Track: Design and Analysis

Abstract

One mandatory requirement for validating new electronic devices and machines is electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests because any new design can emit or receive unwanted electrical interference, affecting the operation of other systems or devices in their environment. This requirement becomes critical in the case of real-time control systems, electromedical devices, and outer space operations. The Gigahertz Transverse Electromagnetic Cell (GTEM) is a tool for performing preliminary electromagnetic compatibility tests on new products. It generates a standardized and uniform electromagnetic field in a shielded environment, integrating pyramidal electromagnetic absorbers with large bandwidth. Compared to other environments, such as an anechoic chamber, its reduced dimensions and cost make it a suitable test laboratory environment for EMC measurements. This article describes the steps to design and build an RF-isolated chamber (GTEM) with dimensions 4m long, 2.2m wide, and 1.5m high. A literature review of the recommendations is summarized. The design of the mechanical parts and construction techniques are described to generate a construction guide for future interested parties. Its critical dimension was analyzed with simulations using finite elements to match the characteristic impedance of the exciter impedance and guarantee to minimize reflections.

Keywords
Gigahertz Transverse Electromagnetic Mode Cell (GTEM), Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Radio
Frequency (RF) absorbers, Return loss S11, Impedance Matching.