IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009

IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009 is an inactive draft standard focused on testing and performance for optical ground wire (OPGW) used on electric utility power lines. It addresses a specialized part of communication, networking and broadcast technologies where fiber-containing overhead conductors must support grounding and telecom functions at the same time. For utilities, designers, and purchasers, this technical document helps define how OPGW products may be evaluated for consistent performance and suitability in service.

Overview of IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009

IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009 outlines a draft framework for assessing OPGW as a component installed on electric utility transmission and distribution corridors. The standard is relevant where an overhead ground wire also carries optical communication paths, so testing and performance expectations must account for both electrical and communications roles. As a draft specification, IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009 is useful for understanding how such products are commonly characterized, verified, and compared during engineering review or procurement.

Typical use cases

This standard is typically referenced when evaluating OPGW for utility line upgrades, new transmission builds, or refurbishment projects that need reliable overhead grounding with integrated optical connectivity. It may support specification of cable performance, acceptance testing, and product comparison for substation-to-substation communications, protection signaling, and network backhaul along power corridors. In practice, IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009 is most relevant to utility engineers, cable suppliers, and test laboratories working with overhead line infrastructure.

Why it matters

Clear testing and performance criteria help reduce uncertainty when selecting OPGW for critical power-line applications. IEEE P1138/D14, Jul 2009 supports better design control by giving stakeholders a common basis for checking mechanical, electrical, and communications-related expectations in one product category. That can improve procurement consistency, limit field-performance surprises, and support safer integration of optical communication paths on energized utility structures. For projects where reliability matters, a defined standard helps align specification and verification work.

• Optical ground wire performance
• Testing for utility power-line use
• Draft requirements and verification
• Overhead grounding with fiber optics
• Utility corridor communications applications