Bell Labs created standards for Network Equipment-Building System (NEBS) inverters in the 1970s to help standardize equipment used in Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC) Central Offices (COs). Since that time, NEBS inverters have become the most dependable inverters in the telecom industry. However, as well reviewed well known as the devices are, they are nonetheless surrounded by persistent misconceptions that impact how they are used and the user’s understanding of how and why they are approved for use in certain situations.
Misconception 1: All NEBS Certified Devices Are The Same
One misconception is that NEBS certification means the same thing in each case. In reality, NEBS inverters receive three levels of certification: Level 1, which means a device meets the personal safety requirements of GR-63-CORE and GR-1089-CORE; Level 2, which means a device meets operating requirements for a specific type of interior environment; and Level 3, which means a device meets the safety requirements and operability requirements of GR-63-CORE and GR-1089-CORE.
Misconception 2: An Official Party Governs NEBS Certification
Contrary to popular belief, there is not an official party that bestows a NEBS certification on inverters. Rather, the devices are tested in approved laboratories to determine whether they meet the criteria of Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 certification. Electrical engineers use the test results to understand how an inverter will perform in a particular type of environment, such as an environment that has a high altitude, contains unusual acoustics, causes equipment to vibrate, or has airborne contaminants.
Misconception 3: NEBS Components Equal a NEBS Certified Device
Even when a device is built with components that are used for NEBS certified equipment, the device must still be tested for NEBS certification. In addition to the quality of the parts that comprise a device, the quality of its construction has a major impact on the types of environmental stresses it can withstand. Although a device that is made with components that are used for NEBS certified equipment is highly likely receive certification, it must still be tested to ensure it delivers the right performance.
Need NEBS Inverters?
If so, check out Exeltech’s great selection of NEBS certified inverters that are used in buildings around the world. In addition to possessing NEBS certification, our inverters and converters are TUV – TL9000 certified and are compliant with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Certificate. For more information about our equipment, call us today at (800) 886-4683, or click here to use our contact form.
