What is the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria?

The electrical and electronic equipment we use in our daily lives are constantly exposed to various disturbances. These disturbances could be caused by lightning strikes, power surges, or other electromagnetic events. To ensure that this equipment can withstand such disturbances and continue to function properly, a set of international standards known as the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria have been established.

Understanding the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria

The IEC 61000-4-5 criteria outline the test methods and performance requirements for equipment subjected to surge voltages caused by overvoltage events. The purpose of these criteria is to evaluate the ability of equipment to withstand surges and maintain proper operation. Compliance with these criteria ensures that the equipment can function reliably even when exposed to severe voltage fluctuations.

The testing procedure

Equipment is tested according to the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria in specialized laboratories using surge generators. The surge generators simulate lightning strikes or other types of transient overvoltages that the equipment might experience during its lifetime. These generators apply high-energy surges of specified waveform and duration to the equipment under test.

The tests conducted evaluate both the immunity and the performance of the equipment. Immunity refers to the equipment's ability to withstand disturbances without experiencing any loss of function or damage. Performance evaluation focuses on ensuring that the equipment's functionality and safety features are not compromised during and after exposure to the surges.

Compliance and certification

Manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment often seek compliance with the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria to demonstrate the quality and reliability of their products. Compliance testing involves subjecting samples of the equipment to the specified surge tests, and successful performance without any detrimental effects leads to certification.

By obtaining certification, manufacturers can assure their customers that the equipment has been thoroughly tested and can withstand the surge voltages outlined in the IEC 61000-4-5 criteria. This not only instills confidence in end-users but also ensures that the equipment can be safely deployed in various environments without the risk of failure or damage due to surges.