HD Controllers
The controllers convert the optical signals from the camera and/or audio system to electrical signals. For most controllers, there is the option to integrate an Ethernet interface. Most controllers can be equipped with an option for a shielded intercom. The microphone is either integrated into the housing or an external microphone can be used.
If more than one camera is in use (e.g., one fixed camera mounted to the chamber wall and one mobile camera mounted on a tripod) multi controllers allow you to control several cameras with one device. Up to 4 cameras can be connected to one multi-controller. Each camera can be connected to a separate monitor or a single monitor using split screen, allowing the user to have an excellent visual overview of the test area.
High-definition (HD) cameras require controllers that can handle the high-speed digital signals needed to transfer the high-resolution videos in an uncompressed format (HD-SDI), which are displayed on the local monitor. The controllers convert the optical signals coming from the cameras to electrical signals and allow control of all functions of the cameras, such as Pan/Tilt, Zoom, Focus, etc. Each controller has an output for an HDMI monitor for each camera and also an output of the HD-Signal as received from the camera.
The controllers offer a range of options that include manual Iris Control and LAN interface. All controllers with a LAN interface are equipped with an industrial-grade PC and can be controlled from any PC in the network using a web browser. PONTIS EMC has developed a special software for this application (PECOS). PECOS software is especially useful for documentation. It utilizes an integrated video recorder to take snapshots or videos, store, and playback data. Another useful feature of the PECOS software is the ability to set event detection in a user-defined area on the screen. The software will trigger the video recording if an event occurs in that defined area. This is especially useful to monitor displays and LED’s during EMC testing among other applications. The software also provides a bidirectional interface to commercially available EMC Test Software.
Audio Intercom
Besides optical surveillance it is often required to be able to communicate with the engineers and/or listen to the device under test. We offer various solutions for audio communication and surveillance. The audio intercom can be added to the camera systems or offered as a stand alone solution.
The EMC hardened audio intercom consists of an EMC shielded satellite, which holds the microphone accompanied by a speaker or headset and a transceiver in the control room. It can be either a separate audio controller or the audio functionality can be included in a camera controller.The audio satellites are equipped with automatic gain control, ensuring a constant sound level independent of the distance and the level of the sound source.
In complex testing facilities it is sometimes required to have multiple communication points within the test site (e.g. chamber, amplifier room, control room etc.). Our multi-point intercom system allows you to speak to any of the locations connected.
Features:
Compatible with all controllers with audio option
RF-Immunity 200V/m up to 18GHz
EMC compliant to CISPR 22 Class B
Automatic gain control
Up to 6 channels in one controller
Digital audio transmission
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is shielded audio needed during EMC testing?
Conventional audio equipment can be susceptible to strong electromagnetic fields present during EMC testing. An EMC hardened audio system allows engineers to communicate with and listen to the device under test (DUT) without compromising the integrity of the test environment.
Can I communicate with someone inside an EMC test chamber?
Yes. The shielded audio intercom provides two-way communication between the control room and personnel or monitoring points within the test area. Multi-point configurations can also allow communication between several locations, such as the chamber, amplifier room, and control room.
How does the audio system remain reliable in high electromagnetic fields?
The EMC hardened audio system is designed for high-field environments and provides RF immunity up to 200 V/m from DC to 18 GHz. This helps maintain reliable audio communication during demanding EMC immunity testing.
Will the audio level remain consistent if the DUT changes position or sound level?
Yes. The audio satellites use automatic gain control (AGC) to maintain a consistent sound level regardless of the distance from or level of the sound source.
Can shielded audio be integrated with an existing EMC camera system?
Yes. The audio functionality can be incorporated into compatible camera controllers or supplied as a standalone audio intercom system. This allows customers to combine visual and acoustic monitoring within the same EMC test setup.
How many communication points can the system support?
The system can support up to six audio channels in one controller, making it suitable for more complex EMC test facilities requiring communication between multiple locations.
Is the audio transmission protected from electromagnetic interference?
Yes. The system uses digital audio transmission and EMC-hardened components to provide reliable communication in electrically demanding test environments. The system is also specified as compliant with CISPR 22 Class B.
Can the shielded audio system be used with different types of EMC test setups?
Yes. The modular approach allows the audio system to be configured as a standalone intercom or integrated with camera and controller systems. This makes it suitable for laboratories that need reliable acoustic monitoring and communication without introducing equipment that could interfere with EMC testing.