Editing Electromagnetic compatibility (section)

==Technical characteristics of interference==
{{Main|Electromagnetic interference}}

===Types of interference===
EMC is often understood as the control of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Electromagnetic interference divides into several categories according to the source and signal characteristics.

The origin of interference, often called "noise" in this context, can be man-made (artificial) or natural.

Continuous, or continuous wave (CW), interference comprises a given range of frequencies. This type is naturally divided into sub-categories according to frequency range, and as a whole is sometimes referred to as "DC to daylight". One common classification is into [[narrowband]] and [[broadband]], according to the spread of the [[Spectral band|frequency range]].

An [[electromagnetic pulse]] (EMP), sometimes called a [[Transient (oscillation)|transient]] disturbance, is a short-duration pulse of energy. This energy is usually broadband by nature, although it often excites a relatively narrow-band ''[[damped sine wave]]'' response in the victim. Pulse signals divide broadly into isolated and repetitive events.

=== Coupling mechanisms ===
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[[file:EMI coupling modes.svg|thumb|The four EMI coupling modes]]

When a source emits interference, it follows a route to the victim known as the coupling path. There are four basic coupling mechanisms: [[Electrical conductor|conductive]], [[Capacitor|capacitive]], [[Electromagnetic induction|magnetic]] or inductive, and [[Electromagnetic radiation|radiative]]. Any coupling path can be broken down into one or more of these coupling mechanisms working together.

[[Conductive coupling]] occurs when the coupling path between the source and victim is formed by direct electrical contact with a conducting body.

[[Capacitive coupling]] occurs when a varying [[Electric field|electrical field]] exists between two adjacent conductors, inducing a change in [[voltage]] on the receiving conductor.

[[Inductive coupling]] or magnetic coupling occurs when a varying [[magnetic field]] exists between two parallel conductors, inducing a change in [[voltage]] along the receiving conductor.

Radiative coupling or electromagnetic coupling occurs when source and victim are separated by a large distance. Source and victim act as radio antennas: the source emits or radiates an [[electromagnetic wave]] which propagates across the space in between and is picked up or received by the victim.