Electronic and electrical equipment are products that must meet strict safety and quality standards to enter the market. Proving that the devices meet these requirements typically involves successfully passing the conformity assessment procedure and marking the product with the appropriate symbol. One of the most recognizable and esteemed symbols in this field is the VDE mark.
What is VDE?
VDE, or Verband der Elektrotechnik, Elektronik und Informationstechnik, is a German technical-scientific association that has been creating and maintaining standards in the field of electrical safety since 1893, significantly influencing DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) standards.
The VDE mark is a conformity mark used for electrical and electronic equipment to ensure that it meets high safety, quality, and performance standards. The VDE certificate ensures that products meet strict safety standards, minimizing the risk of accidents and other hazards. This means that consumers can be sure that certified products are safe, durable, and comply with the regulations of many countries.
Products with VDE
The VDE mark covers categories of products such as:
- Consumer electronics and household appliances (televisions, refrigerators, washing machines)
- Industrial equipment (motors, control panels, automation systems)
- IT and telecommunications devices (computers, routers, phones)
- Lighting (LED fixtures and other lighting products)
- Renewable energy equipment (solar panels, inverters, wind turbines)
- Medical devices (patient monitors, diagnostic devices)
- Electric vehicles and charging stations (electric vehicles and related infrastructure, including charging stations)
The VDE mark is not mandatory but is a sign of product safety and will inspire greater customer confidence.
How to obtain a VDE certificate?
To obtain a VDE certificate, you must submit your product and detailed technical documentation to VDE for evaluation. VDE experts will then analyze them to ensure they meet the appropriate safety standards. A product sample will undergo testing, including electrical, mechanical, and environmental assessments. A factory inspection may also be conducted to verify the production process. If the product successfully passes all tests and inspections, the VDE mark is granted.
The cost of obtaining a VDE certificate ranges from 100 to 1,500 euros, depending on the product category and the number of tests conducted.
Other VDE Marks
- VDE GS: A safety mark regulated by the Product Safety Act (ProdSG) for ready-to-use products.
- VDE Cable: Applies to cables, wires, cable management systems, and heat-shrinkable products.
- VDE HAR: For cables and insulated wires based solely on EN/HD standards and the HAR certification program specifications.
- VDE Registration Mark: A conformity certificate combined with factory surveillance for electrotechnical products.
- VDE EMC: Electrotechnical products meet the appropriate electromagnetic compatibility requirements.
- VDE ENEC Mark: Products compliant with the ENEC certification program (based solely on EN standards and ENEC certification program specifications).
Why is it worth having the VDE mark?
Having a VDE certificate is important because it confirms the product’s high quality and safety. This mark is often required by law in many countries, facilitating market entry. Additionally, the VDE mark builds customer trust, assuring them that the product meets stringent safety and quality standards.
Image: vde.com/tic-en/marks-and-zertificates/vde-approved-products
