EN 60838-1:2004

SLOVENSKI SIST EN 60838-1:2005

STANDARD
junij 2005
Razni okovi za žarnice in sijalke – 1. del: Splošne zahteve in preskusi (IEC
60838-1:2004)
Miscellaneous lampholders - Part 1: General requirements and tests (IEC 60838-
1:2004)
ICS 29.140.10 Referenčna številka
©  Standard je založil in izdal Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje ali kopiranje celote ali delov tega dokumenta ni dovoljeno

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 60838-1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM November 2004

ICS 29.140.10 Supersedes EN 60838-1:1998 + A1:1999 + A2:2002

English version
Miscellaneous lampholders
Part 1: General requirements and tests
(IEC 60838-1:2004)
Douilles diverses pour lampes Sonderfassungen
Partie 1: Prescriptions générales et essais Teil 1: Allgemeine Anforderungen
(CEI 60838-1:2004) und Prüfungen
(IEC 60838-1:2004)
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2004-10-01. CENELEC members are bound to
comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on
application to the Central Secretariat or to any CENELEC member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and
notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland and United Kingdom.

CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart 35, B - 1050 Brussels

© 2004 CENELEC - All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC members.

Ref. No. EN 60838-1:2004 E
Foreword
The text of document 34B/1152/FDIS, future edition 4 of IEC 60838-1, prepared by SC 34B, Lamp
caps and holders, of IEC TC 34, Lamps and related equipment, was submitted to the IEC-CENELEC
parallel vote and was approved by CENELEC as EN 60838-1 on 2004-10-01.
This European Standard supersedes EN 60838-1:1998 + A1:1999 + A2:2002 + A2:2002/corrigendum
July 2003.
In this edition of EN 60838-1 the new requirements for creepage distances and clearances have been
adopted which are currently circulated to amend the EN 60598 family of luminaire standards.
It also includes additional requirements regarding testing of lampholders for double-ended R7s/RX7s
lamps.
The following dates were fixed:
– latest date by which the EN has to be implemented
at national level by publication of an identical
national standard or by endorsement (dop) 2005-07-01
– latest date by which the national standards conflicting
with the EN have to be withdrawn (dow) 2007-10-01
Annex ZA has been added by CENELEC.
__________
Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 60838-1:2004 was approved by CENELEC as a European
Standard without any modification.
__________
- 3 - EN 60838-1:2004
Annex ZA
(normative)
Normative references to international publications
with their corresponding European publications
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE Where an international publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant
EN/HD applies.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year
IEC 60061 (mod) Series Lamp caps and holders together with EN 60061 Series
gauges for the control of
interchangeability and safety
1) 2)
IEC 60061-1 - Part 1: Lamp caps EN 60061-1 1993
(mod)
1) 2)
IEC 60061-2 - Part 2: Lampholders EN 60061-2 1993
(mod)
1) 2)
IEC 60061-3 - Part 3: Gauges EN 60061-3 1993
(mod)
3)
IEC 60068-2-20 1979 Basic environmental testing procedures HD 323.2.20 S3 1988
Part 2: Tests - Test T: Soldering

IEC 60068-2-75 1997 Part 2-75: Tests - Test Eh: Hammer tests EN 60068-2-75 1997

4)
IEC 60112 1979 Method for determining the comparative HD 214 S2 1980
and the proof tracking indices of solid
insulating materials under moist
conditions
5)
IEC 60227 Series Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables of - -
rated voltages up to and including
450/750 V
IEC 60238 2004 Edison screw lampholders EN 60238 2004

6)
IEC 60245 Series Rubber insulated cables - Rated voltages - -
up to and including 450/750 V
1)
Undated reference.
2)
Valid edition at date of issue.
3)
HD 323.2.20 S3 includes A2:1987 to IEC 60068-2-20.
4)
HD 214 S2 is superseded by EN 60112:2003, which is based on IEC 60112:2003.
5)
The HD 21 series, which is related to, but not directly equivalent with the IEC 60227 series, applies instead.
6)
The HD 22 series, which is related to, but not directly equivalent with the IEC 60245 series, applies instead.

Publication Year Title EN/HD Year
1) 2)
IEC 60352-1 - Solderless connections EN 60352-1 1997
Part 1: Wrapped connections - General
requirements, test methods and practical
guidance
1) 2)
IEC 60399 - Barrel thread for lampholders with shade EN 60399 2004
holder ring
IEC 60529 1989 Degrees of protection provided by EN 60529 1991
enclosures (IP Code) + corr. May 1993
A1 1999 A1 2000
1) 2)
IEC 60598-1 - Luminaires EN 60598-1 2004
(mod) Part 1: General requirements and tests

IEC 60664-1 1992 Insulation coordination for equipment
within low-voltage systems
Part 1: Principles, requirements and tests
+ A1 2000
+ A2 2002 EN 60664-1 2003
1)
IEC 60695-2-2 - Fire hazard testing EN 60695-2-2 1994
Part 2: Test methods –
Section 2: Needle-flame test
1) 2)
IEC 60695-2-11 - Part 2-11: Glowing/hot-wire based test EN 60695-2-11 2001
methods - Glow-wire flammability test
method for end-products
ISO 1456 2003 Metallic coatings - Electrodeposited - -
coatings of nickel plus chromium and of
copper plus nickel plus chromium

ISO 2081 1986 Metallic coatings - Electroplated coatings - -
of zinc on iron or steel
ISO 2093 1986 Electroplated coatings of tin - - -
Specification and test methods

ISO 4046-4 2002 Paper, board, pulps and related terms - - -
Vocabulary
Part 4: Paper and board grades and
converted products
NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
60838-1
INTERNATIONAL
Quatrième édition
STANDARD
Fourth edition
2004-10
Douilles diverses pour lampes –
Partie 1:
Prescriptions générales et essais

Miscellaneous lampholders –
Part 1:
General requirements and tests

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électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie et les photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'éditeur. the publisher.
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МеждународнаяЭлектротехническаяКомиссия
Pour prix, voir catalogue en vigueur
For price, see current catalogue

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 3 –
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.5

1 General.9
2 Definitions.13
3 General requirement.15
4 General conditions for tests.17
5 Classification.19
6 Marking.19
7 Protection against electric shock .23
8 Terminals.25
9 Provision for earthing.27
10 Construction.29
11 Moisture resistance, insulation resistance and electric strength.31
12 Mechanical strength.33
13 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections.37
14 Creepage distances and clearances .37
15 Endurance.43
16 Resistance to heat and fire.45
17 Resistance to excessive residual stresses (season cracking) and to rusting .51

Annex A (normative) Examples of lampholders covered by this standard .55
Annex B (normative) Examples of suitable metals.57
Annex C (normative) Season cracking/corrosion test .59
Annex D (normative) Pendulum impact test apparatus .63

Figure 1 – Ball-pressure test apparatus .45

Table 1 – Minimum values of insulation resistance.33
Table 2a – Minimum distances for a.c. (50Hz/60 Hz) sinusoidal voltages − Impulse
withstand category II.37
Table 2b – Minimum distances for a.c. (50 Hz/60 Hz) sinusoidal voltages − Impulse
withstand category III.39
Table 3 – Minimum distances for non-sinusoidal pulse voltages.41

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 5 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MISCELLANEOUS LAMPHOLDERS –
Part 1: General requirements and tests

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC provides no marking procedure to indicate its approval and cannot be rendered responsible for any
equipment declared to be in conformity with an IEC Publication.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60838-1 has been prepared by subcommittee 34B: Lamp caps and
holders, of IEC technical committee 34: Lamps and related equipment.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1997 and its
amendments 1 (1999) and 2 (2002). This fourth edition constitutes a technical revision.
In this edition the new requirements for creepage distances and clearances have been
adopted which are currently circulated by SC34D to amend the IEC 60598 family of luminaire
standards.
It also includes additional requirements regarding testing of lampholders for double-ended
R7s/RX7s lamps.
60838-1  IEC:2004 – 7 –
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
34B/1152/FDIS 34B/1171/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
IEC 60838 consists of the following parts, under the general title Miscellaneous lampholders:
Part 1: General requirements and tests
Part 2-1: Particular requirements – Lampholders S14
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in
the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed;
• withdrawn;
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
60838-1  IEC:2004 – 9 –
MISCELLANEOUS LAMPHOLDERS –
Part 1: General requirements and tests

1 General
1.1 Scope
This part of IEC 60838 applies to lampholders of miscellaneous types intended for building-in
(to be used with general purpose light sources, projection lamps, floodlighting lamps and
street-lighting lamps with caps as listed in annex A) and the methods of test to be used in
determining the safe use of lamps in lampholders.
This part of IEC 60838 also covers lampholders which are integral with a luminaire. It covers
the requirements for the lampholder only.
This part of IEC 60838 also covers lampholders integrated in an outer shell and dome similar
to Edison screw lampholders. Such lampholders are further tested in accordance with the
following subclauses of IEC 60238: 8.4; 8.5; 8.6; 9.3; 10.7; 11; 12.2; 12.5; 12.6; 12.7; 13;
15.3; 15.4; 15.5 and 15.9.
Lampholders designed with a barrel thread for shade holder rings should comply with
IEC 60399.
Requirements for lampholders for tubular fluorescent lamps, Edison screw lampholders and
bayonet lampholders are covered by separate standards.
1.2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE With regard to IEC 60598-1, the references cited in this document are liable to change.
IEC 60061(all parts), Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of
interchangeability and safety
IEC 60061-1: Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of
interchangeability and safety – Part 1: Lamp caps
IEC 60061-2: Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of
interchangeability and safety – Part 2: Lampholders
IEC 60061-3: Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of
interchangeability and safety – Part 3: Gauges
IEC 60068-2-20:1979, Environmental testing – Part 2: Tests – Test T: Soldering
IEC 60068-2-75:1997, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 11 –
IEC 60112:1979, Method for the determination of the proof and the comparative tracking
indices of solid insulating materials
IEC 60227 (all parts), Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables of rated voltages up to and including
450/750 V
IEC 60238:2004, Edison screw lampholders
IEC 60245 (all parts), Rubber insulated cables – Rated voltages up to and including
450/750 V
IEC 60352-1, Solderless connections – Part 1: Wrapped connections – General requirements,
test methods and practical guidance
IEC 60399: Standard sheets for barrel thread for E14 and E27 lampholders with shade holder
ring
1)
IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)
Amendment 1 (1999)
IEC 60598-1: Luminaires – Part 1: General requirements and tests
IEC 60664-1:1992, Insulation co-ordination for equipment within low-voltage systems – Part 1:
2)
Principles, requirements and tests
Amendment 1 (2000)
Amendment 2 (2002)
IEC 60695-2-2, Fire hazard testing – Part 2: Test methods – Section 2: Needle-flame test
IEC 60695-2-11, Fire hazard testing – Part 2-11: Glowing/hot-wire based test methods –
Glow-wire flammability test method for end products
ISO 1456:2003, Metallic coatings – Electrodeposited coatings of nickel plus chromium and of
copper plus nickel plus chromium
ISO 2081:1986, Metallic coatings – Electroplated coatings of zinc on iron or steel
ISO 2093:1986, Electroplated coatings of tin – Specification and test methods
ISO 4046-4:2002, Paper, board, pulps and related terms – Vocabulary – Part 4: Paper and
board grades and converted products
___________
1)
A consolidated edition 2.1 (2001) exists that includes edition 2.0 (1989) and its Amendment 1 (1999).
2)
A consolidated edition 1.2 (2002) exists that includes edition 1.0 (1992), its amendment 1 (2000) and
amendment 2 (2002).
60838-1  IEC:2004 – 13 –
2 Definitions
For the purpose of this International Standard, the following definitions apply.
2.1
rated voltage
the voltage declared by the manufacturer to indicate the highest working voltage for which the
lampholder is intended
2.2
working voltage
the highest r.m.s. voltage that may occur across any insulation, transients being disregarded,
both when the lamp is operating under normal conditions and when the lamp is removed
2.3
rated current
the current declared by the manufacturer to indicate the highest current for which the
lampholder is intended
2.4
lampholder for building-in
a lampholder designed to be built into a luminaire, an additional enclosure or the like
2.4.1
unenclosed lampholder
a lampholder for building-in so designed that it requires additional means, for example
enclosures, to meet the requirements of this standard with regard to protection against
electric shock
2.4.2
enclosed lampholder
a lampholder for building-in so designed that it fulfils on its own the requirements of this
standard with regard to protection against electric shock
2.5
rated operating temperature
The highest temperature for which the lampholder is designed
2.6
rated pulse voltage
the highest peak value of pulse voltages the holder is able to withstand
2.7
lamp connectors
a set of contacts specially designed to provide for electrical contact but not supporting the
lamp
2.8
type test
a test or series of tests made on a type test sample, for the purpose of checking compliance
of the design of a given product with the requirements of the relevant standard

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 15 –
2.9
type test sample
a sample consisting of one or more similar specimens submitted by the manufacturer or
responsible vendor for the purpose of a type test
2.10
live part
a conductive part which may cause an electric shock
2.11
impulse withstand category
a numeral defining a transient overvoltage condition
NOTE Impulse withstand categories I, II, III and IV are used.
a) Purpose of classification of impulse withstand categories
Impulse withstand categories are to distinguish different degrees of availability of equipment with regard to
required expectations on continuity of service and on an acceptable risk of failure.
By selection of impulse withstand levels of equipment, insulation co-ordination can be achieved in the whole
installation reducing the risk of failure to an acceptable level providing a basis for overvoltage control.
A higher characteristic numeral of an impulse withstand category indicates a higher specific impulse withstand of
the equipment and offers a wider choice of methods for overvoltage control.
The concept of impulse withstand categories is used for equipment energized directly from the mains.
b) Description of impulse withstand categories
Equipment of impulse withstand category I is equipment which is intended to be connected to the fixed electrical
installations of buildings. Protective means are taken outside the equipment – either in the fixed installation or
between the fixed installation and the equipment – to limit transient overvoltages to the specific level.
Equipment of impulse withstand category II is equipment to be connected to the fixed electrical installations of
buildings.
Equipment of impulse withstand category III is equipment which is part of the fixed electrical installations and other
equipment where a higher degree of availability is expected.
Equipment of impulse withstand category IV is for use at or in the proximity of the origin of the electrical
installations of buildings upstream of the main distribution board.
2.12
primary circuit
a circuit which is directly connected to the AC mains supply. It includes, for example, the
means for connection to the AC mains supply, the primary windings of transformers, motors
and other loading devices
2.13
secondary circuit
a circuit which has no direct connection to a primary circuit and derives its power from a
transformer, converter or equivalent isolation device, or from a battery
Exception: autotransformers. Although having direct connection to a primary circuit, the
tapped part of them is also deemed to be a secondary circuit in the above sense.
NOTE Mains transients in such a circuit are attenuated by the corresponding primary windings. Also inductive
ballasts reduce the mains transient voltage height. Therefore, components located after a primary circuit or after an
inductive ballast can be suited for an impulse withstand category of one step lower, i.e. for impulse withstand
category II.
3 General requirement
Lampholders shall be so designed and constructed that in normal use they function reliably
and cause no danger to persons or surroundings.
In general, compliance is checked by carrying out all the tests specified.

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 17 –
4 General conditions for tests
4.1 Tests according to this standard are type tests.
NOTE The requirements and tolerances permitted by the standard are related to testing of type test sample
submitted for that purpose. Compliance of type test sample does not ensure compliance of the whole production of
a manufacturer with this safety standard. Conformity of production is the responsibility of the manufacturer and
should include routine tests and quality assurance in addition to type testing.
3)
For further information see IEC 60061-4 (inclusion of guidance on conformity testing during manufacture is in
preparation).
4.2 Unless otherwise specified, the tests are made at an ambient temperature of
20 °C ± 5 °C and with the holder in the most unfavourable position for normal use.
If a lampholder is declared to accept different lamp fits, it shall comply with the requirements
of each of the fits mentioned.
Compliance is checked with separate sets of specimens according to 4.3.
If the use of different lamp fits in turn is permitted by the manufacturer, only one set of
specimens is used to check compliance with all requirements.
For all tests the most critical of the relevant fits and gauges shall be used and in the most
onerous sequence.
4.3 The tests and inspections are carried out in the order of the clauses, on a total of
– 10 pairs of matching holders intended for linear double-capped lamps;
NOTE If a pair of holders consists of identical holders, it is sufficient that one holder instead of one pair is
subjected to all the tests, except for the tests of clause 7, 10.2, 10.3, clause 12, clause 15 and 16.6 where
pairs are needed.
– 10 specimens intended for single-capped lamps;
in the order of the clauses, as follows:
– three pairs or three specimens: clauses 3 up to and including 14 (except for 8.2);
NOTE The tests of 8.2 are carried out on the number of separate specimens as required by the relevant
standards.
– three pairs or three specimens: clause 15 and 16.6;
– one pair or one specimen: 16.1;
– one pair or one specimen: 16.3;
– one pair or one specimen: 16.4;
– one pair or one specimen: 16.5 and clause 17.
Together with these units, the manufacturer's mounting instructions (see 6.3) shall be
supplied.
In such cases, where according to the mounting instructions the rated pulse voltage of the
holder can only be achieved with a cap inserted, suitable caps shall be supplied together with
the type test sample. The relevant tests are then carried out with a cap inserted.
___________
3)
IEC 60061-4: Lamp caps and holders together with gauges for the control of interchangeability and safety –
Part 4: Guidelines and general information

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 19 –
4.4 Lampholders are deemed to comply with this standard if no specimen fails in the
complete series of tests specified in 4.3.
If one specimen fails in one test, that test and the preceding ones which may have influenced
the result of that test are repeated on another set of specimens for the number required by
4.3, all of which shall then comply with the repeated tests and with the subsequent tests.
Lampholders are deemed not to comply with this standard if there are more failures than one.
The applicant may submit, together with the first set of specimens, the additional set which
may be needed in case of failure of one specimen. The testing station shall then, without
further request, test the additional specimens and will reject only if a further failure occurs.
If the additional set of specimens is not submitted at the same time, a failure of one specimen
will entail the rejection.
5 Classification
Lampholders are classified as follows.
5.1 According to their installation conditions:
– unenclosed lampholders;
– enclosed lampholders.
5.2 According to their resistance to heat:
– for rated operating temperatures up to and including 80 °C;
– for rated operating temperatures over 80 °C (T-marked lampholders).
The measuring point for the operating temperature is that area of the lampholder which makes
electrical contact with the lamp cap/base. If the heat resistance of insulating parts, terminals
and leads of the lampholder deviates from this operating temperature, these different values
shall be stated in the manufacturer's catalogue and are checked after appropriate installation
in a luminaire or other additional enclosure, when that equipment is tested according to its
own standard.
6 Marking
6.1 Lampholders shall be marked with the following mandatory markings:
a) mark of origin (this may take the form of a trade mark, manufacturer's identification mark
or the name of the responsible vendor);
b) either a unique catalogue number or an identifying reference.
NOTE An identifying reference may include numbers, letters, colour, etc., to identify the lampholder by reference
to the manufacturer's catalogue or similar literature.
If a combination of lampholder components determines the lampholder designation, for example an assembly of a
lamp connector and a retaining spring, the combination should be clearly identifiable.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
6.2 In addition to the above mandatory markings, the following information shall be given
either on the lampholder or be made available in the manufacturer's catalogue or the like:
a) the rated voltage in volts and rated pulse voltage in kilovolts (kV), if applicable;

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 21 –
b) the rated current in amperes;
c) the rated operating temperature T, if greater than 80 °C, in steps of 10 °C;
d) the conductor sizes for which the terminal is designed.
If symbols are used, these shall be as follows.
For electrical rating:
– volt: V;
– ampere: A;
– watt: W;
– pulse voltage: kV.
NOTE Alternatively, for volt and ampere ratings, figures may be used alone, the figure for the rated current being
marked before or above that for the rated voltage and separated from the latter by an oblique stroke or line.
Therefore the marking of current and voltage may be as follows:
2 A 250 V or 2/250 or
For the rated pulse voltage, the symbol shall be preceded by its value (e.g. 5 kV).
For rated operating temperature:
the symbol T shall be followed by its value in °C (e.g. T 300).
For cross-section of conductors:
the relevant value or values in the case of a range, in square millimetres (mm ), shall be
followed by a small square (e.g. 0,5 □).
Compliance is checked by inspection.
For lampholders according to this standard, the distances for impulse withstand category II
are usually applicable. For holders in equipment where a higher degree of availability is
expected, distances for impulse withstand category III may be applicable. This information
has to be indicated in the manufacturer's catalogue or the like.
6.3 The instructions supplied by the holder manufacturer or responsible vendor shall contain
all the information required to ensure correct mounting and operation of the connectors or
holders.
NOTE The information may be part of the manufacturer's or responsible vendor's catalogue.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
6.4 Marking shall be durable and easily legible.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by trying to remove the marking by rubbing lightly
for 15 s with a piece of cloth soaked with water and for a further 15 s with a piece of cloth
soaked with petroleum spirit.
After the test the marking shall still be legible.
NOTE The petroleum spirit used should consist of a solvent hexane with a content of aromatics of maximum
0,1 volume percentage, a kauri-butanol value of 29, an initial boiling point of approximately 65 °C, a dry-point of
approximately 69 °C and a specific density of approximately 0,68 g/cm .

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 23 –
7 Protection against electric shock
7.1 Enclosed lampholders shall be so constructed that, when the holder has been built in or
installed and wired as in normal use, their live parts are not accessible
– without a lamp inserted;
– with the appropriate lamp inserted, and
– during insertion or removal of the lamp.
For lampholders which have been in use for a long time, such as B22d-3, BY22d, G22, G38,
P28s, P30s and P40, the above requirement applies only with the appropriate lamp inserted.
The insertion of only one pin of the lamp (in case of caps with more than one pin) to the first
point of contact with live parts shall be prevented.
Lampholders G22 and G38 are exempted from this requirement.
Compliance is checked by means of the standard test finger specified in IEC 60529.This test
finger is applied in every possible position with a force not exceeding 10 N, an electrical
indicator being used to show contact with live parts.
It is recommended that a voltage of not less than 40 V be used.
The lampholders are mounted as in normal use, i.e. on a supporting surface or the like with
the most unfavourable conductor size fitted for which it is intended before being subjected to
the above test.
Unenclosed lampholders are only tested after appropriate installation in a luminaire or other
additional enclosure when that equipment is tested according to its own standard.
7.2 Lampholders for double-ended lamps shall be so constructed that, when the two holders
have been built in or installed and wired as in normal use, their live parts are not accessible
– without a lamp inserted;
– with the appropriate lamp inserted, and
– during insertion and removal of the lamp.
In case of lampholders R7s/RX7s, a test which simulates insertion or removal of the lamp is
not available because in both cases testing has to be done against the spring force of the
single contact. This situation does not give the repeatability required for judgement.
Therefore, this test is replaced by one with the lamp inserted.
Compliance is checked in accordance with IEC 60061 or unless otherwise specified in
IEC 60061, with the standard test finger.

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8 Terminals
8.1 Lampholders shall be provided with at least one of the following means of connection:
– screw-type terminals;
– screwless terminals;
– tabs or pins for push-on connections;
– posts for wire wrapping;
– soldering lugs;
– connecting leads (tails).
Terminal screws and nuts shall have a metric ISO thread.
Lampholders with screwless terminals, unless intended for sale to luminaire or equipment
manufacturers, shall be provided with terminals which are equally satisfactory with both rigid
(solid or stranded) conductors and flexible cables or cords.
Other means of connection than those specified are permitted provided they are equal in
performance to the methods listed.
Compliance is checked by the tests of 8.2 or 8.3 respectively.
8.2 Terminals shall comply with the following requirements.
– Screw-type terminals shall comply with clause 14 of IEC 60598-1.
– Screwless terminals shall comply with clause 15 of IEC 60598-1.
– Tabs or pins for push-on connections shall comply with clause 15 of IEC 60598-1.
– Posts for wire wrapping shall comply with IEC 60352-1. Wire wrapping applies only to
single solid round wire for internal wiring.
– Soldering lugs shall comply with the requirements for good solderability. Suitable require-
ments can be found in IEC 60068-2-20.
– Connecting leads (tails) shall comply with the requirements prescribed in 8.3.
For T-marked lampholders, the terminals are tested at the rated operating temperature,
unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer.
Compliance is checked by the relevant tests.
8.3 Connecting leads (tails) shall be connected to the lampholder by soldering, welding,
crimping or any other at least equivalent method.
Leads shall consist of insulated conductors. The insulation of the leads shall be at least equal
in their mechanical and electrical properties to those specified in IEC 60227 or IEC 60245 or
comply with the relevant requirements given in 5.3 of IEC 60598-1.
Insulation of the free end of the leads may be stripped.
Fixing of the leads to the holder shall withstand the mechanical efforts which may occur in
normal use.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the following test which is made after the test of
clause 15 on the same three specimens.

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Each connecting lead is subjected to a pull of 20 N. The pull is applied without jerks for 1 min
in the most unfavourable direction. During the test, leads should not move from their fixing.
If, however, certain pull directions are not allowed according to the mounting instructions this
shall be taken into account.
After the test, the lampholders shall show no damage within the meaning of this standard.
9 Provision for earthing
9.1 Lampholders, with provision for earthing other than those provided with connecting
leads, shall have at least one earthing terminal.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
NOTE Lampholders intended to be earthed but not provided with an earthing terminal or with connecting leads
are not for retail sale.
9.2 Accessible metal parts of lampholders with an earthing terminal which may become live
in the event of an insulation fault shall be permanently and reliably connected to the earthing
terminal.
Accessible metal parts of lampholders without an earthing terminal which may become live in
the event of an insulation fault shall allow reliable earthing.
There shall be earth continuity between external metal parts unless these are screened from
live parts by double or reinforced insulation.
Compliance is checked by the following test:
Lampholders provided with an earthing terminal are fitted with a rigid conductor of the
smallest cross-sectional area for which the holder is intended.
Immediately after the electric strength test of 11.2.2, the resistance between the means of
earthing and the external metal parts, if applicable, is measured. In case of lampholders
provided with an earthing terminal, this is done between the point where the conductor leaves
the earthing terminal and the external metal parts, if applicable.
In case of lampholders without an earthing terminal this is done between that area of the
lampholder where it is earthed in the luminaire and the external metal parts.
A current of at least 10 A, derived from a source with a no-load voltage not exceeding 12 V,
shall be passed for 1 min between the earthing terminal or earthing contact and each of the
accessible metal parts in turn.
The voltage drop between the earthing terminal or earthing contact and the accessible metal
part shall be measured and the resistance calculated from the current and the voltage drop. In
no case shall the resistance exceed 0,1 Ω.
NOTE For the purpose of this requirement, small isolated metal screws and the like for fixing bases or covers are
not deemed to be accessible parts which may become live in the event of an insulation fault.

60838-1  IEC:2004 – 29 –
9.3 Earthing terminals shall comply with the requirements of clause 8.
Their clamping means shall be adequately locked against accidental loosening, and it shall
not be possible to loosen screw terminals by hand and screwless terminals unintentionally by
hand.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the tests of clause 8.
NOTE In general, the designs commonly used for current-carrying terminals (complying with the requirements of
this standard) provide sufficient resilience to comply with the latter requirement; for other designs, special
provisions such as the use of an adequate resilient part which is not likely to be removed inadvertently may be
necessary.
9.4 The metal of earthing terminals shall be such that there is no risk of corrosion resulting
from contact with the copper of the earthing conductor.
The screw or the body of the earthing terminal shall be of brass or other metal no less
resistant to corrosion and the contact surfaces shall be bare metal.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
NOTE The risk of corrosion is particularly great when copper is in contact with aluminium.
9.5 Metal parts of the cord anchorage, including clamping screws, shall be insulated from the
earthing circuit.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
10 Construction
10.1 Wood, cotton, silk, paper and similar hygroscopic materials are not allowed as
insulation unless suitably impregnated. Lacquer or enamel are not deemed to provide
insulation.
Compliance is checked by inspection.
10.2 Lampholders shall be so designed that a lamp can be easily inserted and removed and
cannot work loose due to vibration or temperature variation.
Lampholder dimensions shall comply with IEC standards in so far as they exist.
Compliance for such lampholders is checked in accordance with IEC 60061-2 and by the test
of 10.4.
10.3 Lampholders R7s and RX7s having their contacts declared of silver, shall be so
designed that the contact area has a thickness of at least 0,25 mm.
NOTE The thickness may be measured by means of a magnifying glass (approximately 6x magnification) scaled
at tenths of a millimetre (0,1 mm). It may be necessary to cut the contact and measure the thickness of the silver.
10.4 Contacts and all other current-carrying parts shall be so constructed as to prevent
excessive temperature rise.
Compliance is checked by the following test.

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The holder contacts are bridged by means of a testcap, having nominal dimensions, inserted
in the holder, the terminals of which are fitted with conductors of the maximum cross-sectional
area for which the holder is intended.
NOTE 1 It is not necessary for the test cap to have keys if they only have keying function.
NOTE 2 Nominal values are understood to be the medium values.
In the case of lamp bases, loose contact pins should be used.
In the case of holders for double-ended lamps, a dummy lamp is used having both ends
electrically connected. The contacts shall be representative of those of an actual lamp.
For multi-contact holders, the appropriate contacts of the test cap are bridged to carry the
rated current.
Care should be taken that the contacts of the test cap have good electrical conductivity, for
example, brass. That part of the lamp dummy representing the b
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