SIST EN 60068-2-61:2001

Overview

EN 60068-2-61:1993 - Test Z/ABDM: Climatic sequence - is a CLC-adopted environmental testing standard that specifies a climatic sequence for electrical and electronic products, primarily components. The standard is based on clause 7 of IEC 68-1 and provides both the sequence of climatic stresses to be applied and practical guidance for specification writers and test laboratories that perform the test.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and purpose: Defines the intent and limits of the climatic sequence test for components and similar products.
• Test designation: Identifies the test as Z/ABDM (Climatic sequence) within the EN/IEC 60068 series of environmental tests.
• Sequence methodology: Specifies the order and interaction of climatic stresses to simulate realistic environmental exposure. While the standard text provides the formal sequence, it centers on combining controlled climatic conditions to assess product robustness.
• Guidance for specification writers: Advises how to reference and tailor the climatic sequence in product specifications, including pass/fail criteria and applicability to component types.
• Guidance for test performers: Describes practical test execution considerations, documentation, and evaluation procedures to ensure repeatable and comparable test results.
• Reference to IEC 68-1 clause 7: Uses the framework and terminology from IEC 68-1 for consistency across environmental testing standards.

Applications

EN 60068-2-61 is useful for organizations that need to validate environmental durability and reliability of components and assemblies:

• Design and reliability engineers assessing product behavior under combined climatic stresses.
• Quality and compliance teams specifying environmental qualifications for supplier contracts and procurement.
• Test laboratories implementing standard climatic sequence procedures and producing reports for certification.
• Manufacturers of electronic components requiring standardised climatic sequence testing as part of product validation and lifecycle testing.
• R&D groups using the sequence to reproduce field-like climate conditions in accelerated testing.

Related standards

• IEC 68-1 (clause 7) - foundational guidance referenced by EN 60068-2-61.
• Other parts of the EN/IEC 60068 series - for individual climatic, mechanical, and environmental test methods that may complement the climatic sequence.

This standard is essential when you need a harmonized, repeatable approach to simulate realistic climatic exposure for components - ensuring reliable product performance and consistent environmental qualification across suppliers and test laboratories.