What is IEC 61000-4-138:2019 ?

Title: IEC 61000-4-138:2019: A Technical Article on Electromagnetic Compatibility and Interference

Introduction

IEC 61000-4-138:2019 is an essential standard for evaluating the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of electrical and electronic equipment. This international standard, also known as "Electromagnetic compatibility - Part 4-13: Testing and measurement techniques - Harmonics and interharmonics including mains signalling at a.c. power port, low frequency immunity tests," is developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and focuses on harmonics and interharmonics, which are disturbances caused by non-sinusoidal electrical waveforms that can affect the performance of electronic devices and systems connected to the electric power network.

In this article, we will provide a technical explanation of IEC 61000-4-138:2019, its purpose, the testing process, and the criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the tests.

What is IEC 61000-4-138:2019?

IEC 61000-4-138:2019 is an international standard that defines a set of conditions for simulating realistic electromagnetic environments. It focuses on immunity tests for electrical and electronic equipment against electromagnetic fields caused by radio transmitters or other sources. The standard provides guidelines for conducting the tests, test levels, and evaluation criteria to ensure that devices can function properly in the presence of electromagnetic interference.

The Purpose of IEC 61000-4-138:2019

The main purpose of the IEC 61000-4-138:2019 standard is to define a set of conditions that simulate realistic electromagnetic environments. By subjecting electrical and electronic equipment to these tests, manufacturers can assess the performance and susceptibility of their products to electromagnetic fields. The standard aims to ensure that products are capable of operating without being affected by electromagnetic interference from radio transmitters or other sources.

The Testing Process

The testing process for IEC 61000-4-138:2019 involves a series of steps to evaluate the electromagnetic compatibility of a device. The testing process typically includes the following steps:

1. Initial Testing: The first step in the testing process is to conduct an initial test to determine the device's immunity to electromagnetic interference.

2. Test Setup: The next step is to set up the testing environment, which includes the equipment to be tested, the frequency of the test, and the duration of the test.

3. Testing: The testing process involves exposing the device to the test environment and measuring the device's performance.

4. Data Collection: The next step is to collect data on the device's performance, including metrics such as voltage, current, and power.

5. Evaluation: The data collected during the testing process is then evaluated to determine the device's immunity to electromagnetic interference.

6. Reporting: The final step is to report on the device's performance and immunity to electromagnetic interference.

The Criteria for Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Tests

To ensure that the device is electromagnetic interference (EMI) immune, the testing process must be followed by a critical analysis of the data collected during the tests. The criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the tests are as follows:

1. Immunity: The device should have a high level of immunity to electromagnetic interference from radio transmitters or other sources.

2. Performance: The device should have a stable and reliable performance under the test environment.

3. Compliance: The device should meet the requirements specified in IEC 61000-4-138:2019 and other relevant standards.

Conclusion

IEC 61000-4-138:2019 is an essential standard for evaluating the electromagnetic compatibility of electrical and electronic equipment. The standard provides guidelines for conducting the tests, test levels, and evaluation criteria to ensure that devices can function properly in the presence of electromagnetic interference. By subjecting electrical and electronic equipment to these tests, manufacturers can assess the.