EN 55032 / CISPR 32
EN 55032 (CISPR 32) is the consolidated emissions standard for multimedia equipment, replacing both CISPR 22 (IT equipment) and CISPR 13 (broadcast receivers). This article explains its scope, Class A/B limits, measurement methods, and Compatible Electronics' accredited testing. Part of the Compatible Electronics Learning Center.
ⓘ Consolidation notice: On March 5, 2017, the IEC officially withdrew CISPR 22 and CISPR 13. CISPR 32 (EN 55032) replaces both. New product compliance submissions should use CISPR 32 for emissions and CISPR 35 (EN 55035) for immunity.
What is EN 55032 / CISPR 32?
EN 55032 is the European harmonized edition of CISPR 32, which consolidates two earlier CISPR standards — CISPR 22 (Information Technology Equipment) and CISPR 13 (Sound and Television Broadcast Receivers) — into a single standard for all multimedia equipment. Published in 2012 and updated with amendments, it is now the mandatory emissions standard for CE Marking of multimedia equipment under the EMC Directive.
The consolidation reflects the convergence of IT, audio/video, and communication functions into a single product category. Modern TVs, streaming devices, tablets, computers, routers, and audio systems all fall under CISPR 32. Compatible Electronics provides NVLAP-accredited CISPR 32 / EN 55032 testing services across all three lab locations.
What is Multimedia Equipment?
CISPR 32 defines multimedia equipment as equipment with a primary function of one or more of: generating, capturing, storing, transmitting, receiving, or processing audio, video, or data. This encompasses:
- Personal computers, laptops, tablets, and servers
- Televisions, monitors, and displays
- Audio amplifiers, speakers, and home theater systems
- Streaming media devices, set-top boxes, and smart TV devices
- Network routers, switches, and modems
- Printers, scanners, and multifunction devices
- Storage devices (NAS, external drives)
A comprehensive guide to multimedia equipment EMC testing is available in our Multimedia Equipment (MME) product family guide.
Class A vs. Class B Limits
A
Class A Equipment
Multimedia equipment intended for use in commercial, industrial, or business environments, not supplied through the public low-voltage network, or not sold through retail channels. Class A limits are less stringent than Class B. Class A equipment must carry a Class A declaration warning in the documentation.
B
Class B Equipment
Multimedia equipment intended for use in the domestic environment and sold through retail channels. Class B limits are 10 dB or more more stringent than Class A in key frequency ranges, to protect broadcast reception and other services in residential buildings. Virtually all consumer multimedia products must meet Class B limits.
| Standard Version | Locations Accredited |
|---|
| EN 55032 (2015) + A11 (2020) | Lake Forest/Silverado, Brea, Newbury Park |
| EN 55032 (2012-05) | Lake Forest/Silverado, Brea |
| CISPR 32 (2015) | Newbury Park |
| CISPR 32 Ed. 1 (2012-01) | Lake Forest/Silverado, Newbury Park |
| AS/NZS CISPR 32 (2015) + A1:2020 | Lake Forest/Silverado, Newbury Park |
| KS C 9832:2023 / KS C 9832:2019 | Brea / Lake Forest & Brea |
| VCCI-CISPR 32 (2016) | Lake Forest/Silverado, Brea, Newbury Park |
Ready to Test Your Product?
Compatible Electronics is an NVLAP-accredited EMC testing laboratory (Lab Code 200527-0) with three Southern California locations.
www.celectronics.com
