Novel EMC debugging methodologies for high-power converters

Without a need to power up a system, novel debugging strategies are proposed in this paper to characterize the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) features of power converters. By externally injecting switching transients to key spots, the noise on various locations can be monitored. Then, by correlating the injected signal to the observed noise, the noise distribution mechanisms can be examined, and the EMC problems under full power operation can be predicted accordingly. Since the signal source is working at much lower voltage and power, and the system tested need not be functional, the tests can be conducted in much earlier development stages, with much less risk and much more freedom. Thorough test results are included in this paper. The case of a traction drive is discussed.