Navigating Automotive Electronics Testing with SGS Experts

SGS is the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company.

It is recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. During an interaction with Vidushi, Jeevan Hebbalu Head, EMI EMC Connectivity and Products, SGS India discussed the significance of EMC requirements in automotive and consumer electronics, their impact on product development, testing methodologies, and the role of international standards and collaboration with EMC testing service providers like SGS.

What are the key differences between EMC requirements for consumer electronics and automotive electronics, and why are these differences significant?

In the parallel world of electronics, where numerous devices on a circuit board communicate, EMI/EMC is vital to prevent gadgets from disrupting each other. It ensures devices adhere to rules, cooperate effectively, and remain safe.

Without EMI/EMC, issues like signal problems, safety risks, and challenges in global markets might arise. Essentially, it ensures that electronic devices coexist harmoniously, minimizing disruptions and ensuring the well-being of both devices and users.

Although the EMC is essential to automotive and consumer electronics, international standards organizations like the IEC have established specific requirements for the sector of consumer electronics, and these standards are periodically revised but at larger intervals. When it comes to automotive EMC, the lifespan of automotive electronics is typically longer than that of consumer electronics and OEM specifications are stricter than those of national or international standards like ISO. As the effects of an EMC failure in automotive electronics might be fatal, automotive electronics are subject to rigorous safety regulations and standards to ensure the safety of passengers and pedestrians.