Min Zhang

Expensive EMC simulation software isn't always necessary for practical troubleshooting. Discover how free SPICE tools can effectively tackle filter design, validate test setups, and solve real-world EMI problems—without the steep learning curve.

A routine radiated emissions case took an unexpected turn when slow I/O lines started radiating 100 MHz harmonics—pointing to a deeper power distribution network problem. Dr. Min Zhang traces the root cause and the PDN fixes that made the ferrite beads unnecessary.

This series of articles delves into the design principles of power filters for switched-mode power converters and similar applications, focusing on conducted and radiated emissions. Part 2 will examine specific aspects of switched power converters.

Got a noisy power system? This real-world EMI investigation reveals how seemingly minor grounding issues between compartments can create major interference problems - and shows how smart measurement techniques led to an elegant fix.

Near‑field probe techniques commonly used for EFT troubleshooting can also uncover radiated immunity failures. Using a real‑world audio device case study, this article shows how a simple benchtop setup exposed PCB‑level resonance, guided a low‑cost fix, and helped resolve chamber test failures.

This series of articles delves into the design principles of power filters for switched-mode power converters and similar applications, focusing on conducted and radiated emissions. Part 1 provides an overview of filter design principles, emphasizing the need for specialized approaches to meet EMC specifications in an increasingly electrified and sustainable world.

When traditional EMC troubleshooting tools fall short, the reciprocity theorem can reveal hidden immunity problems. This real‑world case study shows how unexpected RF sources—like walkie‑talkies—can expose susceptibility paths, helping engineers diagnose failures and strengthen designs with simple, effective fixes.

In large systems, such as big cabinets housing numerous electronic components, employing the near-field probe method can be time-consuming and, depending on the voltage level, potentially unsafe (for instance, when dealing with high-voltage circuits requiring isolation). In such scenarios, an alternative approach is necessary.

Ever wonder why equipment mysteriously fails in the field? This case study reveals how one manufacturer solved frustrating intermittent timer resets in an industrial kitchen—using clever EMI troubleshooting techniques with an EFT generator and near-field probe. Learn their practical fix that ended costly service calls.

Developing electric vehicle components or drone systems? Learn how to set up an affordable benchtop conducted emission test during R&D. This pre-compliance approach helps engineers catch design issues early, avoid costly fixes, and gain insights into radiated emissions—all before formal testing begins.