What is the difference between UL 60950 and 62368?

Introduction

In the world of electronics, safety certifications play a vital role in ensuring that products meet certain standards of safety. Two of the most common certifications are UL 60950 and UL 62368. While both certifications are related to safety, they have some significant differences. This article aims to provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the differences between UL 60950 and UL 62368.

UL 60950: Safety for Information Technology Equipment

UL 60950, which stands for Underwriters Laboratories Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment, is a safety standard specifically designed for IT and telecom equipment. It covers products such as servers, routers, computers, and telecommunication devices. The primary focus of UL 60950 is to ensure that these devices do not cause harm to individuals or property.

Under UL 60950, product manufacturers need to meet specific requirements to receive the certification. These requirements cover various aspects such as electrical safety, fire resistance, mechanical strength, and protection against electric shock. Additionally, UL 60950 ensures that the products are compliant with applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards.

UL 62368: Safety for Audio, Video, and Information Technology Equipment

UL 62368, also known as the standard for Audio/Video and Information Technology Equipment Safety Requirements, is a more recent safety standard compared to UL 60950. It replaces UL 60950-1 and UL 60065, which were the previous safety standards for audio/video and information technology equipment, respectively.

UL 62368 covers a wider range of products compared to UL 60950. In addition to IT equipment, it includes audio and visual equipment such as televisions, amplifiers, DVD players, and gaming consoles. The standard ensures that these products adhere to specific safety requirements to protect users from potential hazards.

The Key Differences

The main difference between UL 60950 and UL 62368 lies in their approach to safety testing. The older UL 60950 follows a prescriptive test approach, which means that the product needs to meet specific requirements outlined in the standard. On the other hand, UL 62368 follows a hazard-based safety engineering approach, where the focus is on identifying and mitigating potential hazards associated with the product's normal use.

Another significant difference between the two standards is that UL 62368 places more emphasis on risk management. It requires manufacturers to perform risk assessments and incorporate preventive measures to mitigate any identified risks. This approach enables a more flexible evaluation of safety, allowing for advancements in technology and the introduction of new product features.

In summary, while UL 60950 and UL 62368 both serve to ensure the safety of electrical and electronic products, UL 62368 adopts a more comprehensive and modern approach. Its hazard-based safety engineering approach and emphasis on risk management make it better suited for the evolving landscape of audio, video, and information technology equipment.