IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) filters are designed to reduce electromagnetic interference originating from power mains. The filters absorb the noise generated by either the device itself or other equipment surrounding it.
IEC filters make equipment or machinery more resistant to electromagnetic interference from the environment. Standard IEC filters consist of line impedance stabilisation networks, transistor circuits, mains power supplies and noise separator circuits.
What are IEC filters used for
IEC filters are typical interference reduction and prevention tools in many industries. They are used as precautionary measures in medical equipment where interference may prevent proper functioning of heart monitors or ICU devices.
In power supplies or electronic equipment industries, the IEC filter contains internally generated noise inside the device and blocks out external line noise. IEC filters have domestic uses, for instance in kitchenware like kettles and microwaves where internal electromagnetic interference is frequently created, and may otherwise damage the appliance.
Types of IEC filters
There are a vast number of IEC filter types available, each of which is adapted to a specific usage.
Description:
The FN280 series from Schaffner are compact filtered
power entry modules. The FN 280 series brings together a 2 pole rocker switch, IEC inlet, mains filter and single or dual fuse holder (depending on the model).
Description:
Lightweight construction Portable equipment applications IEC Inlet plugs
with integral mains filter. Designed to filter mains borne interference where capacitors alone may prove inadequate.
Description:
The Schurter FKI series inlet filter is a
male, panel mount type C14 IEC connector with a dual fuse. It is ultra-compact, panel mount screw-on version from the front side and has four key functions.
Description:
Roxburgh RID series are general purpose screw fixing
IEC inlet filters, giving good performance for both common mode and differential mode interference and featuring a metal case providing a shielding effect.
