What is the difference between IEC 61000 and 61326?

In the field of technical standards and regulations, two commonly referenced documents are IEC 61000 and IEC 61326. Although both are related to electrical equipment, they have distinct purposes and scopes.

IEC 61000: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

IEC 61000 is an international standard that focuses on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). It provides guidelines and requirements to ensure that electrical and electronic devices do not interfere with each other and can operate harmoniously in their intended environment. This standard covers a wide range of topics, including emission limits for conducted and radiated electromagnetic interference, immunity requirements, test methods, and terminology related to EMC.

IEC 61326: Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use

On the other hand, IEC 61326 specifically addresses electrical equipment used for measurement, control, and laboratory use. Its main goal is to establish performance criteria and testing procedures to ensure that such equipment operates safely and reliably in various applications. This standard covers aspects like electromagnetic compatibility, electrical safety, environmental conditions, and functional safety of measuring and control instruments used in industrial and laboratory environments.

Differences and Overlaps

While IEC 61000 primarily focuses on EMC requirements for all types of electrical and electronic equipment, IEC 61326 narrows its scope to specific equipment utilized in measurement, control, and laboratory settings. It can be said that IEC 61326 is an extension or specialization of the broader EMC standards defined by IEC 61000.

Both standards share common ground because electrical equipment used for measurement and control purposes must also comply with EMC requirements. Therefore, certain aspects related to EMC outlined in IEC 61000 are applicable when complying with IEC 61326.

In conclusion

To sum up, IEC 61000 provides comprehensive guidelines for electromagnetic compatibility across all electrical and electronic devices, while IEC 61326 specifically targets electrical equipment used for measurement, control, and laboratory purposes. While there are distinctions between the two, they also have overlapping areas due to the inherent relationship between EMC compliance and the accurate operation of measurement and control instruments.