Considerations on Electromagnetic Compatibility for Medical Devices

The paper deals with the electromagnetic compatible design of medical products, starting from the early stage of the design process (the prototype stage). This way of thinking is presented for the case of one kinetic therapy equipment. In the functional block diagram of the equipment are pointed out the main electromagnetic interference paths. The specific test setup and measurements in accordance with the European conducted immunity standards for electromagnetic compatibility are presented. Two kinds of measurement were performed: inter-system measurements (to the mains supply port) and intra-system measurements (to the printed circuit board and the internal cables). Several solutions for mitigating electromagnetic interference problems which greatly improved the electromagnetic immunity of the equipment are also depicted. The main conclusion which must be drawn from the present paper is that designing for electromagnetic compatibility is the most energy saving and cost effective policy.