With the advancement in technology, the distances are getting shorter. We have now the fastest means of traveling, and along with that, we have the fastest means of communications as well. We can connect to anyone immediately through our cellular phones, or we can know what is happening in other parts of the world through radio or television services. Have you ever thought of how it is possible to communicate across a thousand miles?
This is possible only because electromagnetic waves and RF waves are the most important source of communication. It is also vital to notice that there are millions of devices that are working based on these RF waves. Still, we rarely notice any interruption in our services. Yes, this is possible only because of RF testing, where it is made sure that a device transmits and receives a specific set of wavelengths and frequencies while discarding others. In an environment where every one of us is surrounded by electromagnetic waves, it is vital to have an idea about RF testing.
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Now, if you are confused about, what is RF testing? How it is done, and what are its applications. Read ahead for a general overview of the technology.
What is RF testing?
This test is very important to check the spectrum range of the device, whether the device is working efficiently within its spectrum range or not. Here the definition of efficiency is taken in terms of radio waves not interfering with each other in the space. The test is used to cover different types of broadcasts, including GPS, cellular devices, WI-Fi, PMR radio are some to be mentioned. In some of the markets, this test is mandatory in order to make sure the quality of the service.
How does RF testing work?
This test is conducted in a controlled environment where the device is placed in an area that is isolated. Furthermore, a special type of device is used to suppress the electromagnetic waves around the device. After all these measurements, the waves are transmitted through the device and checked whether they are interfering with other devices’ operations present in the region or not.
As mentioned, the above test is carried out to check the transmitted waves from the device under test interfere with other devices or not. At the same time, there is another test that can be carried out to check whether the waves from other devices interfere with the operation of the device, which is under test. This test can be carried out by applying the interference to the device under test, and at the same time, its operation is measured.
Factors to look at in RF Test?
This test is done to make sure that the device keeps working within the guidelines and regulations that are given or mandatory from the authority in the region. One example of the failure of the test lies in the problem known as attenuation. This is mainly due to the fact of blocking of the signal, and the signal loses some of its power and becomes weak. This is evident from the fact that sometimes we are unable to receive the signals when we are upstairs or in the basement in case of Wi-Fi signals or telecommunication signals. This is possibly due to the physical hindrance in the path of the signals. In most regions, it is mandatory to keep the signal’s attenuation at the lowest possible range.
Identification of interference?
To correctly identify the interference, it is imperative to know more about the type of interference a device is facing. This is because there are two main types of interference; one is broadband, and the other is a narrow band.
Broadband is more common, and it refers to the larger wavelengths. This can be seen in digital televisions, cellular devices, and Bluetooth connections as well. Whereas the narrow-band refers to the narrow wavelength can be seen as an example in adjacent-channel and co-channel transmissions.
These interferences are tested, and the exact nature of the interference is identified on the basis of the references as mentioned above.
Importance of RF testing:
The importance of RF testing is most evident in the telecommunication department. It is very important for the television and radio broadcasting, fire and police department’s radio communications. If there is interference in the radio services of the department as mentioned above, the proper communication will not be possible, and it may cause huge damage to the lives and properties as well. This testing has also shown its importance in satellite communication as well as point-to-point microwave links.
Microwave can also be considered as an example of the utilization of RF energy in non-communication applications. Radars that are used in air traffic control or for defense applications are another important application of RF testing. This is important in the sense that if the RF signals are not adequately tested and protected, there is a chance that the device may interact with other useless signals, and the main signal may attenuate. There is also a chance that the communication devices’ signals may interfere with the enemy devices, and important information may be lost or go to the enemies.
RF waves have also found important applications in the medical field used in skin tightening treatments, promoting healing and fat reduction; MRI is commonly known as magnetic resonance imaging. For all such applications, the whole environment becomes electromagnetic, and it is very important to keep the waves in their respective domains, and they do not interfere with other electromagnetic devices or signals.
These important applications raise the importance of RF testing. This is also why the authorities or the government in many regions of the world are keen to keep a check on the standards of RF testing and its certifications.
