Home
types-of-testing-for-nebs-certification

Types of Testing for NEBS Certification

Types of Testing for NEBS Certification

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) have established a set of guidelines known as Network Equipment Building System (NEBS) certification. NEBS certification is designed to ensure that network equipment can operate reliably in a variety of environmental conditions, including temperature extremes, humidity, vibration, and electromagnetic interference.

There are several types of testing required for NEBS certification, each addressing specific aspects of the equipments performance and reliability. The following sections outline the various types of testing required for NEBS certification:

  • Temperature Testing: Temperature testing is one of the most critical components of NEBS certification. Equipment must be able to operate within a range of -20C to 55C (-4F to 131F) without degradation or failure.

  • The equipment is subjected to temperatures at both ends of the specified range, as well as multiple points in between, to ensure that it can operate reliably throughout its expected operating temperature range.
    The testing involves monitoring the equipments performance, including speed, accuracy, and reliability, during each temperature test.
    Temperature tests are typically conducted in a controlled laboratory environment using specialized equipment designed for this purpose.

  • Humidity Testing: Humidity testing is designed to simulate conditions that can cause condensation or corrosion within the equipment. Equipment must be able to operate reliably in environments with 10 to 95 relative humidity, as well as in conditions where it may be subjected to sudden changes in humidity.

  • The equipment is exposed to a controlled environment with specified levels of humidity for extended periods, typically ranging from several hours to multiple days.
    During the test, the equipments performance and reliability are monitored using specialized instruments designed to detect signs of degradation or failure due to humidity.
    In addition to laboratory testing, some equipment may also undergo field testing in environments where it will be used.

  • Vibration Testing: Vibration testing simulates the effects of mechanical stress on the equipment, such as movement during transportation or installation. Equipment must be able to withstand vibrations without degradation or failure.

  • The equipment is subjected to a controlled environment with specified levels and frequencies of vibration for extended periods, typically ranging from several hours to multiple days.
    During the test, the equipments performance and reliability are monitored using specialized instruments designed to detect signs of degradation or failure due to vibration.

  • Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Testing: EMI testing is designed to simulate the effects of electromagnetic interference on the equipment. Equipment must be able to operate reliably in environments with specified levels of EMI.

  • The equipment is subjected to a controlled environment with specified levels and frequencies of EMI for extended periods, typically ranging from several hours to multiple days.
    During the test, the equipments performance and reliability are monitored using specialized instruments designed to detect signs of degradation or failure due to EMI.

    Additional Testing Requirements

    In addition to the above testing requirements, equipment must also meet specific testing requirements related to:

  • Power Surge Testing: Equipment must be able to withstand power surges without degradation or failure.

  • Noise Testing: Equipment must be able to operate reliably in environments with specified levels of noise.

  • Seismic Testing: Equipment must be able to withstand seismic activity without degradation or failure.


  • QA Section

    1. Q: What is the purpose of NEBS certification?
    A: The purpose of NEBS certification is to ensure that network equipment can operate reliably in a variety of environmental conditions, including temperature extremes, humidity, vibration, and electromagnetic interference.

    2. Q: What types of testing are required for NEBS certification?
    A: Temperature testing, humidity testing, vibration testing, EMI testing, power surge testing, noise testing, and seismic testing are all required for NEBS certification.

    3. Q: How long do temperature tests typically last?
    A: Temperature tests can vary in duration depending on the specific requirements of each test. However, typical durations range from several hours to multiple days.

    4. Q: What is the significance of humidity testing in NEBS certification?
    A: Humidity testing simulates conditions that can cause condensation or corrosion within the equipment. It ensures that equipment can operate reliably in environments with high humidity levels and sudden changes in humidity.

    5. Q: Can vibration testing be conducted in a laboratory environment, or must it be done in the field?
    A: Both laboratory and field testing are used for vibration testing, depending on the specific requirements of each test.

    6. Q: How do EMI tests simulate electromagnetic interference?
    A: EMI tests use specialized equipment to generate controlled levels of electromagnetic interference that mimic real-world conditions.

    7. Q: Are there any specific guidelines or standards for NEBS certification?
    A: Yes, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) have established guidelines and standards for NEBS certification.

    8. Q: What is the process for obtaining NEBS certification?
    A: The process involves submitting equipment to testing laboratories that specialize in NEBS certification, following the required testing procedures outlined by NEMA and TIA.

    9. Q: Are there any fees associated with NEBS certification?
    A: Yes, there are fees associated with NEBS certification, which vary depending on the type of testing required and the specific requirements of each test.

    10. Q: Can equipment be certified to multiple levels of NEBS certification?
    A: Yes, equipment can be certified to multiple levels of NEBS certification by meeting the testing requirements for each level.

    11. Q: What is the benefit of obtaining NEBS certification?
    A: The primary benefits of NEBS certification are increased reliability and reduced downtime for network equipment, as well as compliance with industry standards and regulations.

    12. Q: Can non-manufacturer companies obtain NEBS certification for equipment they have designed or manufactured?
    A: Yes, non-manufacturer companies can also obtain NEBS certification by submitting their equipment to testing laboratories that specialize in NEBS certification.

    13. Q: What is the typical duration of time required to complete NEBS certification?
    A: The typical duration of time required to complete NEBS certification varies depending on the specific requirements of each test, but it typically ranges from several weeks to multiple months.

    14. Q: Are there any specific training or education requirements for individuals who wish to perform NEBS testing?
    A: Yes, there are specific training and education requirements for individuals who wish to perform NEBS testing, which include formal education in a relevant field as well as specialized training on the testing procedures and equipment.

    15. Q: Can NEBS certification be obtained for equipment that is designed for use in environments with extreme temperatures or humidity levels?
    A: Yes, NEBS certification can be obtained for equipment designed for use in extreme environmental conditions by following the specific testing requirements outlined by NEMA and TIA.

    Note: This article has been written to provide information on types of testing for NEBS certification. It is not intended as a comprehensive guide to the entire process.

    DRIVING INNOVATION, DELIVERING EXCELLENCE