Laboratory Exercises (Chapters 1-3)
These demonstrations and laboratory exercises are recommended to accompany the textbook Electromagnetic Compatibility Course Notes.
Chapter 1: Examples of Electromagnetic Interference
It’s generally a good idea to bring something into the classroom that demonstrates various forms of electromagnetic interference. This could take many forms, but some common examples that are relatively easy to create include...
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Chapter 1: Spectrum Analyzer Measurements
Later in the course, students will have an opportunity to learn how spectrum analyzers work and how to make good measurements using a spectrum analyzer. Early in the course, a spectrum analyzer can be used to show that electromagnetic noise is everywhere.
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Chapter 2: Measuring the Absolute Capacitance of an Object with an RLC Meter
Absolute capacitance and self-capacitance play an important role in EMC design and analysis. This demonstration (which could be assigned as a lab exercise) helps students to see that absolute capacitance is something very real and measurable.
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Chapter 2: Measuring the Inductance of a Wire Loop
This demonstration (which could be assigned as a lab exercise) helps students to get a feeling for how changes in the size, shape and wire thickness affect loop inductance.
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Chapter 2: Measuring Component Impedance with a Vector Network Analyzer
This demonstration helps students to get a feeling for the effect that parasitics have on the electrical behavior of components. It also demonstrates how to measure these parasitics with a VNA.
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Chapter 2: The Path of Least Impedance
One of the more fundamental concepts in EMC and signal integrity is anticipating where signal and noise currents flow. The exercise makes two important points: Currents return to their source, and currents take the path(s) of least impedance.
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Chapter 3: Common-Impedance Coupling in a Ribbon Cable
This demonstration (which could be assigned as a lab exercise) helps students to get a feeling for how changes in the size, shape and wire thickness affect loop inductance.
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Chapter 3: Capacitive Coupling in a Ribbon Cable
This demonstration helps students to get a feeling for the effect that parasitics have on the electrical behavior of components. It also demonstrates how to measure these parasitics with a VNA.
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Chapter 3: Inductive Coupling in a Ribbon Cable
One of the more fundamental concepts in EMC and signal integrity is anticipating where signal and noise currents flow. The exercise makes two important points: Currents return to their source, and currents take the path(s) of least impedance.
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