UL standards to power supplies
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is an independent safety certification organization that develops standards and test procedures for products, including power supplies. These standards are designed to ensure that products meet specific safety requirements to protect users and property from potential hazards. Here are some of the key UL standards relevant to power supplies:
UL 60950-1: Information Technology Equipment - Safety
This standard applies to information technology equipment, including power supplies used in such equipment. It covers various safety aspects, including electrical, fire, and mechanical hazards.
The standard ensures that power supplies are constructed to prevent electric shock, energy hazards, and fire risks.
UL 62368-1: Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment - Safety
This standard is a more recent safety standard that replaces UL 60950-1 and UL 60065 (for audio/video equipment). It introduces a hazard-based safety engineering approach to evaluate risks and hazards associated with power supplies and other equipment.
UL 62368-1 focuses on energy sources, safeguarding against fire, electric shock, and mechanical hazards, and provides guidelines for safe design and construction.
UL 60601-1: Medical Electrical Equipment - Safety
Specifically tailored for medical electrical equipment, including power supplies used in medical devices. This standard addresses risks related to electric shock, mechanical hazards, and unwanted energy transfer (such as excessive heat or radiation).
It also covers requirements for the reliability and performance of power supplies in medical settings, ensuring patient and operator safety.
UL 1310: Class 2 Power Units
This standard applies to Class 2 power units, which are power supplies with limited energy output to reduce the risk of electric shock or fire. These are commonly used in low-voltage applications, such as LED lighting or security systems.
UL 1310 ensures that Class 2 power supplies meet specific construction, performance, and marking requirements for safe operation.
UL 508: Industrial Control Equipment
While not exclusively for power supplies, UL 508 covers industrial control equipment, including power supply units used in industrial settings. It addresses safety concerns related to fire, electric shock, and mechanical hazards in harsh industrial environments.
Compliance with UL standards is often a requirement for selling power supplies in certain markets, especially in North America. Manufacturers typically submit their products for testing and certification by UL or other recognized testing laboratories to demonstrate compliance with the relevant standards. This certification process involves rigorous testing, inspection, and ongoing monitoring to ensure continued adherence to safety requirements.
Types of Power Supply
- ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended)
- CFX (Compact Form Factor)
- EPS (Entry-Level Power Supply)
- IEC standards for power supplies
- Power supply efficiency standards
- SFX (Small Form Factor)
- TFX (Thin Form Factor)
- UL standards to power supplies
++ Power Supply Homepage
----------