Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standards cover many of the electronic and electromagnetic products sold in Australia, with only a few exemptions.
In this article, we will highlight various types of products that need to undergo EMC testing and compliance in order to be allowed into the consumer market. However, let’s begin by defining what EMC standards are and what they are used for.
What Are EMC Standards?
EMC standards are guidelines that have been set by different regulatory authorities to limit the electromagnetic interference caused by electronic devices. EMC standards are enforced to prevent electronic products from affecting other electronic equipment.
For instance, electric motors and other electronic gadgets can interfere with radio communication. A special “CE” mark is used to identify products that have passed EMC testing and compliance.
Following is a list of the types of products that need EMC testing:
1). Electric Motors
Electric motors need to undergo EMC testing to ensure that they do not interfere with nearby electrical devices due to their varying voltages and currents. Strict EMC standards are enforced when it comes to electric motors as some of these products can be really powerful.
Both DC and AC electric motors are required to be tested to make sure they do not surpass the accepted level of EMI to other gadgets.
2). AC Adapters
AC adapters form another category of electronic products that need to undergo EMC testing in order to be allowed into the consumer goods market. The main source of electromagnetic interference in power converters originates from high-switching voltage frequencies.
AC adapters can cause harm to electrical systems and appliances if they are not electromagnetically compatible. Some of the AC adapters that need to be tested include AC adapters for printers, mobile phones and laptops.
3). Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries are designed with very high-frequency impedance because of fast-changing voltage and current. Lithium batteries are therefore required to attain EMC compliance as they can cause significant harm to devices and gadgets.
4). Kitchen Appliances
Most of the appliances you use in your kitchen also need to undergo EMC testing to ensure they do not cause unnecessary electromagnetic interference. Appliances like thermostats, fans, dishwashers, coffee makers, blenders, switches, refrigerators, ovens and microwaves can interfere with TV and radio signals, hence affecting the performance of nearby electronic devices.
5). LED Displays
LED displays are commonly found in smartphones, computer screens and TV sets. They can also be found in large advertising billboards. LED displays are a potential source of EMI due to their printed circuit boards. These products must therefore be tested and confirmed to pass the relevant EMC standards before being taken to market.
LED displays should never exceed the set EMI level as they may interfere with other gadgets and circuits. LED displays should be shielded with appropriate materials to minimise the levels of EMI they produce at any given time.
6). Lighting Products
Lighting products are another major category of products that are required to undergo EMC testing. The main concern with lighting products is that they can cause interference, especially when placed in close proximity to each other.
Lighting products can also cause interference with other equipment and gadgets such as washing machines, TVs and other electrical products. Some lighting products that are required to pass EMC testing in Australia include high-intensity discharge lighting, low bay lighting, high bay lighting, stage lighting and LED lighting.
EMC testing and compliance is mandatory for all the above-mentioned groups of products. Other related products may also need to be tested depending on their nature and construction. As a manufacturer, it’s always important to check whether your product complies with existing EMC standards.
If you would like to know more about the EMC standards and product testing or need EMC testing done, then look no further than Compliance Engineering.
We are the definitive source for all of your Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements. Please call us today on + 61 3 9763 3079 or contact us here.