Testing : Electrical

As well as adding many new features to a vehicle, electronic and electrical systems have replaced many functions previously handled mechanically or hydraulically. In terms of performance and operation these systems are developed by the relevant specialists in MIRA. ABS (anti-lock braking systems) and ESP (electronic stability programme) for example are the responsibility of our vehicle dynamics engineers whereas automatic climate control systems are engineered by our thermofluids experts. Our component and systems engineers specialise in evaluating electrical systems for their environmental and durability performance enabling MIRA's electrical engineering team to concentrate on tasks requiring their specialist knowledge. These include one of the most comprehensive EMC (Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) test and development capabilities, expertise in electrical engineering, electrical system design and the following bespoke assessments:

Electrical system assessment
Audio system assessment
Vehicle Anti-Theft Approval
Electrostatic discharge

Electrical system assessment

For the whole vehicle electrical system and where appropriate for specific sub-systems MIRA offers the following evaluations and services:

Prototype harness build
3D electrical prototype build
Electrical fault diagnosis
Risk Analysis
Harness validation
Fuse blow
Electrical load balance
Voltage drop
Battery durability
Antenna performance
Vehicle / equipment certification
Power distribution (including high voltage)
Vehicle communication architecture

Electrical systems mounted on MIRA's prototype Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test bench

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Audio system assessment

At MIRA we are able to simulate real world audio transmissions in the safety of our EMC chambers. Our audio interference test method evaluates the levels of interference heard on in-car entertainment systems generated by such systems as the ignition system, windscreen wipers or seat and blower motors. Typical elements of an audio assessment include:

Baseline evaluation of new v. old vehicle line
Benchmarking of competitor vehicles
Assessment of competitor radios installed in the customer's new vehicle
Assessment of the customer's radio in the best competitor vehicle
Teardown evaluation of suppression in the best competitor vehicle
Recommendations to improve performance and reduce costs

Further details of our audio system assessment capabilities are included on this brochure:

EMC Emissions and Audio Evaluation at MIRA (492KB)

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Vehicle Anti-Theft Approval

(UN ECE Regulations for antitheft: 97.01,18.02 and EC Directive 95/56/EC)

For an anti-theft manufacturer to sell their systems they must be compliant with 95/56/EC for Europe and ECE Reg 97.01 for countries outside the EU. MIRA can provide an initial technical review to determine compliance with anti-theft legislation. Our technical experts in anti-theft and EMC automotive legislation can advise on best practise and facilitate compliance with the regulations.

MIRA’s full vehicle anti-theft approval programme covers immobilisers, alarms and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). It includes:

Project management
EMC
Electrical
Environmental temperatures
Vibration
Audible
Customised anti-theft test equipment
Installation assessment

We use specialised equipment, designed and built in-house to high standards, that fulfils

the exacting test requirements. These include:


Protection of passenger compartment	Protection of passenger compartment

MIRA is appointed as a Technical Service by the VCA, RDW and NSAI and can guide you through the best route to gaining approval.

Further details of our vehicle anti-theft approval service are included on this brochure:

Vehicle Anti-Theft Approval (614 KB)

Electrostatic Charge - The Hidden Risk

MIRA has considerable experience in the measurement and analysis of electrostatic charge, both at component and vehicle level, assessing potential risks and optimising designs to minimise threats.

Services aimed at providing a complete solution for all your compliance and safety assessment needs

Services include: