G.753] Recommendation ITU-T G.753 (1988), Third order digital multiplex
equipment operating at 34 368 kbit/s and using positive/zero/ negative
justification.
[ITU-T G.755] Recommendation ITU-T G.755 (1988), Digital multiplex equipment
operating at 139 264 kbit/s and multiplexing three tributaries at
44 736 kbit/s.
[ITU-T G.810] Recommendation ITU-T G.810 (1996), Definitions and terminology for
synchronization networks.
[ITU-T G.811] Recommendation ITU-T G.811 (1997), Timing characteristics of primary
reference clocks.
[ITU-T G.812] Recommendation ITU-T G.812 (2004), Timing requirements of slave clocks
suitable for use as node clocks in synchronization networks.
[ITU-T G.813] Recommendation ITU-T G.813 (2003), Timing characteristics of SDH
equipment slave clocks (SEC).
[ITU-T G.823] Recommendation ITU-T G.823 (2000), The control of jitter and wander
within digital networks which are based on the 2048 kbit/s hierarchy.
within digital networks which are based on the 1544 kbit/s hierarchy.
within digital networks which are based on the synchronous digital hierarchy
(SDH).
[ITU-T G.8260] Recommendation ITU-T G.8260 (2015), Definitions and terminology for
synchronization in packet networks.
[ITU-T G.8271] Recommendation ITU-T ITU-T G.8271/Y.1366 (2012), Time and phase
synchronization aspects of packet networks.
[ITU-T G.8272] Recommendation ITU-T G.8272/Y.1367 (2015), Timing characteristics of
primary reference time clocks.
[ITU-T K.20] Recommendation ITU-T K.20 (2015), Resistibility of telecommunication
equipment installed in a telecommunication centre to overvoltages and
overcurrents.
[ITU-T K.27] Recommendation ITU-T K.27 (2015), Bonding configurations and earthing
inside a telecommunication building.
[ITU-T O.151] Recommendation ITU-T O.151 (1992), Error performance measuring
equipment operating at the primary rate and above.
2 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

[ITU-T O.172] Recommendation ITU-T O.172 (2005), Jitter and wander measuring
equipment for digital systems which are based on the synchronous digital
hierarchy (SDH).
[ITU-T V.11] Recommendation ITU-T ITU-T V.11 (1996), Electrical characteristics for
balanced double-current interchange circuits operating at data signalling
rates up to 10 Mbit/s.
[ITU-R F.750-4] Recommendation ITU-R F.750-4 (2000), Architectures and functional
aspects of radio-relay systems for synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH)–-
based networks.
[IEC 60469] IEC 60469 (2013), Transitions, pulses and related waveforms – Terms,
definitions and algorithms.
[IEC 60469-2] IEC 60469-2 (1987), Pulse techniques and apparatus – Part 2: Pulse
measurement and analysis, general considerations.
[IEC 60603-7] IEC 60603-7 ed3.1 Consol. with am1 (2011), Connectors for electronic
equipment – Part 7: Detail specification for 8-way, unshielded, free and fixed
connectors.
[ETSI ETS 300 166] ETSI ETS 300 166 (1993), Transmission and Multiplexing (ТМ); Physical
and electrical characteristics of hierarchical digital interfaces for equipment
using the 2048 kbit/s-based plesiochronous or synchronous digital
hierarchies.
3 Definitions
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere

This Recommendation uses the following terms defined elsewhere:
3.1.1 (timing) jitter [ITU-T G.810].
3.1.2 time synchronization [ITU-T G.8260].
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation

None.
4 Abbreviations and acronyms

This Recommendation uses the following abbreviations and acronyms:
1PPS One Pulse Per Second
AIS Alarm Indication Signal
AMI Alternate Mark Inversion
B3ZS Bipolar with three-Zero Substitution
B8ZS Bipolar with eight-Zero Substitution
CMI Coded Mark Inversion
DC Direct Current
DSN Digital Switching Network
EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility
EPRTC Enhanced Primary Reference Time Clock
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 3

GND Ground
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System
HDB2 High Density Bipolar of order 2 code
HDB3 High Density Bipolar of order 3 code
PCM Pulse Code Modulation
PRBS Pseudo Random Bit Sequence
PRC Primary Reference Clock
PRTC Primary Reference Time Clock
PDH Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy
SDH Synchronous Digital Hierarchy
SEC SDH Equipment Clock
SSU Synchronization Supply Unit
STM Synchronous Transport Module
ZBTSI Zero Byte Time Slot Interchange
5 Conventions
None.
6 Interface at 64 kbit/s (E0)
6.1 Functional requirements

The following basic requirements for the design of the interface are recommended.
In both directions of transmission, three signals can be carried across the interface:
– 64 kbit/s information signal;
– 64 kHz timing signal;
– 8 kHz timing signal.
NOTE 1 – The 64 kbit/s information signal and the 64 kHz timing signal are mandatory. However, although
an 8 kHz timing must be generated by the controlling equipment (e.g., PCM multiplex or time slot access
equipment), it should not be mandatory for the subordinate equipment on the other side of the interface to
either utilize the 8 kHz timing signal from the controlling equipment or to supply an 8 kHz timing signal.
NOTE 2 – The detection of an upstream fault can be transmitted across the 64 kbit/s interface by transmitting
an alarm indication signal (AIS) towards the subordinate equipment.
The interface should be bit sequence independent at 64 kbit/s.
NOTE 3 – An unrestricted 64 kbit/s signal can be transmitted across the interface. However, this does not
imply that unrestricted 64 kbit/s paths are realizable on a global basis. This is because some Administrations
presently have or are continuing to install extensive networks composed of digital line sections whose
characteristics do not permit the transmission of long sequences of 0s. [b-ITU-T G.733] provides for PCM
multiplexes with characteristics appropriate for such digital line sections.) Specifically, for octet timed sources
in 1544 kbit/s digital networks, it is required that at least one binary 1 should be contained in any octet of a
64 kbit/s digital signal. For a bit stream which is not octet-timed, no more than 7 consecutive 0s should appear
in the 64 kbit/s signal.
NOTE 4 – Although the interface is bit sequence independent, the use of the AIS (all 1s bit pattern) may result
in some minor restrictions for the 64 kbit/s source. For example, an all 1s alignment signal could result in
problems.
4 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

6.1.1 Three types of envisaged interfaces
6.1.1.1 Codirectional interface
The term "codirectional" is used to describe an interface across which the information and its
associated timing signal are transmitted in the same direction (see Figure 6-1).
Figure 6-1 – Codirectional interface

6.1.1.2 Centralized clock interface
The term "centralized clock" is used to describe an interface wherein for both directions of
transmission of the information signal, the associated timing signals are supplied from a centralized
clock, which may be derived for example from certain incoming line signals (see Figure 6-2).
NOTE – The codirectional interface or centralized clock interface should be used for synchronized networks
and for plesiochronous networks having clocks of the stability required (see [ITU-T G.811]) to ensure an
adequate interval between the occurrence of slips.
Figure 6-2 – Centralized clock interface

6.1.1.3 Contradirectional interface
The term "contradirectional" is used to describe an interface across which the timing signals
associated with both directions of transmission are directed towards the subordinate equipment
(see Figure 6-3).
Figure 6-3 – Contradirectional interface
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 5

6.2 Electrical characteristics
6.2.1 Electrical characteristics of 64 kbit/s codirectional interface
6.2.1.1 General characteristics
Nominal bit rate: 64 kbit/s.
Bit rate accuracy: 100 ppm (6.4 bit/s) or better.
64 kHz and 8 kHz timing signal to be transmitted in a codirectional way with the information signal.
One balanced pair for each direction of transmission; the use of transformers is recommended.
Code conversion rules:
Step 1 – A 64 kbit/s bit period is divided into four unit intervals.
Step 2 – A binary one is coded as a block of the following four bits:
1100
Step 3 – A binary zero is coded as a block of the following four bits:
1010
Step 4 – The binary signal is converted into a three-level signal by alternating the polarity of
consecutive blocks.
Step 5 – The alternation in polarity of the blocks is violated every 8th block. The violation block
marks the last bit in an octet.
These conversion rules are illustrated in Figure 6-4.
Overvoltage protection requirements: refer to [ITU-T K.20].
Figure 6-4 – Illustration of the conversion rules
6 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

6.2.1.2 Specifications at the output ports
See Table 6-1. See also Note 6 of clause 1.
Table 6-1 – Digital 64 kbit/s codirectional interface

Symbol rate 256 kBauds
Pulse shape (nominally rectangular) All pulses of a valid signal must conform to the
masks in Figure 6-5, irrespective of the polarity
Pair for each direction One symmetric pair
Test load impedance 120 ohms resistive
Nominal peak voltage of a "mark" (pulse) 1.0 V
Peak voltage of a "space" (no pulse) 0 V  0.10 V
Nominal pulse width 3.9 s
Ratio of the amplitudes of positive and negative 0.95 to 1.05
pulses at the centre of the pulses interval
Ratio of the widths of positive and negative pulses 0.95 to 1.05
at the nominal half amplitude
Maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the output port Refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.823]
(Note)
NOTE – For the time being these values are valid only for equipment of the 2 Mbit/s hierarchy.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 7

Figure 6-5 – Pulse masks of the 64 kbit/s codirectional interface
8 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

The return loss at the output port should have the minimum values given in Table 6-2:
Table 6-2 – Digital 64 kbit/s codirectional interface output port minimum return loss
Frequency range Return loss
(kHz) (dB)
6.4 to 13 6
13 to 384 8
6.2.1.3 Specifications at the input ports

The digital signal presented at the input port shall be as defined above but modified by the
characteristics of the interconnecting pairs. The attenuation of these pairs at a frequency of 128 kHz
should be in the range 0 to 3 dB. This attenuation should take into account any losses incurred by the
presence of a digital distribution frame between the equipment.
For the jitter to be tolerated at the input port, refer to clause 7.1.1 of [ITU-T G.823].
The return loss at the input ports should have the minimum values given in Table 6-3:
Table 6-3 – Digital 64 kbit/s codirectional interface input port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
4 to 13 12
13 to 256 18
256 to 384 14
To provide nominal immunity against interference, input ports are required to meet the following
requirements:
A nominal aggregate signal, encoded as a 64 kbit/s codirectional signal and having a pulse shape as
defined in the pulse mask, shall have added to it an interfering signal with the same pulse shape as
the wanted signal. The interfering signal should have a bit rate within the limits specified in this
Recommendation, but should not be synchronous with the wanted signal. The interfering signal shall
be combined with the wanted signal in a combining network, with an overall zero loss in the signal
path and with the nominal impedance 120 ohms to give a signal-to-interference ratio of 20 dB. The
binary content of the interfering signal should comply with [ITU-T O.152] (211 – 1 bit period). No
errors shall result when the combined signal, attenuated by up to the maximum specified
interconnecting cable loss, is applied to the input port.
6.2.1.4 Grounding of screen
If the symmetrical pair is screened, the screen shall be connected to the bonding network both at the
input port and output port.
NOTE 1 – The cable routing is important if leaving the system block. Consult [ITU-T K.27] for guidance.
NOTE 2 – The use of isolation to the bonding network is for further study.
6.2.2 Electrical characteristics of the 64 kbit/s centralized clock interface
Nominal bit rate: 64 kbit/s. The tolerance is determined by the network clock stability
(see [ITU-T G.811]).
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 9

For each direction of transmission, there should be one symmetrical pair carrying the data signal.
In addition, there should be symmetrical pairs carrying the composite timing signal (64 kHz
and 8 kHz) from the central clock source to the office terminal equipment. The use of transformers is
recommended.
The data signals are coded in AMI code with a 100% duty ratio. The composite timing signals convey
the 64 kHz bit-timing information using AMI code with a 50% to 70% duty ratio and the 8 kHz
octet-phase information by introducing violations of the code rule. The structure of the signals and
their nominal phase relationships are shown in Figure 6-6.
Figure 6-6 – Signal structures of the 64-kbit/s central clock interface

at office terminal output ports
The data stream at the output ports should be timed by the leading edge of the timing pulse and the
detection instant at the input ports should be timed by the trailing edge of each timing pulse.
6.2.2.2 Characteristics at the output ports
See Table 6-4.
Table 6-4 – Digital 64 kbit/s centralized clock interface

Parameters Data Timing
Pulse shape Nominally rectangular, with rise Nominally rectangular, with rise
and fall times less than 1 s and fall times less than 1 s
Nominal test load impedance 110 ohms resistive 110 ohms resistive
Peak voltage of a "mark" (pulse) a) 1.0  0.1 V a) 1.0  0.1 V
(Note 1) b) 3.4  0.5 V b) 3.0  0.5 V
Peak value of a "space" (no pulse) a) 0  0.1 V a) 0  0.1 V
(Note 1) b) 0  0.5 V b) 0  0.5 V
Nominal pulse width a) 15.6 s a) 7.8 s
(Note 1) b) 15.6 s b) 9.8 to 10.9 s
Maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the Refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.823]
output port (Note 2)
NOTE 1 – The choice between the set of parameters a) and b) allows for different office noise
environments and different maximum cable lengths between the three involved office equipment.
NOTE 2 – For the time being, these values are valid only for equipment of the 2 Mbit/s hierarchy.
10 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

6.2.2.3 Characteristics at the input ports
The digital signals presented at the input ports should be as defined above but modified by the
characteristics of the interconnecting pairs. The varying parameters in Table 6-4 will allow typical
maximum interconnecting distances of 350 to 450 m.
6.2.2.4 Cable characteristics
The transmission characteristics of the cable to be used are subject to further study.
6.2.3 Electrical characteristics of 64 kbit/s contradirectional interface
Bit rate accuracy: 100 ppm (6.4 bit/s) or better.
For each direction of transmission there should be two symmetrical pairs of wires, one pair carrying
the data signal and the other carrying a composite timing signal (64 kHz and 8 kHz). The use of
transformers is recommended.
NOTE – If there is a national requirement to provide a separate alarm signal across the interface, this can be
done by cutting the 8 kHz timing signal for the transmission direction concerned, i.e., by inhibiting the code
violations introduced in the corresponding composite timing signal (see below).
The data signals are coded in AMI code with a 100% duty ratio. The composite timing signals convey
the 64 kHz bit-timing information using AMI code with a 50% duty ratio and the 8 kHz octet-phase
information by introducing violations of the code rule. The structures of the signals and their phase
relationships at data output ports are shown in Figure 6-7.
Figure 6-7 – Signal structures of the 64-kbit/s contradirectional

interface at data output ports
The data pulses received from the service (e.g., data or signalling) side of the interface will be
somewhat delayed in relation to the corresponding timing pulses. The detection instant for a received
data pulse on the line side (e.g., PCM) of the interface should therefore be at the leading edge of the
next timing pulse.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 11

6.2.3.2 Specifications at the output ports
See Table 6-5.
Table 6-5 – Digital 64 kbit/s contradirectional interface

Parameters Data Timing
Pulse shape (nominally All pulses of a valid signal must All pulses of a valid signal must
rectangular) conform to the mask in Figure 6-8 conform to the mask in Figure 6-9
irrespective of the polarity irrespective of the polarity
Pairs in each direction of One symmetric pair One symmetric pair
transmission
Test load impedance 120 ohms resistive 120 ohms resistive
Nominal peak voltage of a 1.0 V 1.0 V
"mark" (pulse)
Peak voltage of a "space" 0 V  0.1 V 0 V  0.1 V
(no pulse)
Nominal pulse width 15.6 s 7.8 s
Ratio of the amplitudes of 0.95 to 1.05 0.95 to 1.05
positive and negative pulses at
the centre of the pulse interval
Ratio of the widths of positive 0.95 to 1.05 0.95 to 1.05
and negative pulses at the
nominal half amplitude
Maximum peak-to-peak jitter Refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.823]
at the output port (Note)
NOTE – For the time being these values are valid only for equipment of the 2 Mbit/s hierarchy.
Figure 6-8 – Mask of the data pulse of the 64-kbit/s contradirectional interface
NOTE 1 – When one pulse is immediately followed by another pulse of the opposite polarity, the time limits
at the zero-crossing between the pulses should be ±0.8 µs.
NOTE 2 – The time instants at which a transition from one state to another in the data signal may occur are
determined by the timing signal. On the service (e.g., data or signalling) side of the interface, it is essential that
these transitions are not initiated in advance of the timing instants given by the received timing signal.
12 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 6-9 – Mask of the timing pulse of the 64-kbit/s contradirectional interface
6.2.3.3 Specifications at the input ports
The digital signals presented at the input ports should be as defined above but modified by the
characteristics of the interconnecting pairs. The attenuation of these pairs at a frequency of 32 kHz
should be in the range 0 to 3 dB. This attenuation should take into account any losses incurred by the
presence of a digital distribution frame between the equipment.
The return loss at the input ports should have the minimum values given in Table 6-5:
Table 6-5 – Digital 64 kbit/s contradirectional interface input port minimum return loss
Frequency range
(kHz) Return loss
Composite timing (dB)
Data signal
signal
1.6 to 3.2 3.2 to 6.4 12
3.2 to 64 6.4 to 128 18
64 to 96 128 to 192 14
To provide nominal immunity against interference, input ports are required to meet the following
requirement:
A nominal aggregate signal, encoded as a 64 kbit/s contradirectional signal and having a pulse shape
as defined in the pulse mask, shall have added to it an interfering signal with the same pulse shape as
the wanted signal. The interfering signal should have a bit rate within the limits specified in this
Recommendation, but should not be synchronous with the wanted signal. The interfering signal shall
be combined with the wanted signal in a combining network, with an overall zero loss in the signal
path and with the nominal impedance 120 ohms to give a signal-to-interference ratio of 20 dB. The
binary content of the interfering signal should comply with [ITU-TO.152] (211 – 1 bit period). No
errors shall result when the combined signal, attenuated by up to the maximum specified
interconnecting cable loss, is applied to the input port.
NOTE – The return loss specification applies for both the data signal and the composite timing signal input
ports.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 13

6.2.3.4 Grounding of screen
If the symmetrical pairs are screened, the screens shall be connected to the bonding network both at
the input port and the output port.
7.1 General characteristics

The digital interface signal has a nominal bit rate of 1544 kbit/s.
The 1544 kbit/s interface specification is defined in Table 7-1. All signals appearing at the 1544 kbit/s
interface shall satisfy each requirement listed.
Table 7-1 –Digital interface at 1544 kbit/s

Parameter Specification
Nominal bit rate 1544 kbit/s
Line rate accuracy In a self-timed, free running mode, the bit rate accuracy shall be 50 bits/s
(32 ppm) or better.
Line code Either 1) AMI with no more than 15 consecutive zeros, and at least N ones in
each and every time window of 8(N + 1) digit time slots (where N can range
from 1 to 23), or 2) B8ZS (Note 1).
Frame structure No frame structure is required for 1544 kbit/s transmission or higher level
multiplexing to higher level DSN signals.
Medium One balanced twisted pair shall be used for each direction of transmission.
Test load impedance A resistive test load of 100 ohms 5% shall be used at the interface for the
evaluation of pulse shape and the electrical parameters specified below.
Pulse amplitude The amplitude (Note 2) of an isolated pulse shall be between 2.4 V and 3.6 V.
Pulse shape The shape of every pulse that approximates an isolated pulse (is preceded by
four zeros and followed by one or more zeros) shall conform to the mask in
Figure 7-1. See clause 7.2 for allowable procedures to be followed in
checking conformance.
Power level For an all-one signal, the power in a 3 kHz  1 kHz band centered at 772 kHz
shall be between 12.6 dBm and 17.9 dBm. The power in a 3 kHz  1 kHz
band centered at 1544 kHz shall be at least 29 dB below that at 772 kHz.
Pulse imbalance In any window of seventeen consecutive bits, the maximum variation in pulse
amplitudes shall be less than 200 mV, and the maximum variation in pulse
widths (half amplitude) shall be less than 20 ns.
DC power There shall be no DC power applied at the interface.
Verification access Access to the signal at the interface shall be provided for verification of these
signal specifications.
NOTE 1 – B8ZS is one method of providing bit sequence independence. Bit sequence independence in
turn allows unconstrained clear channel capability. Zero Byte Time Slot Interchange (ZBTSI) is another
method of providing clear channel transmission.
NOTE 2 – While both voltage and power requirements are given to assist in qualification of signals at the
interface, the values are not equivalent. Voltage specifications are given for isolated pulses, while power
levels are specified for all-ones signal.
14 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Jitter requirements:
– for the maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the output port, refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.824];
– for the jitter to be tolerated at the input port, refer to clause 7.2.1 of [ITU-T G.824].
An isolated pulse at the 1544 kbit/s interface shall fit within the mask shown in Figure 7-1. The corner
points for this mask are shown below the figure. In this figure, the y axis shows normalized pulse
amplitude. The x axis is time measured in unit intervals. For 1544 kbit/s, the unit interval is 648 ns.
Figure 7-1 – 1544 kbit/s interface isolated pulse mask and corner points
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 15

Some 1544 kbit/s interface equipment embedded in the network may have been designed using a
different pulse mask than that in this Recommendation. Appendix I describes the earlier specification
to provide information to designers of receiving equipment on the possible range of 1544 kbit/s
signals in the network.
To accommodate signals generated by equipment predating this Recommendation, the (1544 kbit/s)
receivers should be capable of operation with a signal having a transmission rate of deviation of
200 bit/s (130 ppm) (see Appendix I for pulse characteristics of older equipment).
7.2 Pulse specification

For alternate mark inversion (AMI) coding, a pulse mask describing an isolated pulse appearing at
the interface is used. In most cases, an ideal isolated pulse can only be approximated due to line
coding constraints.
Pulse masks are shown in normalized form, with the nominal pulse amplitude shown as 1.0. In
judging conformance of an isolated pulse to the mask, it is only permissible to:
a) position the mask horizontally as needed to encompass the pulse; and
b) uniformly scale the amplitude of the isolated pulse to fit the mask.
The baseline of the signal shall coincide with the zero point of the baseline of the mask.
(The determination of the signal baseline is described in [IEC 60469-2]). Judging the conformance
of negative-going pulses shall be performed after determining the conformance of positive-going
pulses in order to maintain the signal baseline reference.
When viewing inverted negative-going pulses for 1544 kbit/s, only the horizontal positioning of the
mask to encompass the pulse is permitted. Note that pulse streams with any significant DC component
will not meet the requirements of this clause.
7.3 Eye diagrams

For signals not amenable to the use of pulse masks, another means of specifying the quality of pulses
at the interface is an eye diagram, which is formed by superimposing the waveforms of all possible
pulse sequences, including the effects of intersymbol interference. Eye diagrams are presented in
normalized form with the peak pulse amplitudes normalized to 1.0 on the vertical scale and the time
scale shown in terms of the unit interval. In judging the shape of an eye diagram, it is permissible to:
a) position the mask horizontally as needed to encompass the eye diagram; and
b) uniformly scale the amplitude of the mask as needed to encompass the eye diagram.
The baseline of the mask shall coincide with the signal baseline. The determination of signal baseline
is described in [IEC 60469-2].

Interconnection of 6312 kbit/s signals for transmission purposes is accomplished at a digital
distribution frame.
Bit rate accuracy: 30 ppm (189.4 bit/s) or better.
A pseudo-ternary code shall be used as indicated in Table 8-1.
The shape for an isolated pulse measured at the distribution frame shall fall within the mask either of
Figure 8-1 or of Figure 8-2 and meet the other requirements of Table 8-1.
16 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Table 8-1 – Digital interface at 6312 kbit/s (Note 1)
Bit rate 6312 kbit/s
Pair(s) in each direction of One symmetric pair One coaxial pair
transmission
Code B6ZS (Note 2) B8ZS (Note 2)
Test load impedance 110 ohms  5% resistive 75 ohms  5% resistive
Nominal pulse shape (Note 1) Rectangular, shaped by cable loss Rectangular
(see Figure 11) (see Figure 12)
Signal level For an all 1s pattern transmitted, the power measured in a 3 kHz
bandwidth should be as follows:
3156 kHz: 0.2 to 7.3 dBm 3156 kHz: 6.2 to 13.3 dBm
6312 kHz: −20 dBm or less 6312 kHz: −14 dBm or less
NOTE 1 – The pulse mask for 2nd order digital interface is shown in Figures 8-1 and 8-2.
NOTE 2 – See Annex A.
The voltage within a time slot containing a zero (space) shall be no greater than either the value
produced in that time slot by other pulses (marks) within the mask of Figure 11, or 0.1 of the peak
pulse (mark) amplitude, whichever is greater in magnitude.
– For the maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the output port, refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.824];
– For the jitter to be tolerated at the input port, refer to clause 7.2.2 of [ITU-T G.824].
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 17

Figure 8-1 – Pulse mask for the symmetric pair interface at 6312 kbit/s
Figure 8-2 – Pulse mask for the coaxial pair interface at 6312 kbit/s
9 Interface at 32 064 kbit/s

Interconnection of 32 064 kbit/s signals for transmission purposes is accomplished at a digital
distribution frame.
Nominal bit rate: 32 064 kbit/s.
18 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Bit rate accuracy: 10 ppm (320.6 bit/s).
One coaxial pair shall be used for each direction of transmission.
The test load impedance shall be 75 ohms  5% resistive and the test method shall be direct.
A scrambled AMI code shall be used.
The shape for an isolated pulse measured at the point where the signal arrives at the distribution frame
shall fall within the mask in Figure 9-1.
Figure 9-1 – Pulse mask for the coaxial pair interface at 32 064 kbit/s
The voltage within a time slot containing a zero (space) shall be no greater than either the value
produced in that time slot by other pulses (marks) within the mask of Figure 9-1 or 0.1 of the peak
pulse (mark) amplitude, whichever is greater in magnitude.
For an all 1s pattern transmitted, the power measured in a 3 kHz bandwidth at the point where the
signal arrives at the distribution frame shall be as follows:
– 16 032 kHz:  5 dBm to  12 dBm;
– 32 064 kHz: at least 20 dB below the power at 16 032 kHz.
The connectors and coaxial cable pairs in the distribution frame shall be 75 ohms  5%.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 19

10 Interface at 44 736 kbit/s (E32)
44 736 kbit/s interface specification is defined in Table 10-1.
Table 10-1 – Digital interface at 44 736 kbit/s

Nominal bit rate 44 736 kbit/s
Bit rate accuracy In a self-timed, free-running mode, the bit rate accuracy shall be 895 bits/s
(20 ppm) or better.
Line code B3ZS (bipolar with three-zero substitutions)
Frame structure The signal shall have the frame structure defined in [ITU-T G.752] to ensure
transmission through all types of 44 736 kbit/s transport equipment. The frame
structure is not required for multiplexing to higher level DSN signals.
Medium One unbalanced coaxial line shall be used for each direction of transmission.
Test load impedance A resistive test load of 75 ohms  5% shall be used at the interface for the
evaluation of pulse shape and the electrical parameters specified below.
Pulse amplitude The amplitude (Note 1) of an isolated pulse shall be between 0.36 V and 0.85 V
peak.
Pulse shape The shape of every pulse that approximates an isolated pulse (is preceded by
two zeros and followed by one or more zeros) shall conform to the mask in
Figure 10-1. See clause 7.2 for allowable procedures to be followed in checking
conformance. This mask includes an allowance of 3% of the peak pulse
amplitude at any point on the mask relative to the pulse mask in the earlier
version. Equations defining the various line segments making up the mask are
listed below the figure.
Power level A wideband power measurement of an AIS signal (as defined in
[ITU-T G.704]) using a power level sensor with a working frequency range of
200 MHz shall be between −4.7dBm and +3.6 dBm, including the effects of a
range of connecting cable lengths between 68.6 meters (225 feet) and
137.2 meters (450 feet). A low-pass filter having a flat passband and cutoff
frequency of 200 MHz shall be used. The rolloff characteristics of this filter are
not important;
or
an alternate power level specification of the power of an all-ones signal (Note 2)
is useful for some equipment qualifications. It requires that the power in a
3 kHz  1 kHz band centered at 22 368 kHz be between −1.8 dBm and
+5.7 dBm. It further requires that the power in a 3 kHz  1 kHz band centered at
44 736 kHz be at least 20 dB below that at 22 368 kHz.
Pulse imbalance 1) The ratio of amplitudes of positive and negative isolated pulses shall be
between 0.90 and 1.10.
2) Positive and negative isolated pulses shall both conform to the mask of
Figure 10-1.
DC power There shall be no DC power applied at the interface.
Verification access Access to the signal at the interface shall be provided for verification of these
signal specifications.
NOTE 1 – While both voltage and power requirements are given to assist in qualification of signals at the
interface, the values are not equivalent. Voltage specifications are given for isolated pulses, while power
levels are specified for an AIS signal, or alternatively an all-ones signal.
NOTE 2 – The all-ones signal is not realizable within the frame structure specified in [ITU-T G.752], and
is not encountered in North American telecommunication networks.
20 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

All signals appearing at the 44 736 kbit/s interface shall satisfy each requirement listed.
An isolated pulse (see pulse shape in Table 10-1) at the 44 736 kbit/s interface shall fit within the
mask shown in Figure 14. Equations defining the various line segments making up the mask are listed
below the figure. In this figure, the y axis shows normalized pulse amplitude. The x axis is time
measured in unit intervals. For 44 736 kbit/s, the unit interval is 22.4 ns.
To assure proper operation of transmission facilities and higher order multiplex equipment,
all 44 736 kbit/s sources shall use the frame structured defined in [ITU-T G.752].
– for the maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the output port, refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.824];
– for the jitter to be tolerated at the input port, refer to clause 7.2.4 of [ITU-T G.824].
Figure 10-1 – 44 736 kbit/s interface isolated pulse mask and equations
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 21


Code: High density bipolar of order 3 (HDB3) (a description of this code can be found in Annex A).
11.2 Specifications at the output ports

Table 11-1 – Digital interface at 2048 kbit/s

Pulse shape All marks of a valid signal must conform with the
(nominally rectangular) mask (see Figure 11-1) irrespective of the sign. The
value V corresponds to the nominal peak value.
Pair(s) in each direction One coaxial pair One symmetrical pair
(see clause 11.4) (see clause 11.4)
Nominal peak voltage of a mark (pulse) 2.37 V 3V
Peak voltage of a space (no pulse) 0  0.237 V 0  0.3 V
Nominal pulse width 244 ns
pulses at the centre of the pulse interval
Ratio of the widths of positive and negative 0.95 to 1.05
pulses at the nominal half amplitude
Maximum peak-to-peak jitter at an output port Refer to clause 5.1 of [ITU-T G.823]
Table 11-2 – Digital interface at 2048 kbit/s output port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
51 to 102 6
102 to 3072 8
22 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 11-1 – Mask of the pulse at the 2048 kbit/s interface
11.3 Specifications at the input ports

characteristic of the interconnecting pair. The attenuation of this pair shall be assumed to follow a
f law and the loss at a frequency of 1024 kHz shall be in the range 0 to 6 dB. This attenuation should
take into account any losses incurred by the presence of a digital distribution frame between the
equipment.
The return loss at the input port should have the provisional minimum values given in Table 11-3:
Table 11-3 – Digital interface at 2048 kbit/s input port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
51 to 102 12
102 to 2048 18
2048 to 3072 14
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 23

To ensure adequate immunity against signal reflections that can arise at the interface due to
impedance irregularities at digital distribution frames and at digital output ports, input ports should
meet the following requirement:
A nominal aggregate signal, encoded into HDB3 and having a pulse shape as defined in the pulse
mask, shall have added to it an interfering signal with the same pulse shape as the wanted signal. The
interfering signal should have a bit rate within the limits specified in this Recommendation, but should
not be synchronous with the wanted signal. The interfering signal shall be combined with the wanted
signal in a combining network, with an overall zero loss in the signal path and with the nominal
impedance 75 ohms (in the case of coaxial-pair interface) or 120 Ohms (in the case of
symmetrical-pair interface), to give a signal-to-interference ratio of 18 dB. The binary content of the
interfering signal should comply with [ITU-T O.151] (215 – 1 bit period). No errors shall result when
the combined signal, attenuated by up to the maximum specified interconnecting cable loss, is applied
to the input port.
NOTE – A receiver implementation providing an adaptive rather than a fixed threshold is considered to be
more robust against reflections and should therefore be preferred.
11.4 Grounding of outer conductor or screen

The outer conductor of the coaxial pair or the screen of the symmetrical pair shall be connected to the
bonding network both at the input port and the output port.
NOTE 2 – The direct connection of the outer conductors of coaxial cables to the bonding network at the
transmit and receive interfaces may, because of differences in earth potential at each end of the cable, result in
unwanted current flowing in the outer conductor, through connectors and through the receiver input circuitry.
This may result in errors or even permanent damage. To prevent this problem, DC isolation may be introduced
between the outer conductor and bonding network at the receive interface. The method of DC isolation must
not compromise the EMC compliance of the equipment and the overall installation.

Code: High density bipolar of order 3 HDB3 (a description of this code can be found in Annex A).
12.2 Specification at the output ports


Pulse shape All marks of a valid signal must conform with the
(nominally rectangular) mask (Figure 12-1) irrespective of the sign.
Pair(s) in each direction One coaxial pair (see clause12.4)
Nominal peak voltage of a mark (pulse) 2.37 V
Peak voltage of a space (no pulse) 0 V  0.237 V
24 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Nominal pulse width 59 ns
pulses at the centre of the pulse interval
Ratio of widths of positive and negative pulses at 0.95 to 1.05
the nominal half amplitude
Figure 12-1 – Pulse mask at the 8448 kbit/s interface
Table 12-2 – Digital interface at 8448 kbit/s output port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
211 to 422 6
422 to 12 672 8
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 25

characteristics of the interconnecting pairs. The attenuation of this pair shall be assumed to follow a
f law and the loss at a frequency of 4224 kHz shall be in the range 0 to 6 dB. This attenuation should
take into account any losses incurred by the presence of a digital distribution frame between the
equipment.
Table 12-3 – Digital interface at 8448 kbit/s input port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
211 to 422 12
422 to 8448 18
8448 to 12 672 14
impedance irregularities at digital distribution frames and at digital output ports, input ports should
meet the following requirement:
mask shall have added to it an interfering signal with the same pulse shape as the wanted signal. The
interfering signal should have a bit rate within the limits specified in this Recommendation, but should
impedance 75 ohms to give a signal-to-interference ratio of 20 dB. The binary content of the
to the input port.
12.4 Grounding of outer conductor

The outer conductor of the coaxial pair shall be connected to the bonding network at the input port
and the output port.

Bit rate accuracy: 20 ppm (688 bit/s).
Code: HDB3 (a description of this code can be found in Annex A).
26 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

13.2 Specification at the output ports

Pulse shape (nominally rectangular) All marks of a valid signal must conform with the
mask (see Figure 13-1), irrespective of the sign.
Pair(s) in each direction One coaxial pair (see clause 13.4)
Nominal pulse width 14.55 ns
pulses at the center of a pulse interval
Ratio of the widths of positive and negative pulses 0.95 to 1.05
at the nominal half amplitude
Figure 13-1 – Pulse mask at the 34 368 kbit/s interface
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 27

The return loss at the output port should have the minimum values shown in Table 13-2:
Table 13-2 – Digital interface at 34 368 kbit/s output port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
860 to 1720 6
1720 to 51 550 8

characteristics of the interconnecting pair. The attenuation of this cable shall be assumed to follow
approximately a f law (i.e., the attenuation increases as the square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx]
and [b-Wiggington] for details) and the loss at a frequency of 17 184 kHz shall be in the range 0 to
12 dB.
Table 13-3 – Digital interface at 34 368 kbit/s input port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
860 to 1720 12
1720 to 34 368 18
34 368 to 51 550 14
impedance irregularities at digital distribution frames and at digital output ports, input ports are
required to meet the following requirement:
mask shall have added to it an interfering signal with the same pulse shape as the wanted signal. The
interfering signal should have a bit rate within limits specified in this Recommendation, but should
impedance 75 ohms to give a signal-to-interference ratio of 20 dB. The binary content of the
to the input port.

The outer conductor of the coaxial pair shall be connected to the bonding network both at the input
port and the output port.
28 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)


Code: Coded mark inversion (CMI) (a description of this code can be found in Annex A).

The specifications at the output ports are given in Table 14-1 and Figures 14-1 and 14-2. See also
Note 6 of clause 1.
NOTE – A method based on the measurement of the levels of the fundamental frequency component, the
second (and possibly the third) harmonic of a signal corresponding to binary all 0s and binary all 1s, is
considered to be a perfectly adequate method of checking that the requirements of Table 14-1 have been met.
The relevant values of the harmonic components are under study.

Pulse shape Nominally rectangular and conforming to the
masks shown in Figures 14-1 and 14-2
Pair(s) in each direction One coaxial pair
Peak-to-peak voltage 1  0.1 V
Rise time between 10% and 90% amplitudes of the 2 ns
measured steady state amplitude
Transition timing tolerance (referred to the mean Negative transitions: 0.1 ns
value of the 50% amplitude points of negative Positive transitions at unit interval boundaries:
transitions) 0.5 ns
Positive transitions at mid-interval: 0.35 ns
Return loss 15 dB over frequency range 7 MHz to 210 MHz
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 29

Figure 14-1 – Mask of a pulse corresponding to a binary 0 at the 139 264 kbit/s interface
NOTE 1 – The maximum "stead state" amplitude should not exceed the 0.55 V limit. Overshoots and other
transients are permitted to fall into the dotted area, bounded by the amplitude levels 0.55 V, provided that they
do not exceed the steady state level by more than 0.05 V. The possibility of relaxing the amount by which the
overshoot may exceed the steady state level is under study.
NOTE 2 – For all measurements using these masks, the signal should be AC coupled, using a capacitor of not
less than 0.01 µF, to the input of the oscilloscope used for measurements.
The nominal zero level for both masks should be aligned with the oscilloscope trace with no input signal. With
the signal then applied, the vertical position of the trace can be adjusted with the objective of meeting the limits
of the masks. Any such adjustment should be the same for both masks and should not exceed ±0.05 V. This
may be checked by removing the input signal again and verifying that the trace lies within ±0.05 V of the
nominal zero level of the masks.
NOTE 3 – Each pulse in a coded pulse sequence should meet the limits of the relevant mask, irrespective of
the state of the preceding or succeeding pulses, with both pulse masks fixed in the same relation to a common
timing reference, i.e., with their nominal start and finish edges coincident.
The masks allow for HF jitter caused by intersymbol interference in the output stage, but not for jitter present
in the timing signal associated with the source of the interface signal.
When using an oscilloscope technique to determine pulse compliance with the mask, it is important that
successive traces of the pulses overlay in order to suppress the effects of low frequency jitter. This can be
accomplished by several techniques (e.g., a) triggering the oscilloscope on the measured waveform or b)
providing both the oscilloscope and the pulse output circuits with the same clock signal).
These techniques require further study.
NOTE 4 – For the purpose of these masks, the rise time and decay time should be measured between −0.4 V
and 0.4 V, and should not exceed 2 ns.
30 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 14-2– Mask of a pulse corresponding to a binary 1 at the 139 264 kbit/s interface
NOTE 5 – The inverse pulse will have the same characteristics, noting that the timing tolerance at the level of
the negative and positive transitions are ±0.1 ns and ±0.5 ns respectively.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 31

The digital signal presented at the input port should conform to Table 14-1 and Figures 14-1 and 14-2
modified by the characteristics of the interconnecting coaxial pair.
The attenuation of the coaxial pair should be assumed to follow an approximate f law (i.e., the
attenuation increases as the square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx] and [b-Wiggington] for details)
and to have a maximum insertion loss of 12 dB at a frequency of 70 MHz.
The return loss characteristics should be the same as that specified for the output port.

15 2048 kHz synchronization interface (T12)

The use of this interface is recommended for all applications where it is required to synchronize a
digital equipment by an external 2048 kHz synchronization signal.

For general characteristics, see Table 15-1; for frequency accuracy requirements, see Table 15-2.
See also Note 6 of clause 1.
Table 15-1 – Digital 2048 kHz clock interface

Pulse shape The signal must conform with the mask (Figure 15-1).
The value V corresponds to the maximum peak value.
The value V1 corresponds to the minimum peak value.
Type of pair Coaxial pair Symmetrical pair
(see Note in clause 13.4) (see Note in clause 13.4)
Maximum peak voltage (V) 1.5 V 1.9 V
Minimum peak voltage (V1) 0.75 V 1.0 V
Maximum jitter at an output port Refer to Table 5 in [ITU-T G.823] (Note)
NOTE – This value is valid for network timing synchronization equipment. Other values may be specified
for timing output ports of digital links carrying the network timing.
32 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 15-1 – Wave shape at an output port of the 2048 kHz synchronization interface
Table 15-2 – Digital 2048 kHz clock – Frequency accuracy at output ports
Output interface Required accuracy
Primary reference clock – PRC Refer to [ITU-T G.811]
Synchronization supply unit – SSU Refer to [ITU-T G.812]
SDH equipment clock – SEC 4.6 ppm; refer also to [ITU-T G.813]
Synchronization interfaces used in legacy 50 ppm
applications (e.g., PDH)

The signal presented at the input ports should be as defined above but modified by the characteristics
of the interconnecting pair.
The attenuation of this pair shall be assumed to follow a f law (i.e., the attenuation increases as the
square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx] and [b-Wiggington] for details) and the loss at a frequency
of 2048 kHz should be in the range 0 to 6 dB (minimum value). This attenuation should take into
account any losses incurred by the presence of a digital distribution frame between the equipment.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 33

The input port shall be able to tolerate a digital signal with these electrical characteristics but
modulated by jitter. See Table 15-3.
The return loss at 2048 kHz should be 15 dB.
Table 15-3 – Digital 2048 kHz clock – Noise tolerance at input ports
Input interface Jitter tolerance
Primary reference clock – PRC Not applicable
Synchronization supply unit – SSU Refer to [ITU-T G.812]
SDH equipment clock – SEC Refer to [ITU-T G.813]
Synchronization interfaces used in legacy For further study
applications (e.g., PDH)
15.4 Grounding of outer conductor or screen

The outer conductor of the coaxial pair or the screen of the symmetrical pair shall be connected to the
bonding network both at the input port and the output port.
16 Interface at 97 728 kbit/s

Interconnection of 97 728 kbit/s signals for transmission purposes is accomplished at a digital
distribution frame.
One coaxial pair shall be used for each direction of transmission.
The test load impedance shall be 75 ohms  5% resistive.
A scrambled AMI code1 shall be used.
The shape for the 97 728 kbit/s output port shall fall within the mask in Figure 16-1. The shape at the
point where the signal arrives at the distribution frame will be modified by the characteristics of the
interconnecting cable.
1 An AMI code is scrambled by a five-stage reset-type scrambler with the primitive polynomial of x5  x3  1.
34 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 16-1 – Pulse mask at the 97 728 kbit/s output port
The connectors and cable pairs in the distribution frame shall be 75 ohms 5%.
17 Interface at 155 520 kbit/s – STM-1 interface (ES1)

Code: Coded mark inversion (CMI) (a description of this code can be found in Annex A).

The specifications at the output ports are given in Table 17-1 and in Figures 17-1 and 17-2. See also
Note 6 of clause 1.
NOTE – A method based on the measurement of the levels of the fundamental frequency component, the
second (and possibly the third) harmonic of a signal corresponding to the binary all 0s and binary all 1s, is
considered to be a perfectly adequate method of checking that the requirements of Table 17-1 have been met.
The relevant values of the harmonic components are under study.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 35

Pulse shape Nominally rectangular and conforming to the masks
shown in Figures 17-1 and 17-2
Rise time between 10% and 90% amplitudes of 2 ns
the measured steady state amplitude
Transition timing tolerance referred to the mean Negative transitions: 0.1 ns
value of the 50% amplitude points of negative Positive transitions at unit interval boundaries: 0.5 ns
transitions Positive transitions at mid-unit intervals: 0.35 ns
Return loss 15 dB over frequency range 8 MHz to 240 MHz

The digital signal presented at the input port should conform to Table 17-1 and Figures 17-1 and 17-2
modified by the characteristics of the interconnecting coaxial pair.
The attenuation of the coaxial pair should be assumed to follow an approximate f law (i.e., the
attenuation increases as the square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx] and [b-Wiggington ] for details)
and to have a maximum insertion loss of 12.7 dB at a frequency of 78 MHz.
For the jitter to be tolerated at the input port, refer to clause 6.1.2.1 of [ITU-T G.825].
The return loss characteristics should be the same as that specified for the output port.
17.4 Specifications at the cross-connect points

– Signal power level: A wideband power measurement using a power level sensor with a
working frequency range of at least 300 MHz shall be between −2.5 and 4.3 dBm. There
shall be no DC power transmitted across the interface.
– Eye diagram: An eye diagram mask based on the maximum and minimum power levels given
above is shown in Figure 17-3 where the voltage amplitude has been normalized to one, and
the time scale is specified in terms of the pulse repetition period T. The corner points of the
eye diagram are shown in Figure 17-3.
– Termination: One coaxial cable shall be used for each direction of transmission.
– Impedance: A resistive test load of 75 ohms 5% shall be used at the interface for the
evaluation of the eye diagram and the electrical parameters of the signal.
36 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 17-1 – Mask of a pulse corresponding to a binary 0 (at the 155 520 kbit/s interface)
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 37

Figure 17-2 – Mask of a pulse corresponding to a binary 1
(at the 155 520 kbit/s interface)
38 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 17-3 – STM-1 interface eye diagram

18 Interface at 51 840 kbit/s (STM-0 interface)

Code – Three line codes may be used:
a) Coded mark inversion (CMI);
b) High density bipolar of order 2 (HDB2) code;
c) High density bipolar of order 3 (HDB3) code.
A description of these codes can be found in Annex A.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 39

The specifications at the output ports are given in Table 18-1. See also Note 6 of clause 1.

Parameter Specifications
Maximum peak-to-peak jitter at an 1.5 UIpp in the bandwidth from 100 Hz to 400 kHz
output port 0.15 UIpp in the bandwidth from 20 kHz to 400 kHz
NOTE 1 – The high-pass measurement filters have a first-order
characteristic and a roll-off of −20 dB/decade. The low-pass
measurement filters have a maximally flat, Butterworth
characteristic and a roll-off of −60 dB/decade.
NOTE 2 –The values of jitter for CMI coded STM-0 signals
are provisional and should be studied.
If HDB2 or HDB3 codes are used:
Pulse shape Nominally rectangular and conforming to the mask
(Figure 18-1) irrespective of the sign. The value V corresponds
to the nominal peak value.
Nominal pulse width 9.65 ns
Ratio of the amplitudes of positive and 0.95 to 1.05
negative pulses at the center of a pulse
interval
Ratio of the widths of positive and 0.95 to 1.05
negative pulses at the nominal half
amplitude
If CMI code is used:
Pulse shape Nominally rectangular and conforming to the masks shown in
Figures 18-2 and 18-3
Rise time between 10% and 90% 6 ns
amplitudes of the measured steady state
amplitude
Transition timing tolerance referred to Negative transitions: 0.3 ns
the mean value of the 50% amplitude Positive transitions at unit interval boundaries: 1.5 ns
points of negative transitions Positive transitions at mid-unit intervals: 1 ns
40 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure 18-1 – Pulse mask at the 51 840 kbit/s interface (if HDB2 or HDB3 codes are used)
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 41

less than 0.01µF, to the input of the oscilloscope used for measurements.
42 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

less than 0.01µF, to the input of the oscilloscope used for measurements.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 43

Table 18-2 – Digital interface at 51 840 kbit/s output port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
1296 to 2592 6
2592 to 77 760 8

characteristics of the interconnecting pair. The attenuation of this cable shall be assumed to follow
approximately a f law (i.e., the attenuation increases as the square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx]
and [b-Wiggington] for details) and the loss at a frequency of 25 920 kHz shall be in the range from
0 to 12 dB.
Table 18-3 – Digital interface at 51 840 kbit/s input port minimum return loss
(kHz) (dB)
1296 to 2592 12
2592 to 51 840 18
51 840 to 77 760 14
The jitter to be tolerated at the input port expressed in peak-to-peak sinusoidal phase amplitude, shall
exceed the values shown in Figure 18-4:
Figure 18-4 – 51 840 kbit/s input jitter tolerance limit

NOTE – The values of jitter for CMI coded STM-0 signals are provisional and should be studied.
44 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

18.4 Specifications at the cross-connect points
– Signal power level
A wideband power measurement using a power level sensor with a working frequency range
of at least four times the bit rate frequency shall be between −2.7 and +4.7 dBm, accounting
for both transmitter variations and a range of connecting cable lengths between 68.6 m and
137 m. A filter with a characteristic equivalent to a Butterworth low pass filter with a cut-off
frequency of 207.360 MHz shall be used.
There shall be no DC power transmitted across the interface.
– Eye diagram
An eye diagram mask based on the maximum and minimum power levels and cable lengths
given above is shown in Figure 18-5 where the voltage amplitude has been normalized to
one, and the time scale is specified in terms of the unit interval T. Exclusionary regions are
shown as shaded areas on the figure. The corner points of these regions are listed below the
figure.
Figure 18-5 – STM-0 interface eye diagram
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 45

19 Time synchronization interfaces defined in ITU-T G.8271/Y.1366
19.1 ITU-T V.11-based time/phase distribution interface

The ITU-T V.11-based time/phase distribution interface provides an indication of the time of day and
the one pulse per second (1PPS) signal as a phase indication. The expected physical connector is
commonly referred to as the RJ-45 connector [IEC 60603-7].
The 1PPS time/phase interface uses a point-to-point [ITU-T V.11] interface as specified in
[ITU-T V.11] with an additional requirement on the rise and fall times of the 1PPS signal. This is
needed to provide the accuracy required for the 1PPS signal.
This interface can be used for time synchronization distribution as well as for time measurement.
The interface is a balanced interface that can tolerate significant common mode noise.
The 1PPS interface consists of a balanced 100 ohm 1PPS differential signal that can be used to
connect to another timing device or to measurement equipment.
The following mapping of signals is defined for use with the RJ-45 connector:
Two modes are supported:
1) Time input mode (the unit receives a time synchronization signal from an external time sync
master).
2) Time output mode (the unit outputs a time synchronization signal towards an interface). The
receiver of this time sync signal would be a unit operating in time input mode. This could be
either test equipment or a time slave clock.
In the event that both time input and time output modes are required at the same time, two RJ-45
connectors are required.
Table 19-1 – RJ-45 connector operating in time input mode

PIN Signal name Signal definition
1 Reserved For further study
3 1PPS_IN– Rx 1PPS negative voltage
4 GND [ITU-T V.11] signal ground
5 User defined Note
6 1PPS_IN+ Rx 1PPS positive voltage
7 RX– Rx TOD time message negative voltage
8 RX+ Rx TOD time message positive voltage
NOTE – One possible use of Pin 5 may be ground (GND). An alternative use for this pin could be
considered when connected to GNSS receivers. This is out of the scope of this Recommendation. If the
signal is not used, it is recommended to pull it down with a resistor of 10 kΩ.
46 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Table 19-2 – RJ-45 connector operating in time output mode
PIN Signal name Signal definition
3 1PPS_OUT– Tx 1PPS negative voltage
4 GND ITU-T V.11 signal ground
5 GND (Note) ITU-T V.11 signal ground
6 1PPS_OUT+ Tx 1PPS positive voltage
7 TX– Tx TOD time message negative voltage
8 TX+ Tx TOD time message positive voltage
NOTE – The time interface discussed in this Recommendation generally concerns transport equipment.
For the time output mode interface of a GNSS receiver, similar considerations concerning Pin 5 to those
made in the Note to Table 19-1 would be required.
If only one mode is required, a single RJ-45 can be used and configured as time input or time output
mode:
Table 19-3 – RJ-45 connector when only one mode is used

Signal name – Signal name –
PIN Time input Time output Signal definition
configuration configuration
1 Reserved (Note 1) Reserved For further study
2 Reserved (Note 1) Reserved For further study
3 1PPS_IN– 1PPS_OUT– Rx or Tx 1PPS negative voltage
4 GND GND ITU-T V.11 signal ground
5 User defined (Note 2) GND Note 2
6 1PPS_IN+ 1PPS_OUT+ Rx or Tx 1PPS positive voltage
7 RX– TX– Rx or Tx TOD time message negative voltage
8 RX+ TX+ Rx or Tx TOD time message positive voltage
NOTE 1 – The use of Pin 1 and Pin 2 is not yet defined. They may be used for the measurement of 1PPS
signal delay or may be used for configuring a GNSS receiver unit. Pin 1 and Pin 2 may be differential
signals.
NOTE 2 – One possible use of Pin 5 in the input configuration may be GND. Alternative usage could be
considered when connected to GPS receivers. This is out of the scope of this Recommendation. If the
signal is not used, it is recommended to pull it down with a resistor of 10 kΩ.
19.1.1 1PPS rise and fall time specification

The maximum rise and fall times of the 1PPS_OUT signal pair at the output port are more stringent
than those specified in clause 5.3 of [ITU-T V.11]. Values are for further study. The positive pulse
width must be between 100 ns and 500 ms.
19.1.2 Signal timing
The time master must generate a positive pulse on the 1PPS signal such that the midpoint of the
leading edge of the differential [ITU-T V.11] signal at the edge of the chassis occurs at the change of
the one-second time of the system.
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 47

The cable delays of the 1PPS signal must be controlled and compensated if needed in the receiving
side so as to meet the requirements stated in Table 19-4. This may be done either manually by the
network operator or automatically by the equipment.
Table 19-4 – Timing budget for time distribution of the 1PPS interface
Parameter Tolerance Reference point
1PPS signal generation accuracy of the ±10 ns
timing master
Cable delay compensation accuracy (Note 1) ±10 ns From connector to connector
with an [ITU-T V.11] pulse
1PPS signal detection accuracy at the slave Note 2
NOTE 1 – The applicable cable length is for further study (values between 3 m and 1 000 m have been
proposed; contributions are invited).
NOTE 2 – A range between 10 and 30 ns has been mentioned, and 30 ns are agreed as worst case.
NOTE 3 – The specification of the rise and fall time is for further study.
19.2 1PPS 50  phase-synchronization measurement interface

The 1PPS interface consists of an unbalanced 50 ohm 1PPS signal that can be used to connect to
measurement equipment.
NOTE – The unbalanced 50 ohm 1PPS measurement output may be used for phase distribution assuming that
the distribution interface complies with the limits set in Table 19-4. If time distribution is required, an
additional interface is required in order to transfer the corresponding time synchronization information. This
additional interface is out of the scope of this Recommendation.
As an example, a 1PPS interface consisting of an unbalanced 50 ohm signal has been used as the
distribution interface in some legacy equipment that only required phase/frequency synchronization.
19.2.1 Performance specification
This signal indicates the significant event occurring on the midpoint of the leading edge of the signal.
The system must generate a positive pulse on the 1PPS signal such that the midpoint of the leading
edge of the signal at the edge of the chassis occurs at the one second roll-over of the system.
The timing specification for the 1PPS measurement interface is shown in Table 19.5.
This interface is intended to be used with an impedance controlled 50 ohm cable with a maximum
length of three metres to keep the influence of delay and rise time low.
Table 19-5 – Timing specification for the 1PPS measurement interface

Parameter Tolerance Comment
10-90% rise times of the 1PPS pulse <5 ns Measured at 1PPS interface
Pulse width 100 ns to 500 ms Measured at 1PPS interface
Maximum cable length 3m Due to delay and rise time performance
NOTE – When the 1PPS output is configured with a simple 50/50 duty cycle, then some allowance to
slightly exceed the 500 ms pulse width is permitted. The actual value for this allowance is for further
study; a value of 100 ns has been proposed. (As an example, this allowance is to accommodate deviations
from precisely 500 ms pulse width that may be due to rise/fall times of clock edges or a duty cycle error of
the internal high speed clock that is divided down to create the 1PPS output).
48 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

19.2.2 Voltage levels
Table 19-6 gives voltage levels for the interface for information.
Table 19-6 – Output voltage levels

Interface VOH (max) VOH (min) VOL (max) VOL (min)
1PPS (50 ohm single-ended) 5.5 V 1.2 V 0.3 V −0.3 V
NOTE – Measured with a 50 ohm load to ground.
20 10 MHz synchronization interface

The use of this interface is recommended for all applications where it is required to synchronize
digital equipment by an external 10 MHz synchronization signal.

The 10 MHz interface consists of an unbalanced 50 ohm 10 MHz signal that can be used to connect
to measurement equipment or other equipment using this synchronization signal.
For general characteristics, see Table 20-1; for frequency accuracy requirements, see Table 20-2.
See also Note 6 of clause 1.
Table 20-1 – 10 MHz synchronization interface

Pulse shape The signal must conform to the mask (Figure 20-1).
The value V corresponds to the maximum peak value relative to M.
The value V1 corresponds to the minimum peak value relative to M.
Maximum peak voltage (V) 2.5 V
Minimum peak voltage (V1) 0.25 V (Note 4)
Offset voltage (M) 0
Transition region factor (N) 30
Maximum jitter at an output port (Note 1)
NOTE 1 – For a primary reference 10 MHz output interface of the source clock of the synchronization
network, refer to [ITU-T G.811] or [ITU-T G.8272]. Other cases are for further study.
NOTE 2 – M is set to 0; non-zero values are for further study.
NOTE 3 – N is set to accommodate both sinusoidal and square-wave signals. Equipment can generate any
signal that fits within the mask.
NOTE 4 – For optimal signal characteristics to be delivered over a cable to the input port, a minimum
peak voltage at the output port that is greater than or equal to 0.5 V is recommended. While some
equipment designs can accommodate a smaller signal, a stronger signal assures a wide range of
equipment, including legacy equipment, can be accommodated.
Table 20-2 – 10 MHz synchronization interface – Frequency accuracy at output ports

Output interface Required accuracy
Primary reference clock – PRC Refer to [ITU-T G.811]
Primary reference time clock - PRTC Refer to [ITU-T G.8272]
Others For further study
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 49

Figure 20-1 – Wave shape at an output port of the 10 MHz synchronization interface

The signal presented at the input ports should be as defined above but modified by the characteristics
of the interconnecting cable. The attenuation of this cable shall be assumed to follow a f law
(i.e., the attenuation increases as the square root of frequency; see [b-Bell Tx] and [b-Wiggington]
for details); the loss at a frequency of 10 MHz should be minimized. The waveshape distortion caused
by the cable should also be minimized. This can be achieved by the use of short cable runs, by the
use of a low-loss, low-distortion cable, by the use of a strong signal at the originating output port, or
by a combination of the above. The maximum allowed attenuation is for further study.
The return loss at 10 MHz should be ≥15 dB.
The input port shall be able to tolerate a signal with these electrical characteristics but modulated by
jitter. See Table 20-3.
Table 20-3 – 10 MHz synchronization interface – Noise tolerance at input ports

Input interface Jitter tolerance
Enhanced primary reference time clock – ePRTC For further study
Others For further study
50 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Annex A
Definition of codes
(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)
This annex defines the modified alternate mark inversion codes (see [ITU-T G.701], item 9005)
whose use is specified in this Recommendation.
In these codes, binary 1 bits are generally represented by alternate positive and negative pulses, and
binary 0 bits by spaces. Exceptions, as specified for the individual codes, are made when strings of
successive 0 bits occur in the binary signal.
In the definitions below, B represents an inserted pulse conforming to the AMI rule (ITU-T G.701,
item 9004), and V represents an AMI violation (ITU-T G.701, item 9007).
The encoding of binary signals in accordance with the rules given in this annex includes frame
alignment bits, etc.
A.1 Definition of B3ZS (also designated HDB2) and HDB3

Each block of 3 (or 4) successive zeros is replaced by 00V (or 000V respectively) or B0V (B00V).
The choice of 00V (000V) or B0V (B00V) is made so that the number of B pulses between
consecutive V pulses is odd. In other words, successive V pulses are of alternate polarity so that no
DC component is introduced.
A.2 Definition of B6ZS and B8ZS

Each block of 6 (or 8) successive zeros is replaced by 0VB0VB (or 000VB0VB respectively).
A.3 Definition of CMI

CMI is a 2-level non-return-to-zero code in which binary 0 is coded so that both amplitude levels,
A1 and A2, are attained consecutively, each for half a unit time interval (T/2).
Binary 1 is coded by either of the amplitude levels A1 or A2, for one full unit time interval (T), in
such a way that the level alternates for successive binary 1s.
An example is given in Figure A.1.
NOTE 1 – For binary 0, there is always a positive transition at the midpoint of the binary unit time interval.
NOTE 2 – For binary 1:
a) there is a positive transition at the start of the binary unit time interval if in the preceding time interval
the level was A1;
b) there is a negative transition at the start of the binary unit time interval if the last binary 1 was encoded
by level A2.
Figure A.1 – Example of CMI coded binary signal
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 51

Appendix I
1544 kbit/s specification in the 1991 version of this Recommendation

(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)
I.1 General
This appendix describes an earlier 1544 kbit/s interface that included a pulse mask with substantially
greater allowance for overshoot on the trailing edge of the pulse than the current Recommendation.
While the current pulse mask has been socialized in a number of network compatibility publications
since the late 1970s, equipment designed to the earlier specification may be widespread in the
network. Hence, designers of equipment need to be aware of the nature of signals that may be
delivered to that equipment.
I.2 Interface specification

Most of the interface parameters in Table 7-1, including power levels and pulse amplitudes, apply to
the older interface. One major difference is in the line rate tolerance. The older specification calls for
a 130 ppm tolerance, reflecting an earlier, now obsolete, technology for line driver circuitry.
I.3 Pulse mask

Figure I.1 is the 1544 kbit/s pulse mask corresponding to the earlier interface specification. It is based
on equipment generating pulses with considerably more overshoot on the trailing edge that is
currently allowed in the Recommendation.
52 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Figure I.1 – Obsolete 1544 kbit/s interface isolated pulse mask and corner points
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 53

Appendix II
64 and 6312 kHz synchronization interface specification for use in Japan

II.1 64 kHz synchronization interface

The 64 kHz clock signals from the clock supply equipment have the frequencies of:
a) 64 kHz + 8 kHz or
b) 64 kHz + 8 kHz + 400 Hz.
Those signals consist of AMI code with:
a) an 8 kHz bipolar violation, or
b) an 8 kHz bipolar violation removed at every 400 Hz.
The signal structures of 64 kHz clock signals are illustrated in Figures II.1 and II.2.
Figure II.1 – Signal structure of 64 kHz clock interface

with a frequency of 64 kHz + 8 kHz
Figure II.2 – Signal structure of 64 kHz clock interface

with a frequency of 64 kHz + 8 kHz + 400 Hz
54 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

The specifications of 64 kHz clock signals at input port and output port are shown in Tables II.1
and II.2, respectively.
Table II.1 – Specification of 64 kHz clock signal at input port

Frequency a) 64 kHz + 8 kHz or
b) 64 kHz + 8 kHz + 400 Hz
a) AMI with 8 kHz bipolar violation;
b) AMI with 8 kHz bipolar violation removed at every 400 Hz
Alarm condition Alarm should not be occurred against the amplitude ranged
0.63-1.1 V0-P
Table II.2 – Specification of 64 kHz clock signal at output port

Frequency a) 64 kHz + 8 kHz or
b) 64 kHz + 8 kHz + 400 Hz
Load impedance 110 ohms resistive
Transmission media Symmetric pair cable
Pulse width (FWHM) 7.8  0.78 s
Amplitude 1 V0-P  0.1 V
II.2 6312 kHz synchronization interface

Figure II.3 shows the waveform of 6312 kHz clock signal. The specifications of 6312 kHz clock
signals at input port and output port are shown in Tables II.3 and II.4, respectively.
Figure II.3 – Waveform of 6312 kHz clock signal
Table II.3 – Specification of 6312 kHz clock signal at input port

Frequency 6312 kHz
Signal format Sinusoidal wave
Alarm condition Alarm should not be occurred against the amplitude ranged
−16 dBm to +3 dBm
Table II.4 – Specification of 6312 kHz clock signal at output port

Frequency 6312 kHz
Load impedance 75 ohms resistive
Transmission media Coaxial pair cable
Amplitude 0 dBm  3 dB
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 55

Appendix III
3152 kbit/s interface specification for use in North America

(From Annex A – [ITU-T G.931)

For specifications at the ports, see Table III.1.
Table III.1 – Digital interface at 3152 kbit/s

Nominal bit rate 3152 kbit/s
Bit rate accuracy 30 ppm (95 bit/s)
Test load impedance 100 ohms  5% resistive
Line code AMI (Notes 1 and 2)
Pulse shape Nominal rectangular
Pair(s) in each direction of transmission One balanced twisted pair (Note 3)
Nominal amplitude 3.0 V (Note 4)
Width (at 50% amplitude) 159  30 ns
Rise and fall times (20-80% of amplitude) 50 ns (difference between rise and fall times shall be
0  20 ns)
Signal power (all is signal, measured over 16.53  2 dBm [ratio of (power in + pulses) to
10 MHz bandwidth) (power in – pulses) shall be 0  0.5 dB]
NOTE 1 – An AMI code shall be used. For definitions of AMI code; see Annex A/[ITU-T G.703].
NOTE 2 – In order to guarantee adequate timing information, the minimum pulse density taken over any
130 consecutive time slots must be 1 in 8. The design intent is that the long-term pulse density be equal to
0.5. In order to provide adequate jitter performance for systems, timing extracting circuits should have a
Q of 1200  200 that is representable by a single tuned network.
NOTE 3 – One balanced twisted pair shall be used for each direction of transmission. The distribution
frame jack connected to a pair bringing signals to the distribution frame is termed the in-jack.
The distribution frame jack connected to a pair carrying signals away from the distribution frame is termed
the out-jack.
NOTE 4 – The peak-to-peak voltage within a time slot containing a zero (space) produced by other pulses
meeting the specifications of Table III.1 should not exceed 0.1 of the peak pulse amplitude.
Requirements for the maximum peak-to-peak jitter at the output port and the jitter to be tolerated at
the input port are for further study.
56 Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016)

Bibliography
[b-ITU-T G.733] Recommendation ITU-T G.733 (1988), Characteristics of primary PCM

multiplex equipment operating at 1544 kbit/s.
[b-ITU-T G.783] Recommendation ITU-T G.783 (2006), Characteristics of synchronous
digital hierarchy (SDH) equipment functional blocks.
[b-ITU-R F.596-1] Recommendation ITU-R F.596-1 (1982-1994), Interconnection of digital
radio-relay systems.
[b-Bell Tx] Transmission Systems for Communications, Bell Telephone Laboratories,
Fifth Edition, 1982, Chapter 5, Section 5.1, p.83.
[b-Wiggington] R.L. Wiggington and N.S. Nahman (1957), Transient Analysis of Coaxial
Cable Considering Skin Effect, Proceedings of the IRE, February,
pp. 166-174, see Eq. (14).
Rec. ITU-T G.703 (04/2016) 57

SERIES OF ITU-T RECOMMENDATIONS
Series A Organization of the work of ITU-T

Series D General tariff principles
Series E Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors
Series F Non-telephone telecommunication services
Series G Transmission systems and media, digital systems and networks

Series H Audiovisual and multimedia systems
Series I Integrated services digital network

Series J Cable networks and transmission of television, sound programme and other multimedia
signals
Series K Protection against interference
Series L Environment and ICTs, climate change, e-waste, energy efficiency; construction, installation
and protection of cables and other elements of outside plant
Series M Telecommunication management, including TMN and network maintenance
Series N Maintenance: international sound programme and television transmission circuits
Series O Specifications of measuring equipment
Series P Terminals and subjective and objective assessment methods

Series Q Switching and signalling
Series R Telegraph transmission

Series S Telegraph services terminal equipment
Series T Terminals for telematic services

Series U Telegraph switching
Series V Data communication over the telephone network

Series X Data networks, open system communications and security
Series Y Global information infrastructure, Internet protocol aspects and next-generation networks,
Internet of Things and smart cities
Series Z Languages and general software aspects for telecommunication systems
Printed in Switzerland
Geneva, 2016

ITU-T Recommendation G671, G703

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ITU-T Recommendation G671, G703

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I n t e r n a t i o n a l T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n U n i o n

SERIES G: TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA,

Transmission characteristics of optical

Recommendation ITU-T G.671

INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS AND CIRCUITS G.100–G.199

For further details, please refer to the list of ITU-T Recommendations.

Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) i

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ii Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) iii

Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 1

2 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 3

3 Terms and definitions

3.1 Terms defined elsewhere

3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation

Figure 1 – Optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystem

4 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 5

6 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 2 – Illustration of 1 dB and 3 dB passband width

Figure 3 – Illustration of adjacent channel isolation for a WDM device

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 7

Figure 4 – Example of bidirectional (near-end) isolation

The bidirectional (near-end) isolation is therefore defined to be:

8 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 5 – Illustration of channel extinction of a WDM device

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 9

Figure 6 – Illustration of maximum and minimum insertion loss of a WDM device

10 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 11

12 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 13

14 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Table 1 – S values and probabilities

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 15

16 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 17

Figure 10 – Illustration of unidirectional (far-end) isolation of a WDM device

18 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

So the isolation of port 2 to wavelength 3 would be a123 – a121.

Figure 12 – An example of the port assignments for the transfer matrix

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 19

Figure 13 – Logarithmic transfer matrix for an optical switch

Figure 14 – Logarithmic transfer matrix

20 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Figure 15 – Switching time matrix for an optical switch

Figure 16 – Transfer matrix

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 21

Figure 17 – Transfer matrix for an optical switch

4 Abbreviations and acronyms

22 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 23

5.1 Optical add/drop multiplexer (OADM) subsystems (for WDM)

Clause Parameter Max Min Test method

24 Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019)

5.2 Asymmetric branching component (wavelength non-selective)

Clause Parameter Max Min Test method

Rec. ITU-T G.671 (08/2019) 25

5.3 Optical attenuator

Clause Parameter Max Min Test method