Introduction: MIL-STD-461G was issued in December 2015 incorporating many changes throughout the document prompting user questions or interpretations. Laboratory situations arise where the generic guidance requires specific situational decisions and the most common tests such as RE102 are included. The user quickly realizes that the given direction does not make sense for a … [Read more...]
About the Author
Steve Ferguson
Steven G. Ferguson is principal consultant at Compliance Direction, LLC. Steve has over forty years of experience in testing and device evaluation. He has instructed in the area of testing methods for the past twenty years, focusing on electromagnetic compatibility, product safety and environmental test methods. His comprehensive knowledge of MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD 704/1275/1399 and CE Marking requirements for commercial and industrial equipment provides the ability to discuss the many aspects associated with regulatory compliance. With a background operating test laboratories and manufacturing companies designing products, developing test procedures and performing tests, he has the experience to address a wide variety of regulatory compliance topics. He presents various courses on EMI/EMC compliance including EMC for Nuclear Power Facilities, Architectural Shielding and MIL-STD-461 testing presented on-line and at customer facilities. Steve is a iNARTE Certified EMC Engineer. Contact information: www.compliancedirection.com stevef@compliancedirection.com (240) 401-7177 5753 Hwy 85 N; #4312 Crestview, FL 32536 Topics: a. MIL-STD 464/MIL-STD-461 testing b. Electrical Safety Evaluation c. CE Marking topics (EMC, Safety, RoHS)
EMC Planning – Key to Success
The following transcript is from Interference Technology’s EMC Live: Mil/Aero event that took place March 2nd, 2021 and covered topics like MIL-STD-461 and RTCA/DO-160 updates, design and testing for harsh environments, and IoT applications in military systems. Good morning, this is Steve Ferguson. I want to say welcome to all the attendees. I'm pleased to speak with … [Read more...]
MIL-STD-461G Passive Device Calibration Review
The Requirement: When MIL-STD-461 revision “G” was issued, I believed that the answer to many of my measurement equipment calibration issues had been solved. Right there in the “Calibration of measuring equipment” paragraph the requirements clearly stated: After the initial calibration passive devices such as measurement system antennas, current probes, and LISNs, require no … [Read more...]
Review of Induced Signal Susceptibility Testing—DO-160 Section 19
The Issue Induced signal susceptibility has been a factor in electronic equipment performance since the dawning of voltage and current. Often referred to as crosstalk, the undesired coupling of one circuit’s signals to another may result in interference that degrades the integrity of either signal. This article examines the testing process prescribed by RTCA DO-160 Section … [Read more...]
Review of Bonding and Grounding Requirements
The Question What is the required bonding and grounding requirements to achieve compliance with the various electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards associated with electronic equipment? I received this question a few days ago and quickly realized that a quick and easy answer was not feasible since I virtually had no knowledge of what kind of equipment types were … [Read more...]
Review of Magnetic Effects Testing—DO-160 Section 15
The Issue From the beginning of aviation, knowledge of the aircraft direction during flight has been critical to locating destinations. The magnetic compass was used for centuries in shipping, and naturally, it was adopted for aircraft use. Without visible signposts or landmarks, direction relies on the compass to provide the necessary information. The compass aligns with the … [Read more...]
Review of MIL-STD-1275 Requirements
Introduction This may seem disassociated from the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) theme of this publication but issues dealing with power quality and the qualification testing has a direct link to EMC. Frequently the EMC engineers and technicians are tasked taking care of the power quality, so I believe that reviews of these standards are appropriate. MIL-STD-1275 deals … [Read more...]
Review of Space Applications EMC Requirements
The Contract Having been a long-time manufacturer of oxygen concentrator equipment, when I saw an opportunity to bid on a job to provide an oxygen concentrator system (OCS) for a satellite project I jumped at the chance. The specifications were normal for this type of system and of course electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements were included. Having experience with … [Read more...]
Review of MIL-STD-1399-300-1 Requirements
Introduction The electrical power system of a ship functions like a city’s electrical grid from the power generation to medium voltage distribution to the low voltage networks located in various sections of the ship’s structure. It only makes sense to treat the power system like a city’s power system, after all larger vessels include services that a city would … [Read more...]
Review of MIL-STD 704 Requirements
Introduction This article discusses the power quality test and evaluation with a review of MIL-STD-704 and the relationship with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). MIL-STD-704 deals with aircraft electric power characteristics, and provides the standard to ensure compatibility between the aircraft power system (including external power) and the utilization … [Read more...]
