Impact of Radio Frequency Interference on the Electromagnetic Emission of Integrated Circuits

Nikolaus CZEPL, Institute of Electronics, Graz University of Technology
Daniel KIRCHER, Institute of Electronics, Graz University of Technology
Dominik ZUPAN, Institute of Electronics, Graz University of Technology

 

Abstract

Ensuring the safe operation of electronic systems requires them to comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. To meet these standards, a series of EMC tests are conducted on integrated circuits (ICs) and electronic systems. However, these tests are often performed in isolation, without considering the potential mutual influence of environmental aspects.

This article highlights the impact of radio frequency disturbances on the electromagnetic emissions of ICs, and proposes a simple test method based on the direct power injection (DPI) characterization method (IEC 62132-4) and the 150-Ohm method (IEC 61967-4). Our study demonstrates that interference signals can affect the operating state of ICs, causing electromagnetic emission limits to be changed and functional requirements to be compromised.

The method involves uses an interfering signal in the frequency range of 1MHz to 1GHz and applies it to a pin of an IC and at the same time measuring the electromagnetic emission at another pin of the chip. By considering the mutual influence of Radio Frequency Interference on the Electromagnetic Emission of an IC, our proposed method can help to ensure more effective compliance with EMC regulations and improve the overall safety of electronic systems.