What is the difference between IEC 60065 and 62368?

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is responsible for setting international standards for electrical and electronic equipment safety. Two important standards developed by the IEC are IEC 60065 and IEC 62368. While both of these standards deal with safety requirements for audio, video, and similar electronic apparatus, there are significant differences between them. This article aims to provide an in-depth technical analysis of the disparities between IEC 60065 and IEC 62368.

IEC 60065: Safety requirements for audio, video, and similar electronic apparatus

IEC 60065 has been a long-standing standard that focuses on the safety requirements for audio, video, and similar electronic equipment. It covers a wide range of consumer electronics such as televisions, audio systems, and DVD players. The standard specifies various requirements related to electrical insulation, protection against electric shock, mechanical strength, and resistance to fire. Manufacturers adhere to IEC 60065 to ensure that their products meet the necessary safety regulations to prevent harm to users and property damage.

IEC 62368innovative approach to product safety

IEC 62368, on the other hand, represents a newer and more innovative approach to ensuring product safety. It is known as a hazard-based standard, which means it identifies potential hazards associated with the product's design and provides guidelines on how to mitigate those risks. IEC 62368 encourages manufacturers to perform risk assessments during the development stage of their products, enabling a proactive approach to safety. Unlike IEC 60065, this standard is not limited to specific types of electronic devices, but instead applies to a wider range of equipment, including information technology equipment and audio-visual equipment.

Key differences between IEC 60065 and 62368

There are several key differences to consider when comparing IEC 60065 and IEC 62368. One significant difference is the transition from prescriptive requirements in IEC 60065 to the use of performance-based criteria in IEC 62368. While IEC 60065 specifies detailed technical specifications for various safety aspects, IEC 62368 focuses on defining the desired outcomes, allowing manufacturers more flexibility in designing their products while still meeting safety objectives.

Another important distinction is the incorporation of multimedia content delivery services in IEC 62368. With the rapid development of streaming services and multi-function devices, this standard addresses the safety considerations associated with these emerging technologies. It recognizes potential hazards such as privacy breaches, software security vulnerabilities, and the use of wireless communication, providing guidelines for manufacturers to ensure safe integration of multimedia capabilities in their products.

Furthermore, IEC 62368 emphasizes the concept of energy efficiency and environmentally friendly design. This is in response to global concerns about climate change and the need for sustainable production processes. The standard encourages manufacturers to reduce the energy consumption of their products and adopt eco-friendly materials and manufacturing methods to minimize environmental impact throughout a product's lifecycle.

In conclusion, while IEC 60065 has been a long-standing standard for audio, video, and similar electronic equipment, IEC 62368 represents a newer and more innovative approach to product safety. With a focus on hazard-based assessments, performance-based criteria, and consideration for emerging technologies and environmental impact, IEC 62368 sets a new benchmark for ensuring the safety and sustainability of electrical and electronic equipment.