Small IT and telecommunications equipment up to 50 cm
WEEE Category 6 covers small electrical and electronic equipment used in information and telecommunications technology, where no external dimension exceeds 50 cm.
This includes equipment used for the collection, processing, storage, transmission, or display of information, or for the electronic transmission of signals such as voice, video, or data.
Which devices fall under WEEE Category 6?
Typical examples include:
- Smartphones and cell phones
- Routers
- GPS devices
- Small computers
- Tablets
- Certain printers and peripheral devices
- Small network devices
- Telecommunications equipment
- Other small IT and communications devices
The specific classification must always be determined based on the function and technical characteristics of the product in question.
The 50-cm Limit for IT and Telecommunications Equipment
A key characteristic of Category 6 is that no external dimension of the device exceeds 50 cm.
However, the size limit is not the only criterion. It is also crucial that the device can actually be classified as information and telecommunications technology.
Distinction from WEEE Category 5
The distinction between Category 5 (small appliances) and Category 6 (small IT and telecommunications equipment) is particularly relevant for modern electrical appliances.
A small electrical appliance is not automatically classified as Category 6 solely based on its size. The decisive factor is whether the device’s primary function lies in the field of information processing or telecommunications.
For multifunctional devices, it is therefore important to determine which function is the defining or primary function of the product.
WEEE Registration for IT and Telecommunications Equipment
Manufacturers and importers who place small IT and telecommunications equipment on the market in Germany must comply with the requirements of the ElektroG. This includes, in particular, correct categorization and – provided the product falls within the scope of the law – registration with the ear Foundation prior to placing the product on the market.
In addition, depending on the manufacturer’s role and the product, further obligations may apply, such as those regarding labeling, take-back, disposal, and financing the recycling of end-of-life equipment.
Not sure how to classify your electrical device under the WEEE Directive?
ECOPV-EU assists manufacturers and importers in correctly classifying their electrical and electronic equipment, as well as with WEEE registration and the fulfillment of their legal obligations as manufacturers.
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