Hardware | Software
Oct 24, 2025

EMC Compliance in Medical Device Design

By: Christian Madella, Engineering Manager

In electronic medical devices, safety and reliability are non-negotiable. From patient monitors and ventilators to diagnostic displays and handheld devices, each system must operate flawlessly in demanding environments filled with other electronics.

That’s where electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) comes in. EMC ensures that a medical device functions correctly without being disturbed by or interfering with other nearby electrical equipment, safeguarding both performance and patient safety.

Why EMC Matters in Medical Device Design

Every electronic device emits electromagnetic energy - which can impair the safe operation of nearby equipment. In clinical settings packed with powered and wireless systems, a poorly designed display or embedded board can experience screen flicker, phantom or unresponsive touch inputs, and even full system failure.

Designing with EMC compliance in mind ensures that:

  • Displays and embedded controllers remain stable in the presence of electromagnetic radiation or induced currents.
  • Devices don’t disrupt the function of critical medical equipment
  • Systems deliver consistent performance in all environments

Considering EMC early is not just about passing a test - it’s about protecting lives and ensuring the long-term reliability of your life saving apparatus.

Our Medical Solutions
EMC Compliance in Medical Device Design

Design for Compliance (DFC): Building EMC In from the Beginning.

Adhering to EMC design principles during development - known as Design for Compliance (DFC) - is the most efficient, cost-effective route to certification.

Advantages of early EMC design:

  • Lower costs: Prevents expensive redesigns or retesting later in development
  • Faster certification: Reduces delays by addressing EMC at the design stage
  • Improved reliability: Ensures stable embedded operation across real-world conditions

Our engineers specialise in display module and embedded system optimisation, addressing EMC considerations from the outset through firmware fine tuning, PCB layout refinement, and component-level design to ensure a smooth path to compliance.

Understanding IEC 60601 Standards

The IEC 60601 series defines the global safety and performance requirements for medical electrical equipment. Compliance demonstrates that your device meets international standards for reliability and patient protection.

IEC 60601 covers:

  • Electrical safety: Preventing electrical hazards for patients and users
  • Electromagnetic compatibility: Enabling safe coexistence with other electronic systems
  • Usability: Supporting intuitive and error-free operation
  • Risk management: Reducing potential harm through robust design

IEC 60601-1 applies to all medical electrical devices, while IEC 60601-2 covers product-specific standards. Compliance is mandatory in major markets and required for FDA approval, making it essential for any medical device design.

At Anders, we design and validate embedded display and touchscreen solutions that align with IEC 60601 requirements, ensuring safe, compliant products ready for global deployment.

Why Anders?

With decades of experience in medical display and embedded development, Anders helps customers create safe, compliant, and market-ready devices. Our engineers combine deep EMC expertise with advanced display, controller, and firmware design to ensure every product meets IEC 60601 standards while delivering exceptional performance and usability.

By designing with compliance in mind from the start, we help manufacturers achieve faster certification and greater reliability.

Partner with us to develop EMC-optimised display and embedded solutions that define the standard for medical safety and innovation.

Want to discuss your Medical design requirements? Get in touch!

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