Evan Zielski, “Electromagnetic Interference Characterization and Metrology Support Using PXIe System”
Mentor: Robert Cuzner, Electrical Engineering
Poster #158

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is a critical consideration when designing zonal power distribution systems. Managing the electromagnetic energy, both intentional and unintentional, is vital to ensure minimal interference among components of the system. The interference(EMI) is quantified through experiment wherein specific test setups must be developed depending on the equipment under test (EUT). These setups are also governed by particular standards depending on the application which, in this case, is US Navy shipboard applications. Therefore, the governing standards in this project are set forth by the Department of Defense. The test setup includes a system of line impedance stabilization networks (LISN) along with the EUT. Each LISN is utilized to create a known electrical impedance between the source and EUT which enables EMI measurements. In the context of shipboard applications, the LISN’s are meant to simulate the impedance resulting from other components on the ship. The EUT in this setup is a power conversion module comprised of SiC (silicon carbide) MOSFET’s (switches) which have more ideal properties allowing them to dissipate energy more efficiently and subsequently operate at higher frequencies. These higher frequencies result in different EMI characterizations which can be analyzed through this test setup.