IEC 60050-161:1990/AMD2:1998 – Electromagnetic Compatibility Vocabulary Amendment
Overview
The IEC 60050-161:1990/AMD2:1998 is the second amendment to the International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV), specifically Part 161 that pertains to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this document updates and clarifies crucial terminology and definitions related to EMC, ensuring standardized communication across the electrotechnical industry.
This amendment was developed by IEC Technical Committee 1 – Terminology, with input from IEC TC 77 – Electromagnetic Compatibility, and CISPR – the International Special Committee on Radio Interference. The standard provides essential vocabulary for professionals, manufacturers, and researchers engaged in EMC testing and compliance.
Key Topics
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Basic Concepts:
- Emitter of Electromagnetic Disturbance – Devices or systems producing voltage, currents, or electromagnetic fields causing disturbances.
- Susceptible Device – Equipment whose performance can be affected by electromagnetic disturbances.
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Types of Disturbances:
- Discontinuous Disturbance – Electromagnetic events with distinct, separable effects.
- Damped Oscillatory Wave – Oscillations commonly between 100 kHz and a few megahertz with specific damping characteristics.
- Ring Wave – A type of damped oscillation with a damping time constant near one period.
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EMC Measurements and Currents:
- Differential Mode Current – Half the difference magnitude of currents in two conductors of a cable.
- Common Mode Current – Sum magnitude of currents in multiple conductors including shields or screens.
- Common Mode Impedance – Ratio of common mode voltage to common mode current.
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Immunity Testing:
- Immunity Test Level – The test signal level simulating electromagnetic disturbances during immunity evaluations.
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Equipment Classification:
- Professional Equipment – Devices used in trade or industry not intended for general public sale, which may require proper marking.
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Broadband and Narrowband Disturbances:
- Broadband Disturbance – Electromagnetic disturbance with bandwidth exceeding that of measuring apparatus or receivers.
- Narrowband Disturbance – Disturbance or spectral components with bandwidth less or equal to measurement devices.
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Power Supply and Network Terms:
- Point of Common Coupling (PCC) – Closest point in a power supply network to a load where other loads may also connect.
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Voltage Variations and Flicker:
- Voltage Change – Variations in RMS or peak voltage values sustained over time.
- Voltage Fluctuation – Series or continuous voltage changes affecting device operation.
- Short-Term Flicker Indicator (Pst) – Quantitative flicker measure over short intervals (typically 10 minutes).
- Long-Term Flicker Indicator (Plt) – Flicker measure over longer intervals (typically 2 hours).
- Short Interruption – Loss of supply voltage for durations between specified limits, commonly less than one minute.
Applications
This amendment provides a standardized vocabulary critical for:
- EMC design and testing to ensure product compliance with electromagnetic compatibility requirements.
- Clear communication among manufacturers, certification bodies, and regulatory agencies.
- Development of EMC test methods, definitions, and procedures in industrial, commercial, and professional equipment contexts.
- Assessing and mitigating electromagnetic disturbances in power supplies, communication equipment, and electronic devices.
- Improving understanding of interference phenomena affecting sensitive devices in environments ranging from industrial plants to public networks.
- Harmonization of international EMC standards facilitating global trade and regulatory compliance.
Related Standards
- IEC 61000 series – Standards on EMC testing and immunity, including flicker measurement (referenced in flicker indicator definitions).
- IEC TC 77 publications – Specialized EMC standards covering testing, measurement techniques, and compatibility requirements.
- CISPR standards – International standards on radio interference relevant to EMC aspects addressed in this vocabulary amendment.
This amendment to the IEC International Electrotechnical Vocabulary plays a pivotal role in advancing global electromagnetic compatibility understanding by refining terminology, classifications, and measurement definitions used worldwide. It supports industries in designing robust, interference-resilient systems, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of electrical and electronic equipment.
Open preview (PDF)Amendment 2 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) - Part 161: Electromagnetic compatibility
