What is the difference between EN 62368 and EN 60950?

In the realm of electronics and electrical equipment, safety standards play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of both users and manufacturers. Two widely recognized standards are EN 62368 and EN 60950, each with its distinct scope and focus. In this article, we will explore the key differences between these two standards.

EN 62368: The Next Generation Safety Standard

EN 62368 is the latest standard that governs the safety requirements for audiovisual, information, and communication technology equipment. It replaces the outgoing EN 60950 and EN 60065 standards, as well as merges them into a unified framework. Designed to address emerging technologies and evolving product categories, EN 62368 ensures that products comply with modern safety practices.

The main differentiating factor of EN 62368 is the shift from prescriptive rules to a hazard-based approach. Unlike EN 60950, which mainly focuses on known hazards and avoids specific risk evaluations, EN 62368 considers potential hazards and evaluates product safety through a comprehensive assessment of foreseeable use scenarios.

EN 60950: A Legacy Standard

EN 60950 was widely adopted as the safety standard for information technology equipment. It provided guidelines for manufacturers to ensure their products were safe to use. The focus of EN 60950 was primarily on avoiding hazards that were already identified and mitigating risks based on years of experience and historical data.

However, with rapid advancements in technology, the limitations of EN 60950 gradually became apparent. The emergence of new products and convergence of technologies necessitated a more holistic and versatile standard, leading to the development of EN 62368.

The Key Differences

There are several key differences between EN 62368 and EN 60950:

Scope: EN 62368 has a broader scope and covers a wider range of products, including audiovisual equipment and communication technology. EN 60950 primarily focused on information technology equipment.

Hazard-based Approach: EN 62368 takes a hazard-based approach rather than relying solely on known hazards. This enables the standard to adapt to new technologies and emerging risks.

Transition Period: EN 60950 is being phased out, and manufacturers are transitioning their products to comply with EN 62368. Compliance with EN 62368 becomes mandatory in some regions, further emphasizing the need for a seamless transition.

In conclusion, while EN 60950 served as an important safety standard for many years, the rise of new technologies and evolving product categories necessitated the development of EN 62368. With its focus on a hazard-based approach and broader scope, EN 62368 ensures that modern products conform to up-to-date safety practices. Manufacturers and users alike must stay informed about these standards to guarantee the safety and performance of electronic devices in today's rapidly changing technological landscape.