Hi Kaan. You wrote:
> I would like your opinions on this one...I have an audio signal > processor that has been EMC and Safety tested and which bears the CE > marking in accordance with the EMC and Low Voltage Directives. This > product utilizes 1/4 in. audio jacks for audio signal input/outputs. One of > the options that we provide to the user, as a separate purchasable unit, > is a passive foot switch that is comprised of a metal box roughly 2 in. x 4 > in. x 5 in., a single 1/4 in. jack, and three single pole-single throw on/off > switches (approx. cost is $10.00 US). > > My questions are; > > 1. Is this simple foot switch device required to bear the CE marking? > Under which directives? > > 2. Does it make sense to CE mark such a passive device, considering its > simplicity and the impact of the increased cost to mark the device? > > 3. Is anyone aware of similar passive products that bear, or don't bear, > CE marking? > > 4. What are the potential risks associated with not CE marking this > simple device if CE marking is/is not required? > > I realize that the potential answers to my first and second > questions may be contradictory, but I would appreciate your opinions > regarding this matter. > IMHO if would say that: a) You dont need to bother with EMC testing or certification, unless you are switching HF high power stuff, in which case your box is acting as an exit port for EMI and may affect the CE mark on the host equipment. b) If you are switching less than 50V then the LVD wouldn't seem to apply. c) If there are no 'moving parts' that counts out the Machinery Directive. d) Is it a Toy? Or does it contain high pressure gas, or ..... the list goes on. I suspect that you only need comply with your local Consumer Protection Laws (e.g. it mustn't spontaneously ignite or be poisonous, etc.), and as far as I know that doesn't need CE marking. Just a point of view. Chris Dupres EMC Specialist. VG Microtech. [email protected] tel +44 (0) 1825 761077 fax +44 (0) 1825 768343 'Opinions expressed are personal, not necessarily Corporate'
