This part of IEC 60794 is a generic specification covering optical cable elements. Requirements which are described in this part apply to elements of optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques. The elements which are the subject of this specification are those which apply to several cable types of IEC 60794 and as defined by sectional specifications IEC 60794-2, IEC 60794-3, IEC 60794-4, and IEC 60794-5. The requirements for the cable element are described in IEC 60794-1-3x series, and family specifications and detailed specifications of the aforementioned sectional specifications can define specific cables families and types.