TS EN 50290-1-2

TS EN 50290-1-2 is a terminology standard for communication and control network cables. It establishes the terms and definitions used for symmetrical, coaxial and optical fibre cables in the design, construction, testing and installation context, helping related documents use the same technical language consistently.

Technical language covered by this part

This part provides a common vocabulary for cable specifications in the EN 50290 and EN 50289 series. In practice, cable documentation relies on precise naming for conductor arrangement, screening, insulation, sheath, fibre structure and installation-related concepts. A definitions standard does not set performance values by itself; instead, it supports the interpretation of later technical requirements by giving core terms a shared meaning.

Why the distinction matters

Symmetrical cables, coaxial cables and optical fibre cables are based on different transmission principles, so their terminology cannot be treated as interchangeable. Symmetrical cables are associated with balanced electrical transmission, coaxial cables with a central conductor and concentric outer conductor geometry, and optical fibre cables with light transmission through fibre structures. By organising these concepts within one standardised vocabulary, the standard helps engineers, specifiers and manufacturers describe cable systems more consistently across communication and control infrastructure.

• Provides common definitions for terms used in the EN 50290 and EN 50289 series.
• Covers symmetrical, coaxial and optical fibre cables.
• Supports consistent wording in cable design, construction, test and installation documents.
• Helps align terminology across communication and control network infrastructure specifications.