Technical Paper

Applying the IEC and UL 60950 Standards

to Telecommunication Transformers
Table of Contents
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Knowing the Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Voltage and Earthing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
AC Mains Supply Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Working Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Protective Earthing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Circuit Type Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Insulation Type Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Insulation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Insulation Requirements in Norway and Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Requirements for Transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Functional Insulation Exception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Basic Insulation Exception for US and Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Electric Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Insulation Between Windings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Clearance Distances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Creepage Distances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Appendix-A Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Applying the IEC and UL 60950 Standards
to Telecommunication Transformers

Tyco Electronics Power Components Dean Huumala

CoEv Magnetics Senior Design Engineer

Foreword
This application note is intended to aid CoEv Magnetics in the process of determining which type of insulation is required in
designing a telecommunications transformer and is to be used in conjunction with the 3rd Edition of UL 60950, which was used
in the creation of this application. All references to the UL documents in this application note are referring to the 3rd Edition of
UL 60950, dated Dec. 1, 2000, with much of the text, charts, and graphs taken directly from the standard.

The UL 60950 standard, 3rd Edition, is jointly issued by CSA International and Underwriters Laboratories Incorporated. The UL
60950 standard is based on the IEC 60950 third edition. As stated by UL 60950 the “standard adopts the IEC text with deviation.
This standard is published as an equivalent standard.”

While this application note is written as a guide for those designing to meet the UL 60950 and/or IEC950 standards, it is by no
means meant to replace either standard. This guide is limited in nature to designs for the most common telecommunication
transformers.

Introduction
When designing a transformer for telecommunications appli-
cation safety agency issues are often a concern and can be
driving factors in the size, performance and even cost of the
transformer. Confusion as to what, exactly, is required in a
design is not uncommon and a thorough knowledge of the
end application, voltage levels of the circuit, how the circuit
is grounded and country/countries of final installation are
pertinent at the very onset of the design. If this information is
lacking, the final design may be completed to incorporate the
most stringent requirements; however this may result in a
design that is larger in size, higher in cost, and/or limited in
performance in comparison to what is required.
Knowing the Application
To optimize a design for size, performance and cost while
meeting the necessary safety agency requirements, CoEv
needs to know what circuit types are on each side of the
transformer and whether or not the circuits provide protec-
tive earthing. (Any reference to earthing in this document
refers to protective earthing in contrast to functional earthing
unless otherwise noted.) The highest nominal mains voltage
and peak working voltage seen by the transformer are need-
ed in order to determine creepage and clearance distances.
CoEv must also know whether or not the end product will be
used in Norway, Sweden and/or Australia.
The right most column of Table 1 lists the defaults application
information that CoEv uses if this information is not provided
when a UL 60950 or IEC 60950 compliant device is requested.
The blanks in the center column can be filled out and sent
along with design inquiries. This will allow CoEv to optimize
the design. Abbreviated circuit type and voltage type defini-
tions are given in this document but reference to the 3rd Edi-
tion of the UL 60950 standard must be made for complete
definitions.

Customer Application CoEv Default

Type SELV
Circuit 1
Protective Earthed? No
Type TNV-3
Circuit 2
Protective Earthed? No
Highest Nominal Mains Voltage 250V
Peak Working Voltage 250V
Marketed in Norway or Sweden? Yes
Marketed in Australia? Yes
Table 1. Shows default application assumptions if the information is not provided.

1
Voltage and Earthing • Electric strength: Section 5.2.2 describing the test procedure
for electric strength does not give any exclusion for ringing
AC Mains Supply Voltage
voltages but refers to section 2.10.2 and states that “DC val-
The nominal voltage of the AC mains supply that the telecom
ues of the working voltage shall be used for DC voltages and
equipment will be using needs to be known in order to prop-
peak values for other voltages.” CoEv thereby assumes that
erly determine the clearance distance. As defined in section
ringing voltages must be considered in determining the
2.10.2.1 of UL 60950, the AC mains supply voltage is the line-
working voltage for the electric strength test.
to-neutral voltage in all countries except for Norway. In note
• Clearance Distance: Because of requirements to treat sec-
4 of the same section it states that in Norway the AC mains
ondary circuits in Norway and Sweden as primary circuits
supply voltage is line-to-line which is 230V. (The highest nom-
noted in section 6.1.2.1 as well as unearthed secondary cir-
inal line to neutral voltage that we are aware of is 250V in cer-
cuits noted in section 2.10.3.3, CoEv assumes that clear-
tain cities in South Africa.)
ances for primary circuits are required. As noted in section
2.10.3.2 NOTE 4 the working voltage to be used must be
In order to cover most worldwide applications, CoEv designs
equal to the AC mains supply voltage.
transformers using 250V as the AC mains supply voltage.
• Creepage Distance: Section 2.10.4 specifies that for creep-
There may be cases where a lower or higher voltage is more
age distances the working voltage shall be the RMS or DC.
applicable for the equipment being designed, but such an
Value without ripple and short-term conditions and distur-
application would be an exception to the usual design
bances such as cadence ringing signals and transients
request and would need to be specifically noted when
shall not be taken into account.
requesting samples.
Unless otherwise specified, the peak working voltage used is
Working Voltage 250V. This voltage is used not only because of the AC mains
In order to define creepage and clearance as well as the supply voltage requirement for clearance distances but also
electric strength test requirements, the working voltage of because some telecom designs use line powering voltages
the transformer will also need to be known. The working volt- up to 250V. For an optimal design, the working voltage must
age is the highest voltage to which the transformer is sub- be defined on the inquiry.
jected to while operating under normal conditions of use.
According to section 2.10.2 of UL 60950 when determining the
Protective Earthing
working voltage in transformers, the highest voltage possible
It must be known whether or not SELV and TNV circuits are
between any point in a winding and any other part or winding
protective earthed in order to determine not only the type of
of the transformer will be used. Also, floating transformer
insulation required, but also the clearance distances required.
windings, or parts, are assumed to be earthed at the point
Unless specified, the default is that neither side is earthed. The
that obtains the highest working voltage.
provisions for protective earthing are described in Section 2.6.
The working voltage definition varies depending on whether it
is being used to determine clearance distances, creepage
distances or electric strength requirements for transformers.
Occasionally, specific exclusion is made for ringing voltages.
In other instances, the working voltage is defined to be equal
to the mains voltage. CoEv determinations of the working volt-
age in the three different cases are based on the following cri-
teria: electric strength, clearance and creepage distances:

2
Circuit Type Definitions
For most telecommunications applications the transformer
will bridge the barrier between a SELV circuit, a low voltage
circuit, and a TNV circuit, a telecommunications circuit.
Abbreviated definitions are shown for all different circuit
types available in Table 2 below. To accurately determine
which circuit types are in use, the designer must have inti-
mate knowledge of the voltage levels and environment of the
circuit. Unless otherwise specified, the transformer designer
will assume the most stringent TNV conditions (TNV-3), and
SELV to be the circuit types.

Primary Circuit Connected to the AC Mains supply.

Secondary Circuit No connection to a primary circuit.
Hazardous Voltage Exceeds 42.4V peak or 60VDC and does not meet limited current nor TNV
requirements
ELV Circuit Secondary circuit not exceeding 42.4V peak or 60VDC under normal operating
conditions, separated from hazardous voltages by basic insulation and does not
meet limited current nor SELV requirements.
SELV Circuit Secondary circuit not exceeding 42.4V peak or 60VDC under normal operating and
single fault conditions.
TNV Circuit Secondary circuit with limited accessibility, does not exceed 42.4V peak or 60VDC
under normal operating conditions, and under single fault conditions may see a
voltage spike of 1500V which degrades to 400V peak or DC within 2ms (see section
2.3.1 for complete definition of single fault maximum voltages).
TNV-1 Circuit TNV circuit which meets SELV voltage requirements, but on which overvoltages
from the telecommunications network are possible.
TNV-2 Circuit TNV circuit which exceeds SELV voltage requirements and is not subjected to
overvoltages from the telecommunications network.
TNV-3 Circuit TNV circuit which exceeds SELV voltage requirements and on which overvoltages
from the telecommunications network are possible.
Table 2. Abbreviates the circuit definitions from UL 60950 Edition 3.

Insulation Type Definitions and whether or not these circuits are connected to earth.
UL 60950 Edition 3 defines five different categories of insula- Table 3 provides abridged definitions for each of the insulation
tion in section 2.9.5. The category of insulation to be used is categories.
dependant upon the type of circuit on each side of the barrier

F - Functional Insulation Insulation necessary for correct operation of equipment (referred to as

Operational Insulation in previous editions).
B - Basic Insulation Insulation to provide basic protection against electric shock.
S - Supplementary Insulation Insulation applied in addition to basic insulation in order to reduce risk of
electric shock in the event of failure of the basic insulation.
D - Double Insulation Insulation comprising both basic insulation and supplementary insulation.
R - Reinforced Insulation Single insulation system to provide a degree of protection against electric
shock equivalent to double insulation.
Table 3. Gives abridged definitions of the insulation categories defined in UL 60950 Edition 3.

3
Insulation Requirements
For most telecom applications the circuits being isolated are
a SELV circuit from a TNV circuit. Table 4, for selecting the
appropriate insulation category, was derived from section
2.9.5, Figure 2F in UL 60950 Edition 3. For all of the possible
SELV to TNV scenarios, whether earthed or unearthed, the
insulation requirement is either functional insulation or basic
insulation.
When the exact nature of the telecom circuit is unknown, the
default is that the TNV circuit is TNV-3 and that both the TNV
and the SELV circuits are un-earthed. With this scenario the
insulation requirement is basic insulation. The requirements
for basic insulation are more stringent than the requirements
for functional insulation. The only time that functional insula-
tion is the appropriate insulation is if the barrier is between a
SELV circuit and a TNV-1 circuit and one or both circuits are
earthed.
While basic insulation will suffice for all TNV to SELV circuits
in most of the world, there is an exception for Norway and
Sweden. The following section explains this exception.

Unearthed Earthed
Hazardous Hazardous Unearthed Earthed Unearthed Earthed
Primary ELV TNV-2 TNV-3
Voltage Voltage SELV SELV TNV-1 TNV-1
Circuit Circuit Circuit Circuit
Secondary Secondary Circuit Circuit Circuit Circuit
Circuit Circuit
Primary
F B B B R B R R R R
Circuit
Unearthed
Hazardous
1 1 1 1 1
Voltage B F - B R/S B R/S R/S R/S R/S
Secondary
Circuit
Earthed
Hazardous
Voltage B - F B R B R R R R
Secondary
Circuit
ELV Circuit B B B F - F S S S S
Unearthed
1
SELV R R/S R - F F B F B B
Circuit
Earthed
SELV B B B F F F F F B B
Circuit
Unearthed
1
TNV-1 R R/S R S B F F - B B
Circuit
Earthed
1
TNV-1 R R/S R S F F - F B B
Circuit
TNV-2 1
R R/S R S B B B B F B
Circuit
TNV-3 1
R R/S R S B B B B B F
Circuit
Table 4. Shows which insulation category is required between circuit types.

1
By default Reinforced Insulation unless otherwise specified. Supplementary Insulation applies
only when the working voltage is equal to the voltage between the secondary circuit at haz-
ardous voltage and another secondary circuit at hazardous voltage (or a primary circuit).

4
Insulation Requirements in Norway and Sweden
In Sweden and Norway supplementary insulation for a prima-
ry circuit is required for any equipment connected to the
telecommunications network. This is in part due to soil condi-
tions in that region of the world as well as to the power distri-
bution systems used in Norway. The exceptions for Sweden
and Norway are noted in UL 60950 Edition 3 section 6.1.2.1.
This exception is noteworthy because, by default, the trans-
former designer works under the assumption that the end
product will be marketed in Norway or Sweden unless con-
trary information is provided. The result is a transformer that is
designed to meet supplementary requirements for a primary
circuit, which may result in a larger, more expensive trans-
former than what is truly needed.
a) ringing signals do not exceed the limits for TNV-3
b) the transformer is located on the disconnect side of the
switchhook
c) the wire complies with the component requirements for
magnet wire, and
d) the transformer is subjected to a 1000 VAC electric
strength test as a routine test on 100% of production with-
out evidence of dielectric breakdown (see section 6.2.1)
This exception is not utilized when designing unless the equip-
ment manufacturer provides information that a) the ringing sig-
nals do not exceed the limits for TNV-3 and b) the transformer
is located on the disconnect side of the switchhook. If this
information is not provided the design might result in a larger,
more expensive transformer than is necessary.

Requirements for Transformers Electric Strength

In keeping in compliance with the UL 60950 standards, a
transformer must be designed with four parameters in mind.
These parameters (i.e. the electric strength test, the insulation
between transformer windings, the creepage distance and
the clearance distance) all vary depending on the insulation
category being designed to as well as the working voltage
and mains supply voltage in the circuit.
A special exception for basic and functional insulation in the
US and Canada allows the transformer to be built with mag-
net wire only, negating the need for insulation between the
windings and creepage and clearance. Spe-
cial requirements apply, as these transformers
must be subjected to electric strength tests.
The following are exceptions for both cases
along with the appropriate section in UL 60950
Edition 3 that list the exception
The electric strength test that the transformer must meet is
defined in section 5.2.2. with the levels specified in Table 5B.
A copy of Table 5B Part 1 is shown as Table 5; a copy of Part
2 is also shown. Per section 5.2.2 the voltage applied in the
strength test must be held for 60 seconds except for routine
tests that must be held for 1 second as stated in NOTE 1. In
addition section 6.2.2.2 requires that equipment connected to
the telecommunications network is subject to the dielectric
steady-state strength test of 1000VAC in accordance with
section 5.2.2. When specifying transformer dielectric
strength the greater of the two values is typically utilized.

Functional Insulation Exception

Per section 5.3.4 one of the alternatives to meet-
ing the clearance and creepage distances list-
ed is to withstand the electric strength tests for
functional insulation in section 5.2.2. Interleaved
insulation for winding separation in wound
components, defined in 2.10.5.4 does not men-
tion functional insulation. By default magnet
wire is acceptable. When CoEv designs to
Functional Insulation this exception is followed
and an electric strength test is met using mag-
net wire insulation only for isolation.

Basic Insulation Exception for US and Canada

In section 2.3.2 a less stringent deviation for the
US and Canada states that enamel coating on
signal transformer winding wire may be used Table 5. Taken from UL 60950 Table 5B defines the test voltages for electric strength test.
as an alternative to basic insulation only if:

5
Electric Strength in Australia: Section 6.2.2.2
notes that a steady-state electric strength test
of 1.5kVAC must be met for telecom equipment
in Australia. This is done to simulate lightning
surges on typical rural and semi rural network
lines. Australia also requires the 10/700(S
impulse test described in section 6.2.2.1.
Unless otherwise specified, the default is that
the transformer will be used in Australia and
the transformer will be designed to these
requirements.

Electric Strength in Sweden and Norway: Sec-

tion 6.1.2.1 notes that for both Sweden and
Norway supplementary insulation for a prima-
ry circuit is required for any equipment con-
nected to the telecommunication network. The
required electric strength test voltage for a pri-
mary circuit, with supplementary insulation
and an assumed working voltage of 250V, is
1500VRMS.

Electric Strength in Secondary Circuits: The

rest of the world does not have the supple-
mentary insulation for a primary circuit stipula-
tion that Norway and Sweden do. The voltage
for the electric strength test in Table 5 Part 2
for an assumed working voltage of 250V the
voltage level is 1261VRMS. It should be noted
that for products sold in Australia, Norway
and/or Sweden the minimum required voltage
strength is 1500VRMS and this is the default
value used by CoEv.

Insulation Between Windings

In complying with UL 60950 Edition 3 require-
ments for distances through insulation in
wound components, one must refer to section
2.10.5.4. When basic, supplementary or rein-
forced insulation is required between windings
(the exception for BASIC INSULATION does
not require this) there are three transformer
construction methods possible; tape, specialty
wire or void-free/cemented-joint construction.
Table 5 (continued). Taken from UL 60950 Table 5B defines the test voltages for electric strength test.

Tape: Thin sheet materials, such as tape, are

permitted as a means of insulation in section 2.10.5.2. This
same section specifically states that, “Solvent-based enam-
el coatings are not considered to be insulation.” In other
words the insulation on magnet wire is not considered insu-
lation.

As stated in section 2.10.5.2 the requirements for thin sheet

material layers are:

6
• SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION comprises at least two
layers of material, each of which will pass the electric
strength test for SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION; or
• SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION comprises at least three
layers of material for which all combinations of two layers
together will pass the electric strength test for SUPPLE-
MENTARY INSULATION; or
• REINFORCED INSULATION comprises at least two layers of
material, each of which will pass the electric strength test
for REINFORCED INSULATION; or
• REINFORCED INSULATION comprises three layers of mater-
ial for which all combinations of two layers together will pass
the electric strength test for REINFORCED INSULATION.
While no specific requirements for thin sheet material layers
are defined for basic insulation in section 2.10.5.2, the stan-
dard does specifically state in section 2.10.5.4 that windings
requiring basic insulation “shall be separated by interleaved
insulation”. Based on this, the conclusion can be made that,
at a minimum, the layer requirements for a supplementary
insulation apply.
Specialty Wire: Specialty wire is an acceptable means of insu-
lation between windings as defined by section 2.10.5.4. The
wire must have multi-layer spirally wrapped or extruded insu-
lation where the layers comply with 2.10.5.2 and pass the tests
of annex U (where the layers can be individually tested for
electric strength). The minimum number of constructional lay-
ers applied to the conductor is defined in section 2.10.5.4 to be:
• BASIC INSULATION: two wrapped layers or one extruded
layer
• SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION: two layers, wrapped or
extruded
• REINFORCED INSULATION: three layers, wrapped or
extruded
Void Free Impregnation and Cemented Joint: Section 2.10.8
allows for products to be built with void free impregnation
and/or cemented techniques providing they meet the dis-
tance through insulation requirements of Section 2.10.5.1.
Inherent with this method of construction are high develop-
ment costs and long development lead times. While this
method of construction has been used on a custom basis,
CoEv Magnetics does not utilize this type of construction as
a primary means of manufacturing compliant transformers,
instead they opt for more industry standard methods.
Clearance Distances
Clearance distances defined in section 2.10.3 are determined
by insulation category required, peak working voltage, nomi-
nal AC mains supply voltage (both of which are assumed to
be 250V if not specified), pollution degree of the environment,
and whether or not the circuit is earthed.
Pollution Degree: The pollution degrees defined in section
2.10.1 are shown in Table 6. Unless otherwise specified, Pol-
lution Degree 2 is the default as it typically covers equipment
within the scope of this standard (UL 60950).

Pollution Degree 1 For components and assemblies which are sealed so as to exclude dust
and moisture
Pollution Degree 2 Generally for equipment covered by the scope of this standard (UL 60950)
Pollution Degree 3 Where a local internal environment within the equipment is subject to
conductive pollution or to dry non-conductive pollution which could become
conductive due to expected condensation
Table 6. Shows the definitions for Pollution Degree from UL 60950.

7
Minimum Clearance in Primary Circuits: Exceptions in sec-
tion 6.1.2.1 require supplementary insulation for a primary cir-
cuit for Norway and Sweden. Unearthed secondary circuits
shall also be subjected to the requirements for primary cir-
cuits as stated in section 2.10.3.3.
Unless otherwise specified by the customer, an unearthed
circuit as well as a requirement for compatibility for Norway
and Sweden is used as the default because their criteria
requires selection of clearance from Table 7 from UL 60950
Edition 3 Table 2H.
Table 7. A copy of UL60950 Table 2H, shows clearance distances for primary circuits.
8
With the requirement of a 250V peak working voltage and
nominal mains voltage the clearance required for Pollution
Degree 2 is 1.5mm for 100% electric strength tested trans-
formers. The 1.5mm distance is used as part of the quality
control program and routine electric strength test require-
ments, which are met by CoEv. This 1.5mm distance is the
clearance distance that CoEv uses for basic and supplemen-
tary insulation by default. For functional insulation the excep-
tion in section 5.3.4 for an electric strength withstand test is
exercised and the creepage distance is not required.
Minimum Clearance in Secondary Circuits: The clearance in
Table 8, a copy of UL 60950 Edition 3 Table 2K, only applies for
earthed secondary circuits and is not used by CoEv unless
specific details are supplied stating that both secondary cir-
cuits are earthed.

Table 8. A copy of UL 60950 Table 2K, shows clearance distances for secondary circuits.

9
Creepage Distances
Creepage distances for UL 60950 are defined in section 2.10.4.
When determining the creepage distance, the working volt-
age (actual RMS or DC value without ripple, short-term con-
dition or disturbances), the pollution degree, and the material
group are taken into account. It is also noted in this same
section that if the creepage distance is less than the applic-
able clearance distance then the creepage distance shall be
at least as great as the minimum clearance distance.

Material Group: The definitions for material groups shown in

Table 9 are defined in section 2.10.4. If the material group is
not known, Material Group IIIb is to be assumed. However,
CoEv uses Material Group I material by default for standard
designs.

Material Group I 600<= CTI (comparative tracking index)

Material Group II 400 <= CTI < 600
Material Group IIIa 175 <= CTI < 400
Material Group IIIb 100 <= CTI < 175

Table 9. Shows Material Group definitions taken from UL 60950 Edition 3.

Minimum Creepage Distances: Using the CoEv defaults of a

250V working voltage, Pollution Degree 2 and Material Group
I, the creepage distance of 1.3mm can be found from Table 10
(Table 10 is a copy of UL 60950 Edition 3 Table 2L which is
located in Section 2.10.4). However, because this value is less
than the 1.5mm clearance distance determined for the same
conditions, the creepage distance must be at least 1.5mm.

CoEv, as a default value for basic and supplementary insula-

tion, designs uses the 1.5mm creepage distance. For func-
tional insulation designs the exception in section 5.3.4 for an
electric strength withstand test is again exercised and the
clearance distance is not required.

Table 10. A copy of Table 2L in UL 60950, shows creepage distances.

10
Summary
Since typical design inquiries do not specify the safety
agency requirements, CoEv must make basic assumptions
when designing transformers. For example, if only IEC 60950
or UL 60950 requirements are requested for telecommunica-
tions transformers, the transformer will be designed to meet
supplementary insulation for most worldwide applications.
All assumed parameters for supplementary insulation are
listed in Table 11 along with the basic and functional insula-
tion assumed parameters. Table 12 summarizes build require-
ments for both specialty wire designed and taped-shelf
designed transformers when the assumptions in Summary
Table 11 are made.

Peak Nominal
Applicable
Insulation Circuit 1 Circuit 2 Earthed Working Mains
Countries
Voltage Voltage
Supplementary SELV TNV-3 Neither 250V 250Vrms Worldwide
All except
Norway
Basic SELV TNV-3 Neither 250V 250Vrms
and
Sweden
All except
Either or Norway
Functional SELV TNV-1 250V 250Vrms
Both and
Sweden
Table 11. Summarizes all application assumptions made by CoEv Magnetics if unknown.

Tape Special Wire Electric

Insulation
between Extruded Clearance Creepage Strength
Category
Windings Layers Voltage
Supplementary 2 Layers 2 1.5mm 1.5mm 1500VAC
Basic 2 Layers 1 1.5mm 1.5mm 1500VAC
Functional None None None None 1500VAC
Table 12. Summarizes the build requirements for default transformers.

11
Appendix-A Definitions
Appendix-A is a list of helpful definitions from the UL 60950
Edition 3 document.
AC MAINS SUPPLY [1.2.8.1]: The external a.c. power distrib-
ution system supplying power to the equipment. These power
sources include public or private utilities and, unless other-
wise specified in the standard (e.g. 1.4.5), equivalent sources
such a as motor-driven generators and uninterruptible power
supplies.
PRIMARY CIRCUIT [1.2.8.2]: A circuit which is directly con-
nected to the AC MAINS SUPPLY. It includes for example, the
means for connection to the AC MAINS SUPPLY, the primary
windings of transformers, motors and other loading devices.
SECONDARY CIRCUIT [1.2.8.3]: A circuit which has no direct
connection to a PRIMARY CIRCUIT and derives its power
from a transformer, converter or equivalent
isolation device, or from a battery.
Overvoltages from Within SELV CIRCUIT
HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE [1.2.8.4]: A voltage TELECOMMUNICATION
exceeding 42.4 V peak, or 60 V d.c., existing in NETWORKS possible?
Yes
a circuit which does not meet the require-
No
ments for either a LIMITED CURRENT CIRCUIT
or TNV CIRCUIT. Table A1. Shows voltage limits of SELV and TNV circuits.
ELV CIRCUIT [1.2.8.5]: A SECONDARY CIRCUIT with voltages
between any two conductors of the circuit and between any
one such conductor and earth (see 1.4.9), not exceeding 42.4 V
peak, or 60 V d.c., under normal operating conditions, which is
separated from HAZERDOUS VOLTAGE by BASIC INSULA-
TION, and which neither meets all of the requirements for an
SELV CIRCUIT nor meets all of the requirements for a LIMITED
CURRENT CIRCUIT.
SELV CIRCUIT [1.2.8.6]: A SECONDARY CIRCUIT which is so
designed and protected that under normal operating condi-
tions and single fault conditions, its voltages do not exceed a
safe value. [2.2.2] In a single SELV CIRCUIT or in interconnect-
ed SELV CIRCUITS, the voltage between any two conductors
of the SELV CIRCUIT or CIRCUITS and, between any one such
conductor and earth (see 1.4.9), shall not exceed 42.4 V peak,
or 60 V d.c., under normal operating conditions.
LIMITED CURRENT CIRCUIT [1.2.8.7]: A circuit which is so
designed and protected that, under both normal operating
conditions and single fault conditions, the current which can
be drawn is not hazardous. (see 2.4.2 for current limit values)
HAZARDOUS ENERGY LEVEL [1.2.8.8]: A stored energy level
of 20 J or more, or an available continuous power level of 240
VA or more, at a potential of 2 V or more.
12
TNV CIRCUIT [1.2.8.9]: A circuit which is in the equipment and
to which the accessible area of contact is limited and that is
so designed and protected that, under normal operating con-
ditions and single fault conditions (see 1.4.14), the voltages
do not exceed specified limit values. A TNV CIRCUIT is con-
sidered to be a SECONDARY CIRCUIT In the meaning of this
standard.
NOTE 1—The specified limit values of voltages under normal
operating conditions and single fault conditions (see 1.4.14)
are given in 2.3.1. Requirements regarding accessibility of
TNV CIRCUITs are given in 2.1.1.1. (2.1.1.1 defines the limits as
to not exceed SELV CIRCUIT limits under normal operating
conditions and defines a single fault limit of 1500V peak down
to 400 V peak or d.c. after 2ms.)
TNV CIRCUITS are classified as TNV-1, TNV-2 and TNV-3
CIRCUITS as defined in 1.2.8.10, 1.2.8.11, and 1.2.8.12.
NOTE 2—The voltage relationships between SELV and TNV
CIRCUITs are shown in table 1 A.
Normal operating voltages
Exceeding SELV CIRCUIT
limits limits but within TNV CIRCUIT
limits
TNV-1 CIRCUIT TNV-3 CIRCUIT
SELV CIRCUIT TNV-2 CIRCUIT
TNV-1 CIRCUIT [1.2.8.10]: A TNV CIRCUIT: Whose normal oper-
ating voltages do not exceed the limits for an SELV CIRCUIT
under normal operating conditions, and on which overvoltages
from TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS are possible.
TNV-2 CIRCUIT [1.2.8.11]: A TNV CIRCUIT whose normal oper-
ating voltages exceed the limits for an SELV CIRCUIT under
normal operating conditions, and which is not subject to
overvoltages from TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS.
TNV-3 CIRCUIT [1.2.8.12]: A TNV CIRCUIT whose normal oper-
ating voltages exceed the limits for an SELV CIRCUIT under
normal operating conditions; and on which overvoltages
TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORKS are possible.
FUNCTIONAL INSULATION [1.2.9.1]: Insulation that is neces-
sary only for the correct operation of the equipment.
NOTE—FUNCTIONAL INSULATION by definition does not
protect against electric shock. It may, however, reduce the
likelihood of ignition and fire.
BASIC INSULATION [1.2.9.2]: Insulation to provide basic pro-
tection against electric shock.
SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION [1.2.9.3]: Independent insula-
tion applied in addition to BASIC INSULATION In order to
reduce the risk of electric shock in the event of a failure of the
BASIC INSULATION.
DOUBLE INSULATION [1.2.9.4]: Insulation comprising both
BASIC INSULATION and SUPPLEMENTARY INSULATION.
REINFORCED INSULATION [1.2.9.5]: A single insulation system
which provides a degree of protection against electric shock
equivalent to DOUBLE INSULATION under the conditions
specified in this standard.
NOTE—The term “insulation system” does not imply that the
insulation has to be in one homogeneous piece. It may com-
prise several layers which cannot be tested as SUPPLE-
MENTARY or BASIC INSULATION.
WORKING VOLTAGE [1.2.9.6]: The highest voltage to which
the insulation or the component under consideration is, or
can be, subjected when the equipment is operating under
conditions of normal use.
PEAK WORKING VOLTAGE [1.2.9.7]: The highest peak or d.c.
value of a WORKING VOLTAGE, including repetitive peak
impulses generated in the equipment, but not including exter-
nal transients.
13
REQUIRED WITHSTAND VOLTAGE [1.2.9.8]: The peak voltage
that the insulation under consideration is required to with-
stand.
MAINS TRANSIENT VOLTAGE [1.2.9.9]: The highest peak volt-
age expected at the power input to the equipment, arising
from external transients on the AC MAINS SUPPLY.
TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK TRANSIENT VOLTAGE
[1.2.9.10]: The highest peak voltage expected at the
TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK connection point of the
equipment, arising from external transients on the network.
CLEARANCE [1.2.10.1]: The shortest distance between two
conductive parts, or between a conductive part and the
BOUNDING SURFACE of the equipment, measured through air.
CREEPAGE DISTANCE [1.2.10.2]: The shortest path between
two conductive parts, or between a conductive part and the
BOUNDING SURFACE of the equipment, measured along the
surface of the insulation.
BOUNDING SURFACE [1.2.10.3]: The outer surface of the
ELECTRICAL ENCLOSURE, considered as though metal foil
were pressed into contact with accessible surfaces of insu-
lating material.
This material is reproduced, with permission, from Underwriters Laboratories
Inc. Standard for Safety, 3rd Edition of UL 60950, Copyright 2000 (by Underwrit-
ers Laboratories Inc.), copies of which may be purchased from:
comm 2000
1418 Brook Drive
Downers Grove, IL 60515 USA
1-888-853-3503 in U.S. and Canada or
415-352-2168, outside the U.S. and Canada
Fax: 1-888-853-3512 in U.S. and Canada
Fax: 1-630-932-7387 outside the U.S. and Canada
http://www.comm-2000.com
UL shall not be responsible to anyone for the use of or reliance upon a UL
Standard by anyone. UL shall not incur any obligation or liability for damages,
including consequential damages, arising out of or in connection with the use,
interpretation of, or reliance upon a UL Standard.
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©2003 Tyco Electronics Corporation. Printed in USA. CV0007.0903.xxx

All information, including illustrations, is believed to be reliable. Users, however, should independently evaluate the requirements of IEC and UL 60950
and any products, for their application. Tyco Electronics Corporation makes no warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of the information, and
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