[RFI] Question: Conducted vs. Radiated Emissions

[Hare, Ed W1RFI]

The only device connected to the ac mains is the inverter.  That would probably be tested on a C63.4-compliant test fixture. I am not sure whether they would use a panel and optimizer or simulate them with a supplied voltage. The inverter would be connected to a LISN grounded to the ground plane that is part of the test fixture, typically with 3 feet of AC wiring.

If they tested in-situ, the LISN would still be connected to the inverter with about 3 feet of wiring, so pickup would be minimal.  From the S-meter readings, these systems operate at a radiated level that is at least 10 dB below the levels that would be permitted for an intentional emitter or carrier-current system, so it is my estimation that any noise radiated by the system and then picked up on 3-feet of AC mains would be below the conducted-emissions limits.

Ed Hare, W1RFI



-----Original Message-----
From: RFI <rfi-bounces at contesting.com> On Behalf Of Tony
Sent: Wednesday, December 18, 2019 4:04 AM
To: Rfi List <rfi at contesting.com>
Subject: [RFI] Question: Conducted vs. Radiated Emissions

All:

I have a question regarding FCC limits on conducted emissions that relates to radiated emissions.

If a solar panel system produces electromagnetic energy that finds its way onto the mains and then onto the power lines which then radiates over the air, that device would be subject to the limits imposed on conducted emissions.

If the same solar panel system radiates the same energy over the air through the cables that make up the system without reaching the mains, FCC regulations would not apply since there are no limits on radiated emissions.

In a situation where both cases produced the same high level of RFI, what course of action would the FCC take? Would they simply dismiss the radiated emissions case and enforce the conductive case simply because of route the energy took?

Tony -K2MO

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