Immunity to electrical fast transient pulses of computer systems

Abstract

The electromagnetic disturbances as low energy electrical fast transients pulse trains generated by switching phenomena in low and medium voltage networks, or by atmospheric discharges on power distribution lines are a presence and an ongoing challenge for electrical and electronic equipment. SR EN 61000-4-4: 2009 standard "Electrical fast transients/burst immunity test" regulates the level of the test pulses. But for particular equipment, the general frame defined by the standard is too large. This paper, after highlighting the characteristics of electromagnetic disturbances that occur when connecting and disconnecting the computing equipment, identifies the appropriate level at which it is necessary to start the test procedure, in order to step toward refining the standard procedure for immunity testing to electrical fast transients, resulting in increased efficiency, measured in decreasing test time and in test cost reduction, effective in increasing the portfolio of clients through competitive prices in the market.