Key Features of IEC 62368-1:

1. Hazard-Based Approach: Unlike its predecessors, IEC 62368-1 adopts a hazard-based safety engineering approach. This method focuses on identifying potential sources of harm and implementing appropriate safeguards, rather than prescribing specific design requirements.

2. Energy Source Classifications: The standard introduces a system of classifying energy sources into three categories:

Class 1: Energy sources that are detectable without causing pain

Class 2: Energy sources that cause pain when exposed

Class 3: Energy sources that cause injury when a transfer mechanism is present

3. Safeguards: It emphasizes the implementation of safeguards to protect against identified hazards. These can be:

•    Basic safeguards
•    Supplementary safeguards
•    Reinforced safeguards

4. Broad Scope: IEC 62368-1 covers a wide range of products, including:

•    Computers and laptops
•    Smartphones and tablets
•    Televisions and monitors
•    Audio equipment
•    Network devices
•    Office equipment

5. User Classifications: The standard recognizes different types of users:

•    Ordinary persons
•    Instructed persons
•    Skilled persons

6. Comprehensive Protection: It aims to protect against various hazards:

•    Electrical
•    Mechanical
•    Fire
•    Radiation
•    Chemical

Evolution and Adoption:

IEC 62368-1 has undergone several revisions, with the most recent 4^th edition IEC 62368-1: 2023.   It has been widely adopted globally, replacing older standards like IEC 60950-1 (for IT equipment) and IEC 60065 (for audio and video equipment).

Problems Arising During Safety Certification:

1. Misinterpretation of Requirements: The hazard-based approach of IEC 62368-1 can be challenging to interpret, especially for manufacturers accustomed to prescriptive standards.

2. Inadequate Risk Assessment: Failing to identify all potential hazards can lead to incomplete safeguards and failed certifications.

3. Documentation Challenges: The standard requires extensive documentation, including detailed risk assessments and test reports, which can be time-consuming to prepare.

4. Testing Complexities: Some tests required by IEC 62368-1 are complex and may require specialized equipment or expertise.

5. Design Modifications: Products designed under older standards may require significant modifications to meet IEC 62368-1 requirements.

6. Global Variations: While IEC 62368-1 is an international standard, some countries have national deviations that must be considered for global market access.

7. Keeping Up with Updates: As the standard evolves, staying current with changes and understanding their implications can be challenging.

Examples and Brief Case Studies

Case Study 1: Smartphone Manufacturer

A smartphone manufacturer faced challenges when transitioning from IEC 60950-1 to IEC 62368-1. They initially struggled with the new energy source classifications and had to redesign their battery protection circuits to meet Class 3 energy source requirements. With expert consultation, they successfully implemented new safeguards and obtained certification, albeit with a slight delay in product launch.

Case Study 2: Audio Equipment Company

An audio equipment company developing a new high-power amplifier encountered issues with power source classification under IEC 62368-1. Their initial design exceeded limits, requiring additional safeguards. By implementing advanced cooling systems and thermal cutoffs, they eventually achieved compliance, though this resulted in increased production costs.

Case Study 3: Network Router Manufacturer

A network router manufacturer faced challenges with the fire enclosure requirements of IEC 62368-1. Their existing plastic enclosure did not meet the new flammability standards. They had to source new materials and redesign the enclosure, leading to production delays. However, the improved fire safety of the final product became a selling point in the market.