IEC 60601-1-2,2001: new EMC requirements for medical equipment

International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) brought out comprehensive standard IEC 60601-1-2,1993 (first edition) to address EMC problems in medical equipment. Technological developments in medical equipment and changes in electromagnetic environment rendered first edition inadequate in addressing all issues concerning to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). IEC 60601-1-2,2001 (second edition) was brought out to address several of such issues, which were not part of first edition. This paper intends to analyze two issues. Firstly, major changes from first edition and reasons for these changes. This helps in better understanding of requirements of second edition. Secondly, redesigning products from EMC perspective to achieve compliance to new standard.