What makes electrical safety certification so important for consumer goods? EMC testing is a world standard that manufacturers must adhere to. You can learn more by reading below.

Being involved in the industry of consumer goods and retail means being part of a fast-moving, competitive and challenging environment. 

As well as the many legal stipulations which must be adhered to, various types and levels of safe and lawful testing are required for retail products. 

One of those types of tests is EMC testing. However, the topic of EMC testing can raise various questions, such as;

  • What exactly is EMC testing?
  • What types of EMC testing are available?
  • Why is EMC testing so important in the world of consumer goods and products?

Allow us to provide brief and concise answers to each of these questions in turn.

What Exactly Is EMC Testing?

Firstly, let’s address the abbreviation ‘EMC’. EMC refers to the longer term, ‘electromagnetic compatibility’. 

In other words, a term which refers to how an electrical or electronic piece of equipment interacts with other equipment which is in close proximity. 

In particular, this focuses on how each piece of equipment has its own electromagnetic environment and how this impacts the electromagnetic environment of other pieces of equipment within a particular distance. 

It’s good to remember that each and every electronic device in existence will have the potential to emit an electromagnetic field, regardless of its size or use.

What Types Of EMC Testing Are Available?

Since there is a wide range of electronic devices within the world of consumer goods and retail, it makes sense when we say that the range of EMC testing is also rather wide and varied. 

In fact, certification requirements can vary significantly depending on the good or product in question. Some of these testing types include the following:

  • Vibration
  • Temperature
  • Ingress
  • Impact
  • Environmental.

Why Is EMC Testing So Important In The World Of Consumer Goods And Retail?

Certainly, EMC testing is going to be an expense for a business or company and perhaps one that they would rather do without. 

However, understanding the importance and value of EMC testing can help companies to understand that this is a long-term investment, rather than an un-called for expense.

When a consumer good is EMC tested, the results provide valuable evidence for the company, as well as the necessary certification to proceed with their retail plan. 

Now that we already understand that all electronic devices can emit electromagnetic fields, being able to prove that a certain product is compliant with the current EMC regulations and directives can go a long way in making the product appealing and attractive.

In fact, it’s good to remember that EMC testing is not simply an optional benefit. Regulatory authorities have stipulated that electrical products need compliance. 

Such products, including consumer goods, cannot be identified as completed if they have not met all of the necessary EMC testing requirements.

The Bottom Line On EMC Testing For Consumer Goods And Retail

Now that we have established a clear understanding of what EMC testing actually is, as well as the various types of testing available, it is more than clear why the topic needs to be taken seriously by all businesses. 

Indeed, such certification is vital for consumer goods to be viewed as completed and continue in the retail process.

Of course, while there are many companies who may offer EMC testing, not all will offer the same degree of efficiency and professionalism and certainly not all will provide the full range of EMC testing. 

Hence it is vital to make a choice that can fully meet all of your needs and open the door to your continued retail success.

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.