The EMI Shielding Industry: Where We Are and Where We’re Going
The proliferation of wireless technology creates new opportunities and new challenges.
EMI (electromagnetic interference) is either electromagnetic induction or electromagnetic radiation from an external source that is interfering with the performance of a nearby circuit. While the source of EMI can be any entity carrying an electrical current (including the sun), the term EMI is usually used when referencing an electrical circuit’s ability to perform efficiently without being affected by electromagnetic devices within its immediate vicinity. Interference—or EMI—from these competing devices can cause the disruption or blockage of the efficiency of the circuit in question, or in some cases cause circuit shutdown. Depending on the application, the failure of a key circuit and surrounding hardware can create substantial financial and safety concerns.
The barrier against the potential hazards of EMI is EMI shielding, which can come in the form of conductive enclosures that block electromagnetic radiation, specially designed gaskets, conductive paints and coatings, foils and tapes, and EMI filters. Gaskets designed to inhibit EMI include finger-stock gaskets, fabric-over-foam gaskets, mesh gaskets, and gaskets made up of a combination of materials. In the end, the goal of each of these shielding approaches is the same: effectively protecting electrical and electronic devices against potentially damaging EMI (reducing or eliminating “noise”).MI (electromagnetic interference) is either electromagnetic induction or electromagnetic radiation from an external source that is interfering with the performance of a nearby circuit. While the source of EMI can be any entity carrying an electrical current (including the sun), the term EMI is usually used when referencing an electrical circuit’s ability to perform efficiently without being affected by electromagnetic devices within its immediate vicinity. Interference—or EMI—from these competing devices can cause the disruption or blockage of the efficiency of the circuit in question, or in some cases cause circuit shutdown. Depending on the application, the failure of a key circuit and surrounding hardware can create substantial financial and safety concerns.