Australia C-Tick Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing

Australia C-Tick emc testing is a mandatory electromagnetic compatibility compliance assessment for electronic and electrical products. It ensures that products do not generate excessive electromagnetic interference when used in the Australian market while maintaining good immunity to interference. This testing was originally part of Australia's early emc compliance marking system and has since been integrated into the RCM (RegULatory Compliance mark). However, the “C-Tick” concept is still widely referenced.

Purpose of C-Tick emc testing

- Prevent Interference:Ensure products do not interfere with other devices such as wireless, broadcasting, or communication equipment.

- Ensure Stability:Ensure the device operates normally in environments with electromagnetic interference.

- Market Access:Serve as a basic requirement for entering the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Applicable Products

The following categories of products usually require C-Tick or RCM EMC testing:

- Consumer electronics (e.g., TVs, audio equipment, household appliances)

- Wireless products (e.g., Wi-Fi modules, Bluetooth headsets)

- Industrial control equipment

- IT and communication devices (e.g., computers, routers, gateways)

Main Test Items (According to AS/NZS CISPR Standards)

- Conducted Emission Testing

Measures electromagnetic interference signals conducted through the power line.

- radiated emission testing

Detects whether electromagnetic waves emitted by the device into the environment are within acceptable limits.

- Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Immunity Testing

Tests the device's resistance to electrostatic interference.

- Electrical Fast Transient / Burst (EFT) Immunity Testing

Verifies device stability against power system disturbances such as switching operations.

- Surge Immunity Testing

Checks device performance under conditions like lightning strikes or power grid fluctuations.

- Radiated Immunity Testing

Ensures the device maintains normal functionality under strong external electromagnetic fields.

Testing Process

1. Confirm Product Category and Standards

Identify the applicable EMC category and test standards (e.g., CISPR 11, CISPR 32).

2. Sample Preparation

Send products to a laboratory accREDited by NATA or an equivalent authority.

3. Test Execution

Conduct the full EMC testing according to standards.

4. Report Issuance

Obtain a complete EMC test report and statement of compliance.

5. Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

Manufacturer or importer must sign the DoC, declaring the product meets EMC requirements.

6. Compliance Mark

If registering RCM afterward, the rcm mark can be applied (integrating C-Tick requirements).

Important Considerations

- Local Representative Responsibility:If the manufacturer is not based in Australia, a local company must be appointed as the compliance responsible party.

- Document Retention:Test reports, technical files, and declarations must be kept for at least five years.

- RCM Integration Background:Since 2016, the C-Tick mark has been incorporated into RCM. New products should directly apply for RCM.