Near field probes detect electrical or magnetic energy in the field directly around a device under test. An important step of EMC radiated emissions testing, there are two varieties of probes: E-field and H-field. ATEC carries both types in compliance with a variety of test standards.
What is a Near Field Probe?
Near field probes are commonly used to perform pre-compliance EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) testing on a product in order to detect the presence of electromagnetic interference, or EMI, exceeding relevant regulatory standards. Pre-compliance testing is likewise performed to lower the risk of failing the actual EMC test.
The two basic varieties of near field probes are E-field probes and H-field probes. E-field probes interact with electric fields generated by voltage changes. The bulbous ending of the probe directly contacts a circuit, tracing the emissions on individual pins or a circuit board.
Meanwhile, H-field probes are responsive to magnetic fields generated by current changes. The conductive loop on the end of the probe detects the magnetic field when scanning the component or device.
The newest near field probes have scanners which produce images of the real-time emissions of PCBs without using an external spectrum analyzer. These scanners capture results and display them on a monitor for a streamlined process.
Near Field Probe Rentals
Industries which require EMC testing for their products, such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and communications, rely on these probes to identify radiated emissions before sending their devices to accredited EMC labs to fulfill IEC-61000, CISPR, and MIL-STD standards. Renting is a cost-efficient way of testing pre-compliance without having to purchase all the equipment necessary.
ATEC supplies near field probe test sets with test frequencies ranging from 9 kHz to 18 GHz. We rent standard probes, laser powered probes, fiber optic transmitters, EMC/EMI diagnostic systems, and more. View our inventory below.