What's New

Foreign manufacturers sometimes intentionally or unintentionally cut corners on safety and quality because they are less likely to be held liable in the U.S. for problems created by their products. U.S. manufacturers who buy from foreign companies must alter their relationships with such manufacturers to account for this possibility and enhance the safety of their products to protect themselves better if problems do occur.

This column continues a series on transmission line circuit models, exploring two additional models. It derives equations for voltage characteristics and standing waves, building upon concepts introduced in the previous installment.

This column explores the application of machine learning techniques in ESD compact modeling for semiconductor devices. It compares traditional methods with a new machine learning approach, highlighting improved efficiency and accuracy in predicting ESD protection performance.

This Column discusses a technique for troubleshooting radiated immunity failures in electronic devices using near-field probes. It presents a case study, explains the method's application, and addresses its limitations and safety considerations for bench-level testing.

The month's Banana Skins covers various electromagnetic interference issues in different contexts. It discusses problems with video projectors affecting audio induction loops, switch-mode power supply emissions varying with voltage, hybrid vehicle EM emissions, computer interference with amateur radio, electrostatic discharge in fluid lines, and communication equipment in ambulances causing radio interference.

This detailed overview of electromagnetic immunity testing across defense, aerospace, and automotive industries explains why different sectors require unique standards to protect equipment from various electromagnetic threats and interference.

The Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has published an extensive list of guidance documents that it intends to publish or develop in fiscal year 2025.

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has voted to adopt rules that will require U.S. wireless carriers to implement technology that will speed localized response to 988-related emergencies.

Understanding current flow patterns is crucial in EMC engineering, particularly the distinction between Common Mode and Differential Mode currents. Controlling current paths and providing local return paths helps reduce electromagnetic interference and improve immunity.

The FCC has mandated that all mobile phones must be hearing aid compatible within 24-42 months, requiring manufacturers to include HAC technology, Bluetooth coupling, and adjustable volume controls. This change will benefit 48 million Americans with hearing loss.