IEEE 187-1990

IEEE 187-1990 is a radio receiver measurement standard that defines an open field method for measuring spurious radiation from FM and television broadcast receivers. It is relevant to engineering teams that need a consistent way to assess unwanted emissions in broadcast equipment, where receiver performance and electromagnetic behavior can affect compatibility and product evaluation. By setting a structured test approach, the standard helps support repeatable measurements and more reliable comparison across designs and test setups.

Overview of IEEE 187-1990

IEEE 187-1990 addresses the technical problem of measuring spurious radiation from broadcast receivers under open field conditions. Its focus is not on general radio operation, but on how emissions from FM and television receivers are observed and compared in a controlled environment. For laboratories, manufacturers, and compliance-oriented testing, the document provides a defined measurement context that helps reduce ambiguity. As a superseded standard, it also serves as a reference point for historical design and test requirements.

Typical use cases

This standard is commonly used when evaluating FM and television broadcast receivers for unintended radiation that may arise during normal operation. It can support bench testing, product verification, and measurement planning for receiver development programs. Engineers may use IEEE 187-1990 when comparing spurious radiation levels across prototype units, checking test repeatability, or documenting receiver behavior in open field conditions. It is especially relevant where measurement consistency matters more than application-specific marketing claims.

Why it matters

Spurious radiation measurements can influence whether a receiver design is considered stable, comparable, and suitable for procurement or further testing. IEEE 187-1990 helps establish a shared method, which can reduce uncertainty between laboratories and design groups. That kind of consistency is important for compliance work, engineering review, and risk reduction when assessing broadcast receiver emissions. For organizations working with legacy equipment or archival test records, IEEE 187-1990 remains a useful technical reference.

• Open field measurement method
• Spurious radiation from broadcast receivers
• FM and television receiver testing
• Controlled evaluation of unwanted emissions