The invisible force we’re all surrounded by: electromagnetic radiation
We live in a world where technology is advancing at an incredible speed. From smartphones, laptops, tablets, and TVs, we are constantly surrounded by devices that emit an invisible force - electromagnetic radiation (EMR). This is the energy generated by electronic devices that can travel through space and interact with other electronic products. In this blog post, we will explore the basics of electromagnetic radiation and how it affects other electronic products.
What is electromagnetic radiation?
EMR is a form of energy generated by electronic devices that can travel in the form of waves without needing any medium to propagate. It is a fundamental principle in modern electronics and plays an integral role in the operation of devices such as cell phones, televisions, radio stations, and even satellites in space.
It is important that a device with an electromagnetic field does not affect another device because it can cause interference and disrupt the functioning of the other device. Electromagnetic fields are created by electronic devices, and when two or more devices are in close proximity, their electromagnetic fields can interact with each other. This interaction can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can result in errors, malfunctions, or complete failure of the affected device.
For example, if a medical device such as an MRI machine generates a strong electromagnetic field, it could interfere with nearby electronic devices such as pacemakers or other medical equipment, potentially causing harm to the patient. Similarly, in a data center, the electromagnetic field generated by one server could interfere with the functioning of neighboring servers, leading to data loss or system downtime.
Which regulations apply for electromagnetic radiation?
Manufacturers, for this reason, need to follow specific design guidelines, including shielding the product from the effects of EMR. Therefore, it's important to ensure that electronic devices comply with
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
regulations. These regulations are designed to minimize the risk of EMI and ensure that electronic devices can operate safely and effectively in their intended environment. By ensuring that electronic devices do not interfere with each other, we can maintain the reliability and safety of our electronic systems.
Testing the electromagnetic radiation of products is essential to ensure that they comply with safety regulations. By testing products for electromagnetic radiation, manufacturers can ensure that they are safe for use. This way any potential risks associated with exposure to this type of energy can be minimized. Additionally, testing can help identify any potential design flaws or manufacturing defects that could result in higher levels of electromagnetic radiation emission.
How can you test EMR?
A testing facility like DEKRA can test a product’s electromagnetic radiation to determine its compatibility with other products. We do this in a specially designed EMC-lab, that blocks all other electromagnetic radiations in the surrounding area. This way, we can specifically measure the product’s immunity and emissions of electromagnetic radiation.