---------- Original message from David Drori ----------

> Dear Treggers,
> 
> I have observed that data modem cards for the UK market, designed for
> installation in PCs, have an insulating cover surrounding the TNV
> (Telecommunications Network Voltage) areas of the circuit. I have also seen
> this requirement stated by one of the modem chip manufacturers in its
> applications literature. However, I am not at all sure whether this practice
> is universal.
> 
> Can anyone tell me if the insulating cover is a requirement, and if so, where
> it is stipulated? Alternatively, can anyone state categorically that data
> modem boards are being sold (with BABT approval, of course) without a
> protective cover?
> 
> Thanks in advance to all those who respond.
> 
> Best regards,
> 
> David Drori
> 
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
> ------------------ Novarex Enterprises Ltd., POB 2833, Jerusalem 91028,
> Israel. Tel: +972 2 581 0995 Fax: +972 2 581 3750 Mobile: +972 5 067 8686
> E-mail: [email protected]
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
> ------------------
> 

David

This requirement comes from BABT Application Note 48 'Recommendations For
Terminal Equipment For Use Inside A Host Equipment', which covers safety
aspects of host independent apparatus.

The three areas it addresses are:

- The power required by the combination of equipment could exceed the rating
of the host supply.

- The environment provided by the unknown host could contain hazards. This
does not necessarily mean that the host itself is unsafe but installation of
the telecommunications equipment within the host could compromise a safety
barrier or result in hazardous voltages being too close to network circuitry.

- Some types of telecommunications networks use voltages which exceed the SELV
limits and must be insulated from unearthed operator-accessible conductive
parts.

In the latest issue of ApN 48 (Issue 5) there is a route around having to 
provide covers, 
however it introduces a lot of additional labelling/user-guide requirements.

Regards
Ben

------------------------------

Ben Wrigley
Approvals Specialist

KTL
Newlands Science Park
Inglemire Lane
Hull
HU6 7TQ
UK

Phone:  +44 (0)1482 801801
Fax:    +44 (0)1482 801806
Web:    http://www.ktl.co.uk
Email:  [email protected]

Reply via email to