Time domain leveling for EMC conducted radiofrequency immunity tests

Testing the immunity to conducted radiofrequency disturbances, induced by radio-frequency fields, is fundamental within the electromagnetic compatibility assessment of devices having input and/or output cables. This procedure requires assuring the repeatability and accuracy of the test level applied, that is, the voltage and power of the signal injected into the equipment’s cables when these tests are performed. During a preliminary calibration, different instruments could be employed to measure and adjust the disturbance voltage to the corresponding test level, typically, power meters, test receivers or spectrum analyzers. In this paper it is proposed to use oscilloscopes as measuring device and the calibration method has been adapted accordingly. Results indicate oscilloscopes enable valid and time efficient measurements of the radiofrequency voltage signals involved in the tests according the EN 61000-4-6 standard method, with comparable accuracy at lower costs, while it provides further measurements analysis capability and increased robustness.
Peer Reviewed
Postprint (author's final draft)