IEC 60793-2:2015 contains the general specifications for both multimode and single-mode optical fibres. Sectional specifications for each of the four categories multimode fibres: A1, A2, A3, and A4 (part of the multimode fibre class A) contain requirements specific to each category. Sectional specifications for each of the two single-mode fibre classes, B and C, contain requirements common to each class. Each sectional specification includes family specifications (in normative annexes) that contain requirements for the applicable category or sub-categories. These sub-categories are distinguished on the basis of different fibre types or applications. The requirements of this standard apply to all classes. Each sectional specification contains the requirements that are common to all the family specifications that are within it. These common requirements are copied to the family specification for ease of reference. Tests or measurement methods are defined for each specified attribute. Where possible, these definitions are by reference to an IEC standard - otherwise the test or measurement method is outlined in the relevant sectional specification. This eighth edition cancels and replaces the seventh edition published in 2011. This edition constitutes a technical revision which was necessary due to the addition of new fibre models to the A1 category in IEC 60793-2-10. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- addition of two new sub-categories A3f and A3g indicated "under consideration" as they have not yet been fully standardized at the moment of finalizing this document;
- modification of the Numerical aperture heading in Table 3 in line with recent modifications in all A1, A2, A3 and A4 multimode product specifications (NAff only).

This publication is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60793-1 series. Keywords: specifications for both multimode and single-mode optical fibres