EMC Disturbances Classification



To allow a systematic approach, IEC/CISPR and CENELEC has established a classification of electromagnetic phenomena.


Principal Electromagnetic Disturbances

The following table gives a detailed list of the considered phenomena.

Conducted low frequency phenomena
  • Harmonics, interharmonics
  • Signalling
  • Voltage fluctuations
  • Voltage dips and interruptions
  • Voltage unbalance
  • Power frequency variations
  • Induced low frequency voltages
  • DC in AC networks
Radiated low frequency field phenomena
  • Magnetic fields (Continuous or transient)
  • Electrical fields
Conducted high frequency field phenomena
  • Induced Continuous Wave voltage or currents
  • Unidirectional Transients (single or repetitive)
  • Oscillatory transients (single or repetitive
Radiated high frequency field phenomena
  • Magnetic fields
  • Electric fields
  • Electromagnetic fields
Electrostatic discharge phenomena (ESD)