Resources

This month's Practical Engineering explains how to use the Welch-Satterthwaite formula to calculate the effective degrees of freedom and expanded uncertainty in a measurement uncertainty analysis. It provides a practical example to demonstrate the application of this formula.

This month's EMC Bench Notes reviews three affordable pre-compliance measurement software options that can simplify and automate the process of conducting in-house radiated emissions testing, saving time and costs compared to manual methods.

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.

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.

Mastering capacitor behavior is crucial for noise control in electronics. Understanding impedance variations with frequency, along with ESR and ESL components, helps engineers design effective filters. The piece explains how capacitors "dance" with frequencies to manage unwanted noise.

Ferrite beads may fail to suppress RF emissions due to misidentified noise sources, high circuit impedance, outdated advice, or incorrect ferrite selection. Careful analysis and appropriate application are crucial for effective EMC compliance.