Factors effecting EMC chamber efficiency

The author describes the lessons learnt in operating Europe´s first commissioned automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test facility and its development to provide cost effective, yet state of the art, whole vehicle susceptibility testing for Rover Cars. The Rover Group´s Gaydon Test Centre was commissioned in March 1986. The facility is run on two shifts and is usually booked upto a year in advance. The internal walls and ceiling are lined with 1.2 m long radio absorbent material (RAM), carbon loaded foam pyramids, to reduce resonances and reflections and so permit controlled testing, in effect simulating open side conditions. The author discusses the costs involved in vehicle testing and how the costs can be reduced. The author covers body shapes, trim levels, aerials, the test state and alternative development testing. The efficiency of the test centre is discussed.<>