CE Marking
CE marking is a mandatory conformity mark showing that a product meets the European Union health, safety and environmental protection requirements set out in the relevant EU directives and regulations. For electronic and rugged hardware it commonly covers the Electromagnetic Compatibility, Low Voltage, Radio Equipment and RoHS directives, allowing the product to be placed on the market throughout the European Economic Area.
Key Takeaways
CE marking shows that a product complies with all applicable EU directives and may be sold across the European Economic Area.
It is a self declaration by the manufacturer, supported by a technical file and an EU Declaration of Conformity.
For rugged computing the relevant directives usually include Electromagnetic Compatibility, Low Voltage, Radio Equipment and RoHS.
CE is not a quality mark or a third party endorsement; it signifies regulatory conformity rather than performance.
The letters CE indicate that the manufacturer takes responsibility for the conformity of the product with all EU legislation that applies to it. Affixing the mark is a legal requirement before such products can be sold within the European Economic Area.
A rugged computer, tablet or phone is typically assessed against the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, the Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU for wireless models and the RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU restricting hazardous substances.
The manufacturer compiles a technical file, applies the relevant harmonised EN standards, and issues an EU Declaration of Conformity. For most rugged hardware this is a self declaration, although the Radio Equipment Directive can require involvement of a notified body in certain cases.
Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, products placed on the market in Great Britain may require the UKCA mark, which mirrors the CE requirements. CE marking remains required for the European Economic Area and continues to be recognised in Northern Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. CE marking signifies regulatory conformity with EU directives, not product quality or performance.
The manufacturer, or in some cases the importer, who self declares conformity and compiles the supporting technical documentation.
Great Britain uses the UKCA mark, although recognition of CE marking has been extended for many products. CE remains required for the European Economic Area and for Northern Ireland.
Typically the Electromagnetic Compatibility, Low Voltage, Radio Equipment and RoHS directives.
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