R.V. Gerzen1

1 Omsk State Technical University (Omsk, Russia)
1 JSC «Omsk Research Institute of Instrument Engineering» (Omsk, Russia)

1 v1007478@mail.ru

The issues of ensuring electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in cable-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are discussed. The power cable, serving as both an energy supply means and a potential conductor of electromagnetic interference (EMI), significantly complicates the provision of onboard systems' noise immunity. Existing EMC standards inadequately account for the specifics of cable power, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of interference sources, propagation paths, and their impact on such systems.

The aim of the work is to analyze EMC problems in cable-powered UAVs, to identify the main sources and mechanisms of electromagnetic interference, and to develop and practically verify a set of measures to increase the noise immunity of onboard systems.

An analysis of cable power system features has been conducted, and the main internal (power converters, electric motors, digital circuits) and external (industrial equipment, radio communication) sources of interference have been identified. Mechanisms of interference propagation through conductive and radiated channels, including the role of the cable as an antenna and the effects of parasitic inductive and capacitive couplings, have been investigated. For an experimental UAV prototype with a 100 m cable, interference measurements have been carried out: before applying EMC measures, conducted interference up to 120 mV (10–50 MHz) has been recorded in the power circuit, and radiated interference have exceeded IEC 61000-6-3 norms by 6–8 dB. After implementing a set of measures (cable shielding, LC filters, optimized routing, differential signals), interference in the power circuit has been decreased to 20–30 mВ, and radiated interference has been reduced by 10–12 dB, eliminating control system glitches and improving video signal quality.

The results of the study allow for increasing the reliability and fault tolerance of cable-powered UAVs. The developed recommendations for the application of shielding, filtering, and constructive-circuit solutions can be used in the design, modernization, and certification of stationary and long-duration unmanned systems.

Gerzen R.V. Problems of ensuring electromagnetic compatibility in cable-powered unmanned aerial vehicles. Achievements of modern
radioelectronics. 2025. V. 79. № 10. P. 100–108. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18127/j20700784-202510-12 [in Russian]

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