What is the difference between 62368 and 60950?

In the world of technology, numerous standards have been established to ensure safety and performance. Two prominent standards that often come up in discussions are IEC 62368 and IEC 60950. While both standards relate to the safety of electrical equipment, they differ in scope, application, and testing methodologies.

The Scope of IEC 62368

IEC 62368, also known as "Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment - Part 1: Safety Requirements," is a standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for the safety of electronic equipment used in audio/video, information, and communication technology. It supersedes the older standard IEC 60950-1, which we will explore next. The scope of IEC 62368 covers a wide range of products, including multimedia players, IT equipment, telecommunication devices, and more. This standard adopts a hazard-based safety engineering approach, focusing on identifying potential hazards and providing mitigation measures accordingly.

The Scope of IEC 60950

IEC 60950, on the other hand, is titled "Information Technology Equipment - Safety - Part 1: General Requirements." It primarily governs the safety of electrical equipment used within the IT industry, such as computers, servers, routers, and power supplies. The standard provides guidelines for manufacturers to ensure their products meet specific safety criteria. Unlike IEC 62368, IEC 60950 does not consider the potential hazards associated with audio/video or communication technologies. However, it still addresses general safety concerns, such as electric shock, fire hazards, and mechanical hazards.

Testing Methodologies

When it comes to testing, IEC 62368 and IEC 60950 also differ in their approaches. IEC 62368 follows a three-block functional safety model, which takes into account both hardware and software aspects of the equipment. This model analyzes potential risks during all phases of a product's lifecycle, including design, manufacturing, installation, and use. In contrast, IEC 60950 relies on more traditional testing methods that focus primarily on electrical safety, insulation requirements, and grounding techniques. It evaluates compliance based on specific performance criteria outlined in the standard.

Conclusion

In summary, while both IEC 62368 and IEC 60950 pertain to the safety of electrical equipment, they differ in scope, application, and testing methodologies. IEC 62368 has a broader scope, covering a wider range of products used in audio/video, information, and communication technology, whereas IEC 60950 mainly focuses on the safety of IT-related equipment. Additionally, IEC 62368 adopts a hazard-based safety engineering approach, analyzing risks throughout a product's lifecycle, while IEC 60950 relies on traditional testing methods to evaluate compliance. Understanding these differences is crucial for manufacturers, regulators, and consumers to ensure the safe and reliable operation of electrical devices.