Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electrical or electronic equipment, printed circuit board (PCB), and so on to function normally in the presence of electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMC is a strategic solution to prevent damage from EMI, radio frequency interference (RFI), or unwanted noise. The objective here is to facilitate the proper functioning of two or more electronic devices in a common electromagnetic field and reduce the susceptibility of the device to EMI, which leads to its malfunctioning. This also ensures the safety of the devices, personnel, and surrounding environment. Also, when a device is EMC enabled, it does not emit radiated or conducted waves, and hence no other device in the vicinity is affected. This post discusses electromagnetic compatibility, its growing demand, and more.
Reasons for the Growing Importance of EMC-Enabled Devices
There are several testing methods to check the emissions of each device, and rightly so. Here are some reasons for the high demand for EMC testing equipment and shielding solutions and the statistics behind it.
- The number of electronic devices in use has increased astronomically over the last few years, which may surge even more in the future. Hence, it is essential to consider the EMC aspect during the design stage of any device or even a PCB.
- The test equipment to check electromagnetic compatibility as well as various EMI shielding methods form a huge market. According to reports, the global EMC shielding and test equipment market was valued at $8.4 billion in 2024 and is slated to reach a size of $11.3 billion by 2030. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2024 to 2030.
- Here, the demand for advanced electronics and EMC-enabled devices is one of the driving factors.
- The rapid adoption of innovative shielding solutions for devices and PCBs is also one of the demand drivers.
- Also, EMC-related compliance and regulation are quite stringent and must be met across applications, pushing this market further.
- While EMC testing is gaining importance, EMI shielding is also crucial because it mitigates or suppresses EMI coming from internal components mounted on a PCB and from the external environment.
- While shielding cans, tapes, and coatings are commonly used, they may lack the flexibility and the ability to protect today’s complex PCBs. Shielding methods have evolved over the last few years, which include PCB EMI shields made from plasticized metal.
- These PCB EMI shields are flexible, customizable, super thin, and can conform to the size and dimensions of the PCB. They can also be removed and re-attached again if the board needs an upgrade.
- PCB EMI shields are gaining traction in safeguarding devices from internal noise as circuit boards are the core part of any electronic equipment. Once PCBs are protected, the device largely remains safe and functions normally.
- These flexible EMI shields offer a safe shielding solution for the most intricate electronic components.
If you are looking for shielding solutions for your PCB assembly, plasticized EMI shields may be the right choice for you. They prevent unwanted signals and subsequent damage to the board and in turn the system or device. XGR Technologies offers SnapShot® EMI shields made from a thin polyetherimide film on the interior and conductive tin on the exterior surfaces. These flexible and lightweight shields find applications in PCB assemblies in electronic devices and systems used across industries to mitigate electromagnetic inference. If you need further information on SnapShot® EMI shields and their usefulness in your PCB application, you can contact the team at XGR Technologies via phone or email.
