What is the difference between IEC 60065 and 62368?

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is responsible for creating and maintaining standards for electrical and electronic products. Two important standards that relate to product safety are IEC 60065 and IEC 62368. While both of these standards focus on product safety, there are significant differences between them.

IEC 60065: Safety Requirements for Audio, Video, and Similar Electronic Apparatus

IEC 60065 is an older standard that was first published in 1954 and has since been revised multiple times. This standard primarily applies to audio, video, and similar electronic apparatus. It specifies safety requirements related to electric shock, fire hazards, and mechanical hazards.

The testing and certification process for compliance with IEC 60065 involves various mechanical, electrical, and environmental tests. These tests evaluate factors such as insulation resistance, power input, temperature rise, and compliance with certain performance criteria.

IEC 62368: Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment - Safety Requirements

IEC 62368 is a newer standard and is intended to replace IEC 60065 and IEC 60950-1 (which is related to information technology equipment). It covers a broader range of products, including audio/video, information, and communication technology (ICT) equipment.

Unlike IEC 60065, which focuses more on prescriptive requirements, IEC 62368 adopts a hazard-based safety engineering approach. This means that instead of specifying specific design and construction details, it identifies potential hazards and provides guidelines for risk management and mitigation.

IEC 62368 also introduces the concept of functional safety, which encompasses the safety-related performance of a product. It includes requirements for things like software assurance and fail-safe functionalities.

Conclusion

In summary, while both IEC 60065 and IEC 62368 are safety standards for electrical and electronic products, they differ in scope, approach, and requirements. IEC 60065 primarily applies to audio, video, and similar electronic apparatus, while IEC 62368 covers a broader range of products.

IEC 60065 relies on prescriptive requirements, while IEC 62368 adopts a hazard-based safety engineering approach. Additionally, IEC 62368 introduces the concept of functional safety and places more emphasis on risk management and mitigation.

Understanding the differences between these standards is crucial for manufacturers, as compliance ensures the safety of their products and enhances consumer trust.