The CB Scheme, established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IECEE), operates under the guiding principle — “Test once, use everywhere.”
This system allows manufacturers to streamline their global market entry, cutting down redundant testing costs and timelines. For most electronic and electrical products, the CB Certificate serves as the foundation for international compliance.
The CB process follows three key phases, from preparation to certification issuance.
Key Tasks:
Identify applicable IEC safety standards for your product category.
Choose an IECEE-recognized National Certification Body (NCB).
Prepare technical files — including circuit diagrams, user manuals, and critical component lists.
Critical Point:
Ensure all referenced IEC standards are the latest effective versions, as outdated standards may lead to re-testing or rejection later.
Key Tasks:
Submit product samples to an accredited CB Testing Laboratory (CBTL) for testing based on relevant IEC standards.
Testing typically covers electrical safety, temperature rise, leakage current, abnormal operation, and mechanical strength.
Critical Point:
If any test fails, corrective actions and re-testing may extend the total project timeline by 1–3 weeks.
Key Tasks:
The NCB reviews the CBTL’s test report.
Once compliant, the CB Test Certificate and CB Test Report are issued.
Important Note:
The CB Certificate has no fixed expiry date, but it remains valid only if the product design, standards, and key components remain unchanged.
Obtaining a CB Certificate is the first step, not the end of compliance. It can be leveraged to accelerate access to multiple regions.
✅ How to Extend the Value of Your CB Certificate:
Convert to Local Certifications: Use CB reports to apply for CE, UL, CCC, or other local marks — avoiding repeated full testing.
Simplify Approval Cycles: Only national differences (e.g., plug type, voltage) may need verification, saving weeks of processing time.
Monitor IEC Standard Updates: Standards evolve every few years. When a new edition is released, manufacturers typically have 1–2 years to transition or risk losing CB recognition for new applications.
Ensure Sample Consistency:
Your test samples must exactly match production units.
If critical components like power chips or lithium batteries change, notify your NCB immediately — re-assessment may be required.
Plan for National Differences Early:
If your target markets are already known, discuss their “national differences” during the initial CB testing.
Integrating these upfront saves significant cost and time during market expansion.
Keep Technical Files Organized:
Maintain updated versions of test reports, component lists, and certificates from suppliers to ensure smooth renewals and conversions.
The CB Scheme is the backbone of global safety compliance — especially for electronics, household appliances, batteries, and IT equipment.
It builds trust with buyers and regulators, reduces testing redundancy, and enables faster international market entry across over 50+ participating countries.
Q1: How long does the full CB certification process take?
Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on sample readiness, testing complexity, and corrective actions (if needed).
Q2: Is the CB Certificate valid forever?
It has no fixed expiry, but becomes invalid if the product design or standards change without retesting.
Q3: Can one CB Certificate cover multiple models?
Yes — similar models with identical electrical and mechanical structures can be grouped, but must be declared during application.
Q4: What’s the difference between CB and CE certification?
CB focuses on international safety testing under IEC standards, while CE is a market access mark specific to the EU.
A CB report can often be used as part of CE conformity evidence.
Q5: Does the CB Scheme cover EMC testing?
In some product categories, yes — particularly if the IEC standard includes EMC components (e.g., IEC 62368-1 references CISPR 32).
Otherwise, separate EMC testing may be required.
For expert assistance in planning your CB certification and global compliance strategy, contact BLUEASIA — your trusted partner in international testing and certification.
Email: king.guo@cblueasia.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +8613534225140
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