Here are answers to the questions we were asked. From time to time we are adding new questions / answers. If you do not see the answer you are seeking, feel free to ask us your question by email or using the form provided below:
Q: On our ECU module to a new OEM we failed 25KV ESD Testing on one of the module input.
For the same type of module input for other OEM we did pass the same test. Can you help?
Yes we can. There are multiple reasons this can happen. We will need to spend some time analyzing your PCB layout and protection circuits. Also you can also verify if the input circuit is supposed to be tested up to 25KV or not; details on which circuits are tested and up to what voltage are inside the ESD section of your OEM EMC requirements document.
Q: Our OEM is asking us to do the EMC testing based on the newest specification. However our module is a carry over previous model years and we were tested with the previous EMC test revision. Is there a risk on failing some EMC test if we accept the specification Rev change?
Yes it is. Each of the big three USA OEMs has updated the EMC specification requirements in the last 2-3 years. We identified between 50 and 100 changes on each new updated specification. So it will be difficult to answer if a specific test will still pass or will fail.
Q: Our EMC Load Box is built with simulated loads. The EMC engineer from the OEM is asking us to rebuild the loadbox using real loads and use real time monitoring and data storage. Is he correct on his request? We do not see such a requirement in the test specifications.
Yes, your OEM EMC engineer is correct. The test specification document is saying that the OEM EMC engineer is the deciding authority on what kind of loads to use. He will approve your loadbox construction and monitoring scheme before you can start an official DV or PV Test.
Q: We were selected as a Tier2 supplier for a PCB assembly with our proprietary HW and SW to GM through a Tier1 who is providing the complete assembly, DC motor and some other electronic circuits.
Both EMC engineers from the GM and the Tier1 supplier are asking us to perform a large list of EMC and Electrical testing. We consider that they are not necessary. How can you help us?
You are correct, some EMC and Electrical Testing can be performed only with the final assembly manufactured by the Tier1. Also Tier1 is responsible for passing all EMC and Electrical testing on the final assembly. However, you are still responsible in case the final assembly fails one or more tests to independently test your PCB assembly with simulated loads. You need to demonstrate to both EMC engineers that the cause of failure is not your PCB. That is the reason your EMC Test Plan (if you will have one) will need to detail exactly how and what to test.
Also there are some commercial implications on which company is paying for a specific test.
Q: We failed RE / CE testing because a harmonics of the clock is showing in the FM Radio band and harmonic is over the OEM specified limit. Can you help us resolve the problem?
Yes we can. If your project timing permits a PCB change that will be the best option, we will need some hours of consulting to identify the problem and some PCB Layout time to fix the PCB.
If your project timing doesn’t permit a PCB change, we still have a few options by optimizing the design, ex: change the crystal frequency of matching circuits, etc.
Q: Can you do just a PCB Layout?
Yes. We have a PCB Design specialist on staff with over 7 years of automotive electronic product PCB design experience for multiple OEMs. He can design your PCB with EMC rules on mind starting from the beginning. We will need to import, convert or generate your schematics; we use the most commonly used PCB file formats. Contact us for more information.
Q: How do you bill your clients?
We charge an hourly rate on a contract base or on a PO base for companies and corporations. We always provide a quote for all estimated work based on a Quotation Questionnaire that we will send out to you. Our Quote document will have our general Terms and Conditions of payment.
Q: What exactly can EMC4pcb do for my company?
See our Services page for more details on our capabilities, if a specific capability is needed please email us or fill in the form below.
This depends on our current project loading. Please contact us concerning scheduling.