EMC Testing

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing

Guarantee the quality of your products

Guarantee the quality of your products

What is electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing?

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing measures the ability of equipment or systems to function satisfactorily in their electromagnetic environment without introducing intolerable electromagnetic disturbance to anything in that environment.

WHO NEEDS EMC TESTING?

EMC certifications are a mandatory requirement in most markets, including the UK, Europe, the US, China, Korea, Australia and New Zealand. EMC testing is necessary to help you meet regulatory requirements, improve product performance and reduce the risk of costly non-compliance. A third-party EMC test lab (also called an EMC test house) can conduct conformity assessments and also help to strengthen your competitive position in the market.

Why EMC Testing Matters 

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can disrupt the operation of electronic devices, leading to malfunctions, data corruption, or even safety hazards. To prevent such issues, EMC testing is essential. Here are some key reasons why it matters:

  1. Product Reliability: EMC testing ensures that your electronic products work reliably in real-world environments, reducing the risk of malfunctioning or failure.
  2. Legal Compliance: Many countries have strict regulations in place regarding electromagnetic compatibility. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for market access.
  3. Safety: In industries like healthcare and automotive, EMC testing is critical for ensuring the safety of both devices and users.
  4. Customer Confidence: EMC-certified products inspire confidence among customers, demonstrating your commitment to quality and reliability. 

Contact us to find out how we can support your with EMC compliance testing.

TÜV SÜD's one-stop service for EMC testing and certification

TUV SUD EMC Testing ChamberTÜV SÜD’s EMC compliance experts offer comprehensive testing and certification based on their complete knowledge of EMC legislation, guidelines, and standards. Our UKAS accredited EMC lab can test all types of products, from small appliances to large defence industry machines. We also offer EN 55032/CISPR 32 and EN 55035/CISPR 35 – EMC testing of multimedia equipment (MME).

We'll help you resolve any EMC regulatory issues, from design concept to final production. We provide a one-stop service that covers all your testing and certification needs. Our experts provide project management to ensure that your EMC tests run smoothly.

Our one-stop shop for product testing also means we can also carry out electrical safety testing, RF testing, and environmental testing.

Using TÜV SÜD for all your product testing requirements provides consistency and could save you time and money involved in dealing with multiple test providers. 

Depending on your product, you can choose to have EMC compliance testing performed at our UK EMC labs, on your premises or anywhere your product is installed. Covering the whole of the UK, our EMC test houses are in the south of England (Fareham, Hampshire) and the midlands (Bearley, Warwickshire). Our testing labs include semi-anechoic and fully-anechoic EMC chambers.

Explore our world-class facilities with a virtual tour of one of our EMC labs

TÜV SÜD’s EMC testing Services

Our UK and worldwide network of labs can conduct a comprehensive range of EMC tests for radiated immunity, and radiated and conducted emissions, and provide you with EMC certifications. For more info on our EMC testing services, see below:

  • Depending on your product, this might include various EMC tests such as:
    • Antenna immunity to RF voltage
    • Antenna input immunity
    • Antenna screening effectiveness
    • Conducted disturbances immunity
    • Conducted emissions (continuous and discontinuous interference)
    • Electrostatic discharge (ESD) immunity
    • Electrical disturbances from conduction and coupling immunity for vehicles
    • Electrical fast transient / burst immunity
    • Harmonic current emission
    • Harmonics and interharmonics immunity
    • Immunity from radiated fields
    • Immunity to induced voltages
    • On-site EMC testing
    • Power frequency magnetic field / oscillatory waves immunity
    • Power interference
    • Power supply conditioning
    • Radiated emissions
    • Radiated field immunity
    • Voltage fluctuation / flicker
    • Voltage surge immunity
    • Voltage dips / interruptions immunity
    • Magnetic field measurement (EMF)
    • Electric field measurement (EMF)
    • Electromagnetic field measurement (EMF)
    • Induced current density due to the electric field (EMF for lightning equipment)

Conclusion 

EMC testing is a critical step in the development and certification of electronic devices. It ensures that your products function reliably, comply with regulations, and remain safe for users. By understanding the importance of EMC testing and following the necessary standards, you can enhance the quality and marketability of your electronic products.

Want to find out more about our EMC testing services and how we can help you secure EMC certification?

Contact us now to find out how our EMC expertise can help you avoid expensive mistakes and fast-track your product to market. Our customised testing solutions streamline processes and cut down testing time, enabling you to maximise your time and budget. 

Frequently asked questions

  • Is EMC testing mandatory for all electronic devices?

    EMC testing is mandatory for electronic devices that are intended to be sold or used in countries with EMC regulations, our Global Market Access team can support with regional legal requirements. It ensures that devices do not interfere with and are able to operate in the presence of other equipment.

  • How can I prepare my device for EMC testing?

    To prepare your device for EMC testing, consult EMC experts or laboratories. They can provide guidance on design modifications and pre-compliance testing. Ensuring your test sample is prepared for testing will ensure testing goes smoothly.

  • What happens if my device fails EMC testing?

    If your device fails EMC testing, you'll need to identify and rectify the issues, then retest it until it meets the required standards. Carrying out pre-compliance ahead of project deadlines can help minimise surprises and last minute and potentially costly design changes.

  •  How long does EMC testing typically take?

    The duration of EMC testing varies depending on the complexity of the device and the specific tests required. It can take from a few days to several weeks. 

  • Can I perform EMC testing in-house?

    While some basic pre-compliance testing can be done in-house, full EMC compliance testing is usually conducted by accredited laboratories with specialised equipment.

  • Are there any exemptions from EMC testing?

    Some low-power devices and custom-made equipment may be exempt from certain EMC testing requirements, but it's essential to verify the regulations specific to your product. If in doubt, contact a reputable lab who can assist where required.

 

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