Störstrahlung

Störstrahlung refers to unwanted electromagnetic radiation that interferes with the operation of electronic devices or systems. This interference can manifest in various ways, such as noise on radio signals, disruptions to Wi-Fi connections, or malfunctions in sensitive electronic equipment. The sources of Störstrahlung are diverse and can include natural phenomena like lightning strikes, as well as artificial sources like power lines, electric motors, switching power supplies, and digital devices that emit electromagnetic waves.

The principles governing Störstrahlung are rooted in electromagnetic theory. When an electromagnetic wave with sufficient amplitude and frequency encounters an electronic circuit, it can induce unwanted currents or voltages. These induced signals can corrupt the intended signals within the device, leading to errors or complete operational failure. The susceptibility of a device to Störstrahlung depends on its design, shielding, and the frequency characteristics of the interfering radiation.

Mitigating Störstrahlung is crucial in the design and operation of electronic systems. This is often achieved through electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) measures. These include shielding enclosures to block external radiation from entering a device, filtering to suppress unwanted frequencies on power or signal lines, and careful circuit layout to minimize the generation and reception of electromagnetic interference. Regulatory bodies often set standards for electromagnetic emissions and immunity to ensure that devices do not cause or suffer from excessive Störstrahlung. Testing is performed to verify that products meet these EMC requirements before they can be marketed.