UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Electrification Administration

**BULLETIN 1753F-207(PE-87)**

**SUBJECT: [REA Specification for Terminating Cables]{.underline}**

**TO:** All Telephone Borrowers

REA Telephone Staff

**EFFECTIVE DATE:** July 14, 1994.

**EXPIRATION DATE:** Date of change in 7 CFR 1755.870 by rulemaking.

**OFFICE OF PRIMARY INTEREST:** Outside Plant Branch, Telecommunications
Standards Division.

**PREVIOUS INSTRUCTIONS:** This bulletin replaces REA Bulletin

345-87, REA Specification for Terminating (TIP) Cable, PE-87, issued
December 19, 1983.

**FILING INSTRUCTIONS:** Discard REA Bulletin 345-87, REA Specification
for Terminating (TIP) Cable, PE-87, dated

December 19, 1983, and replace with this bulletin. File with 7 CFR 1755
and on REANET.

**PURPOSE:** This specification covers REA requirements for terminating
cables intended primarily to connect incoming outside plant cable to the
vertical side of the main distributing frame in a telephone central
office. This bulletin is a user friendly guide and a reformat of the
text codified in 7 CFR 1755.870 published at 59 FR 30505, dated June 14,
1994.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this document.
However, in case of discrepancies, the regulations at 7 CFR 1755.870 are
the authorized sources.

Wally Beyer 7/14/94

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
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Administrator Date

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

CFR to Bulletin Conversion Table\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....3

Abbreviations\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...5

1\.
Scope\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....6

2\. Conductors and Conductor Insulation\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....6

3\. Identification of Pairs and Twisting of Pairs\...\...\...\...10

4\. Forming of the Cable
Core\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....11

5\. Core
Wrap\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...13

6\.
Shield\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...13

7\. Cable Jacket and Extraneous Material\...\...\...\...\...\...\...15

8\. Electrical
Requirements\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\....17

9\. Mechanical
Requirements\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\....21

10\. Sheath Slitting Cord (Optional)\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....21

11\. Identification Marker and Length Marker\...\...\...\...\...\...21

12\. Preconnectorized Cable (Optional)\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...23

13\. Acceptance Testing and Extent of Testing\...\...\...\...\.....23

14\. Summary of Records of Electrical and Physical Tests\...\...25

15\. Manufacturing
Irregularities\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.....25

16\. Preparation for
Shipment\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...25

APPENDIX A: Qualification Test Methods\...\...\...\...\...\...\....27

APPENDIX B: Sheath Slitting Cord Qualification\...\...\...\.....35

INDEX:

Cable, Terminating, Telephone

**CFR TO BULLETIN CONVERSION TABLE**

**7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin**

**1755.870** **1753F-207** **1755.870** **1753F-207** **1755.870**
**1753F-207**

\(a\) 1. (d)(3) 4.3 (h)(1)(iii) 8.1.3

(a)(1) 1.1 (d)(4) 4.4 (h)(2) 8.2

(a)(1)(i) 1.1.1 (d)(5) 4.5 (h)(3) 8.3

(a)(1)(ii) 1.1.2 (d)(6) 4.6 (h)(3)(i) 8.3.1

(a)(1)(iii) 1.1.3 (d)(7) 4.7 (h)(3)(ii) 8.3.2

(a)(2) 1.2 (d)(8) 4.8 (h)(3)(iii) 8.3.3

(a)(3) 1.3 (e) 5. (h)(4) 8.4

(a)(4) 1.4 (e)(1) 5.1 (h)(4)(i) 8.4.1

\(b\) 2. (e)(2) 5.2 (h)(4)(ii) 8.4.2

(b)(1) 2.1 (e)(3) 5.3 (h)(4)(iii) 8.4.3

(b)(2) 2.2 (f) 6. (h)(5) 8.5

(b)(3) 2.3 (f)(1) 6.1 (h)(6) 8.6

(b)(4) 2.4 (f)(2) 6.2 (h)(6)(i) 8.6.1

(b)(5) 2.5 (f)(3) 6.3 (h)(6)(ii) 8.6.2

(b)(5)(i) 2.5.1 (f)(4) 6.4 (h)(7) 8.7

(b)(5)(ii) 2.5.2 (f)(4)(i) 6.4.1 (h)(8) 8.8

(b)(5)(iii) 2.5.3 (f)(4)(ii) 6.4.2 (h)(8)(i) 8.8.1

(b)(5)(iv) 2.5.4 (f)(4)(iii) 6.4.3 (h)(8)(ii) 8.8.2

(b)(5)(v) 2.5.5 (f)(4)(iv) 6.4.4 (h)(9) 8.9

(b)(6) 2.6 (f)(4)(v) 6.4.5 (h)(9)(i) 8.9.1

(b)(7) 2.7 (f)(4)(vi) 6.4.6 (h)(9)(ii) 8.9.2

(b)(8) 2.8 (f)(5) 6.5 (h)(9)(iii) 8.9.3

(b)(8)(i) 2.8.1 (f)(6) 6.6 (i) 9.

(b)(8)(ii) 2.8.2 (f)(7) 6.7 (i)(1) 9.1

(b)(8)(iii) 2.8.3 (f)(8) 6.8 (i)(2) 9.2

(b)(8)(iv) 2.8.4 (f)(8)(i) 6.8.1 (i)(3) 9.3

(b)(8)(v) 2.8.5 (f)(8)(ii) 6.8.2 (j) 10.

(b)(9) 2.9 (f)(9) 6.9 (j)(1) 10.1

(b)(10) 2.10 (f)(9)(i) 6.9.1 (j)(2) 10.2

(b)(11) 2.11 (f)(9)(ii) 6.9.2 (j)(3) 10.3

(b)(12) 2.12 (f)(9)(iii) 6.9.3 (k) 11.

(b)(12)(i) 2.12.1 (g) 7. (k)(1) 11.1

(b)(12)(ii) 2.12.2 (g)(1) 7.1 (k)(2) 11.2

(b)(12)(iii) 2.12.3 (g)(2) 7.2 (k)(3) 11.3

(b)(12)(iv) 2.12.4 (g)(3) 7.3 (k)(4) 11.4

(b)(12)(v) 2.12.5 (g)(4) 7.4 (k)(5) 11.5

(b)(13) 2.13 (g)(5) 7.5 (k)(6) 11.6

\(c\) 3. (g)(5)(i) 7.5.1 (k)(7) 11.7

(c)(1) 3.1 (g)(5)(ii) 7.5.2 (k)(8) 11.8

(c)(2) 3.2 (g)(5)(iii) 7.5.3 (k)(9) 11.9

(c)(3) 3.3 (g)(6) 7.6 (k)(10) 11.10

(c)(4) 3.4 (g)(6)(i) 7.6.1 (k)(11) 11.11

(c)(5) 3.5 (g)(6)(ii) 7.6.2 (l) 12.

(c)(6) 3.6 (g)(7) 7.7 (l)(1) 12.1

(c)(7) 3.7 (g)(8) 7.8 (l)(2) 12.2

(c)(8) 3.8 (h) 8. (m) 13.

\(d\) 4. (h)(1) 8.1 (m)(1) 13.1

(d)(1) 4.1 (h)(1)(i) 8.1.1 (m)(2) 13.2

(d)(2) 4.2 (h)(1)(ii) 8.1.2 (m)(3) 13.3

**CFR TO BULLETIN CONVERSION TABLE**

**7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin**

**1755.870** **1753F-207** **1755.870** **1753F-207**

(m)(4) 13.4 (II)(1) 2.1

(m)(5) 13.5 (II)(1)(a) 2.1.1

(m)(5)(i) 13.5.1 (II)(1)(b) 2.1.2

(m)(5)(ii) 13.5.2 (II)(1)(c) 2.1.3

(m)(5)(iii) 13.5.3 (II)(2) 2.2

(m)(5)(iv) 13.5.4 (III) 3.

(m)(5)(v) 13.5.5 (III)(1) 3.1

(m)(5)(vi) 13.5.6 (III)(1)(a) 3.1.1

(m)(5)(vii) 13.5.7 (III)(1)(b) 3.1.2

(m)(6) 13.6 (III)(1)(c) 3.1.3

(m)(6)(i) 13.6.1 (III)(1)(d) 3.1.4

(m)(6)(ii) 13.6.2 (III)(1)(e) 3.1.5

(m)(6)(iii) 13.6.3 (III)(2) 3.2

(m)(6)(iv) 13.6.4 (III)(2)(a) 3.2.1

(m)(6)(v) 13.6.5 (III)(2)(b) 3.2.2

(m)(6)(vi) 13.6.6 (III)(3) 3.3

(m)(6)(vii) 13.6.7 (III)(3)(a) 3.3.1

(m)(6)(viii) 13.6.8 (III)(3)(b) 3.3.2

\(n\) 14. (III)(3)(c) 3.3.3

(n)(1) 14.1 (IV) 4.

(n)(2) 14.2 (IV)(1) 4.1

\(o\) 15. (IV)(2) 4.2

(o)(1) 15.1 (IV)(3) 4.3

(o)(2) 15.2 (IV)(3)(a) 4.3.1

\(p\) 16. (IV)(3)(b) 4.3.2

(p)(1) 16.1 (IV)(3)(c) 4.3.3

(p)(2) 16.2 (V) 5.

(p)(3) 16.3 APPENDIX B APPENDIX B

(p)(4) 16.4 (I) 1.

(p)(5) 16.5 (II) 2.

(p)(6) 16.6 (III) 3.

(p)(7) 16.7 (III)(1) 3.1

(p)(8) 16.8 (III)(2) 3.2

APPENDIX A APPENDIX A (III)(3) 3.3

\(I\) 1. (III)(4) 3.4

\(II\) 2. (III)(5) 3.5

**ABBREVIATIONS**

ANSI American National Standards Institute

ASTM American Society For Testing and Materials

AWG American Wire Gauge

°C Centigrade temperature scale

CMR Communication Riser Cable

dB Decibel

dB/1000 ft Decibels per 1000 feet

dB/km Decibels per 1 kilometer

dc Direct current

EIA Electronic Industries Association

Fo Known frequency

Fx New frequency

FEXT Far-end crosstalk

ft Feet

in. Inches

in./min Inches per 1 minute

IR Insulation resistance

Ko Known far-end crosstalk

Kx New far-end crosstalk

km Kilometer

kHz Kilohertz

Lo Known length

Lx New length

lbf Pound force

m Meter

M-S Mean minus sigma

Max. Maximum

Min. Minimum

micromhos/km Micromhos per 1 kilometer

MPa Megapascals

mm Millimeter

mm/min Millimeters per 1 minute

N Newton

NEXT Near-end crosstalk

nF/km Nanofarad per 1 kilometer

nF/mile Nanofarad per 1 mile

ohms/1000 ft Ohms per 1000 feet

\% Percent

pF/km Picofarads per 1 kilometer

pF/1000 ft Picofarads per 1000 feet

psi Pounds per square inch

PVC Polyvinyl Chloride

REA Rural Electrification Administration

rms Root mean square

UL Underwriters Laboratory

**1. SCOPE**

**1.1** This specification establishes the requirements for terminating
cables used to connect incoming outside plant cables to the vertical
side of the main distributing frame in a telephone central office.

**1.1.1** The conductors are solid tinned copper, individually insulated
with extruded solid dual insulating compounds.

**1.1.2** The insulated conductors are twisted into pairs which are then
stranded or oscillated to form a cylindrical core.

**1.1.3** The cable structure is completed by the application of a core
wrap, a shield, and a polyvinyl chloride jacket.

**1.2** The number of pairs and gauge size of conductors which are used
within the REA program are provided in the following table:

[American Wire Gauge (AWG)]{.underline} [22]{.underline}
[24]{.underline}

Pairs 12 12

50 50

100 100

200 200

300 300

400 400

600 600

800 800

Note: Cables larger in pairs from those shown in this table shall meet
all the requirements of this specification.

**1.3** All cables sold to REA borrowers for projects involving REA loan
funds under this specification must be accepted by REA Technical
Standards Committee \"A\" (Telephone). For cables manufactured to this
specification, all design changes to an accepted design must be
submitted for acceptance. REA will be the sole authority on what
constitutes a design change.

**1.4** Materials, manufacturing techniques, or cable designs not
specifically addressed by this specification may be allowed if accepted
by REA. Justification for acceptance of modified materials,
manufacturing techniques, or cable designs shall be provided to
substantiate product utility and long term stability and endurance.

**2. CONDUCTORS AND CONDUCTOR INSULATION**

**2.1** Each conductor shall be a solid round wire of commercially pure
annealed tin coated copper. Conductors shall meet the

requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) B
33-91 except that requirements for [Dimensions and Permissible
Variations]{.underline} are waived.

**2.2** Joints made in conductors during the manufacturing process may
be brazed, using a silver alloy solder and nonacid flux, or they may be
welded using either an electrical or cold welding technique. In joints
made in uninsulated conductors, the two conductor ends shall be butted.
Splices made in insulated conductors need not be butted but may be
joined in a manner acceptable to REA.

**2.3** The tensile strength of any section of a conductor, containing a
factory joint, shall not be less than 85 percent of the tensile strength
of an adjacent section of the solid conductor of equal length without a
joint.

**2.4** Engineering Information: The sizes of wire used and their
nominal diameters shall be as shown in the following table:

Nominal Diameter

[AWG]{.underline} [millimeters]{.underline} [(inches)]{.underline}

22 0.643 (0.0253)

24 0.511 (0.0201)

**2.5** Each conductor shall be insulated with a primary layer of
natural or white solid, insulating grade, high density polyethylene or
crystalline propylene/ethylene copolymer and an outer skin of colored,
solid, insulating grade, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) using one of the
insulating materials listed in Paragraphs 2.5.1 through 2.5.3 of this
specification.

**2.5.1** The polyethylene raw material selected to meet the
requirements of this specification shall be Type III,

Class A, Category 4 or 5, Grade E9 in accordance with

ASTM D 1248-84(1989).

**2.5.2** The crystalline propylene/ethylene raw material selected to
meet the requirements of this specification shall be

Class PP 200B 40003 E11 in accordance with ASTM D 4101-82(1988).

**2.5.3** The PVC raw materials selected to meet the requirements of
this specification shall be either Type PVC-64751E3X0,

Type PVC-76751E3X0, or TYPE PVC-77751E3X0 in accordance with

ASTM D 2287-81(1988).

**2.5.4** Raw materials intended as conductor insulation furnished to
these requirements shall be free from dirt, metallic particles, and
other foreign matter.

**2.5.5** All insulating raw materials shall be accepted by REA prior to
their use.

**2.6** All conductors in any single length of cable shall be insulated
with the same type of material.

**2.7** A permissible overall performance level of faults in conductor
insulation when using the test procedures in Paragraph 2.8 of this
specification shall average not greater than one fault per 12,000
conductor meters (40,000 conductor feet) for each gauge of conductor.

**2.8** The test used to determine compliance with Paragraph 2.7 of this
specification shall be conducted as follows:

**2.8.1** Samples tested shall be taken from finished cables selected at
random from standard production cable. The samples tested shall contain
a minimum of 300 conductor meters (1,000 conductor feet) for cable sizes
less than 50 pairs and 1,500 conductor meters (5,000 conductor feet) for
cable sizes greater than or equal to 50 pairs. No further sample need be
taken from the same cable production run within 6,000 cable meters
(20,000 cable feet) of the original test sample from that run.

**2.8.2** The cable sample shall have its jacket, shield, and core wrap
removed and its core shall be immersed in tap water for a minimum period
of 6 hours. In lieu of removing the jacket, shield, and core wrap from
the core, the entire cable may be tested. In this case, the core shall
be completely filled with tap water, under pressure; then the cable
assembly shall be immersed for a minimum period of 6 hours. With the
cable core still fully immersed, except for end connections, the
insulation resistance (IR) of all conductors to water shall be measured
using a direct current (dc) voltage of 100 volts to 550 volts.

**2.8.3** An IR value of less than 500 megohms for any individual
insulated conductor tested at or corrected to a temperature of 23°C is
considered a failure. If the cable sample is more than 7.5 meters (25
feet) long, all failing conductors shall be retested and reported in 7.5
meter (25 foot) segments.

**2.8.4** The pair count, gauge, footage, and number of insulation
faults shall be recorded. This information shall be retained on a 6
month running basis for review by REA when requested.

**2.8.5** A fault rate, in a continuous length in any one reel, in
excess of one fault per 3,000 conductor meters (10,000 conductor feet)
due to manufacturing defects is cause for rejection. A minimum of 6,000
conductor meters (20,000 conductor feet) is required to develop a
noncompliance in a reel.

**2.9** Repairs to the conductor insulation during manufacturing are
permissible. The method of repair shall be accepted by REA prior to its
use. The repaired insulation shall be capable of meeting the relevant
electrical requirements of this specification.

**2.10** All repaired sections of insulation shall be retested in the
same manner as originally tested for compliance with the Paragraph 2.7
of this specification.

**2.11** The colored composite insulating material removed from or
tested on the conductor, from a finished cable, shall be capable of
meeting the following performance requirements:

[Property]{.underline} [Composite Insulation]{.underline}

[Tensile Strength]{.underline}

Minimum, Megapascals

(MPa) (Pounds per square

inch (psi)) 16.5 (2,400)

[Ultimate Elongation]{.underline}

Percent, Minimum 125

[Cold Bend]{.underline}

Failures, Maximum 0/10

[Shrinkback]{.underline}

Maximum, Millimeters

\(mm\) (Inches (in.)) 9.5 (3/8)

[Adhesion]{.underline}

Maximum, Newtons (N)

(Pound-force (lbf)) 13.3 (3)

[Compression]{.underline}

Minimum, N (lbf) 1780 (400)

**2.12 [Testing Procedures]{.underline}:** The procedures for testing
the composite insulation samples for compliance with Paragraph 2.11 of
this specification shall be as follows:

**2.12.1 [Tensile Strength and Ultimate Elongation]{.underline}:**
Samples of the insulation material, removed from the conductor, shall be
tested in accordance with ASTM D 2633-82(1989), except that the speed of
jaw separation shall be 50 millimeters/minute (50 mm/min)

(2 inches/minute (2 in./min)).

Note: Quality assurance testing at a jaw separation speed of 500 mm/min
(20 in./min) is permissible. Failures at this rate shall be retested at
the 50 mm/min (2 in./min) rate to determine specification compliance.

**2.12.2 [Cold Bend]{.underline}:** Samples of the insulation material
on the conductor shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 4565-90a at a
temperature of -40 ± 1°C with a mandrel diameter of 6 mm

(0.25 in.). There shall be no cracks visible to normal or
corrected-to-normal vision.

**2.12.3 [Shrinkback]{.underline}:** Samples of insulation shall be
tested for four hours at a temperature of 115 ± 1°C in accordance with

ASTM D 4565-90a.

**2.12.4 [Adhesion]{.underline}:** Samples of the insulation material on
the conductor shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 4565-90a with a
crosshead speed of 50 mm/min (2 in./min).

**2.12.5 [Compression]{.underline}:** Samples of the insulation material
on the conductor shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D 4565-90a with
a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min (0.2 in./min).

**2.13** Other methods of testing may be used if acceptable to REA.

**3. IDENTIFICATION OF PAIRS AND TWISTING OF PAIRS**

**3.1** The PVC skin shall be colored to identify:

a\. The tip and ring conductor of each pair; and

b\. Each pair in the completed cable.

**3.2** The colors used to provide identification of the tip and ring
conductor of each pair shall be as shown in the following table:

Color

[Pair No.]{.underline} [Tip]{.underline} [Ring]{.underline}

1 White Blue

2 White Orange

3 White Green

4 White Brown

5 White Slate

6 Red Blue

7 Red Orange

8 Red Green

9 Red Brown

10 Red Slate

11 Black Blue

12 Black Orange

13 Black Green

14 Black Brown

15 Black Slate

16 Yellow Blue

17 Yellow Orange

18 Yellow Green

19 Yellow Brown

20 Yellow Slate

21 Violet Blue

22 Violet Orange

23 Violet Green

24 Violet Brown

25 Violet Slate

**3.3** **[Standards of Color]{.underline}:** The colors of the
insulated conductors supplied in accordance with this specification are
specified in terms of the Munsell Color System (ASTM D 1535-89) and
shall comply with the \"Table of Wire and Cable Limit Chips\" as defined
in ANSI/EIA-359-A-84. (Visual color standards meeting these requirements
may be obtained directly from the Munsell Color

Company, Inc., 2441 North Calvert Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21218).

**3.4** Positive identification of the tip and ring conductors of each
pair by marking each conductor of a pair with the color of its mate is
permissible. The method of marking shall be accepted by REA prior to its
use.

**3.5** Other methods of providing positive identification of the tip
and ring conductors of each pair may be employed if accepted by REA
prior to its use.

**3.6** The insulated conductors shall be twisted into pairs.

**3.7** In order to provide sufficiently high crosstalk isolation, the
pair twists shall be designed to enable the cable to meet the
capacitance unbalance and the crosstalk loss requirements of Paragraphs
8.2, 8.3, and 8.4 of this specification.

**3.8** The average length of pair twists in any pair in the finished
cable, when measured on any 3 meter (m) (10 foot (ft)) length, shall not
exceed 152 mm (6 in.).

**4. FORMING OF THE CABLE CORE**

**4.1** Twisted pairs shall be assembled in such a way as to form a
substantially cylindrical group.

**4.2** When desired for lay-up reasons, the basic group may be divided
into two or more subgroups called units.

**4.3** Each group, or unit in a particular group, shall be enclosed in
bindings of the colors indicated for its particular pair count. The pair
count, indicated by the color of insulation, shall be consecutive as
indicated in Paragraph 4.5 of this specification through units in a
group.

**4.4** Threads or tapes used as binders shall be nonhygroscopic and
nonwicking. The threads shall consist of a suitable number of ends of
each color arranged as color bands. When tapes are used as binders, they
shall be colored. Binders shall be applied with a lay of not more than
100 mm (4 in.). The colored binders shall be readily recognizable as the
basic intended color and shall be distinguishable from all other colors.

**4.5** The colors of the bindings and their significance with respect
to pair count shall be as shown in the following table:

[Group No.]{.underline} [Color of Bindings]{.underline} [Group Pair
Count]{.underline}

1 White-Blue 1-25

2 White-Orange 26-50

3 White-Green 51-75

4 White-Brown 76-100

5 White-Slate 101-125

6 Red-Blue 126-150

7 Red-Orange 151-175

8 Red-Green 176-200

9 Red-Brown 201-225

10 Red-Slate 226-250

11 Black-Blue 251-275\
12 Black-Orange 276-300\
13 Black-Green 301-325\
14 Black-Brown 326-350\
15 Black-Slate 351-375

16 Yellow-Blue 376-400\
17 Yellow-Orange 401-425\
18 Yellow-Green 426-450\
19 Yellow-Brown 451-475\
20 Yellow-Slate 476-500\
21 Violet-Blue 501-525\
22 Violet-Orange 526-550\
23 Violet-Green 551-575\
24 Violet-Brown 576-600

**4.6** The use of the white unit binder in cables of 100 pair or less
is optional

**4.7** When desired for manufacturing reasons, two or more 25 pair
groups may be bound together with nonhygroscopic and nonwicking threads
or tapes into super-units. The group binders and the super-unit binders
shall be colored such that the combination of the two binders shall
positively identify each 25 pair group from every other 25 pair group in
the cable.

**4.8** Super-unit binders shall be of the colors shown in the following
table:

[Pair No.]{.underline} [Binder Color]{.underline}

1-600 White

600-1200 Red

**5. CORE WRAP**

**5.1** The core shall be completely covered with a layer of
nonhygroscopic and nonwicking dielectric material. The wrap shall be
applied with an overlap.

**5.2** The core wrap shall provide a sufficient heat barrier to prevent
visible evidence of conductor insulation deformation or adhesion between
conductors, caused by adverse heat transfer during the jacketing
operation.

**5.3** **[Engineering Information]{.underline}:** If required for
manufacturing reasons, white or uncolored binders of nonhygroscopic and
nonwicking material may be applied over the core and/or core wrap.

**6. SHIELD**

**6.1** An aluminum shield, plastic coated on one side, shall be applied
longitudinally over the core wrap.

**6.2** The shield may be applied over the core wrap with or without
corrugations (smooth) and shall be bonded to the outer jacket.

**6.3** The shield overlap shall be a minimum of 3 mm (0.125 in.) for
cables with core diameters of 15 mm (0.625 in.) or less and a minimum of
6 mm (0.25 in.) for cables with core diameters greater than 15 mm (0.625
in.). The core diameter is defined as the diameter under the core wrap
and binding.

**6.4** General requirements for application of the shielding material
shall be as follows:

**6.4.1** Successive lengths of shielding tapes may be joined during the
manufacturing process by means of cold weld, electric weld, soldering
with a nonacid flux, or other acceptable means;

**6.4.2** The metal shield with the plastic coating shall have the
coating removed prior to joining the metal ends together. After joining,
the plastic coating shall be restored without voids using good
manufacturing techniques;

**6.4.3** The shields of each length of cable shall be tested for
continuity. A one meter (3 ft) section of shield containing a factory
joint shall exhibit not more than 110 percent of the resistance of a
shield of equal length without a joint;

**6.4.4** The breaking strength of any section of a shield tape
containing a factory joint shall not be less than 80 percent of the
breaking strength of an adjacent section of the shield of equal length
without a joint;

**6.4.5** The reduction in thickness of the shielding material due to
the corrugating or application process shall be kept to a minimum and
shall not exceed 10 percent at any spot; and

**6.4.6** The shielding material shall be applied in such a manner as to
enable the cable to pass the bend test as specified in Paragraph 9.1 of
this specification.

**6.5** The dimensions of the uncoated aluminum tape shall be

0.2030 ± 0.0254 mm (0.0080 ± 0.0010 in.).

**6.6** The aluminum tape shall conform to either Alloy AA-1100-0,
AA-1145-0, or AA-1235-0 as covered in the latest edition of Aluminum
Standards and Data, issued by the Aluminum Association, except that the
requirements for tensile strength are waived.

**6.7** The singled-sided plastic coated aluminum shield shall conform
to the requirements of ASTM B 736-92a, Type I Coating, Class 1 or 2, or
Type II Coating, Class 1. The minimum thickness of the Type I Coating
shall be 0.038 mm (0.0015 in.). The minimum thickness of the Type II
Coating shall be 0.008 mm (0.0003 in.).

**6.8** The plastic coated aluminum shield shall be tested for
resistance to water migration by immersing a one meter (3 ft) length of
tape under a one meter (3 ft) head of water containing a soluble dye
plus 0.25 percent (%) wetting agent.

**6.8.1** After a minimum of 5 minutes, no dye shall appear between the
interface of the shield tape and the plastic coating.

**6.8.2** The actual test method shall be acceptable to REA.

**6.9** The bond between the plastic coated shield and the jacket shall
conform to the following requirements:

**6.9.1** Prepare test strips approximately 200 mm (8 in.) in length.
Slit the jacket and shield longitudinally to produce 4 strips evenly
spaced and centered in 4 quadrants on the jacket circumference. One of
the strips shall be centered over the overlapped edge of the shielding
tape. The strips shall be 13 mm (0.5 in.) wide. For cable diameters less
than 19 mm (0.75 in.) make two strips evenly spaced.

**6.9.2** Separate the shield and jacket for a sufficient distance to
allow the shield and jacket to be fitted in the upper and lower jaws of
a tensile machine. Record the maximum force required to separate the
shield and jacket to the nearest newton (pound-force). Repeat this
action for each test strip.

**6.9.3** The force required to separate the jacket from the shield
shall not be less than 9 N (2 lbf) for any individual strip when tested
in accordance with Paragraph 6.9.2 of this specification. The average
force for all strips of any cable shall not be less than 18 N (4 lbf).

**7. CABLE JACKET AND EXTRANEOUS MATERIAL**

**7.1** The jacket shall provide the cable with a tough, flexible,
protective covering which can withstand stresses reasonably expected in
normal installation and service.

**7.2** The jacket shall be free from holes, splits, blisters, or other
imperfections and shall be as smooth and concentric as is consistent
with the best commercial practice.

**7.3** The raw material used for the cable jacket shall be one of the
following four types:

a\. Type PVC-55554E0X0 in accordance with

ASTM D 2287-81(1988);

b\. Type PVC-65554E0X0 in accordance with

ASTM D 2287-81(1988);

c\. Type PVC-55556E0X0 in accordance with

ASTM D 2287-81(1988); or

d\. Type PVC-66554E0X0 in accordance with

ASTM D 2287-81(1988).

**7.4** The jacketing material removed from or tested on the cable shall
be capable of meeting the following performance requirements:

[Property]{.underline} [Jacket Performance]{.underline}

[Tensile Strength-Unaged]{.underline}

Minimum, MPa (psi) 13.8 (2,000)

[Ultimate Elongation-Unaged]{.underline}

Minimum, Percent (%) 200

[Tensile Strength-Aged]{.underline}

Minimum, % of Original 80

[Ultimate Elongation-Aged]{.underline}

Minimum, % of Original 50

[Impact]{.underline}

Failures, Maximum 2/10

**7.5 [Testing Procedures]{.underline}:** The procedures for testing the
jacket samples for compliance with Paragraph 7.4 of this specification
shall be as follows:

**7.5.1 [Tensile Strength and Ultimate Elongation-Unaged]{.underline}:**
The test shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D 2633-82(1989),
using a jaw separation speed of 50 mm/min (2 in./min).

Note: Quality assurance testing at a jaw separation speed of 500 mm/min
(20 in./min) is permissible. Failures at this rate shall be retested at
the 50 mm/min (2 in./min) rate to determine specification compliance.

**7.5.2 [Tensile Strength and Ultimate Elongation-Aged]{.underline}:**
The test shall be performed in accordance Paragraph 7.5.1 of this
specification after being aged for 7 days at a temperature of

100 ± 1°C in a circulating air oven conforming to ASTM D 2436-85.

**7.5.3** **[Impact]{.underline}:** The test shall be performed in
accordance with ASTM D 4565-90a using an impact force of 4 newton-meter

(3 pound force-foot) at a temperature of -10 ± 1°C. The cylinder shall
strike the sample at the shield overlap. A crack or split in the jacket
constitutes failure.

**7.6 [Jacket Thickness]{.underline}:** The nominal jacket thickness
shall be as specified in the following table. The test method used shall
be either the End Sample Method (Paragraph 7.6.1 of this specification)
or the Continuous Uniformity Thickness Gauge Method (Paragraph 7.6.2 of
this specification):

Nominal Jacket Thickness

[No. of Pairs]{.underline} [mm (in.)]{.underline}

25 or less 1.4 (0.055)

50 1.5 (0.060)

100 1.7 (0.065)

200 1.9 (0.075)

300 2.2 (0.085)

400 2.4 (0.095)

600 2.9 (0.115)

800 and over 3.3 (0.130)

**7.6.1 [End Sample Method]{.underline}:** The jacket shall be capable
of meeting the following requirements:

Minimum Average Thickness 90 % of nominal thickness

Minimum Thickness 70 % of nominal thickness

**7.6.2 [Continuous Uniformity Gauge Method]{.underline}:**

**7.6.2.1** The jacket shall be capable of meeting the following
requirements:

Minimum Average Thickness 90 % of nominal thickness

Minimum (Min.) Thickness 70 % of nominal thickness

Maximum (Max.) Eccentricity 55 %

Eccentricity = [Max. Thickness - Min. Thickness]{.underline} x 100
Percent

Average Thickness

**7.6.2.2 [Maximum and Minimum Thickness Values]{.underline}:** The
maximum and minimum thickness values shall be based on the average of
each axial section.

**7.7** The color of the jacket shall be either black or dark grey in
conformance with the Munsell Color System specified in

ASTM D 1535-89.

**7.8** There shall be no water or other contaminants in the finished
cable which would have a detrimental effect on its performance or its
useful life.

**8. ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS**

**8.1 [Mutual Capacitance and Conductance]{.underline}:**

**8.1.1** The average mutual capacitance (corrected for length) of all
pairs in any reel shall not exceed the following when tested in
accordance with ASTM D 4566-90 at a frequency of 1.0 ± 0.1 kilohertz
(kHz) and a temperature of 23 ± 3°C:

Mutual Capacitance

[Number of Cable Pairs]{.underline} [nanofarad/kilometer
(nanofarad/mile)]{.underline}

12 52 ± 4 (83 ± 7)

Over 12 52 ± 2 (83 ± 4)

**8.1.2** The root mean square (rms) deviation of the mutual capacitance
of all pairs from the average mutual capacitance of that reel shall not
exceed 3.0 % when calculated in accordance with ASTM D 4566-90.

**8.1.3** The mutual conductance (corrected for length and gauge) of any
pair shall not exceed 3.7 micromhos/kilometer (micromhos/km) (6.0
micromhos/mile) when tested in accordance with

ASTM D 4566-90 at a frequency of 1.0 ± 0.1 kHz and a temperature of 23 ±
3°C.

**8.2 [Pair-to-Pair Capacitance Unbalance]{.underline}:** The
capacitance unbalance as measured on the completed cable shall not
exceed 45.3 picofarad/kilometer (pF/km) (25 picofarad/1000 ft
(pF/1000ft)) rms when tested in accordance with ASTM D 4566-90 at a
frequency of 1.0 ± 0.1 kHz and a temperature of 23 ± 3°C.

**8.3 [Pair-to-Ground Capacitance Unbalance]{.underline}:**

**8.3.1** The average capacitance unbalance as measured on the completed
cable shall not exceed 574 pF/km (175 pF/1000 ft) when tested in
accordance with ASTM D 4566-90 at a frequency of

1.0 ± 0.1 kHz and a temperature of 23 ± 3°C.

**8.3.2** When measuring pair-to-ground capacitance unbalance all pairs
except the pair under test are grounded to the shield except when
measuring cable containing super-units in which case all other pairs in
the same super-unit shall be grounded to the shield.

**8.3.3** Pair-to-ground capacitance unbalance may vary directly with
the length of the cable.

**8.4 [Crosstalk Loss]{.underline}:**

**8.4.1** The rms output-to-output far-end crosstalk loss (FEXT)
measured on the completed cable in accordance with ASTM D 4566-90 at a
test frequency of 150 kHz shall not be less than

68 decibel/kilometer (dB/km) (73 decibel/1000 ft (dB/1000 ft)). The rms
calculation shall be based on the combined total of all adjacent and
alternate pair combinations within the same layer and center to first
layer pair combinations.

**8.4.2** The FEXT crosstalk loss between any pair combination of a
cable shall not be less than 58 dB/km (63 dB/1000 ft) at a frequency of
150 kHz . If the loss Ko at a frequency Fo for length Lo is known, then
Kx can be determined for any other frequency Fx or length Lx by:

Fx Lx

FEXT loss (Kx) = Ko -20 log10 -10 log10

Fo Lo

**8.4.3** The near-end crosstalk loss (NEXT) as measured within and
between units of a completed cable in accordance with

ASTM D 4566-90 at a frequency of 772 kHz shall not be less than the
following mean minus sigma (M-S) crosstalk requirement for any unit
within the cable:

[Unit Size]{.underline} [M-S decibel (dB)]{.underline}

[Within Unit]{.underline}:

12 and 13 Pairs 56

18 and 25 Pairs 60

[Between Unit]{.underline}:

Adjacent 13 Pairs 65

Adjacent 25 Pairs 66

Nonadjacent (all) 81

Where M-S is the Mean near-end coupling loss based on the combined total
of all pair combinations, less one Standard Deviation, Sigma, of the
mean value.

**8.5 [Insulation Resistance]{.underline}:** Each insulated conductor in
each length of completed cable, when measured with all other insulated
conductors and the shield grounded, shall have an insulation resistance
of not less than 152 megohm-kilometer (500 Megohm-mile) at 20 ± 1°C. The
measurement shall be made in accordance with the procedures of ASTM D
4566-90.

**8.6 [High Voltage Test]{.underline}:**

**8.6.1** In each length of completed cable, the dielectric strength of
the insulation between conductors shall be tested in accordance with
ASTM D 4566-90 and shall withstand, for 3 seconds, a direct current (dc)
potential whose value is not less than:

a\. 3.6 kilovolts for 22-gauge conductors, or

b\. 3.0 kilovolts for 24-gauge conductors.

**8.6.2** In each length of completed cable, the dielectric strength
between the shield and all conductors in the core shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM D 4566-90 and shall withstand, for

3 seconds, a dc potential whose value is not less than 10 kilovolts.

**8.7 [Conductor Resistance]{.underline}:** The dc resistance of any
conductor shall be measured in the completed cable in accordance with

ASTM D 4566-90 and shall not exceed the following values when measured
at or corrected to a temperature of 20 ± 1°C:

Maximum Resistance

[AWG]{.underline} [ohms/kilometer]{.underline} [(ohms/1000
ft)]{.underline}

22 60.7 (18.5)

24 95.1 (29.0)

**8.8 [Resistance Unbalance]{.underline}:**

**8.8.1** The difference in dc resistance between the two conductors of
a pair in the completed cable shall not exceed the values listed in this
paragraph when measured in accordance with the procedures of ASTM D
4566-90:

Resistance Unbalance - Maximum for any Reel

[AWG]{.underline} [Average Percent]{.underline} [Individual Pair
Percent]{.underline}

22 1.5 4.0

24 1.5 5.0

**8.8.2** The resistance unbalance between tip and ring conductors shall
be random with respect to the direction of unbalance. That is, the
resistance of the tip conductors shall not be consistently higher with
respect to the ring conductors and vice versa.

**8.9 [Electrical Variations]{.underline}:**

**8.9.1** Pairs in each length of cable having either a ground, cross,
short, or open circuit condition shall not be permitted.

**8.9.2** The maximum number of pairs in a cable which may vary as
specified in Paragraph 8.9.3 of this specification from the electrical
parameters given in this specification are listed in this paragraph.
These pairs may be excluded from the arithmetic calculation:

Nominal Maximum Number of Pairs

[Pair Count]{.underline} [with Allowable Electrical
Variation]{.underline}

12-100 1\
101-300 2\
301-400 3\
401-600 4\
601 and above 6

**8.9.3 [Parameter Variations]{.underline}:**

**8.9.3.1 [Capacitance Unbalance-to-Ground]{.underline}:** If the cable
fails either the maximum individual pair or average capacitance
unbalance-to-ground requirement and all individual pairs are 3280 pF/km
(1000 pF/1000 ft) or less the number of pairs specified in Paragraph
8.9.2 of this specification may be eliminated from the average and
maximum individual calculations.

**8.9.3.2 [Resistance Unbalance]{.underline}:** Individual pair of not
more than 7 percent for all gauges.

**8.9.3.3 [Far-end Crosstalk Loss]{.underline}:** Individual pair
combination of not less than 52 dB/km (57 dB/1000 ft).

Note: REA recognizes that in large pair count cables (600 pair and
above) a cross, short, or open circuit condition occasionally may
develop in a pair which does not affect the performance of the other
cable pairs. In theses circumstances rejection of the entire cable mat
be economically unsound or repairs may be impractical. In such
circumstances the manufacturer may desire to negotiate with the customer
for acceptance of the cable. No more than 0.5 percent of the pairs may
be involved.

**9. MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS**

**9.1 [Cable Cold Bend Test]{.underline}:** The completed cable shall be
capable of meeting the requirements of ASTM D 4565-90a after
conditioning at -20 ± 2°C except that the mandrel diameters shall be as
specified below:

[Cable Outside Diameter]{.underline} [Mandrel Diameter]{.underline}

\<40 mm (1.5 in.) 15x

[\>]{.underline}40 mm (1.5 in.) 20x

**9.2 [Cable Flame Test]{.underline}:** The completed cable shall be
capable of meeting a maximum flame height of 3.7 m (12.0 ft) when tested
in accordance with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 1666 dated

January 22, 1991.

**9.3 [Cable Listing]{.underline}:** All cables manufactured to this
specification at a minimum shall be listed as Communication Riser Cable
(Type CMR) in accordance with Sections 800-50 and 800-51(b) of the 1993
National Electrical Code.

**10. SHEATH SLITTING CORD (OPTIONAL)**

**10.1** Sheath slitting cords may be used in the cable structure at the
option of the manufacturer.

**10.2** When a sheath slitting cord is used it shall be non-hygroscopic
and nonwicking, continuous throughout a length of cable, and of
sufficient strength to open the sheath without breaking the cord.

**10.3** Sheath slitting cords shall be capable of consistently slitting
the jacket and/or shield for a continuous length of 0.6 m (2 ft) when
tested in accordance with the procedure specified in Appendix B of this
specification.

**11. IDENTIFICATION MARKER AND LENGTH MARKER**

**11.1** Each length of cable shall be permanently identified as to
manufacturer and year of manufacture.

**11.2** The number of conductor pairs and their gauge size shall be
marked on the jacket.

**11.3** The marking shall be printed on the jacket at regular intervals
of not more than 1.5 m (5 ft).

**11.4** An alternative method of marking may be used if accepted by REA
prior to its use.

**11.5** The completed cable shall have sequentially numbered length
markers in FEET OR METERS at regular intervals of not more than 1.5 m (5
ft) along the outside of the jacket.

**11.6** The method of length marking shall be such that for any single
length of cable, continuous sequential numbering shall be employed.

**11.7** The numbers shall be dimensioned and spaced to produce good
legibility and shall be approximately 3 mm (0.125 in.) in height. An
occasional illegible marking is permissible if there is a legible
marking located not more than 1.5 m (5 ft) from it.

**11.8** The method of marking shall be by means of suitable surface
markings producing a clear, distinguishable, contrasting marking
acceptable to REA. Where direct or transverse printing is employed, the
characters should be indented to produce greater durability of marking.
Any other method of length marking shall be acceptable to REA as
producing a marker suitable for the field. Size, shape and spacing of
numbers, durability, and overall legibility of the marker will be
considered in acceptance of the method.

**11.9** The accuracy of the length marking shall be such that the
actual length of any cable section is never less than the length
indicated by the marking and never more than one percent greater than
the length indicated by the marking.

**11.10** The color of the initial marking for a black colored jacket
shall be either white or silver. The color of the initial marking for a
dark grey colored jacket shall be either red or black. If the initial
marking of the black colored jacket fails to meet the requirements of
the preceding paragraphs, it will be permissible to either remove the
defective marking and re-mark with the white or silver color or leave
the defective marking on the cable and re-mark with yellow. If the
initial marking of the dark grey colored jacket fails to meet the
requirements of the preceding paragraphs, it will be permissible to
either remove the defective marking and re-mark with the red or black
color or leave the defective marking on the cable and re-mark with
yellow. No further re-marking is permitted. Any re-marking shall be on a
different portion of the cable circumference than any existing marking
when possible and have a numbering sequence differing from any other
existing marking by at least 5,000.

**11.11** Any reel of cable which contains more than one set of
sequential markings shall be labeled to indicate the color and sequence
of marking to be used. The labeling shall be applied to the reel and
also to the cable.

**12. PRECONNECTORIZED CABLE (OPTIONAL)**

**12.1** At the option of the manufacturer and upon request by the
purchaser, cables 100 pairs and larger may be factory terminated in 25
pair splicing modules.

**12.2** The splicing modules shall meet the requirements of REA
Bulletin 345-52, REA Specification for Telephone Splicing Connectors
(Incorporated by Reference at § 1755.97), and be accepted by REA prior
to their use.

**13. ACCEPTANCE TESTING AND EXTENT OF TESTING**

**13.1** The tests described in Appendix A of this specification are
intended for acceptance of cable designs and major modifications of
accepted designs. REA decides what constitutes a major modification.
These tests are intended to show the inherent capability of the
manufacturer to produce cable products having long life and stability.

**13.2** For initial acceptance, the manufacturer shall submit:

a\. An original signature certification that the product

fully complies with each section of this specification;

b\. Qualification Test Data, per Appendix A of this

specification;

c\. To periodic plant inspections;

d\. A certification that the product does or does not comply

with the domestic origin manufacturing provisions of the

\"Buy American\" requirements of the Rural Electrification

Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.);

e\. Written user testimonials concerning performance of the

product, and;

f\. Other nonproprietary data deemed necessary by the Chief,

Outside Plant Branch (Telephone).

**13.3** For requalification acceptance, the manufacturer shall submit
an original signature certification that the product fully complies with
each section of the specification, excluding the Qualification Section,
and a certification that the product does or does not comply with the
domestic origin manufacturing provisions of the \"Buy American\"
requirements of the Rural Electrification Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 901 et
seq.) for acceptance by June 30 every three years. The required data and
certification shall have been gathered within 90 days of the submission.

**13.4** Initial and requalification acceptance requests should be
addressed to: Chairman, Technical Standards Committee \"A\" (Telephone),
Telecommunications Standards Division, Rural Electrification
Administration, Washington, DC 20250-1500.

**13.5** **[Tests on 100 Percent of Completed Cable]{.underline}:**

**13.5.1** The shield of each length of cable shall be tested for
continuity using the procedures of ASTM D 4566-90.

**13.5.2** Dielectric strength between all conductors and the shield
shall be tested to determine freedom from grounds in accordance with
Paragraph 8.6.2 of this specification.

**13.5.3** Each conductor in the completed cable shall be tested for
continuity using the procedures of ASTM D 4566-90.

**13.5.4** Dielectric strength between conductors shall be tested to
ensure freedom from shorts and crosses in accordance with Paragraph
8.6.1 of this specification.

**13.5.5** Each conductor in the completed preconnectorized cable shall
be tested for continuity.

**13.5.6** Each length of completed preconnectorized cable shall be
tested for split pairs.

**13.5.7** The average mutual capacitance shall be measured on all
cables. If the average mutual capacitance for the first 100 pairs tested
from randomly selected groups is between 50 and 53 nanofarad/kilometer
(nF/km) (80 to 85 nanofarad/mile (nF/mile)), the remainder of the pairs
need not be tested on the 100 percent basis. (See Paragraph 8.1 of this
specification).

**13.6 [Capability Tests]{.underline}:** Tests on a quality assurance
basis shall be made as frequently as is required for each manufacturer
to determine and maintain compliance with:

**13.6.1** Performance requirements for conductor insulation and jacket
material;

**13.6.2** Bonding properties of coated or laminated shielding
materials;

**13.6.3** Sequential marking and lettering;

**13.6.4** Capacitance unbalance and crosstalk;

**13.6.5** Insulation resistance;

**13.6.6** Conductor resistance and resistance unbalance;

**13.6.7** Cable cold bend and cable flame tests; and

**13.6.8** Mutual conductance.

**14. SUMMARY OF RECORDS OF ELECTRICAL AND PHYSICAL TESTS**

**14.1** Each manufacturer shall maintain suitable summary of records
for a period of at least 3 years for all electrical and physical tests
required on completed cable by this specification as set forth in
Paragraphs 13.5 and 13.6 of this specification. The test data for a
particular reel shall be in a form that it may be readily available to
the purchaser or to REA upon request.

**14.2** Measurements and computed values shall be rounded off to the
number of places of figures specified for the requirement according to
ASTM E 29-90.

**15. MANUFACTURING IRREGULARITIES**

**15.1** Repairs to the shield are not permitted in cable supplied to
the end user under this specification.

**15.2** No repairs or defects in the jacket are allowed.

**16. PREPARATION FOR SHIPMENT**

**16.1** The cable shall be shipped on reels unless otherwise specified
or agreed to by the purchaser. The diameter of the drum shall be large
enough to prevent damage to the cable from reeling or unreeling. The
reels shall be substantial and so constructed as to prevent damage to
the cable during shipment and handling.

**16.2** A waterproof corrugated board or other means of protection
acceptable to REA shall be applied to the reel and shall be suitably
secured in place to prevent damage to the cable during storage and
shipment.

**16.3** The outer end of the cable shall be securely fastened to the
reel head so as to prevent the cable from becoming loose in transit. The
inner end of the cable shall be securely fastened in such a way as to
make it readily available if required for electrical testing. Spikes,
staples, or other fastening devices which penetrate the cable jacket
shall not be used. The method of fastening the cable ends shall be
accepted by REA prior to it being used.

**16.4** Each length of cable shall be wound on a separate reel unless
otherwise specified or agreed to by the purchaser.

**16.5** The arbor hole shall admit a spindle 63 mm (2.5 in.) in
diameter without binding. Steel arbor hole liners may be used but shall
be acceptable to REA prior to their use.

**16.6** Each reel shall be plainly marked to indicate the direction in
which it should be rolled to prevent loosening of the cable on the reel.

**16.7** Each reel shall be stenciled or labeled on either one or both
sides with the name of the manufacturer, year of manufacture, actual
shipping length, an inner and outer end sequential length marking,
description of the cable, reel number and the REA cable designation.

[CABLE DESIGNATION]{.underline}

CT

Cable Construction

Pair Count

Conductor Gauge

A = Coated Aluminum Shield

P = Preconnectorized Cable

Example: CTAP 100-22

Terminating Cable, Coated Aluminum Shield,

Preconnectorized, 100 pairs, 22 AWG

**16.8** When preconnectorized cable is shipped, the splicing modules
shall be protected to prevent damage during shipment and handling. The
protection method shall be acceptable to REA prior to its use.

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Electrification Administration

**APPENDIX A**

**TERMINATING CABLE**

**Qualifications Test Methods Bulletin 1753F-207(PE-87)**

**1.** The test procedures described in this appendix are for
qualification of initial designs and major modifications of \"accepted\"
designs. Included in Paragraph 5 of this appendix are suggested formats
that may be used in submitting test results to REA.

**2. SAMPLE SELECTION AND PREPARATION**

**2.1** All testing shall be performed on lengths removed sequentially
from the same 25 pair, 22 gauge jacketed cable. This cable shall not
have been exposed to temperatures in excess of 38°C since its initial
cool down after sheathing. The lengths specified are minimum lengths and
if desirable from a laboratory testing standpoint longer lengths may be
used.

**2.1.1** Length A shall be 12 ± 0.2 meters (40 ± 0.5 feet) long.
Prepare the test sample by removing the jacket, shield, and core wrap
for a sufficient distance on both ends to allow the insulated conductors
to be flared out. Remove sufficient conductor insulation so that
appropriate electrical test connections can be made at both ends. Coil
the sample with a diameter of 15 to 20 times its sheath diameter. Two
lengths are required.

**2.1.2** Length B shall be 300 millimeters (1 foot) long. Three lengths
are required.

**2.1.3** Length C shall be 3 meters (10 feet) long and shall maintained
at 23 ± 3°C for the duration of the test. Two lengths are required.

**2.2 [Data Reference Temperature]{.underline}:** Unless otherwise
specified, all measurements shall be made at 23 ± 3°C.

**3. ENVIRONMENTAL TESTS**

**3.1** **[Heat Aging Test]{.underline}**

**3.1.1** **[Test Samples]{.underline}:** Place one sample each of
lengths A and B in an oven or environmental chamber. The ends of sample
A shall exit from the chamber or oven for electrical tests. Securely
seal the oven exit holes.

**3.1.2 [Sequence of Tests]{.underline}:** Sample B referenced in
Paragraph 3.1.1 of this appendix shall be subjected to the insulation
compression test outlined in Paragraph 3.2 of this appendix.

**3.1.3 [Initial Measurements]{.underline}**

**3.1.3.1** For sample A, measure the open circuit capacitance and
conductance for each odd pair at 1, 150, and 772 kHz after conditioning
the sample at the data reference temperature for 24 hours. Calculate the
average and standard deviation for the data of the 13 pairs on a per
kilometer (per mile) basis.

**3.1.3.2** Record on suggested formats attached in Paragraph 5 of this
appendix or on other easily readable formats.

**3.1.4 [Heat Conditioning]{.underline}**

**3.1.4.1** Immediately after completing the initial measurements,
condition the sample for 14 days at a temperature of 65 ± 2°C.

**3.1.4.2** At the end of this period measure and calculate the
parameters given in Paragraph 3.1.3 of this appendix. Record on
suggested formats in Paragraph 5 of this appendix or on other easily
readable formats.

**3.1.5 [Overall Electrical Deviation]{.underline}**

**3.1.5.1** Calculate the percent change in all average parameters
between the final parameters after conditioning with the initial
parameters in Paragraph 3.1.3 of this appendix.

**3.1.5.2** The stability of the electrical parameters after completion
of this test shall be within the following prescribed limits:

a\. [Capacitance]{.underline}**:** The average mutual capacitance shall
be

within 10 percent of its original value;

b\. The change in average mutual capacitance shall be less

than 10 percent over the frequency range of 1 to 150

kilohertz; and

c\. [Conductance]{.underline}**:** The average mutual conductance shall
not

exceed 3.7 micromhos/kilometer (6 micromhos/mile) at a

frequency of 1 kilohertz.

**3.2 [Insulation Compression Test]{.underline}**

**3.2.1 [Test Sample B]{.underline}:** Remove jacket, shield, and core
wrap being careful not to damage the conductor insulation. Remove one
pair from the core and carefully separate and straighten the insulated
conductors. Retwist the two insulated conductors together under
sufficient tension to form 10 evenly spaced 360 degree twists in a
length of 100 millimeters (4 inches).

**3.2.2 [Sample Testing]{.underline}:** Center the mid 50 millimeters (2
inches) of the twisted pair between two smooth rigid parallel metal
plates measuring 50 millimeters (2 inches) in length or diameter. Apply
a 1.5 volt direct current potential between the conductors, using a
light or buzzer to indicate electrical contact between the conductors.
Apply a constant load of 67 newtons

(15 pound-force) on the sample for one minute and monitor for evidence
of contact between the conductors. Record results on suggested formats
attached in Paragraph 5 of this appendix or on other easily readable
formats.

**3.3 [Temperature Cycling]{.underline}**

**3.3.1** Repeat Paragraphs 3.1.1 through 3.1.3.2 of this appendix for
separate set of samples A and B which have not been subjected to prior
environmental conditioning.

**3.3.2** Immediately after completing the measurements, subject the
test samples to 10 cycles of temperature between -40°C and +60°C. The
test samples shall be held at each temperature extreme for a minimum of
1.5 hours during each cycle of temperature. The air within the
temperature cycling chamber shall be circulated throughout the duration
of the cycling.

**3.3.3** Repeat Paragraphs 3.1.4.2 through 3.2.2 of this appendix.

**4. CONTROL SAMPLE**

**4.1 [Test Samples]{.underline}:** One length of sample B shall have
been maintained at 23 ± 3°C for at least 48 hours before the testing.

**4.2** Repeat Paragraphs 3.2 through 3.2.2 of this appendix.

**4.3 [Surge Test]{.underline}**

**4.3.1** One length of sample C shall be used to measure the breakdown
between conductors while the other length of C shall be used to measure
core to shield breakdown.

**4.3.2** The samples shall be capable of withstanding, without damage,
a single surge voltage of 20 kilovolts peak between conductors, and 35
kilovolts peak between conductors and the shield as hereinafter
described. The surge voltage shall be developed from a capacitor
discharge through a forming resistor connected in parallel with the
dielectric of the test sample. The surge generator constants shall be
such as to produce a surge of 1.5 x 40 microseconds wave shape.

**4.3.3** The shape of the generated wave shall be determined at a
reduced voltage by connecting an oscilloscope across the forming
resistor with the cable sample connected in parallel with the forming
resistor. The capacitor bank is charged to the test voltage and then
discharged through the forming resistor and test sample. The test sample
will be considered to have passed the test if there is no distinct
change in the wave shape obtained with the initial reduced voltage
compared to that obtained after the application of the test voltage.

**5. TEST DATA FORMATS**

**5.1** The following suggested formats may be used for submitting the
test data to REA.

Environmental
Conditioning\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

FREQUENCY 1 KILOHERTZ

Pair Capacitance Conductance

[Number]{.underline} [nF/km (nF/mile)]{.underline} [micromhos/km
(micromhos/mile)]{.underline}

[Initial]{.underline} [Final]{.underline} [Initial]{.underline}
[Final]{.underline}

1 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

3 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

5 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

7 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

9 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

11 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

13 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

15 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

17 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

19 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

21 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

23 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

25 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

Overall Percent

Difference in

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Environmental
Conditioning\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

FREQUENCY 150 KILOHERTZ

Pair Capacitance Conductance

[Number]{.underline} [nF/km (nF/mile)]{.underline} [micromhos/km
(micromhos/mile)]{.underline}

[Initial]{.underline} [Final]{.underline} [Initial]{.underline}
[Final]{.underline}

1 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

3 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

5 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

7 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

9 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

11 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

13 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

15 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

17 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

19 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

21 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

23 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

25 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

Overall Percent

Difference in

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Environmental
Conditioning\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

FREQUENCY 772 KILOHERTZ

Pair Capacitance Conductance

[Number]{.underline} [nF/km (nF/mile)]{.underline} [micromhos/km
(micromhos/mile)]{.underline}

[Initial]{.underline} [Final]{.underline} [Initial]{.underline}
[Final]{.underline}

1 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

3 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

5 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

7 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

9 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

11 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

13 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

15 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

17 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

19 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

21 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

23 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

25 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_

Overall Percent

Difference in

\_

Average x \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

INSULATION COMPRESSION

[Failures]{.underline}

Control \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Heat Age \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Temperature Cycling \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

SURGE TEST (kilovolts)

Conductor to Conductor \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Shield to Conductors \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

UNITED STATED DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Electrification Administration

**APPENDIX B**

**Sheath Slitting Cord Qualification**

**1.** This test procedure described in this appendix is for
qualification of initial and subsequent changes in sheath slitting
cords.

**2. [SAMPLE SELECTION]{.underline}:** All testing shall be performed on
two

1.2 m (4 ft) length of cable removed sequentially from the same 25 pair,
22 gauge jacketed cable. This cable shall not have been exposed to
temperatures in excess of 38°C since its initial cool down after
sheathing.

**3. TEST PROCEDURE**

**3.1** Using a suitable tool, expose enough of sheath slitting cord to
permit grasping with needle nose pliers.

**3.2** The prepared test specimens shall be maintained at a temperature
of 23 ± 1°C for at least 4 hours immediately prior to and during the
test.

**3.3** Wrap the sheath slitting cord around the plier jaws to ensure a
good grip.

**3.4** Grasp and hold the cable in a convenient position while gently
and firmly pulling the sheath slitting cord longitudinally in the
direction away from the cable end. The angle of pull may vary to any
convenient and functional degree. A small starting notch is permissible.

**3.5** The sheath slitting cord is considered acceptable if the cord
can slit the jacket and/or shield for a continuous length

of 0.6 m (2 ft) without breaking the cord.