How to test the power filter’s function?

Power filters are essential components in electronic devices, with the main function of filtering the input power signal to remove noise and other interference, providing a stable and smooth direct current or alternating current voltage to ensure the normal operation of electronic devices. Power filters are widely used in electronic products, especially in high-end electronic products that require signal stability, reliability, and safety.

In addition to the main functions and roles mentioned above, power filters can also serve the following purposes:

• Filter out high-frequency noise in the input power, reduce interference to the system, and minimize electromagnetic radiation.
• Prevent transient changes in the power supply circuit to avoid impacting the system.
• Avoid sudden surges in the power line to enhance system reliability and stability.

So, how can the performance of power filters be tested?

1. Leakage Current

Leakage current refers to the current flowing between the phase line, neutral line, and the filter casing (ground line) under a voltage of 250VAC. It primarily depends on the value of the ground capacitor (common mode capacitor). A larger common mode capacitor CY can improve insertion loss but may result in higher leakage current.

2. Withstand Voltage

To ensure the performance of the power filter, as well as the safety of equipment and personnel, withstand voltage testing must be conducted. Withstand voltage testing is performed under extreme operating conditions. If the withstand voltage performance of the CX capacitor is poor, it may break down when peak surge voltage occurs. While its breakdown may not endanger personal safety, it can cause the filter to lose functionality or performance.

3. Performance Evaluation

When using EMI power filters, the most important considerations are the rated voltage and current values, withstand voltage performance, and leakage current. The primary performance evaluation of a filter is its insertion loss performance.

The ability of an EMI power filter to suppress interference noise is measured using Insertion Loss (I.L.). Insertion loss is defined as the ratio of the power P1 transmitted from the noise source to the load without the filter connected to the power P2 transmitted from the noise source to the load with the filter connected, expressed in decibels (dB).

• Standard Insertion Loss Testing
• Load Insertion Loss Testing
• Time Domain Testing for EMI Filters

4. Design of an Automatic Insertion Loss Testing System for EMI Filters

As EMC testing becomes more complex and the workload increases, the requirements for testing equipment in terms of functionality, performance, testing speed, and accuracy are also rising. Traditional manual testing is increasingly unable to meet these requirements. National standards (GB) and national military standards (GJB) both require EMC testing to be automated, with strict requirements for data post-processing. Therefore, the development of EMC automatic testing has become essential. The automatic testing system established in this article utilizes virtual instrument technology and is based on a signal source and spectrum analyzer to test the insertion loss of EMI power filters.