EMI & RFI Protection for Medical Devices and Equipment

Do you remember the days of not being able to use a cell phone in a hospital for fear of them interfering with lifesaving medical equipment? It was not so long ago that visitors were greeted by ominous signs exclaiming that people should refrain from using their phones. Today, when a person walks into a hospital, they are free to use electronics and mobile devices without messing up medical equipment.

For medical devices to function correctly, they require a sophisticated analysis of EMC/EMI regulations that are used to create system certifications. The problem is easy to control when in a designated location, but modern technology allows medical equipment to be more mobile. Wearable medical technology is now more prevalent, and those people need to be protected and feel safe navigating the world.

The primary standard for electronic medical equipment is IEC 60601-1-2, which was developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission. This standard designates the basic safety and performance of medical equipment concerning electromagnetic disturbances. Medical devices must be able to protect themselves from outside interference as well as disturbances emitted directly from the system or hardware. EMI shielding protects equipment from harmful interference. Medical equipment also benefits from RFI shielding because radio communication poses a threat to unprotected gear.

RFI EMI Shielding

Keeping medical equipment safe should be your top priority. EMI shielding and RFI shielding play a critical role in making that happen.

• Using EMI-RFI Shielding Gaskets and Filters
  Use filters to eliminate EMI. EMI filters address issues that are related to penetrations through the shield.
• Choosing Between Metal and Plastic Enclosures
• When is EMI Shielding Necessary