Flicker and harmonic testing is another form of emissions testing. These EMC tests are usually performed according to EN61000-3-2 and EN61000-3-3 standards, respectively. In Europe, these are considered "horizontal" standards, which means they apply to almost all electronic or electrical equipment entering the EU. There are a number of caveats to this, but you can use our EMC testing standards finder tool to see if these standards apply to you!

Harmonic current test (61000-3-2)

This test is designed to measure the harmonic current requirements of the EUT. It is often associated with switch mode power converters and other non-linear loads such as motors, transformers and lamp dimmers/ballasts. By limiting harmonic current consumption requirements, the harmonic load on the local power supply is reduced, which helps avoid overheating and improves efficiency. Maintaining the quality of the AC distribution system is an important challenge for power companies.

Voltage Flicker Test (61000-3-3)

Flicker Test Bulbs The first ever EMC test - restricted in London, England in the 1890s. Lowering the lights will cause arcing between the contacts, which in turn will cause nearby lights to share the same power source to "flicker". The impedance of the power wiring is much higher than it is today. The nonlinear current consumption of the arc lamp causes voltage changes on the power supply, which affect nearby lamps. The flicker limit today is actually still related to the amount of flicker that is visually perceptible on an incandescent light bulb.

Magnetic field test

The magnetic field test is a very rare test, but some standards do require it. Magnetic fields exist mainly at lower frequencies and are usually measured using large loop antennas placed very close to the EUT.