ETIM BASIC Definition
ETIM BASIC is the foundation layer of the ETIM classification standard, providing a standardised way to classify technical products and describe them using a fixed set of attributes, values, and units of measurement.
It is the starting point for any organisation adopting ETIM, and covers the large majority of everyday product classification needs across electrical, HVAC, and industrial sectors.
What does ETIM BASIC include?
Every product classified in ETIM BASIC is assigned to an ETIM class, which defines the specific technical features that apply to that product type. Each feature has a fixed data type (numeric, logical, range, or alphanumeric) and, where relevant, a defined unit of measurement.
For example, a product classified as a "Miniature Circuit Breaker" would have features like rated current, rated voltage, number of poles, and tripping characteristic. Every manufacturer using that class answers the same questions in the same format.
Who is ETIM BASIC for?
ETIM BASIC suits manufacturers and distributors who need to exchange structured product data reliably across the supply chain, without requiring complex variant or configuration logic. For most standard, single-SKU products, it covers everything needed to describe, compare, and import product data consistently.
How does it relate to ETIM ADVANCED?
ETIM BASIC handles individual products. ETIM ADVANCED extends the model to handle product families and configurable variants, where one product exists in multiple combinations of options. If your product range is straightforward, ETIM BASIC is sufficient. If you sell configurable or multi-variant products, ETIM ADVANCED builds on top of it.