Fiber optic connector grades compared to GHMT PVP Level 2

The article  “GHMT Certification“ focused on the performance grades of fiber optic connectors specified by IEC 61753-1. The independent test lab GHMT AG specifies three different quality levels in their PREMIUM Verification Program (PVP) with Level 1 being the highest level of them.

In many projects, GHMT PVP Level 2 is an optimum of technically demanding specifications and cost-effectiveness.

The specifications of Level 2 are:

• attenuation max. 0.25 dB
• return loss min. 45 dB for connectors with a straight tip (PC)
• return loss min. 60 dB for connectors with an angled tip (APC)

The specs recognize no exception, all connectors under test have to meet the specs.

IEC 61753-1:2019-10 specifies for the attenuation of singlemode fiber connectors among other classes

• class B: max. 0.12 dB mean, max. 0.25 dB for a minimum of 97 % of the connections
• classe C: max. 0.25 dB mean, max. 0,5 dB for a minimum of 97 % of the connections

and regarding return loss among others

• class 1: min. 60 dB mated and min. 55 dB unmated
• class 2: min. 45 dB

The specifications of PVP Level 2 thus correspond roughly to the connctor grades

• B2 for singlemode connectors with a straight tip (PC)
• B1 for singlemode connectors with an angled tip (APC)

Mean value according to class B is more strict but allows deviations. PVP Level 2 recognizes no exceptions.