Radiated Measurements
Radiated measurements refer to test methods that evaluate electromagnetic energy emitted from a device into free space. The term encompasses two distinct testing disciplines:
EMC Radiated Testing: Measures unwanted electromagnetic emissions (EMI) from electronic devices
RF Radiated Testing: Characterizes intentional radio frequency performance of wireless transmitters and antennas
While both measure over-the-air emissions, they serve different purposes, use different equipment, and address different regulatory requirements.
Radiated EMC Testing
In electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, radiated measurements evaluate unwanted electromagnetic interference emitted into free space.
Typical application areas:
Devices with high-speed digital circuits or switching power supplies
Unintentional radiators (computers, displays, industrial equipment)
Compliance with CISPR 11/22/32, FCC Part 15.109, EN 55032
Common measurement parameters:
Radiated emissions (9 kHz to 6 GHz or higher), measured in dBµV/m
Measurement setup:
Antennas: log-periodic, horn, or biconical types depending on frequency
Test environments: semi-anechoic chamber (SAC), fully anechoic room (FAR), or open area test site (OATS)
EMI receiver or spectrum analyzer
Turntable and antenna mast for angular scanning
Shielded environment to suppress ambient interference
→ Detailed information: Radiated Emissions
Radiated RF Testing
In RF testing, radiated measurements characterize the intentional wireless performance of devices with integrated antennas or without accessible RF connectors.
Typical application areas:
Wireless devices with integrated antennas (smartphones, IoT devices, wearables)
Antenna pattern validation and gain measurements
Total Radiated Power (TRP) and Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS) testing
Compliance with EN 300 328, EN 301 893, FCC §15.247, 3GPP TS 38.521
Common measurement parameters:
Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP), measured in dBm
Total Radiated Power (TRP) and Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS)
Antenna radiation patterns (gain, directivity)
Spurious emissions from intentional radiators
Measurement setup:
Anechoic chamber (FAR) with RF-absorbing materials
Measurement antennas calibrated for frequency range
Spectrum analyzer or signal analyzer
Positioning systems (turntables, antenna masts)
Signal conditioning components (amplifiers, filters)
Measurements are typically performed at distances of 3 or 10 meters, with the device under test (DUT) operating in normal or specific test modes.
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