THE EMC DIRECTIVE

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The EMC Directive was adopted in 1989 and then amended in 1992 (92/31/ECC) and 1993 (93/68/EEC). It is regarded as one of the most complex "new approach" directives, as it affects almost all electronic manufacturers and products (including battery-supplied products going to the European Union).

The EMC Directive applies to apparatus, systems, equipment, and installations containing electrical or electronic components.

Definitions

"Apparatus" is defined as a final product with an intrinsic function intended for the final user and intended to be placed on the European Union market as a single commercial unit.

"Equipment" is equivalent to "apparatus."

"System" is defined as several apparatus combined to fulfill a specific function and intended to be placed on the European market as a single functional unit.

"Installation" is defined as several apparatus or systems combined at a given place to fulfill a specific function, and not intended to be placed on the European market as a single functional unit.

"Electromagnetic Compatibility" (EMC) is defined as the combination of electromagnetic emissions and immunity.

An "emission" is defined as electromagnetic energy emitted by a device/product over a power line or through the air.

"Immunity" is defined as the ability of a device/product to not be influenced by the application of electromagnetic energy from external sources.