Schaffner, an international leader in the fields of electromagnetic compatibility and power quality, has recently launched a 25 A differential mode EMI filter, custom-built for Life Fitness, a renowned gym equipment brand. Schaffner offers a range of differential mode filters, that provide broadband common mode and differential mode attenuation, ensuring effective interference suppression even under high interference conditions.
Life Fitness has recently announced the re-release of their premium treadmill, Symbio, with significant upgrades. The new version features a larger 36" glass display and a revamped power supply to comply with Power Factor Correction (PFC) standards. Initially, the treadmill underwent conducted emissions testing using a standard Schaffner filter, FN2070-25-08, passing successfully. However, it failed the testing during the re-release, prompting Life Fitness to explore alternative EMI solutions. Despite experimenting with various filters, capacitors, chokes, and inductors in their in-house testing lab, they faced challenges.
Facing a roadblock, Life Fitness sought advice from Schaffner's Applications Engineer, Mike Vilbrandt, who, after consulting with colleague Dave Armitage, suspected a differential mode issue. This distinction between common mode (CM) and differential mode (DM) interference led them to test dedicated differential mode filters.
Upon receiving a custom 25 A differential mode filter from Schaffner, Life Fitness conducted re-testing, which significantly improved Dave's analysis. To expedite the solution, Schaffner compressed a 6-month development cycle into 10 - 12 weeks, ensuring the new Symbio's timely release. The Schaffner team's solution for the differential mode problem involved a combination of their expertise in electromagnetic solutions, a thorough understanding of the differential mode issue, and the design and development of a custom filter that addressed the specific needs of the Symbio treadmill.
Schaffner’s differential mode filters play a crucial role in mitigating electromagnetic interference in electrical and electronic equipment. Their products are designed to meet international compliance standards and enhance the immunity and safety of devices by effectively filtering out unwanted noise and disturbances.
Click here to learn more about FN2070-25-08
