Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
The Low Voltage Directive, given as Directive 2014/35/EU, is European Union legislation that sets the health and safety requirements for electrical equipment operating within defined voltage ranges. It ensures that equipment, such as power supplies and mains powered devices, is designed and built to protect users against electrical and related hazards.
Key Takeaways
The Low Voltage Directive sets safety requirements for electrical equipment within defined voltage ranges.
It is given as Directive 2014/35/EU and applies across the European Union.
It protects users against electrical, mechanical and related hazards.
Compliance is one of the requirements demonstrated through CE marking.
The Low Voltage Directive applies to electrical equipment operating at voltages between defined alternating and direct current limits. It requires that such equipment be safe when properly installed, maintained and used for its intended purpose.
The directive sets out essential safety objectives rather than detailed designs, addressing protection against electric shock, excessive temperature, and mechanical and chemical hazards. Harmonised standards provide the technical means to meet them.
Equipment within scope must satisfy the Low Voltage Directive as part of carrying CE marking, supported by a technical file and a Declaration of Conformity from the manufacturer.
Mains powered rugged computers, power supplies, docks and chargers fall within the Low Voltage Directive, so compliance confirms that the equipment is electrically safe for use across the European Economic Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
European Union legislation, Directive 2014/35/EU, that sets safety requirements for electrical equipment within defined voltage ranges.
Electric shock, excessive temperatures and mechanical and related hazards arising from electrical equipment.
Yes. Compliance with the Low Voltage Directive is one of the requirements demonstrated through CE marking.
Mains powered electrical equipment such as power supplies, chargers, docks and computers within the defined voltage ranges.
From Theory to Application
Now that you've mastered the specs, get the gear that survives them.
