The Critical Role of Magnetic Shielding Cabinets in EMI Testing: A Detailed Examination of the LISUN SDR-2000B

Introduction
In the realm of electronic device development and testing, ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is paramount. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can significantly affect device performance, leading to malfunctions or failures. To mitigate these issues, controlled testing environments are essential. Magnetic Shielding Cabinets play a crucial role in providing such environments by isolating devices under test (DUT) from external electromagnetic fields. This paper delves into the importance of Magnetic Shielding Cabinets in EMI testing, with a particular focus on the LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet.​

Understanding Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Electromagnetic Interference refers to the disturbance caused by electromagnetic radiation from external sources, which can degrade or obstruct the performance of electronic equipment. EMI can be classified into two types: conducted interference, which travels through electrical conductors, and radiated interference, which propagates through space. Addressing EMI is critical to ensure that electronic devices operate reliably in their intended environments.​

The Necessity of Magnetic Shielding in EMI Testing
To accurately assess a device’s susceptibility to EMI, testing must be conducted in environments free from unintended electromagnetic signals. Magnetic Shielding Cabinets provide such environments by attenuating external electromagnetic fields, thereby ensuring that test results reflect the device’s true performance without external interference.​

Standards Governing Magnetic Shielding Cabinets
The design and performance of Magnetic Shielding Cabinets are governed by several international standards to ensure consistency and reliability in EMI testing:​

• IEEE Std 299: This standard outlines methods for measuring the effectiveness of electromagnetic shielding enclosures over a frequency range from 9 kHz to 18 GHz. It provides guidelines for evaluating the attenuation levels of shielding materials and enclosures. ​
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• EN 50147 (GB/T 12190): This standard specifies procedures for measuring the shielding attenuation of anechoic chambers, ensuring that such environments meet required performance criteria.​
• GJB 5792: A Chinese military standard that sets forth requirements for the design and testing of electromagnetic shielding enclosures, ensuring they meet stringent defense-related specifications.​

Compliance with these standards ensures that Magnetic Shielding Cabinets provide reliable and repeatable testing environments for EMI assessments.​

Overview of the LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet
The LISUN SDR-2000B is a Magnetic Shielding Cabinet designed to facilitate accurate EMI testing by providing an environment isolated from external electromagnetic interference. Engineered in accordance with IEEE Std 299, EN 50147, and GJB 5792 standards, the SDR-2000B ensures compliance with international testing protocols. ​
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Key Features and Specifications
The SDR-2000B boasts several features that make it suitable for comprehensive EMI testing:​

• Cabinet Shell: Constructed from 2mm galvanized cold-rolled steel sheet, offering robust structural integrity and effective shielding.​
• Cabinet Door: Measures 0.6m x 0.6m, facilitating easy access for equipment and personnel.​
• Power Supply Filter: Rated at 30A/220V, ensuring that power lines do not introduce external interference into the testing environment.​
• Internet Line Filter: Equipped with an RJ-45 filter, allowing network connectivity without compromising shielding effectiveness.​
• Internal Dimensions: Provides a spacious testing area of 2m x 1.2m x 1.8m, accommodating various devices and testing setups.​
• Internal Decoration: Features PVC for the ceiling, PVC plastic steel for the walls, and a floor comprising 10mm wooden board overlaid with 2mm galvanized steel plate, ensuring a stable and durable interior environment.
• Packaging Dimensions and Weight: The cabinet’s packaging measures 2.2m x 2.3m x 2.3m, with a total weight of 800kg, reflecting its sturdy construction.​

These specifications underscore the SDR-2000B’s capability to provide a controlled environment for accurate EMI testing.​

Comparative Analysis with Other LISUN Models
LISUN offers a range of Magnetic Shielding Cabinets tailored to different testing requirements. A comparison of the SDR-2000B with other models, such as the SDR-5000B and SDR-800S, highlights the distinctions:​

Specification	SDR-5000B	SDR-2000B	SDR-800S
Cabinet Shell	2mm galvanized cold-rolled steel sheet	2mm galvanized cold-rolled steel sheet	2mm galvanized cold-rolled steel sheet
Cabinet Door	0.9m x 1.7m	0.6m x 0.6m	0.6m x 0.6m
Cabinet Window	0.3m x 0.3m x 0.025m with 4mm hole	N/A	N/A
Power Supply Filter	30A/220V	30A/220V	30A/220V
Internet Line Filter	RJ-45	RJ-45	N/A
Internal Dimensions	5m x 3m x 3m	2m x 1.2m x 1.8m	0.8m x 0.8m x 0.8m
Packaging Dimensions	15 CBM	2.2m x 2.3m x 2.3m	1m x 1.1m x 1.2m
Package Weight	2500kg	800kg	200kg

This comparison illustrates that the SDR-2000B offers a balanced combination of size and performance, making it ideal for medium-sized EMI testing setups where space, accessibility, and shielding integrity are all crucial considerations.

Applications of the LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet
The LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet is specifically designed to facilitate accurate EMI testing in a variety of industrial and research settings. Its applications include:

1. Consumer Electronics Testing
Many consumer electronics—such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops—must undergo rigorous EMI testing to meet national and international regulatory requirements. The SDR-2000B provides a controlled, interference-free space where such devices can be assessed for emissions and susceptibility.

2. Automotive Component Evaluation
Modern vehicles contain numerous electronic subsystems, including infotainment systems, battery management systems, and electronic control units (ECUs). These systems must operate without interference from one another. SDR-2000B is used in automotive labs to test individual components for EMI performance before integration.

3. Medical Equipment Testing
Medical devices must adhere to strict EMC standards due to their critical nature. Magnetic Shielding Cabinets like the SDR-2000B help verify that devices such as pacemakers, MRI-compatible equipment, and diagnostic tools do not emit or fall victim to electromagnetic interference.

4. Military and Aerospace Applications
In military and aerospace industries, the tolerance for EMI is extremely low. The SDR-2000B, complying with GJB5792, meets the stringent shielding requirements needed to test mission-critical systems such as avionics, communication devices, and navigation instruments.

5. Academic Research and Development
Universities and technical institutes involved in electronics research often require a clean electromagnetic environment to test experimental circuits, antennas, and sensor technologies. The SDR-2000B offers the shielding necessary to ensure reproducible results in such academic environments.

EMI Testing Workflow Using SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet
The typical EMI testing process using the LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet can be summarized as follows:

Step Action
• Preparation: Install DUT (Device Under Test) inside the cabinet along with EMI receivers (e.g., LISUN EMI-9KA) and auxiliary equipment.
• Connection: Securely connect all cables through filtered interfaces (power, RJ-45) to maintain shielding integrity.
• Isolation Check: Close the shielding cabinet and ensure proper latching of all access points.
• Test Execution: Run test sequences using software like EMI-9KB to detect emissions or simulate electromagnetic fields.
• Data Analysis: Record and analyze results, verifying compliance with relevant EMI standards.
• Repeat: Modify test parameters or DUT configuration as needed and re-test.

This workflow highlights how the cabinet integrates into standard EMI procedures and supports accurate data acquisition.

Advantages of Using the SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet
The LISUN SDR-2000B provides numerous benefits that make it a valuable addition to any EMC testing lab:

• High Shielding Effectiveness: Thanks to its robust construction and filtered interfaces, the SDR-2000B can significantly attenuate external EMI across a broad frequency range.
• Scalable Testing Environment: With its 2m x 1.2m x 1.8m interior, the cabinet is versatile enough to test a wide range of devices without the need for larger and costlier shielded rooms.
• Portability and Setup: Unlike fully constructed Faraday cages or anechoic chambers, the cabinet can be relocated and installed with relative ease, especially due to its modular design and manageable weight.
• Regulatory Compliance: The design fully adheres to IEEE Std 299, EN50147, and GJB standards, giving confidence to labs pursuing international certification.
• Cost Efficiency: It offers a middle ground between small benchtop shields and full-scale chambers, making it ideal for institutions and companies with limited space or budget.

Maintenance and Safety Guidelines
To ensure the longevity and performance of the Magnetic Shielding Cabinet, regular maintenance and safety checks are essential:

• Grounding Verification: Regularly check that the cabinet is properly grounded to avoid potential current build-up, which could impact shielding performance or pose safety risks.
• Seal Inspection: Door gaskets and seams should be inspected periodically for wear or leaks that could compromise EMI attenuation.
• Filter Integrity: Input/output filters (power and data) should be tested to confirm they are maintaining their shielding effectiveness.
• Interior Cleaning: Keep the internal space free of dust and conductive debris that might influence test results.
• Operator Training: Personnel using the SDR-2000B should be trained not only in EMI testing protocols but also in the proper operation of the shielding cabinet to prevent physical or procedural errors.

Future Trends in EMI Testing and Magnetic Shielding
With the rapid advancement of wireless technology (e.g., 5G, Wi-Fi 7), the demand for high-frequency EMI testing continues to grow. As such:

• Improved Frequency Ranges: Future shielding cabinets may incorporate multi-layered materials capable of attenuating up to 40 GHz or beyond.
• Smart Monitoring: Integration of IoT-based sensors to monitor environmental conditions inside the cabinet (e.g., temperature, humidity, electromagnetic field intensity).
• Automated Operation: Enhanced automation features, including remote control access and AI-assisted test planning, are likely to become standard in EMI testing environments.
• Miniaturization: As wearable and embedded electronics become more common, compact Magnetic Shielding Cabinets for small-scale components are expected to be in higher demand.

Conclusion
The Magnetic Shielding Cabinet is an indispensable tool in the field of electromagnetic compatibility testing. The LISUN SDR-2000B Magnetic Shielding Cabinet, in particular, exemplifies a well-engineered solution that meets the rigorous demands of modern EMI testing. With its sturdy construction, standard-compliant design, and versatile application scenarios, the SDR-2000B enables accurate and repeatable results in a wide array of industries.

As technology evolves and the electromagnetic spectrum becomes more crowded, the importance of reliable EMI testing environments will only increase. Investing in a high-quality Magnetic Shielding Cabinet such as the LISUN SDR-2000B is not just a matter of compliance—it’s a critical component in the quest for performance, safety, and innovation.

References

• LISUN Official Product Page: https://www.lisungroup.com/products/emi-and-emc-test-system/magnetic-shielding-cabinet-for-emi-testing.html
• IEEE Std 299-2006: Standard Method for Measuring the Effectiveness of Electromagnetic Shielding Enclosures
• EN 50147-1: Anechoic Chambers—Shielding Attenuation Measurements
• GJB 5792: General Military Standard for Electromagnetic Shielding Enclosures

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