Investigation of test methods for DO-160 qualification tests

Experiments were performed to compare test arrangements used in DO-160 electromagnetic effects (EME) qualification testing. One arrangement in particular was found to expose the circuitry of the equipment under test (EUT) to inadequate levels of RF (radio frequency) or transient energy, despite achieving the required test levels at the harness or equipment chassis. This arrangement utilizes a wrap-around in the cable harness and wiring, to minimize the external equipment used in the test setup. The discrepancy was most pronounced at low frequency (below 10MHz). An alternate method was developed to correct the deficiency and restore the appropriate levels of EME excitation at the equipment interfaces while retaining the advantages of the original test configuration. Some EME test could not be corrected by the alternate technique.