- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) tests are carried out to ensure that an electrical or electronic device functions properly in its electromagnetic environment without itself being the source of electromagnetic disturbances that could affect the operation of equipment operating nearby.
EMC is the acronym for Electromagnetic Compatibility. All electronic devices can emit electromagnetic fields and be sensitive to them. With the proliferation of electronic devices, the risk of electromagnetic interference and interference between devices is extremely important. No electrical product or installation can be considered properly designed and fully operational unless all aspects relating to EMC are taken into account at the design stage.
An electrical device can generate electromagnetic interference by radiation in the air or by conduction via its power supply cable or other electrical connections with which it is equipped. Conversely, the operation of this device can be disturbed by electromagnetic waves radiated in the air or transmitted via its power supply line or other electrical wiring necessary for its use.
There are two types of EMC tests: :
- Conducted and radiated emission tests : Conducted and radiated disturbances (electric field, magnetic field) generated by the device under test are measured and compared to the limit values defined by standards or manufacturer’s specifications.
- Tests of immunity to conducted and radiated emissions: the operation of the device under test is analyzed while it is subjected to signals and waves of radiated and conducted electromagnetic disturbances. The type and levels of these disturbances are defined by the manufacturer’s standards or specifications.
EMC validation and certification tests are not only performed on common products such as televisions, computers, washing machines, etc., but also on other products such as electronic equipment. They are equally indispensable for complex equipment integrated in vehicles, aircraft, ships and industrial plants. These can also be very sensitive to electromagnetic interference. EMC tests allow the interaction of all electrical and electronic equipment operating in the same environment to be observed.
EMC testing, validation and certification is a long-term process to prove that a product or equipment complies with the regulations and EMC directives in force in the country or region of the world where it is used. Successful completion of the test program provides assurance of the reliability of the electrical or electronic device or equipment, thereby reducing risks and maintenance costs. Testing also highlights potential or product design issues that can be resolved before the product goes into production.
Being accompanied in this strategic approach by an expert in the field enables the adoption of the appropriate product design architecture and the implementation of the appropriate EMC test procedure with the required test equipment.
