Measurements In Reverberation Chamber Using R&S Elektra

Reverberation chambers (RVCs) are increasingly favored over traditional anechoic chambers (ACs) for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, including emission and immunity assessments. Unlike ACs, which absorb electromagnetic waves to simulate a free-space environment, RVCs create a reflective, multipath environment that more accurately simulates real-world electromagnetic conditions. This inherent difference makes RVCs particularly advantageous in many applications.

RVCs are recognized and accepted across a wide range of EMC test standards and industries. One of their primary benefits is the ability to generate high field strengths efficiently without requiring powerful amplifiers. Additionally, the RVC’s design eliminates the need for complex antenna and device-under-test (DUT) positioning, reducing setup time and enhancing test speed. These chambers allow more consistent and repeatable testing conditions, especially when assessing how electronic devices behave in environments rich in reflected signals.

To maximize the benefits of RVC-based testing, the use of advanced EMC test software is crucial. Tools like Elektra automate the measurement process, manage data acquisition, and facilitate comprehensive data analysis. This application note outlines the practical setup of Elektra within a reverberation chamber environment, guiding users through the configuration and execution of emission and immunity tests.

Overall, RVCs offer an efficient, economical, and realistic EMC testing solution. With proper software integration, such systems support faster throughput, more reliable results, and compliance with global EMC standards—making them a strong choice for modern product testing and certification processes.