EMI/EMC for Digital Systems
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) represent critical considerations in the design of digital systems. As clock frequencies increase and signal edge rates become faster, digital circuits become increasingly effective antennas, both radiating unwanted electromagnetic energy and becoming susceptible to external interference. Understanding and managing these phenomena is essential for creating reliable products that meet regulatory requirements and function correctly in real-world electromagnetic environments.
Digital systems present unique EMC challenges because their operation inherently involves rapid switching of voltage and current levels. Every logic transition generates broadband electromagnetic energy, with frequency components extending far beyond the fundamental clock frequency. High-speed buses, clock distribution networks, and switching power supplies all contribute to electromagnetic emissions while simultaneously creating potential susceptibility points where external interference can corrupt data or cause system malfunctions.