Automotive, industrial, medical, and many other applications use sensitive analog circuits that must perform their function while remaining immune to noise disturbances in their local environment.
Many of these disturbances occur on nearby “noisy” circuits located on the same printed circuit board (PCB), while other interference can be picked up by cable interfaces that couple noise onto the PCB and its circuits. One of the best ways to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) on PCB designs is through the intelligent use of operational amplifiers (op amps).
Unfortunately, op amps are often overlooked as a tool for reducing EMI in many applications. This may be due to the perception that op amps are susceptible to EMI and that extra steps must be taken to enhance their immunity to noise. While this is true of many older devices, designers may not be aware that newer op amps often have superior immunity performance over previous generations.
Designers also may not understand or consider the key benefits that an op-amp circuit can provide for reducing noise in their system and PCB designs. This article reviews sources of EMI and discusses op-amp characteristics that aid in mitigating near-field EMI on sensitive PCB designs.
Reducing near-field electromagnetic interference (EMI) on PCBs using operational amplifiers (op amps) involves implementing proper filtering and shielding techniques. Op amps can be utilized in different ways to mitigate EMI.
Here are a few approaches:
Filtering
Op-amps can be employed as active filters to attenuate high-frequency noise and EMI. By configuring the op-amp as a low-pass filter, you can create a cutoff frequency that blocks high-frequency EMI while allowing desired signals to pass through. This can be achieved using a combination of resistors, capacitors, and feedback networks.
Grounding and Layout
Proper grounding and layout techniques play a crucial role in minimizing EMI. Ensuring a solid ground plane and utilizing separate analog and digital ground planes can help reduce the coupling of noise onto sensitive circuitry. Placing the op-amp and its associated components strategically on the PCB layout can also help minimize noise pickup.
EMI Shielding
Op-amps can be shielded to prevent the emission and reception of electromagnetic radiation. Enclosing the op-amp in a shielded metal can or utilizing conductive enclosures around sensitive circuitry can provide a physical barrier against EMI. Additionally, adding metal shielding or shielding cans around critical traces or components can help attenuate EMI.
Ferrite Beads
Ferrite beads are passive components that can be inserted in series with power or signal lines to suppress high-frequency noise and EMI. Placing ferrite beads on power and signal lines connected to op amps can help mitigate EMI by absorbing unwanted noise.
Differential Signaling
Utilizing differential signaling techniques can enhance EMI rejection. By using differential op-amp configurations and balanced transmission lines, common-mode noise rejection can be improved, reducing the impact of EMI.
Remember to consider the specific requirements of your circuit and consult relevant datasheets and application notes when selecting op amps and implementing EMI reduction techniques.
Simulation and testing can also help verify the effectiveness of the chosen strategies.
Check this detailed article.
