CISPR

CISPR, the International Special Committee on Radio Interference (Comité International Spécial des Perturbations Radioélectriques), is a technical committee within the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that develops international standards for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio disturbance measurements. Its remit covers methods for measuring emissions and immunity, limits for conducted and radiated interference, and guidelines applicable to a wide range of electronic and electrical equipment to ensure compatibility with other devices and with wireless services.

Work in CISPR is conducted by national member bodies and expert groups, using a consensus process. The committee publishes a family of standards, including the CISPR 16 series on measurement methods and instrumentation, and device-oriented standards that address information technology equipment, household appliances, and other product categories. CISPR standards are frequently harmonized with regional regulations; in Europe they are often adopted as part of the EN 550xx series, and many other jurisdictions base national rules on CISPR specifications.

Impact and relevance: For manufacturers, CISPR standards provide widely accepted methods and limit values for EMC testing, facilitating market access and regulatory compliance. Regulators rely on CISPR to align international requirements and reduce fragmentation in the global electronics market. The committee continues to update its standards to address emerging technologies and new spectrum use, maintaining a balance between technical rigor and practicality.