Compliance and Pre-Compliance EMC Testing

Most territories throughout the world require that your product has some form of EMC (ElectroMagnetic Compatibility) test evidence. Normally this is done by using a third party to test your product against harmonised standards

In the EU and the UK, under CE and UKCA marking regulations most electronic/electrical products are required to comply with EMC directives/regulations.

EMC (ElectroMagnetic Compatibility) is the ability of a product to be a be able to operate correctly within its EM environment and also to not unduly electromagnetically interfere with other products or services.

CE Mark

CE (Conformité Européenne) marking has been required for the sale of certain products within the European Union since 1985. The CE mark allows unrestricted trade and movement of goods within the European Union as it indicates that the product meets required standards and protection of the environment requirements. Complying and understanding the associated standards and directives can be complicated.

UKCA Marking

Similar to CE requirements, the UKCA (United Kingdom Conformity Assessment) mark is a product mark that will become mandatory for certain products being offered for sale in Great Britain. Complying and understanding the associated standards and regulations can be complicated.

Immunity/ Susceptibility testing

Testing to establish a devices immunity to electromagnetic interference caused by other products, radio services and natural phenomena. The testing is required for CE and UKCA marking, as well as for entry into most international markets. Tests are generally carried out to the EN61000-4-x series of standards

Emissions testing

Testing to establish a devices EM emissions profile to identify whether it falls within the limits required to prevent interference to other products or radio services. The testing is required for CE and UKCA marking, as well as for entry into most international markets. Tests are generally carried out to the EN 550## series of standards

Radiated emissions

The electromagnetic interference/noise that a device radiates unintentionally

Conducted emissions

The electromagnetic interference/noise that a device conducts through its signal and supply cables unintentionally

Radiated immunity

A devices robustness to its electromagnetic environment. The testing ascertains how well a device functions when it is exposed to electromagnetic interference. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-4-3

Transient testing

Testing to establish a devices robustness to very fast, high amplitude low energy pulses generally in nanosecond durations on its power and signal cables. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-4-4

Surge testing

Testing to establish a devices robustness to slow, high energy pulses generally in microsecond durations on its power and signal cables. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-4-5

ESD testing

Testing to establish a devices robustness when touched by an electrostatically charged person. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-4-2

Harmonics testing

Measurement of the harmonic current (multiples of the mains supply frequency) that a device conducts through its supply cables. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-3-2

Flicker testing

Measurement of a devices effect on visible change in brightness of a lamp connected to the same mains circuit, due to rapid fluctuations in the voltage of the power supply. Tests are generally carried out to the standard EN 61000-3-3

Examples of the types of products covered by our EMC testing services:

  • Information Technology Equipment
  • Industrial Equipment
  • Laboratory Equipment
  • Gaming Machines
  • Domestic Appliances
  • Medical Products

If you need to demonstrate that a product is fully compliant with a test standard then full UKAS accredited EMC compliance testing can be carried out by Kiwa

We can also carry out pre-compliance testing, which is a quicker cost effective set of cut down tests to help you to understand your products likelihood of complying with the requirements. Pre-compliance testing is normally carried out at various stages in the product development cycle

Get in touch to find out more.