MIL-STD-461 RS103 Radiated Susceptibility EMC Testing
As a leader in EMC regulatory compliance testing, Keystone Compliance assists electronic equipment manufacturers with MIL-STD 461 EMC testing. Meeting the IEC, EN, and other MIL-STD-461 testing requirements can be challenging. Not only do we understand the challenges, but we help guide companies through the process.
Keystone Compliance’s accurate test reports are delivered quickly using our “four-eyes” approach. Meaning that multiple engineers and technicians review each report, ensuring that all the information required is present. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays by inviting our clients to review draft reports before final certification. Regarded as a leader in MIL-STD-461 testing, Keystone Compliance assists companies in EMC testing on a daily basis. Strategic partnerships allow us to meet customer needs beyond our scope of accreditation.
Request a quote to receive expert MIL-STD-461 testing services tailored to your specific needs. Ready to get started? We are. Contact us to see why so many companies work with us to achieve their EMC testing needs.
Summary of Radiated Susceptibility/Immunity EMC Testing
The MIL-STD-461 lab testing requirement is applicable for equipment and subsystem enclosures. The EMC compliance test is also applicable to all interconnecting cables. MIL-461 RS testing is applicable as follows:
- 2 MHz to 30 MHz – Army, Navy and optional* for all others
- 30 MHz to 18 GHz – All
- 18 GHz to 40 GHz – Optional* for all
Data presented in this EMC MIL standard test method for radiated immunity testing is recorded by a lab engineer as follows:
- Graphical and tabular data showing frequency ranges and field strength levels.
- Correction factors needed to adjust sensor output readings for equivalent peak detection of modulated waveforms.
- Graphs and tables listing any susceptibility thresholds that we determined. This includes their associated frequencies.
- Diagrams or photographs showing the actual equipment setup and the associated MIL-461 RS103 test dimensions.
Scope of MIL-STD-461 Electromagnetic Compatibility EMC Compliance Testing
The equipment under testing (EUT) can not exhibit any form of malfunction or degradation of performance. The EUT must also not deviate from the specified indications when subjected to the radiated electric fields. Lastly, the test is not met for vertically polarized fields.
Circulatory fields are not acceptable. However, above 30 MHz, the requirement is met for both horizontally and vertically polarized fields.
For receiver EUTs (equipment under testing) having permanently attached antennas only, reduced performance over the intended receiver band of operation is permissible. Yet, this is only true unless otherwise stated in the system specification.
RS103 Electromagnetic Interference Radiated Susceptibility Procedures
The MIL-461 standard lab EMC testing procedure is used to verify the ability of the EUT and associated cabling to withstand electric fields. Test equipment for this test may include but is not limited to signal generators, power amplifiers, transmit antennas, electric field sensors and more.
Prior to testing, the electromagnetic compatibility EMC test setup is to be carried out as follows:
- The setup is constantly maintained for the EUT.
- The test equipment mentioned above and other equipment is then configured in accordance with MIL-STD-461 RS103 testing.
- Next, the antennas are placed 1 meter or greater from the test boundary. This is done by centering the antenna between the edges of the test setup boundary and using multiple antenna positions at spacing.
- Lastly, the electric field sensors are placed at the same distance as the EUT is located from the transmit antenna.
After preconditioning, the test procedure is conducted in the following manner:
- First, the measurement equipment and EUT is turned on and allowed ample time for stabilization.
- After, the test area is assessed for potential RF hazards. The testing engineers take necessary precautions to assure the safety of all personnel.
- Subsequently, the EUT test is performed. This is done over the required frequency ranges. The transmit antenna must be vertically polarized. The signal source is set to 1 kHz pulse modulation and 50% duty cycle.
- An electric field is established at the start frequency. It is gradually increased until it reaches the applicable limit. The required frequency ranges are scanned. These must be in accordance with specified rates and durations.
- If susceptibility is noted, the threshold must be determined. These steps are repeated above 30 MHz with the transmit antenna horizontally polarized. The test is also repeated for each transmitted antenna position.
Expert Electromagnetic Compatibility EMC RS103 Compliance Testing
Keystone Compliance can accommodate fixed, mobile and portable devices of all sizes. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Request a quote to find out for yourself about the Keystone difference. Have a question about our EMC lab tests or radiated immunity testing? Contact us or call (724) 657-9940 and we will determine the best course of action.
For more information on general MIL-461 compliance and test standards, please visit the links below: