What is IEC 60068-2-85:2014?

IEC 60068-2-85:2014 is an international standard that specifies a method to test and assess the behavior of components, equipment, and other products in environments with dynamic mechanical loads. This standard, titled "Environmental testing - Part 2-85: Environmental conditions and tests for telecommunications equipment," is published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global organization that develops and publishes standards for electrical and electronic technologies.

Understanding the Purpose of IEC 60068-2-85:2014

The objective of IEC 60068-2-85:2014 is to define a set of environmental conditions and associated tests specifically tailored for telecommunications equipment. These conditions include mechanical vibrations, shock, transportation hazards, free fall, and other factors that may impact the performance, reliability, and safety of such equipment. By subjecting products to standardized testing procedures outlined in this standard, manufacturers can evaluate their products' suitability for deployment in various real-life scenarios and consider necessary design modifications or enhancements.

Main Testing Procedures and Requirements

This section highlights the key testing procedures and requirements specified in IEC 60068-2-85:2014:

Vibration Testing: The standard defines vibration levels and profiles that emulate the dynamic loads experienced by telecommunications equipment during operation, transit, and storage. It also provides guidance on mounting methods and measurement techniques.

Shock Testing: This test simulates the mechanical shocks experienced by equipment during handling, installation, and transport. It establishes shock profiles, including duration, acceleration, and deceleration rates, along different axes.

Transportation Hazards: The standard covers various transportation hazards, such as vibrations encountered during road, rail, air, and maritime transport, as well as environmental conditions like temperature, humidity, and pressure changes.

Benefits and Impact on the Telecommunications Industry

The adoption and adherence to IEC 60068-2-85:2014 offer several benefits for the telecommunications industry. Firstly, it provides manufacturers with a universally accepted benchmark to evaluate their products' reliability and resilience against diverse real-world conditions. This ensures that the equipment can withstand common hazards encountered during transportation, installation, and operation. Additionally, customers can make more informed decisions when selecting telecom equipment, knowing that certified products have undergone rigorous testing.

Moreover, this standard promotes interoperability among different vendors' products, as they are all tested under similar conditions. It also encourages innovation, as manufacturers strive to optimize their products' performance and durability. Ultimately, IEC 60068-2-85:2014 contributes to enhancing the overall quality and longevity of telecommunication systems, benefiting both service providers and end-users.