According to TÜV SÜD, a leading Notified Body and Competent Authority in the EU, the CE certification process follows six fundamental steps [6]:
Step 1: Check if CE Mark is Required - The CE mark is mandatory for products falling under specific EU directives. For USB cables and electronic accessories, the relevant directives include the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EC), Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU), and RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU). Products not requiring CE marking must be accompanied by documentation stating they don't need to comply with relevant EC Directives.
Step 2: Check Product for Conformity with Directives - Once you've determined your product meets the requirements of relevant directives, you'll need to ensure adherence to national standards. This includes proper labeling with date of manufacture, place of manufacture, product type, and serial number or batch number.
Step 3: Identify if Notified Body is Required - Higher-risk products require assessment by a Notified Body, which provides full certification to CE marking requirements with no self-declaration available. Lower-risk products (such as standard USB cables) can use a Competent Authority, which provides third-party test reports supporting the manufacturer's self-declaration. The manufacturer remains ultimately responsible for their product in the market.
Step 4: Determine Testing and Certification Requirements - Testing requirements depend on the product and its intended use. USB cables with wireless modules must meet EMC Directive requirements for electromagnetic compatibility. The European Commission website provides detailed requirements for each directive.
Step 5: Incorporate CE Mark into Product Design, Labeling and Documentation - The CE mark must be visible, readable, and legible, placed in a visible position on the product or packaging. It should not be obscured by other labels or parts of the product.
Step 6: Perform Risk Assessment, Compile Technical Construction File, and Prepare Declaration of Conformity - Risk assessments identify potential hazards in normal and abnormal conditions. The Technical Construction File (TCF) contains drawings, descriptions, material specifications, and certifications. The TCF must be kept for 10 years after issuance [6].
