A proposed method for quantifying uncertainty in RF immunity testing due to EUT presence

Abstract

Throughout the performance of a RF immunity test according IEC 61000-4-3 there are several factors that should be taken into account to ensure the quality and to estimate the uncertainty associated to the results. One phenomenon that should be considered to calculate uncertainty is the disturbing effect produced by the EUT over the electric field generated within the calibrated uniform field area; nevertheless the mentioned effect is not easily quantifiable because the measuring process using additional antennas or field probes inside the semianechoic chamber could also alter the electric field distribution. An experimental method for quantifying the mentioned uncertainty contribution is presented. The method is based upon the fact that antenna-EUT coupling and reflection effects could be measured through changes in the input impedance of the field generation antenna. A validation procedure for the proposed method is also described. Hence, a relationship between the reflection coefficient at the antenna input port and the electric field strength is derived. The uncertainty contribution is calculated through the maximum relative change in the E-field intensity magnitude for the frequency range of 80-1000 MHz, considering the worst case for several EUT positions.