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Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing
What is EMC testing, and why is it important?
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) testing verifies that your device can operate without causing or being affected by electromagnetic interference. This is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the reliability and safety of your product in real-world environments.
What types of products require EMC testing?
Nearly all electronic and electrical devices must meet EMC requirements. This includes:
- Consumer electronics, telecom, and IT equipment
- Medical and industrial devices
- Automotive systems, aircraft electronics, and military applications
- Smart home devices, lighting, and power electronics
If your product emits or is affected by electromagnetic energy, EMC compliance is likely mandatory for global market approval.
What are the types of EMC tests?
EMC testing typically includes two main categories:
- Emissions Testing (EMI) – Measures unintentional electromagnetic energy a device emits, either radiated (through the air) or conducted (through cables).
- Immunity Testing (EMS) – Evaluates how well the device withstands external disturbances such as:
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD)
- Radiated Radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (radiated immunity)
- High-energy transient over-voltages (surge)
- Electrical fast transients (EFT)
- Voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage variations
To fully assess electromagnetic behaviour, EMC testing (including both EMI and EMS) is required.
Tests are performed in shielded rooms, anechoic chambers, or open-area test sites (OATS) under controlled conditions.
Which EMC standards apply to my product?
The required standards depend on your device type and target markets. Common ones include:
- EN 55032 / EN 55035 – Multimedia equipment (EU
- IEC 61000-4-x series – Global immunity test methods
- FCC Part 15 – Digital devices (USA)
- ISO 11452 / CISPR 25 – Automotive electronics
- IEC 60601-1-2 – Medical electrical equipment
DEKRA helps you identify the applicable standards and supports you throughout the compliance process.
Is EMC testing required globally?
EMC compliance is mandatory in nearly all major markets and is essential for CE, FCC, and other certifications.
For instance, FCC Part 15 applies to most of the electrical and electronic equipment in the USA. Other regions like Europe (CE), Canada (ISED), Japan (VCCI), South Korea (KC), Australia/New Zealand (RCM/RSM) and beyond have their own requirements.
What is the main difference in EMC testing requirements between Europe (CE), North America (FCC/ISED), Australia/New Zealand (RCM/RSM), Japan (VCCI), South Korea (KC) and Taiwan (BSMI)?
EMC requirements vary by region because each regulatory authority defines its own standards, limits, and testing procedures:
| Region / Mark | Main Regulatory Authority | Scope | Key Focus | Approval / Certification Process |
| Europe (CE) | European Union | Emissions & Immunity | Covers electrical/electronic products Conducted and Radiated Emissions and Immunity | Self-declaration via CE mark using harmonized standards |
| North America (FCC/ISED) | FCC (US) / ISED (Canada) | Emissions | Conducted & radiated emissions | Mandatory testing in accredited labs; official approval required |
| Australia / New Zealand (RCM/RSM) | ACMA / MBIE | Emissions & Immunity | Harmonized with international standards, includes labelling | RCM mark; compliance verified through documentation and testing |
| Japan (VCCI) | VCCI | Emissions | Mainly IT equipment; Conducted and Radiated Emissions | Compliance demonstration; no official government approval |
| South Korea (KC) | KC | Emissions & Immunity | Covers electrical/electronic products Conducted and Radiated Emissions and Immunity | Accredited lab testing; documentation submission required |
| Taiwan (BSMI) | BSMI | Emissions & Immunity | Broad product coverage; both emissions and immunity | Certification required before market entry |
In summary, while emissions testing is a common requirement worldwide, the scope, limits, and approval process differ by region. Manufacturers targeting multiple markets often need region-specific testing to ensure full compliance.
What is the EMC testing process?
Typical steps include:
1. Identifying applicable regulations and standards
2. Preparing the device and test plan
3. Performing emissions and immunity tests
4. Reviewing data and issuing compliance reports
DEKRA offers complete support from pre-compliance debugging to final certification testing.
What happens if my product fails EMC testing?
Failure is not the end; it is a chance to improve. DEKRA’s EMC experts help you:
- Identify the root cause (e.g., grounding, shielding, PCB layout)
- Apply practical mitigation strategies
- Re-test efficiently to get your product back on track
When should I start EMC testing?
Start as early as possible, ideally during the design and development phase. DEKRA provides:
- Pre-compliance testing
- Design consultation
- Debugging and root cause analysis
Early-stage evaluations reduce the risk of costly redesigns and avoid last-minute delays.
Can I combine EMC testing with other services at DEKRA?
Absolutely. Many products require a combination of:
- EMC testing – for emissions and immunity
- RF testing – for intentional wireless transmissions
- SAR testing – for human RF exposure
- OTA testing – for wireless performance
DEKRA offers integrated testing programs to streamline your certification path, minimizing time to market and simplifying logistics.