The purpose of these tests is to ensure that the devices fully perform their functions, comply with applicable standards, or specific requirements documents. Through functional, metrological, EMC, or cybersecurity testing methods, the actual performance of switchgear or systems is evaluated under simulated conditions which are representative of their end use.
Software and system validation
Functional tests are used to verify and validate the maturity of the functions developed within the embedded software of smart electronic devices.
Each functionality of the switchgear is precisely qualified, with reference to the technical requirements that list the expected operation. Functional tests are carried out outside the final system in order to avoid any impact on the embedded functionalities of the device.
System tests are used to verify product interoperability within a system (a set of devices communicating with each other), which is defined in accordance with customer requirements.
This involves verifying wired and wireless communication, communication protocols, IoT, web servers, etc., along with any associated software used for the device configuration and software updates.
Metrology
Metrological performance is to verify the accuracy and reliability of electrical values of switchgear or the measurement chain (sensors, meters) under controlled conditions and according to criteria defined by standards or technical specifications.
The tests are for the following equipment:
• For metering and monitoring alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) electrical systems. In this type of equipment are power monitoring devices (voltage, current, power, frequency, etc.), electricity meters, and current sensors.
• Measurement and insulation monitoring of an IT earthing systems, such as insulation monitoring devices and fault locators.
• Measurement of the quality of power supply in electrical systems, such as power monitoring devices (PMD).
We can conduct tests for voltages up to 600 Vac, currents up to 5000 Aac, while varying different influencing factors, such as temperature (from -40°C to +180°C), ensuring a measurement accuracy of up to 0.02%.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
The purpose of EMC, Electromagnetic Compatibility, testing is to ensure that equipment can operate in an environment subject to electromagnetic disturbances and also does not interfere with its own environment.
The tests are performed in a dedicated room equipped to minimize any electromagnetic interference and to control the testing conditions.
Several tests can be carried out in the laboratory:
• Conducted LF/RF immunity testing: The purpose of these tests is to demonstrate the immunity of devices subjected to low-frequency or radio-frequency-type disturbances.
• Transient immunity testing: these tests demonstrate the immunity of devices to rapid transient disturbances such as load interruptions or transient events like lightning. Our equipment enables us to conduct tests up to 8 kV.
• ESD testing: The purpose of the test is to demonstrate the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment when subjected to electrostatic discharges, either directly on the device or indirectly through radiation onto a conductive surface near the product.
• Conducted emissions testing: This test is to ensure that the devices does not generate disturbances on the cables that could degrade the operation of other nearby devices.
Cybersecurity
The purpose of cybersecurity testing is both to validate the security functions of products and smart systems, and to verify compliance with cybersecurity standards.
This last aspect requires conducting penetration tests and vulnerability scans to assess security levels according to each requirement of the standard.
A dedicated test bench connected to an isolated computer network was set up to carry out these security tests.