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CAN/CSA CISPR22-10 (R2014): Emission Limits for Information Technology Equipment in Canada
Canadian Adoption of CISPR 22: EMC Requirements, Measurement Methods, and Compliance for IT Equipment
CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) is the Canadian national adoption of the international CISPR 22 standard, establishing limits and methods of measurement for radio disturbance characteristics of information technology equipment (ITE). Developed by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) and harmonized with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) requirements, this standard is essential for manufacturers placing ITE on the Canadian market.
1. Scope and Applicability
The standard applies to information technology equipment (ITE) operating in the frequency range 0 Hz to 400 GHz. ITE includes devices such as personal computers, servers, printers, data terminals, telecommunication equipment, and similar electronic products that perform data processing, storage, or communication functions. The scope covers both AC‑mains-operated and battery‑powered equipment, as well as equipment connected to telecommunication networks.
CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) sets limits for conducted emissions in the frequency range 150 kHz to 30 MHz and for radiated emissions in the range 30 MHz to 1 GHz. Two classification levels are defined:
- Class A – Equipment intended for use in commercial, industrial, or business environments.
- Class B – Equipment intended for use in residential environments (domestic equipment). Class B limits are more stringent.
Tip: When classifying equipment, consider the intended installation environment. Devices intended primarily for residential use must comply with Class B limits even if they are occasionally used in commercial contexts.
2. Technical Emission Limits and Detector Types
The standard specifies limits using two detector types: quasi‑peak (QP) and average (AV) for conducted emissions; for radiated emissions, only quasi‑peak detection is required. The limits are expressed in terms of dB(µV) for conducted and dB(µV/m) for radiated measurements at a specified measurement distance (typically 10 m for Class B and 10 m or 30 m for Class A).
Conducted Emission Limits (Mains Port)
| Frequency range | Class A (QP) | Class A (AV) | Class B (QP) | Class B (AV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.15 – 0.50 MHz | 79 | 66 | 66–56* | 56–46* |
| 0.50 – 5.00 MHz | 73 | 60 | 56 | 46 |
| 5.00 – 30.00 MHz | 73 | 60 | 60 | 50 |
* Limits decrease linearly with the logarithm of frequency within this band.
Radiated Emission Limits (Enclosure Port)
| Frequency range | Class A at 10 m | Class B at 10 m |
|---|---|---|
| 30 – 230 MHz | 40 | 30 |
| 230 – 1000 MHz | 47 | 37 |
Important: CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) has been superseded internationally by CISPR 32:2015 and its amendments. Although the CSA version remains current in Canada as of 2026, manufacturers are advised to monitor ISED updates for potential adoption of CISPR 32.
3. Implementation and Measurement Requirements
To demonstrate compliance, testing must be performed in a laboratory meeting the requirements of CISPR 16‑1‑1 (measuring instruments) and CISPR 16‑2‑1 (methods of measurement). Key implementation aspects include:
- Test site: Use of an open‑area test site (OATS) or a fully/semi‑anechoic chamber validated for the applicable frequency range. The site attenuation must be within ±4 dB of the theoretical value.
- Table height: Equipment under test is placed on a non‑conductive table 0.8 m above the ground plane (for floor‑standing equipment, the EUT is placed on the ground plane with insulation).
- Configuration: The EUT is exercised in a representative operating mode that maximizes emissions, including all intended accessories and cabling.
- Ambient noise: At least 6 dB below the applicable limit to ensure measurement validity.
Compliance Tip: For ITE with a rated AC voltage of 120 V, 60 Hz (the Canadian mains supply), ensure that conducted emission measurements are performed using a nominal voltage of 120 V ±2 % and frequency 60 Hz ±0.5 % to reflect Canadian conditions.
Compliance with ISED Requirements
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) references CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) in its Interference‑Causing Equipment Standard ICES‑003. Equipment tested in accordance with CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) is deemed to meet ICES‑003 requirements provided the test report is prepared by an accredited laboratory. The standard also aligns with the requirements of the Canadian Radio Standards Specification RSS‑Gen for devices that incorporate radio transmitters.
4. Compliance and Regulatory Notes
Manufacturers and importers must ensure that ITE intended for sale in Canada:
- Is tested according to CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025.
- Bears the appropriate compliance mark (e.g., CSA Mark or CB scheme) or a declaration of conformity as per ISED requirements.
- Maintains a technical file containing the test report, product description, and photo documentation for at least five years.
The standard includes guidance on measurement uncertainty. Laboratories must calculate and report expanded uncertainties (typically 95 % confidence, k=2) and ensure that the measured value plus the uncertainty does not exceed the limit. A product is considered compliant if the measured emission level does not exceed the limit after taking measurement uncertainty into account.
Non‑compliance risks: Failure to meet emission limits may result in ISED enforcement actions, including product recall, import prohibition, or fines. It is critical to perform pre‑compliance testing early in the design cycle.
5. Conclusion
CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) remains the prevailing EMC emission standard for ITE in Canada. Despite the international transition to CISPR 32, this CSA adoption continues to be referenced by ISED and widely used by Canadian manufacturers. Understanding the scope, limits, and measurement procedures is essential for achieving cost‑effective compliance and ensuring market access in Canada.
As of 2026, the standard remains in force; however, stakeholders should routinely check the CSA Group website and ISED’s List of Acceptable Standards for any revisions or replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Class A and Class B limits?
A: Class B limits are more stringent and apply to equipment intended for residential environments. Class A limits apply to commercial/industrial equipment. For conducted emissions, Class B limits are typically 10 dB stricter; for radiated emissions, the difference is 10 dB at 10 m measurement distance.
A: Class B limits are more stringent and apply to equipment intended for residential environments. Class A limits apply to commercial/industrial equipment. For conducted emissions, Class B limits are typically 10 dB stricter; for radiated emissions, the difference is 10 dB at 10 m measurement distance.
Q: Is CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) mandatory in Canada?
A: Yes, it is a mandatory standard referenced by ISED in ICES‑003. All information technology equipment sold in Canada must meet the emission limits of this standard unless an exemption applies (e.g., medical devices are covered under other standards).
A: Yes, it is a mandatory standard referenced by ISED in ICES‑003. All information technology equipment sold in Canada must meet the emission limits of this standard unless an exemption applies (e.g., medical devices are covered under other standards).
Q: Can I test according to CISPR 32 instead of CISPR 22 to sell in Canada?
A: As of 2026, ISED still accepts CISPR 22‑based testing. However, if you test to CISPR 32, ensure you also evaluate compliance with any Canadian deviations. It is recommended to directly refer to CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) or confirm with an accredited test house.
A: As of 2026, ISED still accepts CISPR 22‑based testing. However, if you test to CISPR 32, ensure you also evaluate compliance with any Canadian deviations. It is recommended to directly refer to CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) or confirm with an accredited test house.
Q: Does the standard cover immunity requirements?
A: No. CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) addresses only emission (radio disturbance) limits. Immunity requirements for ITE in Canada are covered by CAN/CSA‑CISPR24 (for ITE) or CAN/CSA‑CISPR35. Consult the relevant standards for complete EMC assessment.
A: No. CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) addresses only emission (radio disturbance) limits. Immunity requirements for ITE in Canada are covered by CAN/CSA‑CISPR24 (for ITE) or CAN/CSA‑CISPR35. Consult the relevant standards for complete EMC assessment.
Document reference year: 2026. CAN/CSA-CISPR22-10 (R2014) is maintained by the Canadian Standards Association. For the latest official version, visit the CSA Group store.