EMI-EMC Tests
EMI EMC tests have majorly two categories: Emission and Immunity
1. EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) Tests
These tests measure the electromagnetic energy emitted by a device to ensure it does not exceed permissible limits.
a. Conducted Emission Testing
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Measures unwanted electromagnetic energy conducted through power or signal lines.
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Test is performed using a Line Impedance Stabilization Network (LISN).
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Frequency range: 150 kHz to 30 MHz (typical).
b. Radiated Emission Testing
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Measures electromagnetic energy radiated through the air by the device.
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Performed in an anechoic chamber or open-area test site (OATS).
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Frequency range: 30 MHz to several GHz.
c. Harmonics and Flicker Testing
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Measures the emission due to the unbalanced load and switching of the components.
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Relevant for grid-connected equipment.
2. EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) Tests
These tests ensure that a device can operate correctly in its electromagnetic environment without interfering with other devices.
a. Conducted Immunity Testing
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Evaluates the device’s immunity to electromagnetic noise on power or signal lines.
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Test involves injecting RF signals (150 kHz to 230 MHz) using a coupling device.
b. Radiated Immunity Testing
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Ensures that the device can function correctly under exposure to radiated electromagnetic fields.
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Test frequency range: 80 MHz to several GHz.
c. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Testing
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Simulates static electricity discharges to verify device robustness.
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ESD simulators are used to test contact discharge (direct) and air discharge (indirect).
d. Electrical Fast Transient/Burst (EFT) Testing
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Evaluates the immunity of devices to fast, repetitive bursts of electrical energy.
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Typically tests power lines, signal lines, and I/O ports.
e. Surge Immunity Testing
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Simulates high-energy transient surges, such as lightning strikes or power line switching.
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Tests conducted on power and communication lines.
f. Power Frequency Magnetic Field Testing
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Verifies immunity to magnetic fields from power lines or industrial equipment.
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Typical frequency: 50 Hz or 60 Hz.
g. Voltage Dips, Interruptions, and Variations Testing
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Simulates power supply disturbances to check the device's behavior.
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Tests short-term power interruptions and voltage dips.
3. Specialized Tests
These tests apply to specific industries or advanced devices.
a. Cross-Talk Testing
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Measures interference between closely spaced conductors or circuits.
b. Reverberation Chamber Testing
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Exposes the device to multiple electromagnetic waves to test robustness in a reflective environment.
c. TEM Cell Testing
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Used for small devices to simulate a controlled electromagnetic field for emissions and immunity.