IEC 61000 is a set of standards developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that deal with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The IEC 61000 series encompasses both emission and immunity aspects of EMC, and includes a plethora of testing and measurement techniques for various electromagnetic phenomena.
The series is divided into several parts, each dealing with specific areas of EMC:
- IEC 61000-4-4: Testing and measurement techniques – Electrical fast transient/burst immunity test
- IEC 61000-4-5: Testing and measurement techniques – Surge immunity test
- IEC 61000-4-6: Testing and measurement techniques – Immunity to conducted disturbances, induced by radio-frequency fields
- IEC 61000-4-7: Testing and measurement techniques – General guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements and instrumentation, for power supply systems and equipment connected thereto
- IEC 61000-4-8: Testing and measurement techniques – Power frequency magnetic field immunity test
- IEC 61000-4-9: Testing and measurement techniques – Pulse magnetic field immunity test
These standards outline the testing methods and criteria for assessing the performance of electrical and electronic equipment under certain electromagnetic conditions or influences. They are critical for ensuring the compatibility of different devices in their respective operating environments and for preventing electromagnetic disturbances that could potentially affect the performance of these devices.
IEC 61000-4-7, for instance, provides a general guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements and instrumentation for power supply systems and equipment connected to them. It is primarily used for testing individual equipment according to emission limits given in other standards, such as harmonic current limits given in IEC 61000-3-2, as well as for measuring harmonic currents and voltages in actual power supply systems.
Overall, complying with the IEC 61000 standards is crucial for manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment to ensure that their products can operate effectively and safely without causing or being affected by electromagnetic disturbances.