I want to use the iEMSL for an experiment, measurement, or test. How do I get started?
There are two methods for utilizing the iEMSL for experiments:
- Requesting an Assisted Measurement.
- Becoming an iEMSL User (Requires your supervisor or Principal Investigator to be a member of the iEMSL. Approval from the iEMSL executive committee is necessary for internal Faculty and external memberships).
What is an Assisted Measurement?
An Assisted Measurement is where a staff member of the iEMSL operates lab equipment to take a measurement or perform a test on your behalf and provides you with the data.
Assisted Measurements carries a fee. To request an assisted measurements, go to this link.
After you complete the form, we will discuss the nature of your experiment to determine several things:
- Is the iEMSL capable of performing the test or measurement that you need?
- The iEMSL is not capable of performing certain types of material tests, due to needing very specialized equipment, which can vary depending on the data being sought after. An iEMSL staff member will determine whether we have the equipment necessary to perform your test and obtain the data you are seeking.
- What equipment will be needed to perform your experiment?
- To conduct your experiment effectively, the required equipment depends on the frequency range you’re investigating. Our Vector Network Analyzers cover various frequency ranges, ensuring accurate results. If your experiment involves frequencies of 2 GHz, 20 GHz, or higher, we can assist in selecting the appropriate analyzer.
- If you need an anechoic chamber for precise measurements or custom components for integration with our lab equipment, our team is here to help.
- How long will the experiment take, and how much will it cost?
- Depending on the complexity of your experiment, it may take us a significant amount of time to set up the computers, analyzers, waveguides, and/or cables to begin your experiment.
- You’ll be provided with an estimate for how long it will take to set up and perform your experiment, so you can decide whether the cost is right for you.
After that, we will schedule the assisted measurement. The invoices will be sent to you (or your supervisor) on a monthly basis.
What is iEMSL membership? Should I become a member?
An iEMSL Member has open access to the laboratory and lab equipment based on their membership position. Training is required for using the equipment. Even if you have previous experience with the equipment, it’s essential to ensure that your skills align with iEMSL training standards. Upon training, members can set up experiments and operate lab equipment on their own schedule, with the exception of the anechoic chamber.
iEMSL Membership has a fee for each semester that the membership is active. If you are planning on making several measurements or require a much longer amount of time in the lab, a membership will be the right choice for you.
What is an Anechoic Chamber? How do I use it?
An anechoic chamber for electromagnetic (EM) measurements is a specialized room designed to minimize the reflections of EM waves. It has walls, ceilings, and floors lined with materials that absorb electromagnetic radiation, thereby preventing reflections. This results in an environment where electromagnetic measurements can be conducted with minimal interference from external signals.
The iEMSL’s anechoic chamber can be used by appointment only as an Assisted Measurement (even for Members). Due to the delicate and highly specialized nature of operating the chamber, a qualified Chamber Operator must be present at all times when it is in use.