Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the concept of ensuring that electrical equipment and systems operate correctly in an environment, with or in the presence of other electrical devices. EMC limits the electromagnetic energy emitted by devices and ensures that the device continues to operate in the presence of various electromagnetic events.
All electronic devices such as computers, televisions, cell phones, washing machines have the potential to emit some form of electrical interference. Electrical devices affect each other when they are connected or placed too close together. With the widespread use of electronic devices in daily life, the interaction of devices with each other has become a bigger problem.
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the concept of ensuring that electrical equipment and systems operate correctly in an environment, with or in the presence of other electrical devices. EMC limits the electromagnetic energy emitted by devices and ensures that the device continues to operate in the presence of various electromagnetic events.
Although electrical devices are closed systems, it is not possible to fully control the electricity passing through circuits and cables. This energy can spread between devices as electromagnetic radiation in the air or along power cables.
Some design techniques are applied to ensure EMC compliance of electrical devices. However, EMC testing should be done to know if products are electromagnetically compatible. The purpose of EMC testing is to verify that different electronic devices can operate at close range without causing any interference. EMC testing is done by applying emission and immunity (sensitivity) testing together. Emission testing measures the noise produced by the device, while immunity testing measures the device’s ability to tolerate noise from external sources.
EMC testing is done using EMI (electromagnetic energy that affects the operation of an electronic device) measuring equipment such as receiving antennas, amplifiers, and spectrum analyzers. These measuring equipment are operated together to measure the type and amount of noise emitted by the device. In the immunity test, devices that can imitate electromagnetic noise at certain frequencies are used. EMC tests are performed in electromagnetically sealed chambers.
EMC tests are carried out by accredited laboratories. Testing requirements vary with device type and application.
EMC regulations are in effect worldwide, providing users of electrical and electronic equipment with enhanced reliability and safety. Anyone who designs, manufactures or sells products that contain electronic components and operate with electrical current should care about EMC. Consumers do not need to worry about EMC as EMC regulations are applied all over the world.
EMC testing is required for CE certification. If there is a CE mark on a product, that product complies with all relevant regulations in force in Europe, including the EMC directive.
