Power Quality

IEC 61000-3-2 Harmonics Testing: What You Need to Know

Complete guide to IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic current testing for electrical equipment. Understand Class A-D limits, measurement procedures, and compliance strategies.

IEC 61000-3-2harmonicspower quality
IEC 61000-3-2 Harmonics Testing: What You Need to Know

Introduction to IEC 61000-3-2

IEC 61000-3-2 sets limits for harmonic current emissions for equipment connected to public low-voltage supply systems. This standard is essential for CE marking of electrical products sold in the European Union and is widely adopted worldwide.

Equipment Classes

The standard defines four classes of equipment, each with different harmonic current limits:

  • Class A: Balanced three-phase equipment, household appliances (except Class D), tools, dimmers, audio equipment
  • Class B: Portable tools, non-professional arc welding equipment
  • Class C: Lighting equipment
  • Class D: Equipment with specified power consumption shape (e.g., PCs, monitors, TV receivers)

Testing with TESTUPS Equipment

Our HFG01 and HFG02 Harmonics & Flicker Generators provide complete testing solutions for IEC 61000-3-2 compliance, with automated test sequences and real-time harmonic analysis.