Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electronic devices to function properly in their electromagnetic environment without causing interference to other devices or being disturbed themselves. It ensures reliable performance across all sectors, from consumer electronics and medical devices to automotive and industrial systems.

In the European Union, EMC forms the basis for compliance with the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU (EMCD) and the Radio Equipment Directive (RED). Comparable requirements exist internationally, for example under FCC Part 15 in the United States.

EMI and EMS

Two key aspects define EMC:

• Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Unwanted disturbances generated by a device, referred to as emissions. They are categorized as:

  • Conducted emissions – travel through power or signal lines (150 kHz–30 MHz).

  • Radiated emissions – emitted into free space by housings, cables, or antennas (above 30 MHz).

• Electromagnetic Susceptibility (EMS): The ability of a device to withstand disturbances. In compliance terminology this is called immunity, tested against events such as:

  • Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

  • Electrical Fast Transients (Burst)

  • Surge

  • Radiated and Conducted RF Immunity

→ See separate entries: Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Electromagnetic Susceptibility (EMS)

These two aspects are verified through standardized EMC testing, covering both emissions and immunity.

EMC Testing

To verify EMC, accredited laboratories perform standardized test procedures:

• Emissions: Measured with spectrum analyzers, EMI receivers, Line Impedance Stabilization Networks (LISN), and calibrated antennas.

• Immunity: Assessed with signal generators, coupling/decoupling networks, and anechoic chambers.

These procedures are defined in CISPR 16 and the IEC 61000 series, ensuring repeatability and global comparability. Pre-compliance testing during development helps detect issues before full certification. For a broader overview of testing requirements, see our EMC Compliance Guide.

Industry-Specific Standards

Beyond general EMC requirements, several industries follow sector-specific standards to ensure safety and reliability in critical applications:

• Automotive – ECE R10, CISPR 25, ISO 11452

• Medical Devices – IEC 60601-1-2

• Industrial Equipment – EN 61000-6-2 (immunity) and EN 61000-6-4 (emissions); EN IEC 61000-6-3:2021 applies to equipment in residential environments and also to other locations outside the scope of EN IEC 61000-6-8 and EN IEC 61000-6-4; in cases of doubt, the requirements of EN IEC 61000-6-3 apply. EN IEC 61000-6-8 may apply to professional equipment in commercial and light-industrial environments where no more specific product or product-family standard takes precedence

• Multimedia/IT Equipment – EN 55032 (CISPR 32) and EN 55035 (CISPR 35)

• Military/Defense – MIL-STD-461, NATO AECTP-500

• Aerospace – RTCA DO-160

Meeting these standards is often a prerequisite for CE marking in the EU or FCC/ISED compliance in North America.

Practical Relevance

Understanding EMC is essential for product design, compliance, and global market access. Accredited EMC laboratories, such as those operated by IB-Lenhardt AG, provide emissions and immunity testing according to international and harmonized standards, supporting manufacturers throughout development and certification.

→ Learn more about our EMC Testing Services.