Emerging Millimeter Wave Radiated Emissions Test Methods: Lessons Learned

While mmWave communication technology has been used extensively for decades, this was largely confined to government or military applications. Today, mmWave devices are increasingly prevalent in commercial and consumer applications with the proliferation of wireless devices. As EMC engineers, we are familiar with the significant problems RF interference may cause due to poorly designed and/or tested products. How are these new 5G devices operating at mmWave frequencies regulated to ensure performance as intended?  In this presentation, we will begin with a review of the emerging radiated emissions test methods for mmWave devices intended for use in the United States and governed by the requirements of the FCC’s Part 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These test methods are included in the ANSI C63.26 standard for licensed transmitters to document compliance with FCC requirements. The standard outlines test methods for measurement of radiated and conducted emissions, RF power, out-of-band emissions, frequency stability, and other regulatory requirements for a variety of devices. Since its publication in 2015, mmWave technology has advanced significantly. The presentation includes a discussion of the currently available methods, including their benefits and constraints. Proposed changes to the next edition of C63.26 currently underway will be reviewed. Time permitting, an experiment will be performed to characterize and validate aspects of the measurement methods.