EMC standards are different around the world. There are a plethora of different regulatory agencies and standards bodies involved with EMC standards. Hence, it is not always straightforward to determine which EMC standards are relevant for a given product in a given market. In most cases, EMC standards vary based on the geographical region, market, and each of these regions or markets may have different regulations based on the industry or application the product is intended for. For example, the United States and the European Union have different EMC standards as they are two different regions, and both bodies also separate the EMC standards based on the intended application and type of device. Knowing exactly what EMC standards apply to a given product in a given region/market can involve more than a few factors. There may also be exceptions for certain device types in certain regions, which may not be clear to anyone who isn’t explicitly familiar with that type of device in that region. There are a few ways to track down the necessary certifications, any of which may not reveal the entire story. An EMC test lab that operates in a desired market and advertises testing for the type of device one intends to certify can be a promising path. However, these labs expertise is in the testing and the technical professionals at these labs may not have a complete understanding of the regulatory scene. Another option is to inquire at a regulator or certification body for that region. In some cases this may take some hunting to discover which body regulates the specific type of device that is intended for market. It may be useful to track down a sample of the types of electrical or electronic products that are already on the market and that may be similar to the device under question. If legally sold, these products should give some indication of what certifications they comply with on datasheets or other product information.
Navigating the Global Landscape of EMC Standards
Diverse Standards, Diverse Challenges
- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standards vary significantly across the globe. A wide array of regulatory agencies and standards organizations are involved, making it challenging to determine which standards apply to a specific product in a given market.
- EMC requirements typically depend on:
+ Geographic region (e.g., U.S. vs. EU)
+ Market type (consumer, industrial, military, etc.)
+ Product application (e.g., medical vs. automotive)
For example, both the United States and the European Union maintain distinct EMC frameworks. Within each, standards are further segmented by device type and intended use. Determining the applicable EMC requirements often involves navigating a complex web of regional rules, industry-specific exceptions, and product classifications
Finding the Right EMC Standards
Identifying the correct EMC standards for a product may require multiple approaches:
- Accredited EMC test labs: Labs operating in your target market and offering testing for your device type can be a good starting point. However, their expertise is typically technical, not regulatory.
- Regulatory or certification bodies: Contacting the appropriate authority in the target region can help clarify requirements, though it may take effort to identify the correct agency.
- Market research: Reviewing similar legally sold products can reveal which certifications are required. Product datasheets and compliance markings often provide useful clues.
EMC Standards by Country Region :
| Region Country | Key EMC Standards & Marks |
| USA | FCC Title 47 Part 15 (FCC mark) |
| Canada | Industry Canada ICES |
| EU | EMC Directive, IEC , CISPR |
| Australia/New Zealand | RCM Mark , Adopts IEC Standards |
| Japan | VCCI Standards (VCCI Mark) |
| China | CNCA Standards (CCC Mark) |
| India | BIS |
| Germany | VDE |
EMC Standards by Industry :
| Industry Sector | US Standards | European / International Stds |
| Consumer Electronics | FCC Title 47 , Parts 2, 15 (Class B), 18 | EN 61000-6-3/1 |
| Commercial | FCC Title 47 , Parts 2, 15 (Class B) | EN 61000-6-3/1 |
| Industrial Electronics | FCC Title 47 , Parts 2, 15 (Class A) | EN 61000-6-4/2 |
| Medical Devices | Same As Europe | EN 60601-1-2 (Widely adopted globally) |
| Automotive | SAE / ISO 7637 | CISPR 25, ISO 11451&2 UNECE REG10 |
| Military | MIL STD 461 | DEF STAN 59411 |
| Aerospace | RTCA DO160 | Varies by region |
Understanding EMC Standard Types
EMC standards are typically categorized into:
- Basic Standards: Define terminology, emission/immunity requirements, and measurement methods.
- Generic Standards: Apply to broad environments or applications (e.g., residential, industrial).
- Product Family Standards: Target groups of similar products (e.g., IT equipment, household appliances).
- Product Standards: Highly specific to individual product types, with detailed test methods and limits.
Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs)
- Many countries participate in Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), which streamline market access by allowing mutual acceptance of test results and certifications. However, MRAs do not imply harmonization of standards.
- For instance, the U.S. and EU have an MRA in place, yet their EMC standards remain distinct and must be addressed separately.
Topic overview