Important RF Shielding Terminology

The more an individual spends learning about electromagnetic interference and EMI shielding, the more likely they are to design enclosures the protect their devices. Electronics with improper or inadequate shields are known to break down and cause other electronics to malfunction. One important thing to learn is the common terminology used by professionals within the industry. Becoming familiar with some of the more essential words will make shopping and designing much more efficient and cost-effective.

Shielding Materials

Air Filters (shielded): These devices are used when ventilating shielded rooms and cabinets, while also being able to remove dust and other particles. The air filter provides a shield for RF energy, which without it, would leak out of the enclosure. An air filter is most used in place of a wave-guide-beyond-cut-off honeycomb shield.

Anechoic Chambers: These are lined metallic enclosures that are designed to isolate the ambient electromagnetic environment while also providing low internal reflections. Chambers are commonly called microwave dark rooms.

Common-Mode Current: The main component of the signal current that is used to induce electric magnetic fields that will not cancel each other. Circuits with only one ground conductor and one outgoing signal conductor have a common-mode current that is the component for the total signal current that flows in the same direction as both conductors.

Shielding Gasket: these are materials that are used to maintain shielding effectiveness across seams and gaps found in electronic enclosures. Gaskets are made from a wide variety of materials that include wire mesh, fabric-wrapped foam, elastomer, stamped metal.

For more information on RF shielding and shielding materials, you should not hesitate to make us your first call.

 

EMI Shielding