5.1.1 Background Information
The IEC 60730 standard encompasses all aspects of appliance design. Annex
H of the standard covers the aspects most relevant to microcontrollers. It details the
tests and diagnostics which are intended to ensure safe operation of embedded control
hardware and software. IEC 60730 defines three classifications for electronic control
functions:
- Class A - Control functions which are not intended to be relied upon for safety of the equipment
- Class B - Control functions intended to prevent unsafe operation of the controlled equipment
- Class C - Control functions intended to prevent special hazards such as explosions
Specific design techniques have been used in the SAMA7G5 to ease compliance with the IEC 60730 Class B Certification and to resolve general purpose safety concerns. This allows reduced software development and code size as well as savings on external hardware circuitry, since built-in self-tests are already embedded in the MPU. The table below lists the peripherals which incorporate these techniques, and details whether these features are applicable for the IEC 60730 Class B Certification or for general purpose safety considerations.