There are many factors to consider when you are looking for a compact anechoic chamber for an application at your organization. Choosing the wrong compact anechoic chamber for your needs can complicate your project and compromise its success.

The following are six common mistakes you should not make when you need a compact anechoic chamber. 

Not meeting frequency range needs

Anechoic chambers are used to measure frequencies. In order to find a chamber that meets your needs, you need to determine what frequencies you'll need to be able to measure in your chamber.  

It's generally more challenging to find a chamber that will work accurately at lower frequencies than it is to find a chamber for high-frequency applications.

Not meeting radiated immunity needs

You may also need to specify a certain radiated immunity with the compact anechoic chamber equipment you use.

If radiated immunity testing is necessary for your application, you need your chamber to feature high gain. This makes it so that you can achieve the field you require with the smallest amplifier that your setup accommodates. 

Choosing a chamber with the wrong type of RF absorber

RF absorber choice and design is one of the most important considerations when it comes to compact anechoic chambers.

Available absorbers include ferrite tile, microwave pyramidal absorber, and hybrid absorber. You need to understand the merits and drawbacks of each of these types to find the best RF absorber solution for your needs. 

Being unaware of the types of chambers available

Anechoic chambers can be partially lined, semi-anechoic, or fully anechoic. The type of chamber you need depends mostly on the frequency range in your project. 

Another important distinction among anechoic chamber types is whether chambers are pre-compliance or full-compliance. This distinction is dependent on whether testing done in the chamber is for development/research purposes or in pursuit of type approval. 

Allowing weakened shielding at the doors of your chamber

One common problem with compact anechoic chambers is a weakening of the shielding at the door areas. You need to find a solution to fit functioning doors on your unit without compromising accuracy when it comes to frequency, radiated immunity, or any other metrics.

Failing to set a budget for the project

A compact anechoic chamber can be a highly expensive piece of equipment. Prices can range widely depending on the chamber size and the included technology features.

The best way to get started finding a chamber that's appropriate for your application is to set a budget. Setting a budget helps you to narrow down your options.