EN 61028:1993

Overview

EN 61028:1993 - Electrical measuring instruments - X‑Y recorders (CLC) is the European standard that specifies requirements for X‑Y recording instruments used to capture analogue electrical signals representing another electrical quantity or a non‑electrical quantity. The scope explicitly covers X‑Y recorders and associated accessories that are not governed by separate standards. Safety requirements for these instruments are handled by EN 61010.

Key topics

This standard focuses on the essential aspects of X‑Y recording instrumentation, including (typical areas addressed):

• Functional scope - definition of X‑Y recorder applications (plotting one variable against another).
• Performance and accuracy - requirements to ensure faithful analogue recording and repeatability.
• Electrical inputs and signal handling - input types, ranges, and considerations for interfacing with transducers.
• Mechanical and recording system characteristics - recorder drive, paper/plot medium, and plotting stability.
• Environmental and EMC considerations - operation under specified ambient and electromagnetic conditions.
• Accessories - criteria for accessories not covered by separate standards (cables, connectors, pens, etc.).
• Marking and documentation - required labelling, instruction manuals, and calibration information.
• Reference to safety standard - explicitly defers equipment safety rules to EN 61010.

Note: EN 61028 provides the normative framework; users should consult the full text for precise clauses, test methods and acceptance criteria.

Applications

EN 61028 applies wherever X‑Y recorders are used to produce analogue plots-examples include:

• Lab and R&D recording of correlated signals (voltage vs. current, phase relationships).
• Process monitoring where a non‑electrical quantity (pressure, flow, temperature via transducer) is plotted against an electrical measurement.
• Quality control and field diagnostics in electrical and industrial environments. Using the standard helps ensure consistent performance, interoperability of accessories, and clear documentation for testing and maintenance.

Who should use this standard

• Instrument manufacturers designing or certifying X‑Y recorders and accessories.
• Test laboratories and calibration services verifying recorder performance.
• Engineers and technicians specifying recorders for laboratory, industrial, or process-control installations.
• Procurement and compliance officers requiring standard-based acceptance criteria.

Related standards

• EN 61010 - Safety requirements for electrical measuring instruments (referenced for safety aspects).
• International/IEC equivalents or related measurement and EMC standards may also apply depending on jurisdiction and product scope.

Keywords: EN 61028, X‑Y recorders, electrical measuring instruments, analogue recording, CLC, EN 61010, instrumentation, calibration, recording accessories.