Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is a critical requirement for measurement, control, and laboratory equipment. Their ability to operate properly in complex electromagnetic environments, without being disturbed or generating interference with other devices, is essential to ensuring the reliability of collected data and operational safety. 

To ensure these requirements, compliance with specific technical standards is essential. Among the most important regulatory references is IEC 61326-1 , which defines specific EMC requirements for measuring instruments, control equipment, and devices used in laboratories.  

IEC 61326-1 

IEC 61326-1 states that instruments must: 

  • Limit emissions of both radiated and conducted disturbances , so as not to interfere with other devices. 
  • Ensure high immunity to phenomena such as electrostatic discharges, electromagnetic fields, fast transients and overvoltages.

The standard differentiates the requirements based on the operating environment: 

  • Controlled-condition laboratories 
  • Industrial environments 
  • Outdoor environments 

This classification influences the limits to be respected and the severity of the tests, making it essential to correctly define the usage environment right from the early design stages. 

Compliance with these requirements is necessary to obtain:  

  • CE marking according to EMC Directive 2014/30/EU 
  • CB certification , for easier access to international markets through the IECEE scheme. 

EMC testing for measuring instruments 

The tests required by IEC 61326-1 include: 

Electromagnetic emission test: 

  • Conducted emissions, disturbances transmitted through power cables 
  • Radiated emissions, airborne disturbances 

Electromagnetic immunity test: 

  • Electrostatic discharge (ESD) 
  • Radiated electromagnetic fields (RF) 
  • Burst (fast electrical transients) 
  • Surge (overvoltages) 
  • Voltage drops, short interruptions and variations in the supply voltage 

These tests are performed in controlled environments, such as semi-anechoic chambers, to ensure maximum accuracy of the results. 

The value of CB certification  

Obtaining a CB Test Certificate based on IEC 61326-1 makes it easier to: 

  • International recognition of the tests carried out 
  • Accelerate obtaining national certifications such as CE (Europe), UKCA (UK), FCC (USA) and others 
  • Access new markets without the need for repeat testing 

Our support for EMC compliance  

Ensuring the EMC compliance of your measuring instruments requires technical expertise, adequate infrastructure, and timely support at every stage of the project.  
We offer: 

  • Certified facilities: Our semi-anechoic chamber and internationally compliant measuring instruments ensure precise, repeatable, and recognized tests. 
  • Specific expertise : Our team has consolidated experience in managing the electromagnetic compatibility of measurement, control and laboratory instruments, including those intended for industrial and critical applications, in compliance with IEC 61326-1:2020 (immunity, radiated and conducted emissions). 
  • Comprehensive assistance : we support you every step of the way, from pre-compliance to official testing and the issuance of the CB Test Report/IECEE Certificate. We also offer support in preparing the technical file for CE marking . 
  • Speed ​​and efficiency: We offer immediate test planning and rapid turnaround times, helping you meet development and time-to-market deadlines.