The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60950 standard was widely recognized and used as a benchmark for safety in information technology equipment. However, with the rapid advancements in technology and the emergence of new risks, it became necessary to replace this standard with a more comprehensive and up-to-date framework. In this article, we will explore the successor to IEC 60950 and discuss its significance in ensuring the safety of modern electronic devices.
Defining the New Standard
The replacement to IEC 60950 is known as IEC 62368-1, which is a unified standard that covers both audio/video and IT equipment. Unlike its predecessor, IEC 62368-1 adopts a hazard-based approach rather than a prescriptive one. This means that instead of specifying precise requirements, the standard focuses on identifying potential hazards and providing guidelines on how to mitigate them.
By taking a hazard-based approach, the new standard can better address the diverse range of risks associated with modern technologies, including electrical, mechanical, thermal, radiation, and chemical hazards. It provides manufacturers with the flexibility to employ innovative designs and materials while ensuring that appropriate safety measures are implemented.
Key Changes and Benefits
One of the significant changes introduced by IEC 62368-1 is the increased emphasis on product performance and evaluation of foreseeable use scenarios. Manufacturers are now required to conduct thorough risk assessments throughout the product's lifecycle, from design and manufacturing to operation and disposal.
This shift towards a performance-based model encourages a proactive approach towards safety. It ensures that products are not only safe during normal operating conditions but also under reasonably foreseeable misuse or abnormal situations.
Furthermore, the new standard aligns with current industry practices and trends, such as the integration of information technology with audio/video equipment. It recognizes the growing convergence of these technologies and establishes a cohesive set of safety requirements that can be applied across various product categories.
Adoption and Transition
Since the publication of IEC 62368-1 in 2010, many countries and regulatory bodies have recognized its importance and implemented it as their national standard. Manufacturers are gradually transitioning from IEC 60950 to the new standard to ensure compliance with international regulations and gain a competitive edge in the market.
It is worth noting that the transition from IEC 60950 to IEC 62368-1 requires careful planning and consideration. Manufacturers need to review their existing designs, perform updated risk assessments, and make necessary adjustments to meet the new requirements. This process may involve collaboration between product designers, engineers, and safety experts to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
In conclusion, IEC 62368-1 has replaced IEC 60950 as the standard for safety in information technology and audio/video equipment. The new hazard-based approach, focus on performance, and alignment with current industry practices make it a more comprehensive framework for ensuring the safety of modern electronic devices. By transitioning to this new standard, manufacturers can enhance their products' safety and meet the evolving demands of the technologically advanced world we live in.
Nina She