When it comes to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, there are two main types: pre-compliance testing and full compliance testing. While both aim to ensure that electronic devices meet regulatory standards for electromagnetic emissions and immunity, there are some key differences between the two types of testing.
Pre-Compliance EMC Testing
Pre-compliance testing is a preliminary testing process that is conducted to identify potential EMC issues in electronic devices before they are submitted for full compliance testing. This type of testing is generally less formal and less rigorous than full compliance testing.
The purpose of pre-compliance testing is to identify any potential EMC issues that may need to be addressed before the device is submitted for full compliance testing. This can help manufacturers save time and money by catching and addressing issues early on. This reduces the risk of waiting until the device fails full compliance testing.
Pre-compliance testing typically involves using a range of EMC test equipment, such as spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators, to measure electromagnetic emissions and immunity. This type of testing is not usually conducted in an EMC testing lab, but rather in a controlled environment such as a shielded room.
Further to this, some standards don’t actually have a legal requirement for full compliance lab testing. It’s not needed if the Standard does not call for accredited laboratory test results, and very few of the standards do. CE, UKCA & FCC (for non-intentional devices) are actually a self-certification process. Therefore, you can use the EMC Pre-Compliance results to draw up your own Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for your products and put them onto the market.
Full Compliance EMC Testing
Full compliance testing, on the other hand, is a formal testing process that is conducted by an accredited EMC testing lab. The purpose of full compliance testing is to ensure that electronic devices meet certain regulatory standards for electromagnetic emissions and immunity.
Full compliance testing is much more rigorous than pre-compliance testing and involves a wider range of tests and measurements. This type of testing is required before electronic devices can be sold in certain markets if the standard or country calls for it.
Full compliance testing typically involves a range of tests, including radiated emissions testing, conducted emissions testing, electrostatic discharge testing, and immunity testing. These tests are conducted in an EMC testing lab under controlled conditions, using specialized equipment and procedures. Therefore, it is often much more expensive.
So, What’s the Difference?
In summary, the main difference between pre-compliance testing and full compliance testing is that pre-compliance testing is a preliminary testing process that is conducted to identify potential EMC issues. Full compliance testing is a formal testing process conducted by an accredited EMC testing lab. This ensures that electronic devices meet strict regulatory standards for electromagnetic emissions and immunity.
While pre-compliance testing can help manufacturers catch and address EMC issues early on, it can also be used to make the Declaration of Conformity, as most standards do not call for full compliant EMC testing. Full compliance testing is necessary to ensure that electronic devices meet regulatory requirements and can be sold in certain markets. Both types of testing are important for ensuring that electronic devices are safe, reliable, and compliant with regulatory standards.
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