Overview
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) testing verifies that electronic equipment operates correctly in its electromagnetic environment and does not cause unacceptable interference to other devices or systems. Below are common EMC standards and the main types of tests.
Common EMC Standards
- CISPR (International Special Committee on Radio Interference): A series of standards that limit and measure radiated and conducted interference from electronic equipment. CISPR 22 applies to information technology equipment, while CISPR 25 applies to automotive and related equipment.
- EN (European Norm): European EMC standards such as EN 55022 (limits for radiated interference from information technology equipment) and EN 61000-4-x (tests and measurements for conducted and radiated disturbances).
- FCC (Federal Communications Commission): US federal standards, including FCC Part 15 (limits on radiated interference from information technology equipment) and FCC Part 18 (limits on radiated interference from industrial, scientific, and medical equipment).
- IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission): A set of international EMC standards, for example IEC 61000-3-x (limits related to spectrum power density) and IEC 61000-4-x (tests for conducted and radiated disturbances such as electromagnetic pulses).
Main EMC Test Items
- Radiated emission test: Measures the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the equipment to ensure compliance within specified frequency ranges.
- Conducted emission test: Detects electromagnetic energy conducted from the equipment via power lines, signal lines, or ground, which could affect other devices.
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) test: Evaluates the equipment's immunity to electrostatic discharge events.
- Inductive coupling test: Assesses susceptibility to interference when exposed to external electromagnetic fields.
- Radar detection test: Evaluates whether the equipment is sensitive to radar signals, for example its response to aircraft radar systems.
These are common examples of EMC standards and test items. Specific testing requirements vary by application and region, so applicable tests should be selected based on the relevant standards and regulations.