The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) regulates electromagnetic interference of electrical and electronic equipment. Have you ever heard a buzzing noise on your audio speakers when you hold a phone or electronic device next to it? What you hear is electromagnetic interference.

‘Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electrical equipment and systems to function acceptably in their electromagnetic environment, by limiting the unintentional generation, propagation, and reception of electromagnetic energy which may cause unwanted effects such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or even physical damage in operational equipment. The goal of EMC is the correct operation of different equipment in a common electromagnetic environment. It is also the name given to the associated branch of electrical engineering’.

The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) aims to ensure that any electrical and electronic equipment minimizes the emission of electromagnetic interference that may influence other equipment. The directive also requires equipment to be able to resist the disturbance of other equipment.

In order to comply with the EMC Directive manufacturers must:

• Design the equipment to comply with the electromagnetic emission and immunity requirements;
• document test results and calculations that provide evidence for EMC compliance;
• apply the labeling and marking requirements.