Testing that Reaches the World
EN 61000-4-8 (Immunity)
EN 61000-4-8 establishes test methods for evaluating the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment to power-frequency magnetic fields. These magnetic fields can be generated by power conductors, transformers, motors, and other electrical equipment operating near sensitive electronic devices.
Clark Testing provides EN 61000-4-8 magnetic field immunity testing for manufacturers and engineering organizations supporting EMC compliance, product qualification, and design validation programs.
EN 61000-4-8 Immunity Testing
Electrical and electronic equipment may be exposed to magnetic fields generated by nearby power systems during normal operation or short-duration electrical events.
EN 61000-4-8 provides standardized methods for exposing equipment to controlled magnetic fields and evaluating its ability to operate as intended during and following exposure.
Testing may include:
- Power-frequency magnetic field immunity testing
- Continuous magnetic field exposure
- Short-duration magnetic field exposure
- Multiple equipment orientations
- Functional monitoring during testing
- Performance evaluation during exposure
- Post-test functional verification
The applicable field strength, exposure duration, equipment orientation, and performance criteria depend on the equipment and qualification requirements.
Power Frequency Magnetic Field Testing
Power-frequency magnetic fields are commonly associated with electrical power systems operating at 50 Hz or 60 Hz.
Equipment installed near high-current conductors, transformers, switchgear, motors, power distribution equipment, and other electrical systems may experience these fields during normal operation.
During EN 61000-4-8 testing, the equipment under test is exposed to a controlled magnetic field while its operation and performance are evaluated.
Magnetic Field Immunity Test Setup
Testing typically uses an induction coil to generate the required magnetic field around the equipment under test.
Depending on the equipment configuration and applicable requirements, testing may be performed in multiple orientations to evaluate exposure along different axes.
Clark can work with customers to determine appropriate:
- Equipment configuration
- Test levels
- Exposure duration
- Equipment orientation
- Operating modes
- Functional monitoring
- Performance and acceptance criteria
Proper test planning helps ensure the equipment is evaluated under conditions representative of the applicable EN 61000-4-8 requirements.
EMC Immunity and Equipment Qualification
EN 61000-4-8 is frequently one part of a broader EMC immunity qualification program. Electrical and electronic equipment may need to demonstrate immunity to multiple electromagnetic disturbances.
Clark Testing supports EMC programs involving testing such as:
- Power-frequency magnetic field immunity
- Surge immunity
- Electrical fast transient and burst immunity
- Electrostatic discharge
- Radiated RF immunity
- Conducted RF immunity
- Voltage dips and interruptions
- Conducted and radiated emissions
Multiple requirements can be coordinated as part of a broader EMC/EMI qualification program.
EN 61000-4-8 Testing at Clark Testing
Clark Testing works with manufacturers, suppliers, and engineering organizations to evaluate electrical and electronic equipment against applicable electromagnetic compatibility requirements.
Our team can review the equipment configuration, applicable EN 61000-4-8 requirements, field strengths, equipment orientations, operating modes, monitoring requirements, and performance criteria to develop an appropriate test approach.
Contact Clark Testing to discuss EN 61000-4-8 power-frequency magnetic field immunity testing or a broader EMC/EMI qualification program.