Electromagnetic compatibility

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electrical and electronic equipment to operate as intended without causing or suffering unacceptable electromagnetic interference.

Electromagnetic interference: Unwanted electromagnetic energy that disrupts the operation of electrical or electronic equipment. EMC is the condition achieved when interference does not exceed acceptable limits.
EMC testing: Measurements and tests that assess equipment emissions and immunity against defined requirements. Testing verifies whether a product’s emissions and immunity satisfy EMC limits.
Electromagnetic field: A physical field produced by electric charges and currents that can exert forces and carry energy. Radiated interference travels through electromagnetic fields between equipment.
Electrical safety: The prevention of injury or damage from electrical hazards such as shock, fire, and excessive temperature. Safety addresses hazards to people and property, while EMC addresses electromagnetic disruption.
Electromagnetic emission: Electromagnetic energy released by a device through radiation or conducted paths. Limiting a device’s emissions helps prevent it from disrupting other equipment.
Electromagnetic compatibility directive: A European Union directive setting essential EMC requirements for equipment placed on the market. It establishes legal EMC obligations for many products sold in the European Union.
Radio-frequency interference: Unwanted electrical noise or electromagnetic energy in the radio-frequency range. It is a common form of interference addressed by EMC controls and standards.
Signal integrity: The preservation of a signal’s intended waveform and timing as it travels through a system. Signal integrity concerns correct signal transmission; EMC concerns interference between equipment and its environment.
Electromagnetic susceptibility: The degree to which equipment is affected by electromagnetic disturbances. A device must withstand relevant disturbances to meet EMC requirements.
CISPR: The International Special Committee on Radio Interference, which develops standards for controlling radio-frequency disturbances. CISPR standards define widely used emission limits and measurement methods.

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