Prediction of crosstalk due to showering arcs at switch contacts

Abstract

The modeling and prediction of crosstalk in automotive wiring harnesses that is due to arcing at the contacts of mechanical switches are addressed. A model of the showering arc phenomenon at a switch contact is developed. This model is suitable for implementation in CAD codes such as SPICE, PSPICE, and PRECISE. The crosstalk is modeled using lumped-parameter circuits (lumped-pi). Experimental results are shown which validate the model and also indicate the severe crosstalk that can be produced by this showering arc.<>