A new test system for measurements of fast transients in passenger cars

In present and future passenger cars there is a trend to install more and more electric and electronic devices. Some of the new systems like active body control, electric brake systems and other high power devices have an increasing demand for electric power. High current and voltage peaks with corresponding disturbance can occur during switching of such devices. A new measuring system has been developed to get a better overview of the fast transients and their propagation on the wiring harness. There are several requirements in the automotive area the system has to cover. It must be able to withstand the immunity test with high field strengths and must not influence the measurements and the function of the electric and electronic devices of the car. Therefore several potential free voltage probes with optical data links are used. The whole system is battery supplied and of small size to be suitable for mobile use.