Laboratory
At our institute, we conduct research in various areas of EMC and signal and power integrity. In addition to modeling, simulation, and data-driven approaches, we have a well-equipped laboratory to perform various measurements for research and teaching. The following page provides a brief overview of our equipment and its applications.
Near-Field Measurements
The near-field scanner measures electric and magnetic fields ranging from a few kHz to 6 GHz and generates 2D and 3D images of the field distribution. By guiding the probes using a 6-axis robotic arm, individual measurement points can be scanned with high precision and repeatability, allowing sources of interference on circuit boards or antenna structures to be located. Additionally, the measurement process can be fully automated. Current research interests focus primarily on the ‘on-the-fly measurement,’ where fields are measured continuously ‘in passing’ rather than at discrete points.
Frequenzy Domain Analysis
High-frequency systems can be represented and measured in both frequency and time domains. Spectrum analyzers enable the fast and reliable analysis of electromagnetic signals in the frequency domain by displaying frequencies as amplitude values in a spectral image. This allows the spectral composition of a signal to be captured and sources of interference to be identified. Additionally, attenuation and filter characteristics can also be recorded and classified using this method.
Mobile Field Measurement and Far-Field Measurements
A special form of frequency domain measurement is mobile field measurement, where field data is collected using portable devices. This type of measurement can be performed on-site and offers flexibility regarding measurement points. The primary challenges lie in the varying and dynamic environments under which the measurements take place. Unlike near-field measurement techniques, mobile field measurement primarily involves far-field measurements. Far-field measurement is used, for example, to characterize antennas or determine their directional properties. These techniques are essential for analyzing and optimizing communication systems and have numerous other applications, such as environmental monitoring.
Vector Network Analysis
Another type of frequency domain measurement is vector network analysis. This technique is used to measure frequency-dependent scattering parameters to precisely examine connection and transmission line characteristics. Our devices can evaluate up to 12 ports simultaneously, enabling comprehensive circuit analysis. However, for accurate results, all ports must be calibrated before each measurement to compensate for the effects of cables and connectors.
Time Domain Analysis
In addition to frequency domain analysis, time domain analysis can also provide valuable insights. Digital sampling oscilloscopes enable precise measurement of signal propagation times, reflections, and crosstalk of electromagnetic signals in both the time and frequency domains. They are used to analyze high-frequency signals and signal behavior on circuit boards and connectors. Measurements can be performed quickly and without calibration, for instance, using TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) or TDT (Time Domain Transmission) methods to investigate transmission lines, impedances, and differential crosstalk.
