Conducted Measurements
Conducted measurements are test methods used to evaluate radio frequency (RF) signals or electromagnetic interference (EMI) that are transmitted via conductive paths, such as power lines, signal cables, or RF connectors. These measurements are essential for verifying compliance with EMC and RF regulations under frameworks such as FCC, CE (RED), ISED, and MIC.
Application Areas
Conducted testing is performed in various regulatory and pre-compliance contexts, including:
EMC testing: Measurement of conducted emissions on AC or DC power lines
RF performance testing: Determination of output power, modulation bandwidth, and spurious emissions at antenna connectors
Product certification: Required under FCC, ISED, ETSI, and MIC regulatory schemes for devices with RF connectors or power inputs
Common Measurement Parameters
Conducted emissions (150 kHz – 30 MHz): Measured in dBµV
Output power (e.g., Wi-Fi, LTE): Measured in dBm
Harmonics and spurious emissions: Measured in dBm or dBc
Modulation bandwidth / Occupied bandwidth: Measured in MHz
Measurement Setup and Instruments
Typical setups include:
Line Impedance Stabilization Network (LISN) for power line measurements
Spectrum analyzer or power meter for RF signal characterization
RF test cables, attenuators, and matched loads
Shielded environment to suppress ambient interference
Measurements are performed with the device under test (DUT) connected to the test equipment via coaxial or power interfaces. The results reflect signal behavior through conducted paths, in contrast to radiated measurements, which assess emissions through free space.
Standards and Regulatory Relevance
FCC Part 15.107 / 15.207 – Conducted EMI on AC mains
FCC §15.247 / EN 300 328 – Output power and spurious emissions at RF ports
CISPR 11 / 22 / 32 – Conducted emissions from industrial and multimedia equipment
ETSI EN 301 489-1 / -3 – EMC for radio and SRD devices
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