A Comprehensive Guide To Using EMI Absorbers To Improve Circuit Performance
EMI Absorbers are a popular and cost effective design choice for those looking to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) from electronic circuits. This guide will cover the basics of EMI absorbers, explaining how they work and how they can be used to improve circuit performance.
What are EMI Absorbers?
EMI absorbers are non-resonant materials consisting of multiple layers of dissipative material such as ferrite and copper, usually sandwiched between two metalized plastic surfaces. They act as a shield which reduces the electromagnetic radiation emitted from an electronic circuit. This can be particularly helpful for EMI sensitive environments such as medical, industrial, or military applications, or for scenarios where EMI can cause malfunctioning and data loss.
How Do EMI Absorbers Work?
EMI absorbers work by reducing the intensity of the electromagnetic interference through absorption and reflection. The absorber absorbs energy that is transmitted through the airwaves, while the reflection component redirects the energy away from the circuit. The degree of attenuation achieved depends on the absorber design and the material used. The optimal design should be chosen based on the application and the criteria needed.
When Should You Use EMI Absorbers?
EMI absorbers can be used in a variety of situations where electromagnetic interference could impact the efficiency of a circuit. Some common scenarios include:
- Radio frequency interference from cellular phones, broadcast towers, and other electronic devices
- Power supply noise generated from other components in the circuit
- High-frequency noise from clock sources and switching power supplies
Additionally, EMI absorbers can be used to improve signal integrity in environments where the noise from wireless networks and other wireless devices is prevalent.
How to Choose the Right EMI Absorber
In order to choose the best EMI absorber for a given application, it is important to consider the type of interference, the frequency of the interfering source, and the environment in which the absorber will be placed. Additionally, the type of EMI absorber material should be taken into account. Ferrite and copper are two of the most popular materials used in EMI absorbers, but other materials such as plastics, foams, and fabrics are also available.
Finally, it is important to consider the size and shape of the absorber. The absorber should be designed in such a way that it will cover the area of the circuit where the interference exists. Additionally, the absorber should not be too large or too small, as this can result in decreased performance.
Conclusion
In summary, EMI absorbers can be a cost effective design choice for reducing electromagnetic interference in circuits. It is important to consider the criteria mentioned above when choosing the right EMI absorber for a given application. With the right selection and design, EMI absorbers can help improve circuit performance and reduce the risk of data loss.
