IBL Lab GmbH, the DAkkS (Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH) accredited EMC test laboratory of IB Lenhardt AG, has significantly expanded its high-field immunity testing capabilities with a substantial investment in a suite of high-power amplifier systems from Rohde & Schwarz. This upgrade directly addresses increasing demands from the defence sector for rigorous and realistic testing compliant with standards like MIL-STD-461, AECTP-500, VG 95373 and VG 95370.
The core of this optimisation lies in the deployment of the R&S BBA300-FG180 amplifier (6-18 GHz), coupled with a Schwarzbeck HWRD650 EMS antenna through a direct-mount configuration. This approach eliminates RF cable losses, enabling IBL Lab to achieve field strengths exceeding 400 V/m – a level rarely attained – with a target of surpassing 600 V/m.
The integration of Rohde & Schwarz equipment provides several key advantages for IB Lenhardt. A comprehensive testing range from 9 kHz to 18 GHz is now supported by the integrated system comprising the R&S BBA300-FG180, R&S BBL200A-A5000, R&S BBA150-BC2000, and R&S BBA300-DE1000 amplifiers. Direct antenna mounting on the BBA300-FG180 maximises power transfer and significantly boosts field strength in the 6-18 GHz range, a capability crucial for demanding defence applications.
As Florian Schmidt, Head of Department EMC at IBL Lab GmbH, explains: “Direct antenna mounting on the BBA300-FG180 was the key to achieving field strengths exceeding 400 V/m in the 6–18 GHz range. Combined with our other amplifiers, this setup enables high-field immunity testing across the entire frequency range from 9 kHz to 18 GHz for demanding defence applications.”
Furthermore, amplifiers like the R&S BBA300-FG180 and R&S BBA300-DE1000 offer wide frequency coverage alongside high linearity, while the R&S BBL200A-A5000 delivers 5 kW of continuous power with 100% mismatch tolerance. Leveraging Rohde & Schwarz’s reputation for precision and reliability reinforces IBL Lab’s DAkkS accreditation (ISO/IEC 17025) and NATO CAGE Code (CNH80), bolstering confidence in test results.
Finally, IBL Lab’s position as one of the first laboratories globally to operate the R&S BBA300-DE1000 demonstrates a commitment to utilising cutting-edge testing capabilities. Daniel Lenhardt, CEO of IB Lenhardt AG, says: “High field strengths and stable RF signals are essential for realistic and reliable immunity testing, underscoring the strategic importance of this investment. The combination of high performance and broad frequency coverage positions IBL Lab to effectively serve manufacturers of defence, aerospace, automotive, and industrial electronics requiring advanced RF immunity validation.”
