dissolved in water has a pH level between 8 and
9. Also found in the kitchen are abrasive cleaning
chemicals, hot water, and steam.
These conditions can quickly destroy sensitive
electronics. Yet the rise of connected technology
means that such devices are common, and
consumers expect them to work regardless of the
conditions. Designers need to understand both the
environment and user expectations to choose the
right components for devices from televisions and
smart speakers to autonomous appliances.
Therefore, the key task for any designer is to
understand the conditions in which their device must
function and identify the potential dangers. While the
hazards present on the battlefield or in the factory
are obvious, those found elsewhere are harder to
spot but no less vital to component choice.
C h a p t e r 4 | I d e n t i f y i n g Po t e n t i a l H a z a r d s – H a r s h E n v i r o n m e n t s i n U n u s u a l P l a c e s
Unusual environments like food
processing plants and mining operations
present significant challenges for
connectors, such as exposure to high
temperatures, vibration, and shock. In
electromagnetic environments, proper
shielding is also required."
Rahul SreeKumar
Senior Engineer, Nordex Group
23
Understanding Harsh Environments for Electronic Design
