CE Mark Testing & Equipment

CE Mark Test Equipment

THE SKINNY - EMC TESTING & THE CE MARK

CE Mark certification is a mandatory requirement for many products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). It indicates that a product meets all the necessary health, safety, and environmental protection standards required for free movement and sale in the European market. In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of achieving CE Mark certification for your product.

The EMC Shop supports second tier electronic manufacturers to perform precompliance EMC tests before going to the test lab for certification.

CE MARK TESTING PROCESS

1. DETERMINE APPLICABLE DIRECTIVES AND STANDARDS

The first step in obtaining CE Mark certification is to identify the applicable directives and standards for your product. The CE marking process varies depending on the type of product and the specific requirements of relevant directives. Common directives include the Machinery Directive, Low Voltage Directive, and Medical Devices Directive, among others. Understanding the specific requirements will guide you in preparing the necessary documentation and conducting the required testing.

2. CONDUCT A PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

Next, conduct a thorough assessment of your product to ensure compliance with the applicable directives and standards. Evaluate the product's design, construction, materials used, and any potential hazards or risks associated with its use. Identify any necessary modifications or improvements to bring the product into conformity with the essential requirements outlined in the directives.

3. PERFORM TESTING AND EVALUATION

Depending on the nature of your product, you may need to conduct testing and evaluation to demonstrate compliance with the relevant standards. This can involve testing for electrical safety, mechanical stability, electromagnetic compatibility, and other specific requirements. Engage with a notified body, an independent organization designated by EU member states, to conduct the necessary testing or assessment of your product.

4. COMPILE TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION

Create comprehensive technical documentation that demonstrates your product's compliance with the applicable directives and standards. This documentation typically includes a technical file or a technical construction file, which contains detailed information about the product's design, manufacturing process, risk assessments, test reports, and user instructions. The technical file serves as evidence of conformity and must be readily available for inspection by relevant authorities.

5. PREPARE THE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

The Declaration of Conformity is a legal document affirming that your product complies with all relevant requirements. It should include the manufacturer's identification information, a description of the product, and references to the applicable directives and standards. The declaration must be signed by an authorized representative of the manufacturer or importer and should be included with the product or made available upon request.

6. AFFIX THE CE MARK

Once all the necessary steps have been completed, affix the CE Mark on your product or its packaging. The CE Mark must be visible, legible, and indelible. It signifies that your product has met the essential requirements and undergone the necessary conformity assessment procedures. The CE Mark can usually be applied using labels, etching, or embossing methods.

EVALUATE YOUR PRODUCTS RESILIENCE

The CE Mark certification is a vital step for selling products within the European market. However, as a North American manufacturer, it's easy to want to overlook the immunity requirements of the CE Mark. Exposing your product to those electromagnetic fields and electrical transients, you will identify weaknesses in your product that may be of consideration or importance.