1.1 Product definitionThis European Standard contains the initial, start of life dimensional, optical, mechanical and environmental performance requirements, which a singlemode fusion splice protector need to meet in order for it to be categorised as an EN standard product.Although in this document the product is qualified for EN 60793-2-50 type B1.1 and B1.3 singlemode fibres it may also be suitable for fusion splice protection of multimode fibre with 125 µm diameter glass cladding and other singlemode fibres with 125 µm diameter glass cladding at other wavelengths. 1.2 InteroperabilityThe installed fusion splice protector needs to fit into optical fibre splice cassettes or splice trays. This European Standard specifies the following physical interface dimensions:- cross sectional profile with width, height or diameter(in millimetres);- length (in millimetres). 1.3 Expected performanceIn this European Standard, the performance of the fusion splice protector is given with selected fibres as specified in Annex A. 1.4 Operating environmentThe tests selected combined with the severities and durations are representative of an outdoor enclosed environment defined as category U in EN 61753-1. To ensure that the product can be used in closures, boxes or street cabinet for categories C, A, G and S (as defined EN 61753-1) the specified lower temperature is extended to -40 °C and requirements for temporary flooding have been added. 1.5 ReliabilityWhilst the anticipated service life expectancy of the product in this environment is at least 20 years, compliance with this specification does not guarantee the reliability of the product. This should be predicted using a recognised reliability assessment programme. 1.6 Quality assuranceCompliance with this specification does not guarantee the manufacturing consistency of the product. This should be maintained using a recognised quality assurance programme.