IEC 62087-6:2015

Overview

IEC 62087-6:2015 - part of the IEC 62087 series - defines standardized methods for the determination of power consumption of audio equipment intended for mains connection. This first edition (Part 6) replaces Clause 9 of IEC 62087:2011 and focuses on consumer audio products, including separable components, integrated systems and compact audio systems including loudspeakers. The document specifies relevant operating modes (On, On-play, On-decoding, idle, Partial On, Off) and introduces test methods for auto power down behaviour, amplifier output power measurement and the updated input-signal definition. General measuring conditions and signal definitions are handled in IEC 62087-1 and IEC 62087-2 respectively.

Key Topics

• Scope: Measurement methods for mains-powered audio equipment; devices with non-removable main batteries are excluded.
• Operating modes: Clear definitions for On (with sub-modes On-play, On-decoding), Partial On, idle, Off and Auto power down - enabling consistent measurement across products.
• Measurement conditions: Requirements for power source, environmental and acoustical conditions, control adjustments, loading of terminals and required measurement accuracy.
• Signal & output level requirements: Updated input-signal definition and output-level criteria (examples include reference levels such as 1 W or fractions of rated power) for amplifier power measurements.
• Compact system method: New procedures for integrated amplifiers and sources within a single enclosure, including systems with attached/separable loudspeakers.
• Measurement procedure: Order of measurements, setup for separate and non-separable components, sound pressure testing locations, and handling of additional functions and auxiliary batteries.
• Auto power down and additional functions: Procedures to measure idle and auto-off performance to reflect real-world energy use.

Applications

• Manufacturers and design teams use IEC 62087-6:2015 to quantify and reduce power consumption during design validation and energy-optimization of audio products.
• Test laboratories and QA teams use the standard for repeatable power measurement and reporting for product datasheets.
• Regulators and energy-labeling programs rely on these methods to verify compliance with efficiency and standby-power limits.
• Product managers and compliance engineers use the standard to assess auto power down, idle behaviour and amplifier output characteristics that affect energy ratings and user experience.

Related Standards (if applicable)

• IEC 62087-1:2015 - General measuring conditions and procedures
• IEC 62087-2:2015 - Signals and media
• Other parts in the IEC 62087 series (Parts 3–5) covering TVs, video recorders and set-top boxes
• IEC 62301 - Measurement of standby power
• IEC 60268-5 - Loudspeaker measurement guidance

Using IEC 62087-6:2015 ensures consistent, internationally recognized measurement of audio equipment energy use - essential for product compliance, energy labeling and low-power design.