Of course, a functional prototype is an important milestone to begin with. However, it does not yet prove that a device will operate reliably under electromagnetic influences or that it will cause sufficiently little interference with other systems. Unfortunately, these characteristics usually only become apparent during a formal EMC test. By that point, however, many technical and organizational decisions have already been made.
Consequently, issues discovered late in the process rarely affect just a single printed circuit board. Changes may involve cable routing, enclosures, interfaces, software versions, supplier parts, and manufacturing specifications. This results in additional development iterations. Requirements that have already been finalized must then be reevaluated and reclassified. This means that prototypes, tooling, or test setups may require modifications. Consequently, this technical issue directly impacts the schedule or budget.
Robust EMC planning begins with an appropriate description of the product and its intended use. This includes, for example, the intended environment, relevant operating conditions, connected accessories, and the functions that must be maintained during and after an interference event. The applicable standards and acceptance criteria must also be established in a timely manner.
These fundamentals then establish a common working basis for all disciplines involved. The system architecture defines interfaces and power flows. The mechanical design influences cable routing and shielding. Electronics and software determine switching states and operating modes. And manufacturing and assembly must implement the developed concept in a reproducible manner.
EMC is part of the overall development process and not an isolated task at the end of the project. EMC Considered from the Planning Stage
Electrical and electronic equipment may only be made available and operated in the European Single Market if it complies with the essential requirements of the EMC Directive. The Federal Network Agency conducts random inspections of products and may take action in the event of non-compliance. Conformity assessment requires well-documented technical decisions and, of course, supporting evidence.
Simulations, measurements conducted throughout the development process, and pre-compliance tests can provide insights during these processes before a product undergoes formal testing. While they do not replace a final conformity assessment, they help verify assumptions, identify critical operating conditions, and validate technical decisions at an earlier stage.
An issue identified during the concept or development phase can be addressed with greater flexibility than one discovered shortly before approval and the start of series production. The necessary measures can then be technically evaluated and coordinated with the relevant disciplines. This reduces the risk of merely correcting symptoms under time pressure.
On September 17, 2026, Joachim Schütz and I will speak at the Treffpunkt Medizintechnik in Frankfurt am Main on the topic “Getting a Handle on EMC Risks Early On—Using Simulation and Expertise for Safe Product Development.” The presentation will show you where EMC risks arise during the course of a project and which measures make sense in the respective development phases. Specific project scenarios will illustrate why planning, simulation, and practical testing must all be taken into account.
