ABSTRACT: This Generic Requirements (GR) document sets forth the Telcordia view of the technical generic requirements for, and characteristics required of, connectors used for joining singlemode optical fibers, and for the jumper assemblies made using such connectors. The Telcordia view represents the expressed needs of the Telcordia Technical Forum (TTF) companies participating in the development of these generic requirements (see Preface), and may meet the needs of other telecommunications service providers. It should be noted that a user may have actual requirements that differ from the generic criteria contained in this document.

This GR includes the Telcordia view of the various requirements, desired features, and characteristics of connectors and jumper assemblies, and the performance tests for comparing such products against the stated criteria.

The performance tests for analyzing optical connectors and jumper assemblies are intended to reflect a composite picture of various operating conditions. The generic requirements, objectives, conditional requirements, and test methods are subject to change.

GR-326 is regarded as the most complete and rigorous standard for singlemode fiber-optic connectors. Issue 4 defines the latest requirements required of connectors used for joining singlemode optical fibers and for jumper assemblies made using such connectors.

Issue 4 of GR-326:

• Discusses endface geometry of singlemode connectors
• Contains new and updated criteria for singlemode connector reflectance
• Contains further detail regarding evaluation of samples after salt spray exposure
• Contains additional text that addresses similar products and factory considerations as it relates to present-day products.