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Case Study: Conquering Electromagnetic Compatibility Hurdles in Treadmills


Navigating EMC Hurdles in Treadmill Technology

TreadmillWhen it comes to treadmills, addressing electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) challenges is crucial for a seamless and secure user experience. Incorporating EMI/EMC filter solutions into the design of treadmills is a key strategy to overcome these challenges. These filters are vital in minimizing unwanted signals and noise, ultimately enhancing the equipment's performance and reliability. By implementing the right EMI/EMC filter solutions, manufacturers can ensure that treadmills operate efficiently without causing interference to other electronic devices.

A well-known treadmill manufacturer in the industry initially encountered electromagnetic compatibility challenges due to the use of standard single-stage filters. Despite their efforts, these filters proved inadequate in suppressing all electrical noise, resulting in EMC issues that impeded the certification process. Seeking assistance from Astrodyne TDI, a prominent provider of EMI/EMC filter solutions, led to a significant breakthrough. The experts at Astrodyne TDI suggested a dual-stage 20 amp filter tailored to address the specific frequency range of 150 kilohertz to 30 megahertz. While this solution notably improved the situation, further analysis revealed that specific lower frequencies were still causing the unit to exceed the specified limits.

Collaborating with Astrodyne TDI to tackle EMC obstacles

Collaborating closely with the manufacturer's engineering team, Astrodyne TDI conducted an in-depth analysis to pinpoint the source of the issue. Extensive testing and plot analysis revealed that the primary noise frequencies were below the 150-kilohertz range, requiring a tailored approach for resolution. Leveraging their expertise, the filter was adjusted to optimize insertion loss and suppression performance specifically in the 30 kilohertz to 100 kilohertz range. This fine-tuning resulted in an additional 10 to 15 DBs of insertion loss in the lower frequencies, ultimately ensuring the treadmill met the necessary standards and received certification.

EMI Filter Solution for Treadmill - DSC2000 Astrodyne TDIEMI/EMC Filter Solutions for Treadmill Equipment

Additionally, the innovative solution developed by Astrodyne TDI serves as a valuable addition to their standard Filter family, known as DSC 2000. This product line has obtained full agency approval with certifications such as UL 1283, IEC/EN 60939-3, UL 60939-3, and CSA C22.2 No. 8, making it a reliable and easily accessible option for treadmill manufacturers facing similar EMC challenges. These filters can be customized or modified to meet specific requirements, and they undergo in-house testing in the level 4 Intertek SEMKO Certified Safety Lab. This efficient process allows for quick customization and certification of products, ultimately saving time and costs for customers seeking EMC solutions for their treadmills.