USB Charger Australia AS/NZS CISPR 32 Testing

In Australia, the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of electrical products is regULated by the Radiocommunications Act 2001 and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). According to ACMA regulations, almost all devices containing electronic circuits with a clock frequency exceeding 9 kHz (USB chargers fully meet this definition) must comply with the corresponding EMC standards.

Key Certification Mark: rcm mark

Compliant products must be affixed with the RCM (Regulatory Compliance Mark). This mark signifies that the supplier (importer/manufacturer) declares the product meets all applicable ACMA technical standards, including EMC and electrical safety requirements.

1. EMC Test Standard (RE Test as the Core Component)

For information technology equipment such as USB chargers, the primary applicable EMC standard is:

1. AS/NZS CISPR 32: Aligned with the international standard CISPR 32. This standard specifies limits and test methods for Radiated Emissions (RE) and Conducted Emissions (CE).

The RE Test is a mandatory item under this standard. It measures the intensity of electromagnetic interference radiated by the device through space to ensure no harmful interference is caused to other equipment (e.g., radios, televisions, mobile communications).

In summary: To qualify for sale in Australia, USB chargers must undergo emc testing in accordance with AS/NZS CISPR 32, where the RE (Radiated Emissions) test is an indispensable component, and test results must meet the limits specified in the standard.

2. Mandatory Compliance Steps

As a supplier, you need to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Testing

Submit the product to a test laboratory accREDited by NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia) or an overseas laboratory with mutual recognition agreements with NATA (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories). The laboratory will conduct comprehensive EMC testing in accordance with standards such as AS/NZS CISPR 32 and issue a test report.

Step 2: Prepare Compliance Documentation

Retain all technical documents and test reports to prove product compliance.

Step 3: Register and Affix the RCM Mark

2. Register in the EESS (Electrical Equipment Safety System) database (if the charger’s voltage exceeds 50V, electrical safety compliance is also required).

3. Affix the RCM Mark to the product. This is a legally binding declaration confirming that you have ensured product compliance.

3. Important Notes

Electrical Safety is Also Mandatory

In addition to EMC (including RE testing), USB chargers must comply with Australia’s electrical safety standards, typically AS/NZS 62368.1 (Safety of audio/video, information and communication technology equipment). Safety and EMC are separate mandatory compliance areas.

CE or FCC Certifications Alone Are Insufficient

While test standards (e.g., CISPR 32) are similar to international standards, entry into the Australian market requires testing or evaluation based on Australian Standards (AS/NZS) and affixation of the RCM Mark. CE (European) or FCC (U.S.) certification reports alone may not meet ACMA requirements unless their equivalence is verified by a qualified engineer.

Customs and Market Supervision

ACMA and the Australian Border Force conduct random inspections of imported goods. Products without the RCM Mark or non-compliant products may be seized, result in fines, or require recall or destruction.

Summary

Yes, compliance is mandatory. For USB chargers to be sold in Australia, completing a full emc compliance assessment (including RE testing) and affixing the RCM Mark is not optional but a legal requirement.

Action Recommendations

4. Contact a qualified emc test laboratory and clearly state that you require testing and certification for USB chargers destined for Australia in accordance with AS/NZS CISPR 32 (EMC) and AS/NZS 62368.1 (Safety).

5. Complete testing, obtain reports, register, and affix the RCM Mark under the guidance of JJR Laboratory.

Ensuring compliance is the first step to successfully entering the Australian market and effectively mitigating potential legal and commercial risks.