EMI Shielding and RFI Shielding: How Die Cutting Solves Design Challenges
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a man-made or naturally-occurring phenomenon that disturbs electrical circuits and disrupts electronic devices. The causes of EMI are numerous, and include both ambient sources and power quality problems. The effects of EMI can range from data losses and decreased performance to system failure and loss of life. By protecting electronic devices and systems against electromagnetic noise or crosstalk, engineers can mitigate these risks.
Radio frequency interference (RFI), a subset of electrical noise on the electromagnetic spectrum, is also problematic. The symptoms of RFI include flickering computer monitors or lights, instrumentation errors, and communications disruptions. RFI is conducted or radiated, and can originate with variable frequency drives (VFDs) and other electrical or electronic equipment. Like EMI shielding, RFI shielding is especially important in applications where circuits are packed tightly together in small or enclosed spaces.
Applications for EMI Shielding and RFI Shielding
EMI shielding and RFI shielding are used in automotive electronics, LED lighting, consumer electronics, and wireless communications. In these and other applications, electromagnetic emissions can interrupt, obstruct, degrade, or limit the performance of circuits in the same system or a nearby system. Cars, computers, cellphones, wireless cameras, Wi-Fi technology, and Bluetooth devices are just some of the commonly-used products that require effective EMI/RFI shielding.
Automotive electronics are especially susceptible because carmakers keep adding features for security, navigation, communications, and entertainment in response to consumer demand. Today, collision avoidance systems that incorporate radar, sensors, and cameras are no longer found just on luxury vehicles. If extraneous electromagnetic radiations reduce receiver performance, however, the radar that’s used in rear-view mirrors for blind spot detection won’t work.
Electromagnetic noise or crosstalk can also affect LED lighting. Older incandescent bulbs use line voltage, but LED lights use driver circuits that operate at higher frequencies. Designers of consumer electronics and wireless devices also need superior shielding since power converters and cellular communications can disrupt electronic circuits. Because the 2.4 GHz band is used widely, consumer products such as baby monitors and wireless controllers can affect Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other devices.
Die Cutting for EMI Shielding and RFI Shielding
For EMI shielding and RFI shielding that solves design challenges, engineers chose die cut products from JBC Technologies. As a manufacturing method, die cutting is fast, accurate, repeatable, and cost-effective. JBC also offers value-added services like help with material selection. To learn more about die cutting for EMI shielding and RFI shielding, contact the Sales Team at JBC Technologies.