How do you choose the best EMC testing method for your electronic product?

1 EMC testing requirements

The first thing you need to consider is the EMC testing requirements for your product. Depending on the type, function, and destination of your product, you may need to comply with different EMC standards and regulations. For example, if you are selling your product in the European Union, you need to follow the EMC Directive, which specifies the essential requirements and conformity assessment procedures for EMC. If you are selling your product in the United States, you need to comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules, which regulate the emission and immunity of radio frequency devices. You should consult the relevant authorities and standards bodies to determine the applicable EMC testing requirements for your product.

2 EMC testing stages

The next thing you need to consider is the EMC testing stages for your product. Typically, EMC testing involves two main stages: pre-compliance testing and compliance testing. Pre-compliance testing is the preliminary testing that you perform during the design and development phase of your product. It helps you identify and fix any potential EMC issues before you proceed to the final testing. Pre-compliance testing can be done in-house, using your own equipment and facilities, or outsourced to a third-party service provider. Compliance testing is the official testing that you perform before you launch your product to the market. It verifies that your product meets the EMC standards and regulations for your target market. Compliance testing must be done by an accredited testing laboratory, which can issue a certification or report for your product.

3 EMC testing methods

The final thing you need to consider is the EMC testing methods for your product. There are two main types of EMC testing methods: conducted and radiated. Conducted testing measures the emission and immunity of your product through its power and signal cables. Radiated testing measures the emission and immunity of your product through its antennas and enclosures. The choice of EMC testing method depends on the frequency range, the coupling mode, and the interference source of your product. For example, if your product operates at low frequencies, you may need to perform conducted testing to detect any unwanted currents or voltages on your cables. If your product operates at high frequencies, you may need to perform radiated testing to measure any electromagnetic fields or waves emitted or received by your product.

Choosing the best EMC testing method for your electronic product is not a simple task. You need to consider the EMC testing requirements, stages, and methods for your product, and balance the cost, time, and quality of your testing. By following the guidelines in this article, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your product meets the EMC expectations of your customers and regulators.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?