Is IEC 60950-1 replaced by IEC 62368 1 ?

IEC 60950-1 and IEC 62368-1 are both important international standards for electrical equipment safety. While both standards aim to ensure the safety of electronic devices, there are some key differences between them.

IEC 60950-1 is an older standard that focuses on safety aspects of electrical equipment, while IEC 62368-1 is a newer standard that also addresses security and immunity aspects. IEC 60950-1 sets guidelines for manufacturers to follow, including electrical safety, fire hazards, and mechanical hazards. IEC 62368-1, on the other hand, adds a new dimension to the standard by including provisions for the security and immunity of electrical equipment.

While both standards are important, compliance with IEC 60950-1 is often a prerequisite for entering certain markets or partnering with established organizations. IEC 60950-1 certification is also often required for certain applications, such as in the pharmaceutical industry or for products that are in contact with people.

The relevance of IEC 60950-1 in today's context is that it provides a solid foundation for manufacturers to build upon, ensuring that basic safety requirements are met even in the context of advanced technologies. As technology continues to advance rapidly, new risks and challenges emerge, but the fundamentals of electrical and fire safety remain largely unchanged.

In conclusion, while IEC 60950-1 and IEC 62368-1 are both important standards for electrical equipment safety, they serve different purposes and address different aspects of the subject. While some may question whether one standard has replaced the other, it is important to note that compliance with either standard is often a prerequisite for certain applications or markets. Both standards provide a critical layer of safety and security for manufacturers and their products.