Bench level automotive EMC validation test laboratory challenges and preferences

Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers of electrical and electronic subsystems are required to perform bench level electrical and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) validation testing. This is an important process that requires a significant investment in time and money. In an effort to improve the efficiency of testing, a survey was developed to gain an understanding of the challenges faced by test laboratories and also their preferences. This paper summarizes the results of the survey. Given the amount of time and money spent annually for the type of testing considered, the results suggest that pursuing improvements will result in a long term savings for the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers, and labs involved. In order to increase test efficiency, the OEMs, suppliers, and laboratories will need to work together to better prepare test plans and test setups. It is suggested that the results of this survey are used to prioritize the improvement activities.