Electromagnetic compatibility of equipment

Electromagnetic compatibility is the ability of equipment to operate properly in its electromagnetic environment without causing unacceptable electromagnetic interference for other equipment in the same environment.

Equipment definition

Equipment is any device, whether final device or a combination of devices, which are as independent functional units accessible in the market for the final user and can cause electromagnetic interference or such interference can impact their operation. An immovable assembly is a certain combination of multiple types of devices and, where applicable, other devices, which are assembled, installed and intended for permanent use in a setting, determined in advance.

Equipment can be provided in the form of components or sub-assemblies intended for installation in the device by the final user and which can cause electromagnetic interference, or such interference can impact their operation. Another form of equipment is movable devices, defined as a combination of devices and, where applicable, other devices which can be repositioned and used in various settings.

Essential requirements for equipment

General requirements for equipment planning and production in consideration of the technology situation shall mean that electromagnetic interference caused by equipment does not exceed the maximum level above which radio and telecommunication equipment and other equipment cannot operate as envisaged and the immunity level against electromagnetic interference of which is as expected for the envisaged use of equipment, thereby enabling operation without unacceptable deterioration of its envisaged use.

Special requirements for the installation of immovable assemblies shall include best engineering practices and include information about the intended use of their components to fulfil essential requirements.

Guide for applying the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive

These guidelines are intended to be a manual for all parties directly or indirectly affected by the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive. They assist in the interpretation of the directive and they explain and clarify some of the most important aspects related to its application. The guide is also intended to ensure the free movement of products in the EU.

Guide

Supplementary guidance on electromagnetic compatibility

It should be noted that this document is publicly available but is not binding, even though it is frequently stated in the document that its stipulations shall be applied. In the event of inconsistency between the provisions of EU directives, such as the Low Voltage Directive, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive and Radio Equipment Directive, the provisions of EU law prevail.

Supplementary guidance

Summary of references of harmonised standards for electromagnetic compatibility

Harmonised standards are published as a list of standards, the use of which generates a presumption of conformity of a product with the regulations’ requirements. The list includes technical specifications providing verified expert solutions for the fulfilment of individual requirements and contain descriptions of required features of the product, such as: quality level, operation, safety, dimensions, terminology, symbols, packaging, labelling, conformity assessment procedures and production methods. The main objective of harmonisation is to actively support the economy in achieving global competitiveness, to have a positive impact on product quality and to ensure consumer safety.

The consolidated list is only for informational purpose and does not generate legal consequences.

Informative consolidated list of harmonised standards

List of notified authorities on electromagnetic compatibility in the European Union

The list of notified authorities in the European Union is published on the European Commission's website and comprises a list of authorities, notified by the notification authorities of the member states.

List