Automatic calibration of EMI fingerprint scanners for counterfeit detection in utility power systems

Abstract

Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with automatic calibration of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning instrument for utility power system counterfeit detection are described. In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device includes: collecting electromagnetic signals with the EMI fingerprint scanning device at a geographic location for a test period of time; identifying one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signals; comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies at the geographic location to determine whether a match is found; and generating a calibration status signal to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated based at least in part on the comparison.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Counterfeit electronic components in the international supply chain are estimated to cost $220 billion annually across all industries using electronics, including information technology, medical, military, gaming, transportation, and utilities. Counterfeit systems (or systems containing counterfeit components) often look so authentic that service engineers cannot distinguish them from genuine systems through a simple visual inspection. However, counterfeit systems often contain scrapped components from obsolete systems, cheaply manufactured components, or older components from recycled vintage systems that have been repackaged to resemble authentic systems.

[0002] Counterfeit systems, or systems containing counterfeit components (“counterfeit systems”), are then integrated into the supply chain through brokerage channels. When counterfeit systems are shipped to customers, they often fail upon arrival or within a short period of time, resulting in significant warranty losses, reduced mean time between failures, and customer dissatisfaction. In some cases, counterfeit systems even include “spy chips” or “mod chips” that can grant unauthorized access or control of the counterfeit systems, posing significant risks to infrastructure. In the utility sector, the use of counterfeit electronic components is not only costly but also presents major safety concerns. Failure of utility components can lead to life-threatening situations such as power outages and fires.

[0003] The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC, the North American utility regulator) and the Federal Energy Reliability Council (FERC) have issued the Supply Chain Risk Management Rule (No. CIP-013-1) to reduce risk and ensure the reliable operation of the bulk electric system. The rule requires that by July 2020, all utilities in North America must implement technology to detect counterfeit components in all power system assets used in generation facilities, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) subsystems, and distribution network assets. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device includes: collecting electromagnetic signals with the EMI fingerprint scanning device at a geographic location for a test period of time; identifying one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signals; comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies for the geographic location to determine whether a match is found; and generating a calibration status signal to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated based at least in part on the comparison.

[0005] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device further includes: allowing initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of a target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device in response to a calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated; and preventing initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device, the method further includes: performing an EMI fingerprint scan of a target utility device to generate an EMI fingerprint of the target utility device; generating a calibration certificate of the EMI fingerprint scan from collected electromagnetic frequencies, assigned radio station frequencies, and calibration status signals; and including the calibration certificate with the EMI fingerprint.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device further includes: in response to a calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, initiating a recalibration process to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein the recalibration process includes: identifying errors based at least on differences between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of the peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; deriving correction coefficients from at least the errors; and applying the correction coefficients to the radio receiver to recalibrate the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein comparison of one or more peak frequency bands further comprises: requesting radio station frequency information of radio stations near a geographical location from a frequency data service; parsing a response from the frequency data service to determine a list of local radio station frequencies; and determining whether any of the one or more peak frequency bands is included in the list, wherein a mismatch signal is generated when the peak frequency band is not included in the list, and a match signal is generated when the peak frequency band is included in the list.

[0009] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein comparison of one or more peak frequency bands further comprises, for at least one of the one or more peak frequency bands: requesting radio station identification information of radio stations broadcasting at a peak frequency band in the vicinity of a geographical location from a frequency data service; and parsing a response from the frequency data service to determine whether a peak frequency band is assigned to the radio station, wherein a mismatch signal is generated when the response does not include a radio station identification for a peak frequency band, and a match signal is generated when the response includes a radio station identification for a peak frequency band.

[0010] In one embodiment, a method for detecting a calibration status of an EMI fingerprint scanning device further includes: in response to a calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, presenting a visual calibration verification on a graphical user interface of the scanning device, and in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, presenting a visual calibration warning on the graphical user interface of the scanning device.

[0011] In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium stores computer-executable instructions for detecting a calibration status of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor of the EMI fingerprint scanning device, causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: collect electromagnetic signals with the EMI fingerprint scanning device at a geographic location for a test period of time; identify one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signals; compare the one or more peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies for the geographic location to determine whether a match is found; and generate a calibration status signal to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated based at least in part on the comparison.

[0012] In one embodiment, the non-transitory computer readable medium, wherein the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to initiate an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

[0013] In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, wherein in response to a calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: identify an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of the peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; derive at least a correction coefficient from the error; and apply the correction coefficient to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

[0014] In one embodiment, non-transitory computer-readable media wherein the instructions for comparison of one or more peak frequency bands further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: request information of radio stations in a geographic location vicinity from a frequency data service; and use at least a portion of the information returned by the frequency data service to determine whether to generate a match signal or a non-match signal.

[0015] In one embodiment, an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device includes: a processor; a memory operably connected to the processor; a radio receiver operably connected to the processor and the memory; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions for detecting a calibration status of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, the instructions, when executed by at least the processor, causing the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: collect electromagnetic signals at a geographic location for a test period of time using the EMI fingerprint scanning device; identify one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signals; compare the one or more peak frequency bands with assigned radio station frequencies for the geographic location to determine whether a match is found; and generate a calibration status signal based at least in part on the comparison to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

[0016] In one embodiment, an EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, present a visual calibration verification on a graphical user interface of the scanning device and allow initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of a target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device; and in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, present a visual calibration warning on the graphical user interface of the scanning device, prevent initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device, and initiate a recalibration process to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0017] In one embodiment, an EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein in response to the calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: identify an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of the peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; derive at least a correction coefficient from the error; and apply the correction coefficient to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

[0018] In one embodiment, an EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein the instructions for comparison of one or more peak frequency bands further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: accept latitude and longitude coordinates from a global positioning system (GPS) receiver associated with the EMI fingerprint scanning device as a geographic location; request information of radio stations near the geographic location from a frequency data service; and use at least a portion of the information returned by the frequency data service to determine whether to generate a match signal or a non-match signal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The accompanying drawings that are incorporated in this specification and form a part thereof illustrate various systems, methods and other embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that the element boundaries (e.g., boxes, boxes, or other shapes) illustrated in the figures represent an embodiment of boundaries. In certain embodiments, an element can be implemented as multiple elements, or multiple elements can be implemented as an element. In certain embodiments, the element of the internal assembly of another element can be implemented as an external assembly, and vice versa. In addition, the element may not be drawn to scale.

[0020] Figure 1 One embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument for utility power system counterfeit detection.

[0021] Figure 2 One embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument in an environment where the EMI fingerprint scanning device is used to detect EMI signals from target utility equipment.

[0022] Figure 3 One embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument in an environment where the EMI fingerprint scanning device detects EM signals from a radio station for calibration.

[0023] Figure 4 One embodiment of an environment for calibrating an EMI fingerprint scanning device in association with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0024] Figure 5 Illustrated is an example heat map of radio broadcast frequency bands collected near Hillsborough County, New Hampshire by one embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device associated with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument.

[0025] Figure 6 Illustrated is an example heat map of radio broadcast frequency bands collected near San Mateo County, California by one embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device associated with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument.

[0026] Figure 7 One embodiment of a method associated with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 8A One embodiment of a method associated with comparing peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies in automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0028] Figure 8BAnother embodiment of a method associated with comparing peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies in automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0029] Figure 9 One embodiment of a method associated with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0030] Figure 10A Illustrated is one embodiment of a graphical user interface associated with notifying a user of an EMI fingerprint scanning device that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is properly calibrated.

[0031] Figure 10B Illustrated is one embodiment of a graphical user interface associated with alerting a user of an EMI fingerprint scanning device that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not properly calibrated.

[0032] Figure 11 One embodiment of a method associated with generating a calibration certificate is illustrated to show that the EMI fingerprint of a target device is created by a properly calibrated EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0033] Figure 12 One embodiment of a method associated with automatic recalibration of an improperly calibrated EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated.

[0034] Figure 13 Illustrated are embodiments of computing devices configured and / or programmed with one or more of the example systems, methods, and / or specialized equipment disclosed herein, and / or equivalents. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] This paper describes a system and method for automatically calibrating electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanners for counterfeit detection in utility power systems. By scanning the EMI signals generated by utility equipment, it is possible to non-invasively determine whether the utility equipment is made entirely of authentic components or partially or completely of counterfeit components. However, systems used to detect electromagnetic signals can deviate from calibration, which can affect the accuracy of counterfeit determinations.

[0036] EMI signals are generated by electric utility equipment (such as transformers, generators, inverters, meters, relays, or other grid systems) during operation. These EMI signals are typically viewed as noise, but these EMI signals can also carry information that can be used to generate a unique EMI fingerprint for the utility equipment. For example, the EMI emitted by a target utility equipment having an unknown configuration of components can be scanned to generate a target EMI fingerprint for the target utility equipment. The generated target EMI fingerprint can be compared with a reference EMI fingerprint of a reference utility equipment of a known configuration to confirm that the target utility equipment is a known make, model, and configuration, or to notify that the target utility equipment is not a known make, model, and configuration and therefore may contain one or more suspected counterfeit components, or may be suspected of being a counterfeit altogether. (For convenience, a utility equipment that contains one or more counterfeit components may be referred to herein as a "counterfeit," even though the equipment may include many authentic components.)

[0037] This counterfeit detection technology is “passive” because it does not involve disassembling the power system electronics of the target utility equipment to perform an internal inspection, such as a visual or photographic inspection. Note that counterfeit detection techniques that involve disassembly are inefficient and, even if they do not detect any counterfeit components, often cause subsequent problems in the inspected utility equipment. In contrast, this passive technology makes it feasible to periodically inspect power system equipment (i) at inspection points in the supply chain, (ii) at ports of entry / exit where components or assembled / integrated systems are transported across national borders, or (iii) when the system is received by the utility customer, during a power-on self-test (POST) operation as part of initial setup preparation and prior to deployment in the grid or generation facility. Thus, this new technology helps ensure that counterfeit components or “spy chips” or “modified chips” are not installed in power system electronics between component manufacturing and the “assembly plant,” or during transportation between the assembly plant and the utility system. Furthermore, this new technology requires no hardware modifications to the utility power system and is therefore backward compatible with the traditional power systems commonly used by utilities.

[0038] To further enhance the utility of EMI fingerprint counterfeit detection, an embodiment presents a simple "Clear All" decision to the user indicating that the scanned target device contains no counterfeit components and is genuine or authentic, or generates an alert, reminder, or warning that the target device being scanned is suspected of being counterfeit in whole or in part. This makes the scanning procedure usable by non-expert personnel who do not need to be trained in EMI radiation science, data science, machine learning, or counterfeit detection technology to understand the results. The scanning procedure enables the detection and identification of definitive counterfeit products in an autonomous manner so that (i) utilities involved in accepting testing of components from the supply chain, and (ii) personnel involved in inspecting transportation systems at ports of entry and other national and international borders can quickly identify utility equipment that contains counterfeit components inside, or prove that the utility equipment has all authentic components.

[0039] In one embodiment, an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument (also referred to herein as an EMI fingerprint scanning device) is configured to perform scans of target utility equipment. However, calibration may be required before and / or after (in other words, approximately simultaneously with) each critical analysis because the instrument can drift out of calibration. In particular, the components of an EMI fingerprint scanning device used to detect EMI are susceptible to drifting out of calibration due to time, temperature, or various other factors. Improper calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device can result in false alarms (Type I errors) or missed alarms (Type II errors) regarding whether the target device is counterfeit.

[0040] In each case, mistakes are costly. For example, when a target device is detected as a suspected counterfeit containing one or more counterfeit components, the device is set aside for later disassembly and detailed internal inspection and testing by trained personnel. Disassembly, inspection, and testing can damage the target device or cause subsequent performance issues. Therefore, for Type I, false positive detections where the target device is detected as containing one or more counterfeit components, resources are wasted on internal inspection, and the target device itself is at risk of damage. For Type II, where the target device is not detected as containing one or more counterfeit components, the counterfeit device can be put into service, exposing the power grid or other system where the counterfeit device is installed to a greater risk of failure. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the EMI fingerprint scanner is properly calibrated before each scan or scan sequence, especially when the scan objective is a "compliant" versus "non-compliant" assessment.

[0041] Just as counterfeit scanning procedures are simplified for use by non-experts, the systems and methods described herein provide an automated calibration procedure that requires little human attention or interaction and minimal training for the person performing the scan. The systems and methods described herein present a completely autonomous calibration procedure that enables non-experts to autonomously perform fully calibrated EMI fingerprint scans every time, with minimal additional effort or training required by the person performing the scan. The calibration procedure ensures that the frequency, amplitude, and gain of the RF detection instrumentation of the EMI fingerprint scanning device do not deviate from calibration before a new scan is performed.

[0042] Calibration typically requires access to large and expensive reference sources. The systems and methods described herein eliminate this requirement. In one embodiment, the systems and methods described herein leverage the ubiquitous public AM (amplitude modulation) and FM (frequency modulation) radio signals and combine them with publicly available information from frequency data services, such as the database maintained by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to synthesize reference sources. The FCC database (and other frequency data services) accessible through FCC.gov provides the ability to submit a geographic location in a search to retrieve the nearest AM and FM radio stations and their assigned broadcast frequencies. Therefore, the EMI fingerprint scanning device can include a software application, software module, or other logic configured to query the frequency data service using the current location of the EMI fingerprint scanning device and receive a formatted list of local AM and FM radio stations, along with their fixed broadcast frequencies. The EMI fingerprint scanning device can then select a subset of those fixed frequencies, such as a "top 10" list (by proximity or by broadcast power), to use as reference sources. The EMI fingerprint scanning device can evaluate these known fixed reference sources against the electromagnetic signals detected by the EMI fingerprint scanning device to perform autonomous calibration verification of the EMI fingerprint instrument. This results in a robust, straightforward, and reliable calibration process.

[0043] Therefore, no additional equipment is required to calibrate the EMI fingerprint scanning device. Moreover, the operator of the EMI fingerprint scanning device does not need special skills or knowledge to perform the calibration. The operator's involvement in the calibration process is minimized.

[0044] Additionally, mobile devices now commonly have the ability to detect location using a built-in, low-cost Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver chip. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device incorporates the same GPS chip used to detect the location of the EMI fingerprint scanning device, enabling the EMI fingerprint scanning device to detect its own location and send it to the frequency data service without requiring the user to provide location information. Thus, the operator's involvement in the calibration process can be virtually eliminated.

[0045] — Sample EMI Fingerprint Scanning Device —

[0046] Figure 1 An embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning device for counterfeit detection of utility power systems. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 can be used to sense EMI emissions from a target utility device and compare an EMI fingerprint based on the sensed EMI emissions with a reference EMI fingerprint from a certified authentic reference utility device. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 includes a processor 105, a local data storage device 110, a display 120, an input device 125, a network interface 130, an antenna 135 for sensing electromagnetic signals 145 and a radio receiver 140, a scanner control logic 150, and a GPS receiver 155, each operatively interconnected, for example, via one or more buses.

[0047] In one embodiment, the processor 105 is configured to perform one or more steps of the methods described herein. The processor 105 can be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a controller, a mobile device processor, or a dedicated processor associated with the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100.

[0048] In one embodiment, the local data storage device 110 may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory hardware installed in the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. The memory hardware may be operated by storage management software executed by the processor 105. The local data storage device 110 uses one or more data structures to store information collected or generated by other components in the memory hardware.

[0049] In one embodiment, the display 120 may include a display device such as an LED or LCD display and associated graphics hardware for managing the display device. The display 120 may be configured to present a graphical user interface (GUI). In one embodiment, the input device 125 may include one or more input devices including a cursor controller, a touch screen integrated with the display 120, a hardware keyboard or keypad, a software keyboard or keypad, a microphone and audio processing with speech-to-text software, and / or configurable or dedicated dedicated buttons.

[0050] In one embodiment, the network interface 130 may be a wireless network interface device, such as an Ethernet or Bluetooth transceiver. In one embodiment, the network interface 130 is configured to enable the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to communicate with other computing devices via a computing network.

[0051] In one embodiment, antenna 135 is configured to sense electromagnetic signal 145 and apply the sensed signal to radio receiver 140 coupled to antenna 135. Depending on the configuration of antenna 135 and radio receiver 140, EMI signals are sensed over a wide frequency spectrum, for example, from approximately 500 kHz to approximately 4 GHz. Other ranges may also be appropriate, and the range of frequencies usable by EMI fingerprint counterfeit scanner 100 may be dictated by the combination of antenna 135 and radio receiver 140. Generally speaking, the frequency range sensed by the combination of antenna 135 and radio receiver 140 should include a frequency range encompassing some or all of the electromagnetic frequencies assigned to broadcast AM radio transceivers, broadcast FM radio transceivers, or broadcast television.

[0052] In one embodiment, antenna 135 may include a dipole antenna, a Yagi-Uda antenna, a loop antenna, an electrically short antenna (e.g., an open-ended wire less than a quarter wavelength in length), a fractal antenna, a parabolic antenna, a microstrip antenna, a quadrilateral antenna, a random wire antenna (e.g., an open-ended wire greater than a wavelength in length), a Beverley antenna, a helical antenna, a phased array antenna, and any other type of antenna now known or later developed. In a simple and inexpensive embodiment, antenna 135 may be an insulated wire with a fixed length of insulation removed. In one embodiment, the type and length of the antenna may be selected to achieve optimal discrimination sensitivity and robustness.

[0053] In one embodiment, the radio receiver 140 is a software-defined radio receiver or transceiver. The radio receiver 140 may include a local oscillator 170 (such as a crystal oscillator), a frequency synthesizer 175 (such as a phase-locked loop frequency synthesizer), and other radio front-end components. Note that the frequency signal generated by the frequency synthesizer 175 is a multiple of the stable frequency generated by the local oscillator 170. Crystal oscillators generate highly stable frequencies, but time (age of the crystal), temperature, humidity, operating voltage, or other factors can cause the frequency generated by the crystal oscillator to deviate from the desired frequency. Because the synthesized frequency is a multiple of the frequency generated by the local oscillator 170, this drift causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to sense the electromagnetic spectrum at an incorrect frequency. Other factors can also cause drift.

[0054] In one embodiment, the scanner control logic is a logic component specifically configured with instructions to execute the calibration logic 160 and / or the fingerprint logic 165. In one embodiment, the scanner control logic 160 is an EPROM or similar dedicated logic chip. In one embodiment, the scanner control logic 160 is a processor, such as the processor 105, configured with instructions to execute the calibration logic 160 and / or the fingerprint logic 165. The calibration logic 160 includes instructions to execute one or more steps of the method described herein associated with automatic calibration of EMI fingerprint scanning instruments. The fingerprint logic 165 includes instructions to execute one or more steps of the method described herein associated with detection and identification of counterfeit components in utility power systems.

[0055] In one embodiment, GPS receiver 155 is a Global Positioning System (GPS) (or other satellite radio navigation systems such as Galileo, GLONASS, or BeiDou) receiver chip configured to sense electromagnetic time signals from navigation satellites and calculate longitude, latitude, and altitude from the sensed signals.

[0056] Figure 2 An embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning device in an environment 200 in which the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is used to detect an EMI signal 205 from a target utility device 210. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 110 is a mobile device (not shown) or computer 215 coupled to a radio receiver 140 and an antenna 135. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is a dedicated unit that includes a radio receiver. In one embodiment, EMI fingerprint scanning is performed using a handheld wand or a magnetic card-mounted miniature device that includes an antenna and a software-defined radio (SDR), or a pluggable device that combines an antenna and an SDR.

[0057] The detection of the EMI signal 205 from the target utility device 210 may be referred to herein as "scanning" of the target utility device 210. To scan the target utility device 210, the antenna 135 may be positioned either close to the target utility device 210 or away from the target utility device 210. To achieve better sensitivity in the antenna 135 and, therefore, a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the EMI fingerprint counterfeit scanner 100, a smaller distance between the target utility device 210 and the antenna 135 is preferred. In addition to distance, the sensitivity of the antenna 135 may also be affected by its orientation relative to the target utility device 210.

[0058] In one embodiment, the antenna 135 is positioned at a predetermined distance and orientation relative to the target utility device 210 during scanning. This predetermined distance and orientation may be the same distance and orientation used to detect a reference EMI signal from a reference utility device of the same make and model as the target utility device 210. Consistency in antenna placement relative to the scanned utility devices may increase the ability of the EMI fingerprint counterfeit scanner 100 to match a target EMI fingerprint with a reference EMI fingerprint and to distinguish a target EMI fingerprint from a reference EMI fingerprint.

[0059] In one embodiment, the antenna 135 can be fixed to the EMI fingerprint scanner 100. In one embodiment, the antenna 135 can be in a fixed position (distance and orientation) relative to the target utility device 210 during the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 scanning of the target utility device 210. For example, the antenna 135 can be placed close to the target utility device 210 and not moved during the scan. The antenna 135 can be fixed to the housing of the target utility device 210 or can be fixed within the housing of the target utility device 210. The antenna 135 can be mechanically fixed (such as with bolts, screws, or clips), magnetically fixed, or fixed with an adhesive (such as sensor wax). In one embodiment, multiple antennas and / or radios (not shown) can be positioned at different positions and orientations relative to the target utility device 210 during the scan, and measurements taken from the multiple antennas and / or radios can be combined. In one embodiment, the antenna 135 moves to multiple different positions and orientations relative to the target utility device 210 during the scan. These various antenna positions and configurations, as well as other embodiments of positions and configurations, may be selected as desired to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of detected EMI signals for the entire target utility device 210 , or to emphasize EMI signals emitted by specific components of the target utility device 210 .

[0060] In one embodiment, radio receiver 140 receives EMI signals sensed by antenna 135, and fingerprint logic 165 is configured to convert the received EMI signals from analog to digital and record the power amplitude and frequency of the signals at predetermined time intervals. In one embodiment, fingerprint logic 165 is configured to store the recorded signals as a data structure in local data storage 110 and / or compare them to reference EMI fingerprints. In one embodiment, the signals are stored as tuples (t, f, p) of time, frequency, and power amplitude values. In one embodiment, the signals are stored in a flat file dataset with columns for frequency and rows for observation (time), along with the power amplitude value at each row and column entry. In one embodiment, the system converts the target EMI signal from the time domain to the frequency domain, for example by performing a fast Fourier transform (FFT) or other suitable transform on the collected target EMI signal. In one embodiment, the observation rate can be one observation per second, but higher and lower rates can be selected based on the speed of transitions in the test sequence. In one embodiment, EMI signals sensed by antenna 115 and radio 120 across the entire frequency range are stored, such as a range from approximately 500 kHz to approximately 4 GHz.

[0061] Figure 3 One embodiment of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is illustrated in association with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument in an environment 300 where the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 detects EM signals 305, 310, 315 from a radio station 320 for calibration.

[0062] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic signals 305, 310, 315 are broadcast AM or FM radio signals from local radio stations 325, 330, and 335, respectively. In one embodiment, the radio receiver 140 receives the radio signals 305, 310, 315 sensed by the antenna 135, and the calibration logic is configured to convert the received radio signals from analog signals to digital signals and record the power amplitude and frequency of the signals at predetermined time intervals. In one embodiment, this is similar to the method described above with reference to FIG. Figure 2The detection of sensed EMI signals discussed above is performed in a similar manner to that described above. However, the observation frequency can be much higher, for example, recording a value every tenth of a second. In addition, the entire range of detectable signals need not be recorded—the recording can be limited to a subset of frequencies reserved for AM or FM (or television) broadcasts. For example, in the United States, the AM radio band is in the frequency range of 535–1605 kHz. AM radio station carrier frequencies of 540–1600 kHz are assigned at 10 kHz intervals. In the United States, the FM radio band is in the frequency range of 88–108 MHz. FM radio stations are assigned center frequencies at 200 kHz intervals starting at 88.1 MHz, with a maximum deviation from the center frequency of 75 kHz. Thus, the range of sensed frequencies used for recording can be limited to that covering the AM and / or FM radio bands. Electromagnetic signals 305, 310, 315 are broadcast AM or FM radio signals from local radio stations 325, 330, and 335, respectively, and will be captured by recordings covering this range.

[0063] Figure 4 An embodiment of an environment 400 for calibrating an EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 associated with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is a mobile device 405 or a computing device 410 coupled with a software-defined radio receiver (such as the radio receiver 140) and an antenna (such as the antenna 135). In one embodiment, the network interface 130 is configured to enable the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to interact with one or more remote computers via a communication network 415. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 can send requests to and receive responses from a web server, such as a web interface server 420 of a frequency data service 425. In one embodiment, these communications can take the form of Remote Representational State Transfer (REST) ​​requests using, for example, JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) as a data exchange format, or, in another example, Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) requests to and from an XML server. In another embodiment, these communications can take the form of interacting with an HTML / JavaScript form on a web page and parsing the web page provided in response to the interaction.

[0064] In one embodiment, in addition to the web interface server 420, the frequency data service 425 includes a frequency information retrieval system 430 and one or more data repositories 435 on a data storage device. The web interface server 420, the frequency information retrieval system 430, and the data repositories 435 are interconnected via a local network 440. In one embodiment, the frequency data service 425 is configured to provide information about assigned radio frequencies in response to requests received via the web interface server 420. The data repositories 435 include one or more databases that include information including the geographic location and broadcast frequency of each radio (or television) station within a geographic area. The frequency information retrieval system parses requests received via the web interface server 420 and constructs queries to the database(s) in the data repositories 435 to respond to the request with the requested information. The web interface server constructs a suitably formatted response, thereby providing the retrieved information to the requesting EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 via the network 415.

[0065] In one embodiment, frequency data service 425 is the publicly accessible Federal Communications Commission website FCC.gov. The FCC maintains a publicly accessible database that includes the geographic location and assigned carrier frequency (AM) / center frequency (FM) (or more generally, broadcast band) for every broadcast AM, FM, and television station in the United States. These broadcast frequencies do not change, but remain consistent. The database also includes other information about radio stations, such as call signs and broadcast power. The FCC website enables queries to be performed on this database, including queries to find stations based on: (i) a radius from a given location based on latitude and longitude coordinates, (ii) a radius from a given location based on a zip code, (iii) a radius from a given location based on a city / state name, and (iv) an assigned broadcast frequency, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, results are returned in ascending order of distance from the searched location. Other parties may provide similar functionality. In one embodiment, these queries can be performed by executing a query at the appropriate page of the FCC website. The EMI fingerprint scanner can collect the returned information by crawling and parsing the web page containing the results of the query. In one embodiment, the FCC website (or other frequency data service) may expose an API for accepting such queries (eg, as REST requests) and returning query results.

[0066] —Local radio broadcast frequencies as reference sources—

[0067] In one embodiment, the local broadcast frequency provided by the frequency data service for a particular location can be used as a reference source at that particular location to compare with the broadcast frequency observed in a calibration operation of the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0068] Figure 5 An example heat map 500 of radio broadcast frequency bands collected near Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, by one embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device associated with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated. Heat map 500 illustrates the presence of signals within a given frequency range during a time period t, collected by an EMI fingerprint scanning device operating in a geographic location encompassed by area code 03052 in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire. In one embodiment, t = 5 seconds. Heat map 500 illustrates a constant frequency band (or frequency line) of a constant signal at a given frequency. Heat map 500 includes a constant frequency band / line for each of a plurality of radio stations near the EMI fingerprint scanning device. ZIP code 03052 was used to query the FCC frequency information database via fcc.gov, and the resulting radio stations were collected, with their corresponding broadcast frequency bands, call signs, and station locations marked adjacent to the frequency bands / lines. ZIP code 03052 and the nearby broadcast frequency bands are precisely captured in heat map 500 generated by the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0069] In particular, frequency band 505 occurs at 88.3 MHz and is associated with radio station WEVS, broadcasting from Nashua, NH, as shown in label 510. Frequency band 515 occurs at 92.1 MHz and is associated with radio station WDER-FM, broadcasting from Peterborough, NH, as shown in label 520. Frequency band 525 occurs at 91.4 MHz and is associated with radio station W231BR, broadcasting from Manchester, NH, as shown in label 530. Frequency band 535 occurs at 95.7 MHz and is associated with radio station WZID, broadcasting from Manchester, NH, as shown in label 540. Frequency band 545 occurs at 96.5 MHz and is associated with radio station WMLL, broadcasting from Bedford, NH, as shown in label 550. Frequency band 555 occurs at 98.9 MHz and is associated with radio station W255DA, broadcasting from Salem, NH, as shown in label 560. Frequency band 565 occurs at 101.1 MHz and is associated with radio station WGIR-FM broadcasting from Manchester, NH, as shown in label 570 .

[0070] Note that not all frequency bands are labeled with radio station information, such as, for example, frequency band 575. These frequencies may be associated with radio stations, but they may not be among the top N radio stations returned by a query of the FCC database. In this example, only the top seven radio stations may be requested or selected from the returned results (as shown at labels 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, and 570). Alternatively, in this example, there may only be seven radio stations broadcasting within a predetermined radius of zip code 03052. Therefore, other frequency bands, such as frequency band 575, may be farther away or transmitted by weaker stations.

[0071] Alternatively, other unmarked frequency bands, such as band 575, may represent persistent EMI interference sources detected by the EMI fingerprint scanning device, such as nearby unshielded powered devices generating EMI at that frequency.

[0072] Figure 6 An example heat map 600 of radio broadcast frequency bands collected near San Mateo County, California, by one embodiment of an EMI fingerprint scanning device associated with automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning instrument is illustrated. Heat map 600 illustrates the presence of signals of a given frequency collected by the EMI fingerprint scanning device operating in San Mateo County, California, within a geographic location included in ZIP code 94065, over a time period t. In one embodiment, t = 5 seconds. Heat map 600 illustrates a constant frequency band (or frequency line) of a constant signal at a given frequency. Heat map 600 includes a constant frequency band / line for each of a plurality of radio stations near the EMI fingerprint scanning device. ZIP code 94065 was used to query the FCC frequency information database via fcc.gov, and the resulting radio stations were collected, with their corresponding broadcast frequency bands, call signs, and station locations labeled adjacent to the frequency bands / lines. Area code 94065 and the nearby broadcast frequency bands are accurately captured in the heat map 600 generated by the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

[0073] In particular, frequency band 605 appears at 88.5 MHz and is associated with KQED-FM, a radio station broadcast from San Francisco, as shown in label 610. Frequency band 615 appears at 91.1 MHz and is associated with KCSM, a radio station broadcast from San Mateo, CA, as shown in label 620. Frequency band 625 appears at 93.3 MHz and is associated with KRZZ, a radio station broadcast from San Francisco, CA, as shown in label 630. Frequency band 635 appears at 94.1 MHz and is associated with KPFA, a radio station broadcast from Berkeley, CA, as shown in label 640. Frequency band 645 appears at 94.9 MHz and is associated with KYLD, a radio station broadcast from San Mateo, CA, as shown in label 650. Frequency band 655 appears at 95.7 MHz and is associated with KGMZ, a radio station broadcast from San Francisco, CA, as shown in label 660. Frequency band 665 appears at 96.5 MHz and is associated with KOIT, a radio station broadcast from San Francisco, CA, as shown in label 670. Frequency band 675 occurs at 97.3 MHz and is associated with radio station KLLC broadcasting from San Francisco, CA, as shown in label 680 .

[0074] and Figure 5 Same, not Figure 6 All frequency bands shown in the are labeled with radio station information, such as band 685, for example, and are for Figure 5 It is also noted that heat maps such as heat map 500 and heat map 600 may cover, but need not cover, the entire portion of the electromagnetic spectrum assigned to FM or AM radio transceivers. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in , the heat map may instead cover only a subset of the assigned spectrum.

[0075] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Each of the displays shows local radio station broadcast signals, along with information indicating the broadcast frequencies assigned to those broadcast signals, which can be used as a reference source for automatic calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device. Alignment between one or more broadcast signal bands detected at a geographic location and one or more local broadcast frequencies assigned to radio stations near that geographic location indicates that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated. In one embodiment, alignment to within 1% of published U.S. FCC frequencies is considered optimal. Alignment with the FCC can be prepared for any geographic location within the United States (and within other regions where broadcast frequencies are assigned to radio stations). Figure 5 and Figure 6. Thus, users of the EMI fingerprint scanning device will not need to perform manual calibration before conducting EMI fingerprint counterfeit scans. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device can be configured to present a "green light" calibration verification and a marked 2D heat map on a graphical user interface, thereby verifying that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is correctly "seeing" the nearest radio signal in its exact frequency band, thereby verifying that the software defined radio (SDR) radio frequency (RF) circuitry and fast Fourier transform (FFT) processing is indeed seeing the correct spectrum.

[0076] — Example Method for Automatic Calibration —

[0077] In one embodiment, each step of the computer-implemented method described herein may be performed by a processor of one or more computing devices (such as a reference device). Figure 13 The processor 1310 shown and described in FIG. 1 performs (i) accessing a memory (such as memory 1315 and / or reference Figure 13 and (ii) other computing device components shown and described in the ) and (iii) logic configured to cause the system to perform the steps of the method (such as reference Figure 13 Utility power system EMI fingerprint scanner instrument auto-calibration logic 1330 shown and described. For example, the processor accesses memory and reads from or writes to memory to perform the steps of the computer-implemented method described herein. These steps may include (i) retrieving any necessary information, (ii) calculating, determining, generating, classifying, or otherwise creating any data, and (iii) storing any data calculated, determined, generated, classified, or otherwise created. References to storage or storing indicate storage as a memory or storage device / disk of a computing device (such as memory 1315, or storage device / disk 1335 of computing device 1305 or reference to a storage device / disk). Figure 13 Data structures in the remote computer 1365) shown and described.

[0078] In one embodiment, each subsequent step of the method can be initiated in response to parsing a received signal or retrieved stored data indicating that the previous step has been performed at least to the extent necessary for the subsequent step to begin. Generally speaking, the received signal or retrieved stored data indicates completion of the previous step.

[0079] Figure 7 An embodiment of a method 700 associated with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanner is illustrated. In one embodiment, the steps of the method 700 are performed by the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 (as shown in FIG. Figure 1-Figure 4In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 is a dedicated computing device (such as computing device 1305 ) configured with utility power system EMI fingerprint scanner auto-calibration logic 1330 .

[0080] The method 700 can be initiated based on various triggers, such as receiving a signal over the network or parsing stored data indicating that: (i) the user (or administrator) of the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 has initiated the method 700, (ii) the method 700 is scheduled to be initiated at a defined time or time interval, (iii) the user (or administrator) of the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 has initiated an EMI fingerprint counterfeit scan of the target utility device, or (iv) the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 has completed an EMI fingerprint scan of the target utility device. The method 700 is initiated at a start block 705 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieved stored data and determining that the signal or stored data indicates that the method 700 should begin. Processing continues to process block 710.

[0081] At process block 710 , the processor collects electromagnetic signals at a geographic location using an EMI fingerprint scanning device for a test period of time.

[0082] In one embodiment, the processor 105 of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 110 identifies a test period for collecting signals. Similarly, the processor 105 identifies an observation interval for recording the collected signals. For example, the values ​​for the test period and observation interval can be predetermined time periods retrieved from corresponding locations in the local data storage 110 or hard-coded into the calibration logic 160. In one embodiment, the test period is a period between 1 and 15 seconds, such as 5 seconds, and the sampling interval is between 0.001 and 0.1 seconds, such as 0.01 seconds. Alternatively, the operator of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 110 can be presented with the option to enter or modify these default values ​​for the test period and observation interval. For the duration of the test period, the processor accepts electromagnetic signals sensed by the antenna 135 and collected by the radio receiver 140 within the AM and / or FM radio bands and records the digital values ​​of these signals at each observation interval. Signals observed outside the AM and / or FM radio bands can be ignored and not recorded. In one embodiment, the observed signals are stored in the local data storage 110 as a tuple (t, f, p) of observation time, frequency, and power amplitude values. In one embodiment, the signal is stored in a flat file data set with columns for frequency and rows for observations (time), along with a power amplitude value at each row column entry.

[0083] In one embodiment, process block 710 is performed while turning off utilities near the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to reduce noise detected during the calibration process. In one embodiment, process block 710 is performed while the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is away from systems that generate a large amount of EMI to reduce noise detected during the calibration process. In one embodiment, process block 710 is performed while the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is placed within a partial Faraday cage to reduce noise detected during the calibration process.

[0084] Once the processor has thus completed collecting electromagnetic signals with the EMI fingerprint scanning device at the geographic location for the test period, processing at process block 710 is complete and processing continues to process block 715 .

[0085] At process block 715 , the processor identifies one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal.

[0086] In one embodiment, the processor identifies frequencies that have: (i) a consistent signal over the test period and (ii) a greater power spectral density (PSD) than adjacent frequencies. These frequencies are likely carrier frequencies assigned to AM radio stations or center frequencies assigned to FM radio stations. In one embodiment, the system transforms the observed radio signals recorded for the test period from the time domain to the frequency domain, for example by performing a fast Fourier transform (FFT) or other appropriate transform on the observed radio signals. The system then calculates the power spectral density of the signal observed during the test period for each frequency and records the power spectral density value in a data structure in the local data storage device 110 that associates PSD values ​​with frequencies. The system then analyzes the PSD value for each frequency to detect a "peak" frequency among the nearby frequencies based on the highest PSD value among the group of adjacent frequencies. Frequencies identified as "peak" frequencies based on their power spectral density values ​​during the test period are likely to include carrier / center frequencies assigned to local radio stations. A list of detected peak frequency bands is stored as a data structure in the local data storage device 110 for later retrieval and processing.

[0087] Once the processor has thus completed identifying one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal, processing at process block 715 is complete and processing continues to process block 720 .

[0088] At process block 720, the processor compares the one or more peak frequency bands with the assigned radio station frequencies at the geographic location to determine if a match is found. In one embodiment, a "match" is considered when the measured frequency falls within 1% of the frequencies published by the U.S. FCC.

[0089] In one embodiment, the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint scanner 100 can be retrieved in response to an indication that the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint device is required in order to query the frequency data service 425. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 can cause the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint to be requested from the operator of the EMI fingerprint scanner 100. For example, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 can present a prompt on the graphical user interface of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 (presented by the display 120) to enter the geographic location. For example, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 can generate a form that requests the user to enter a zip code, city and / or state, or longitude and latitude, and includes fields for accepting the user's input, and present the form on the display 120. The calibration logic 160 can then cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to accept the user input in response to the prompt for the geographic location. For example, the calibration logic 160 can detect that the user has selected a "Submit" or "Accept" button on the form. In response to detecting the selection of the Submit button, the calibration logic 160 causes the data entered by the user in the fields of the form to be checked for validity and then stored in the local data storage device 110 in a data structure indicating the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint scanner 100. The geographic location may be retrieved from the local data storage 110 when needed.

[0090] In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 may cause a request for the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint from the GPS receiver 155. The calibration logic 160 generates instructions to collect the current latitude and longitude from the GPS receiver 155. In response to collecting the current latitude and longitude from the GPS receiver 155, the calibration logic 160 causes the current latitude and longitude to be stored in the local data store 110 in a data structure indicating the geographic location of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. The geographic location may be retrieved from the local data store 110 when needed.

[0091] Note that the longitude and latitude information may be provided by the GPS receiver 155 in decimal degree format and may require conversion to degrees-minutes-seconds format, or vice versa, prior to querying the frequency data service. The calibration logic 160 may perform these conversions by applying the applicable conversion formulas. Additionally, the zip code (or city / state) information may require conversion to latitude and longitude format. The calibration logic 160 may perform these conversions by looking up the zip code (or city / state) in a table of representative latitudes and longitudes for the zip code (or city / state).

[0092] In one embodiment, the processor retrieves information about radio stations that are identified as being local to a geographic location, such as by being identified as being located within a certain radius of the geographic location. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device requests information about radio stations that are near the geographic location from a frequency data service. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 uses at least a portion of the information returned by the frequency data service to determine whether to generate a match signal or a no-match signal. For example, the information returned about the radio stations is used to determine whether one or more of the peak frequencies in the list are broadcast by local radio stations, and if one or more of the peak frequencies in the list are broadcast by local radio stations (in one embodiment, within 1% of the local broadcast frequencies), then a match signal is generated. Reference is made below to Figure 8A and Figure 8B Discusses comparison and matching in more detail.

[0093] Once the processor has thus completed comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to the assigned radio station frequencies at the geographic location to determine whether a match is found, processing at process block 720 is complete and processing continues to process block 725 .

[0094] At process block 725 , the processor generates a calibration status signal based at least in part on the comparison to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

[0095] In one embodiment, in response to the comparison indicating that at least one match is found, the calibration logic 160 determines that the calibration status of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is "calibrated". The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanner to generate a data value indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is "calibrated" and writes the value to a data structure in the local data storage device 110. The stored data value serves as a signal that the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is calibrated.

[0096] In one embodiment, in response to the comparison indicating that no match is found, the calibration logic 160 determines that the calibration status of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is "uncalibrated". The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanner to generate a data value indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is "uncalibrated" and writes the value to a data structure in the local data storage device 110. The stored data value serves as a signal that the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is uncalibrated.

[0097] Once the processor has completed generating a calibration status signal based at least in part on the comparison to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, processing at process block 725 is complete and processing continues to end block 730 where process 700 ends.

[0098] — Example Method for Comparing to Assigned Frequencies —

[0099] Referring again to process block 720, note that there are a variety of methods by which one or more peak frequency bands may be compared to assigned radio station frequencies at a geographic location to determine whether a match is found. Two example methods are described below.

[0100] In one embodiment, the comparison is performed locally on the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 in response to retrieving a list of frequencies assigned to local radio stations. Figure 8A One embodiment of a method 800 associated with comparing peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies in the automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated. In one embodiment, method 800 is performed as part of method 700, and more specifically, as part of process block 720. In one embodiment, method 800 is performed by EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. Method 800 begins at start block 805 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieving stored data indicating that method 800 should begin, such as initiation of process block 720 in method 700. Processing continues at process block 810.

[0101] At process block 810, the processor requests radio station frequency information for radio stations near the geographic location from the frequency data service. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to construct a request from the frequency data service 425 for at least the frequency, call sign, and station location of all radio stations within a certain radius (e.g., 100 kilometers) of the geographic location. For example, the request may be a REST request. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 transmits the request from the network interface 130 via the network 415 to the web interface server 420 of the frequency data service 425, which processes the request. Once the processor has thus completed requesting radio station frequency information for radio stations near the geographic location from the frequency data service, processing at process block 810 is complete, and processing continues to process block 815.

[0102] At process block 815, the processor parses the response from the frequency data service to determine a list of local radio station frequencies. In one embodiment, the frequency information retrieval system 430 retrieves the requested information from a database in the data repository 435. The web interface server generates a response (such as a web page or a REST request) and transmits it to the network interface 130 of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 via the network 415. The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to parse the response to extract the list of local radio station frequencies and their associated call signs and station locations. The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to store the list as a data structure in the local data storage 110. Once the processor has thus completed parsing the response from the frequency data service to determine the list of local radio station frequencies, processing at process block 815 is complete, and processing continues to decision block 820.

[0103] At decision block 820, the processor determines whether any of the one or more peak frequency bands are included in the list. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to retrieve (i) a list of local radio station frequencies and their associated call signs and station locations, and (ii) the list of detected peak frequency bands generated at process block 715 of method 700 above. The calibration logic 160 then causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to compare each detected peak frequency band with the list of frequencies assigned to local radio stations until at least one peak frequency band is found to be included in the list of assigned frequencies (in one embodiment, within 1% of the assigned frequencies), or until it is determined that no peak frequency band is included in the list of assigned frequencies. If any peak frequency band is included in the list (yes), then processing at decision block 820 is complete, and processing continues to process block 825. If no peak frequency band is included in the list (no), then processing at decision block 820 is complete, and processing continues to process block 830.

[0104] At process block 825, the processor generates a match signal because the peak frequency band is included in the list. In one embodiment, in response to finding at least one match between the detected peak frequency band and a frequency assigned to a local radio station, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device to generate a match-found data value and write the value to a data structure in the local data storage device 110. In one embodiment, the data value is a list of one or more assigned radio frequencies (and associated call signs and locations) that match the detected peak frequency band (identified by their frequency). Once the processor has thus completed generating the match signal, processing at process block 825 is complete, and processing continues to end block 835, where process 800 ends.

[0105] At process block 830, the processor generates a no-match signal because no peak frequency band is included in the list. In one embodiment, in response to finding that there is no match between the detected peak frequency band and the frequency assigned to the local radio station, calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device to generate a no-match data value and write this value to a data structure in local data storage 110. In one embodiment, the data value indicates that the set of matching stations and frequency bands is NULL or an empty set. The stored data value serves as the match signal. Once the processor has thus completed generating the no-match signal, processing at process block 830 is complete, and processing continues to end block 835, where method 800 is complete.

[0106] In another embodiment, the comparison is performed remotely as an incidental feature of one or more requests to the frequency data service 425 . Figure 8B Another embodiment of a method 850 associated with comparing peak frequency bands to assigned radio station frequencies in the automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated. In one embodiment, method 850 is performed as part of method 700, and more specifically, as part of process block 720. In one embodiment, method 850 is performed by EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. Method 850 begins at start block 855 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieving stored data indicating that method 850 should begin, such as initiation of process block 720 in method 700. Processing continues at process block 860.

[0107] At process block 860, the processor requests radio station identification information for radio stations broadcasting at a peak frequency band near the geographic location from the frequency data service. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to construct a request from the frequency data service 425 for at least the call signs and station locations of all radio stations broadcasting at a peak frequency band within a certain radius (e.g., 100 kilometers) from the geographic location. For example, the request may be a REST request. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 transmits the request from the network interface 130 via the network 415 to the web interface server 420 of the frequency data service 425, which processes the request. Once the processor has thus completed requesting radio station identification information for radio stations broadcasting at a peak frequency band near the geographic location from the frequency data service, processing at process block 860 is complete, and processing continues to decision block 865.

[0108] At decision block 865, the processor parses the response from the frequency data service to determine whether the one peak frequency band is assigned to a radio station.

[0109] In one embodiment, the frequency information retrieval system 430 retrieves the requested information from a database in the data repository 435. The web interface server generates a response, such as a web page or a REST request, and transmits it to the network interface 130 of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 via the network 415. If a radio station assigned to broadcast on a peak frequency band exists within the radius, the response includes the call sign and location information for that radio station. If a radio station assigned to broadcast on a peak frequency band does not exist within the radius, the response is NULL, empty, or does not include any call sign or location information. The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to parse the response to determine whether the radio station is identified or whether the response does not identify a radio station. The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to add the assigned frequency, call sign, and station information (if any) to a matching list in the local data storage device 110.

[0110] Thus, the return of station information (call sign, location, etc.) in response to a query regarding a peak frequency band indicates a match with the identified radio station, and the absence of station information in response to a query regarding a peak frequency band indicates a mismatch with the radio station. If the response includes a radio station identification for a peak frequency band (yes), then processing at decision block 865 is complete, and processing continues to process block 870. If the response does not include a radio station identification for a peak frequency band (no), then processing at decision block 865 is complete, and processing continues to process block 875.

[0111] At process block 870, the processor generates a match signal because the response includes a radio station identification for one of the peak frequency bands. The match signal is generated as described above with reference to process block 825. Processing at process block 870 is complete, and processing continues to end block 880 where process 850 ends.

[0112] At process block 875, the processor generates a no match signal because the response does not include a radio station identification for one of the peak frequency bands. The no match signal is generated as described above with reference to process block 830. Processing at process block 875 is complete, and processing continues to end block 880 where method 850 is complete.

[0113] — Additional Example Methods for Automatic Calibration —

[0114] Figure 9One embodiment of a method associated with automatic calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated. In one embodiment, method 900 is performed as a continuation of method 700, specifically in response to a calibration status signal generated at process block 725. In one embodiment, the steps of method 900 are performed by EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. Method 900 is initiated at start block 805 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieving stored data indicating that method 900 should begin, such as completion of process block 725 in method 700. Processing continues at decision block 910.

[0115] At decision block 910, the processor determines whether the calibration status signal indicates that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to retrieve the calibration status signal from the local data storage device 110. The calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to interpret the value of the calibration status signal to determine whether it indicates "calibrated" or "uncalibrated." If the calibration status signal indicates that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated (yes), then processing proceeds to one or more of process blocks 915 and 920. If the calibration status signal indicates that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated (no), then processing proceeds to one or more of process blocks 925, 930, and 935.

[0116] In one embodiment, as illustrated, for example, by process blocks 915 and 925, continued execution of an EMI fingerprint scan of a target device can be permitted or prevented based on a determination of whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated. At process block 915, in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, the processor permits initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device. Permission is achieved, for example, by enabling or making accessible to an operator of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 a "Start Scan" button or similar scan initiation option. For example, the button can be revealed or enabled in a previously hidden GUI to initiate an EMI fingerprint scan of a target device for which the button was not previously enabled. Selection of the Start Scan button can then be detected, and an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device initiated by the fingerprint logic 165. Processing at process block 915 is then complete, and processing continues to end block 940, where method 900 completes.

[0117] Conversely, at process block 925, in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, the processor prevents the EMI fingerprint scanning device from initiating an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device. For example, this prevention is achieved by disabling or rendering inaccessible to the operator of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 a "Start Scan" button or similar scan initiation option. For example, the button may be hidden or invisible in the GUI. Alternatively, the "Start Scan" button may be disabled, and selection of the Start Scan button does not result in the initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device. Processing at process block 915 is then complete, and processing continues to end block 940, where method 900 is complete. Processing at process block 915 is complete, and processing continues to end block 940, where method 900 is complete.

[0118] In one embodiment, a visual indication or icon representing the calibration status of the EMI fingerprint scanning device can be presented on a graphical user interface, such as indicated by process blocks 920 and 930. This advantageously simplifies the interpretation of the results of a calibration process (such as method 700). At process block 920, the processor causes the display of the EMI fingerprint scanning device to present a visual calibration verification on the scanning device's graphical user interface in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated. In one embodiment, the processor generates a GUI that includes the visual calibration verification. The processor then transmits the GUI to the display 120. The display 120 presents the GUI showing the visual calibration verification.

[0119] Now refer to Figure 10A , Figure 10A One embodiment of a graphical user interface 1000 associated with notifying a user of an EMI fingerprint scanning device that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is correctly calibrated is illustrated. In one embodiment, visual calibration verification may take the form of a "calibration verified" icon 1005. Icon 1005 may be green to signal a "green light" to proceed with the EMI fingerprint scan. In one embodiment, a graphical "More Info" button 1010 may be selected to cause the GUI to display additional information regarding why the calibration is being verified. For example, selection of button 1010 may cause a calibration heat map with matching local radio frequencies to be displayed on the GUI. In one embodiment, a graphical "Start EMI Fingerprint Scan" button 1015 is presented. Selecting this button causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to begin the EMI fingerprint scan according to the fingerprint logic 165.

[0120] Reference again Figure 9 , processing at process block 920 is then complete, and processing continues to end block 940 where method 900 is complete.

[0121] At process block 930, the processor causes the display of the EMI fingerprint scanning device to present a visual calibration warning on a graphical user interface of the scanning device in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated. In one embodiment, the processor generates a GUI including the visual calibration warning. The processor then transmits the GUI to the display 120. The display 120 presents the GUI showing the visual calibration warning.

[0122] Now refer to Figure 10B , Figure 10B One embodiment of a graphical user interface 1050 associated with warning a user of an EMI fingerprint scanning device that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not properly calibrated is illustrated. In one embodiment, the visual calibration warning may take the form of a "calibration warning" icon 1055. The icon 1055 may be red and octagonal to suggest the color and form of a stop sign to suggest to the user that the EMI fingerprint scan must not proceed. In one embodiment, a graphical "More Information" button 1060 may be selected to cause the GUI to show additional information regarding why the calibration was not verified or has failed. For example, selection of the button 1060 may cause a calibration heat map to be displayed on the GUI with local radio frequencies (which are not aligned with the observed frequency bands) marked. In one embodiment, a graphical "Start Recalibration" button 1065 is presented. Selection of this button will cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to begin a self-recalibration process (such as a calibration step) in accordance with the calibration logic 160. Figure 12 shown and described in ).

[0123] Reference again Figure 9 , processing at process block 930 is then complete, and processing continues to end block 940 where method 900 is complete.

[0124] As mentioned above, in one embodiment, a self-recalibration process can be performed by an EMI fingerprint scanning device that is determined to be uncalibrated, such as shown at process block 935. At process block 935, the processor initiates a recalibration process to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device in response to a calibration confirmation signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is uncalibrated. In one embodiment, the calibration logic 160 causes the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to load the recalibration process from the local data storage device 110 and begin executing the recalibration process. Once the recalibration process is thus initiated, processing at process block 935 is complete, and processing continues to the end block, where method 900 is complete.

[0125] — Proof of Calibration for EMI Fingerprint —

[0126] Figure 11One embodiment of a method 1100 associated with generating a calibration certificate is illustrated to illustrate that the EMI fingerprint of the target device is created by a properly calibrated EMI fingerprint scanning device. In one embodiment, the steps of method 1100 are performed by the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 in accordance with the calibration logic 160 and the fingerprint logic 165. In one embodiment, method 1100 may begin by allowing an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device to be initiated in response to a calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, as shown and described with reference to process block 915 of method 900. Method 1100 begins at start block 1105 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieved stored data indicating that method 1100 should begin, such as an indication that an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device has been initiated. Processing continues at process block 1110.

[0127] At process block 1110 , the processor performs an EMI fingerprint scan of the target utility device to generate an EMI fingerprint of the target utility device.

[0128] In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device performs scanning according to the fingerprint logic 165. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 collects target EMI signals emitted by a target utility device (or "unit under test," UUT) undergoing a series of test operations. In one embodiment, the sequence of test operations nominally lasts 10 minutes, during which scanning is performed. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 generates a target EMI fingerprint of the target device based on the collected target EMI signals. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 compares the target EMI fingerprint with a reference EMI fingerprint of a reference utility device, where the reference utility device is verified to be an authentic device of the same type as the target utility device (or "golden system," GS). Based on the results of the comparison, the EMI fingerprint scanning device determines whether the target utility device is authentic or contains one or more counterfeit electronic components. The EMI fingerprint scanner stores the target EMI fingerprint and the authenticity or counterfeit determination in the local data repository 110.

[0129] In one embodiment, the collected target EMI signals and the reference EMI signals in the reference EMI fingerprint are subjected to a fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation to transform the corresponding EMI signal sets from a time domain representation to a frequency domain representation. The transformed (frequency domain) reference EMI signals are used to train a nonlinear, non-parametric regression model, such as a multivariate state estimation technique (MSET) model. The trained MSET model is provided with the transformed (frequency domain) target EMI signals as input to generate estimates of the target EMI signals. The comparison of the reference EMI signals and the target EMI signals is based at least in part on these estimates.

[0130] Once the processor has thus completed performing an EMI fingerprint scan of the target utility device to generate an EMI fingerprint of the target utility device, processing at process block 1110 is complete and processing continues to process block 1115 .

[0131] At process block 1115, the processor generates a calibration certificate for the EMI fingerprint scan from the collected electromagnetic frequencies, the assigned radio station frequencies, and the calibration status signal.

[0132] In one embodiment, as referenced Figure 7 The process block 710 shown and described is a test that generates a flat file dataset for use as the basis for a heat map of the signals observed by the EMI fingerprint scanning device during the test period at its current geographic location. The generated heat map is similar to the example heat maps 500 and 600. The heat map for the test period can be generated by plotting the observed power amplitude values ​​versus frequency and time, with the color saturation of the points varying depending on the observed power amplitude values. For example, in the example heat maps 500 and 600, higher power amplitude values ​​are plotted in darker shades of gray, with the highest values ​​approaching black, while lower power amplitude values ​​are plotted in lighter shades of gray, approaching white. Colors other than black and white may be suitable for a graphical user interface. Based on the assigned frequency bands of the geographically neighboring radio stations retrieved at process block 720, labels indicating the assigned local radio station frequency (and, if desired, call sign and location) can be applied to the corresponding frequency values ​​on the frequency axis. Applying the labels to the heat map serves as a visual confirmation by the EMI fingerprint scanning device of whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is calibrated or not. For calibration verification purposes, the labels should be aligned with the observed bands. If the labels are aligned, then the thermal image of the labels helps verify calibration. If the labels are not aligned with the observed bands, then the thermal image of the labels helps prove calibration errors.

[0133] In one embodiment, the calibration certificate is a data structure that includes the value of a calibration status signal for the calibration process, heat map information for the calibration process, and labels for the heat map consisting of assigned local radio station frequencies, call signs, and broadcast locations retrieved from a frequency data provider (such as an FCC database) during the calibration process. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 stores the data used to generate the heat map—a flat file dataset generated for the test period—in the local data storage 110 as part of the calibration certificate data structure. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 stores the data used to generate the labels on the heat map—the assigned local radio station frequencies, call signs, and broadcast locations—in the local data storage 110 as part of the calibration certificate data structure. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 stores the value of the calibration status signal in the local data storage 110 as part of the calibration certificate data structure. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 generates an image of the heat map with the labels applied and stores it in the local data storage 110 as part of the calibration certificate data structure. In one embodiment, the image of the heat map may include a value of a calibration status signal (such as text indicating "calibrated" or "uncalibrated"), or a visual calibration verification or warning (such as a "calibration verified" icon 1005 or a "calibration warning" icon 1055) may be included in the image, respectively.

[0134] In one embodiment, the calibration certificate data structure does not include an image. The image can be constructed after reading the calibration certificate data structure from the other data included in the calibration certificate data structure—the calibration status signal, the flat file data set, and the assigned RFID tag. In another embodiment, the image is included in the calibration certificate data structure, but the underlying calibration status signal, the flat file data set, and the assigned RFID tag are not included. This configuration can be used primarily for visual verification of the calibration status. In another embodiment, both the image and the underlying data are included in the calibration certificate data structure.

[0135] Once the processor has thus completed generating a calibration certificate for the EMI fingerprint scan from the collected electromagnetic frequencies, assigned radio station frequencies, and calibration status signals, processing at process block 1115 is complete and processing continues to process block 1120 .

[0136] At process block 1120, the processor includes a calibration certificate with the EMI fingerprint. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 retrieves each of the target EMI fingerprint, the authentic or counterfeit determination, and the calibration certificate data structure from the local data repository 110. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 creates a combined data structure in the local data repository 110 that includes each of the target EMI fingerprint, the authentic or counterfeit determination, and the calibration certificate data structure. In response to the request for the EMI fingerprint, the EMI fingerprint scanning device returns the combined data structure. Once the processor has thus completed including the calibration certificate with the EMI fingerprint, processing at process block 1120 is complete, and processing continues to end block 1125, where method 1100 ends.

[0137] In one embodiment, reference Figure 7 and Figure 11 The calibration procedure shown and described is performed automatically without user instruction. For example, the calibration procedure can be automated, and therefore transparent to the scanner operator, such that before, after, or both, scanning a target utility asset and saving the target EMI fingerprint, the automated calibration procedure is performed and calibration thermal map image(s) (and / or other calibration verification information) are saved along with the official EMI fingerprint scan. The calibration procedure typically takes less than 10 seconds, making it less obvious to a human operator running a scan that takes 10 minutes or longer. Capturing and certifying that the instrument is fully calibrated before and after each and every EMI fingerprint scan of a target utility asset, where the calibration certificate is saved along with the digitized EMI fingerprint of the target utility asset, is a valuable supplement to counterfeit-free authentication. It confirms that the authentication is accurate and provides quantitative evidence for taking action against counterfeit detection in the supply chain. For example, in the case of counterfeit detection at ports of entry or exit, the cost of false identification can be very high. Type I false alert errors due to calibration errors can unnecessarily halt significant shipments. Type II missed alert errors due to calibration errors bypass the opportunity to remove a large number of devices with counterfeit components from the supply chain, all in one place.

[0138] —Frequency Self-Recalibration—

[0139] Figure 12One embodiment of a method 1200 associated with automatically recalibrating an improperly calibrated EMI fingerprint scanning device is illustrated. In one embodiment, the steps of method 1200 are performed by the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 according to calibration logic 160. In one embodiment, method 1200 may begin by initiating a recalibration process in response to a calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, as shown and described with reference to process block 935 of method 900. Method 1200 begins at start block 1205 in response to parsing a received signal or retrieved stored data indicating that method 1200 should begin, such as an indication that a recalibration process has been initiated. Processing continues at process block 1210.

[0140] At process block 1210 , the processor identifies an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of the peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal.

[0141] In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 identifies at least two peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal that differ from at least two of the assigned radio station frequencies at the geographic location by a common scalar error. While a scalar error can be identified from a single pair of peak frequencies and assigned radio station frequencies, the presence of the same scalar error (or error coefficient) for two pairs of peak frequencies and assigned radio station frequencies confirms that the peak frequencies are correctly paired with the assigned radio stations. This confirms that the correct scalar error has been identified. Identifying a further peak frequency-assigned radio station frequency pair with the same scalar error further confirms that the detected peak frequency has deviated from the frequency broadcast by the actual radio station by the scalar error. In one embodiment, the scalar error (or error coefficient) for a pair of observed peak frequencies and assigned radio station frequencies can be calculated by taking the difference between the observed peak frequency and the assigned radio station frequency and dividing the difference by the assigned radio station frequency. Note that there can be slight differences between the error coefficients calculated for each pair. Therefore, when the error coefficients differ only within an acceptable tolerance, they can be considered "identical." In one embodiment, the average of all error coefficients is determined as the "actual" value of the error coefficient.

[0142] Therefore, in one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 identifies multiple peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal that differ from the assigned local radio station frequency by the same factor. For example, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 identifies the error coefficient between each combination of peak frequency bands and the assigned radio station frequency. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 selects pairs of coefficients that differ only within an acceptable tolerance. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 averages the selected coefficients and records the average value as the value of the scalar error (error coefficient) in the local data storage device 110 as a data structure.

[0143] Once the processor has thus completed identifying an error based at least on the difference between one or more of the assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of the peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal, processing at process block 1210 is complete and processing continues to process block 1215.

[0144] At process block 1215, the processor derives at least a correction coefficient from the error. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 retrieves the value of the error coefficient from the local data storage 110. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 takes the inverse of the error coefficient (1 / N) to generate the correction coefficient. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 stores the value of the correction coefficient as a data structure in the local data storage 110. Once the processor has thus completed deriving the correction coefficient from at least the error, processing at process block 1215 is complete, and processing continues to process block 1220.

[0145] At process block 1220, the processor applies the correction coefficients to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

[0146] In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 applies a correction factor to the output of the local oscillator 170 of the radio receiver 140 of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 to correct the frequency synthesized by the frequency synthesizer 175. The corrected synthesized frequency will cause the observed electromagnetic signal to be associated with (or "seen" as) its correct wavelength. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 is thus recalibrated. In one embodiment, the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 retrieves the value of the correction factor from the local data storage device 110. The EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 multiplies either (i) the local oscillator frequency or (ii) the synthesized frequency by the correction factor to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100.

[0147] Once the processor has thus completed applying the correction coefficients to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated, processing at process block 1220 is complete and processing continues to end block 1225 where method 1200 is complete.

[0148] In one embodiment, if the recalibration process still fails to fully correct the calibration error of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100, the EMI fingerprint scanning device may present a further calibration warning on the display 140 indicating that the calibration may not be correctable in the field and that equipment repair or replacement of one or more components of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100 may be required.

[0149] —Advantages of choosing—

[0150] The autonomous EMI fingerprint calibration system and method described herein substantially eliminates the complexity in the procedures for EMI fingerprint counterfeit detection of critical utility assets. The system and method described herein make calibration verification unobtrusive and easy to perform by non-expert personnel. The system and method described herein eliminates the need to use a reference source of EMI signals to calibrate the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100. The system and method described herein provides proof or certification of the calibration required to support the EMI fingerprint scanning device to determine whether the target utility equipment is authentic or contains one or more counterfeit components. The system and method described herein enables non-expert personnel to identify and correct calibration drift of the EMI fingerprint scanning device 100, thereby improving the accuracy of the EMI fingerprint scan performed by the device. Other advantages achieved by the system and method are described elsewhere herein. Each of these advantages demonstrates an improvement in EMI fingerprint recognition technology, electromagnetic scanning equipment calibration technology, or other technical fields. Therefore, the system and method described herein are actually applied to achieve improved operation.

[0151] —Software Module Embodiment—

[0152] Generally speaking, software instructions are designed to be executed by a suitably programmed processor. These software instructions may include, for example, computer executable code and source code that can be compiled into computer executable code. These software instructions may also include instructions written in an interpreted programming language such as a scripting language.

[0153] In complex systems, such instructions are often arranged into program modules, where each such module performs a specific task, procedure, function, or operation. The entire collection of modules may be controlled or coordinated in their operation by an operating system (OS) or other form of organizational platform.

[0154] In one embodiment, one or more of the components, functions, methods, or processes described herein are configured as modules stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The modules are configured with stored software instructions that, when executed by at least one processor accessing a memory or storage device, cause a computing device to perform the corresponding function(s) as described herein.

[0155] —Computing Device Embodiment—

[0156] Figure 13 An embodiment of a computing device 1300 is illustrated, which is configured and / or programmed with one or more of the example systems, methods, and / or specialized equipment and / or equivalents disclosed herein. The example computing device 1300 may be a computer 1305 that includes a processor 1310, a memory 1315, and input / output ports 1320 operatively connected via a bus 1325. In one example, the computer 1305 may include utility power system EMI fingerprint scanner auto-calibration logic 1330 configured to facilitate auto-calibration of an EMI fingerprint scanner for utility power system counterfeit detection, similar to Figures 1 to 12 13. In various examples, the logic 1330 may be implemented in hardware, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored instructions, firmware, and / or a combination thereof. While the logic 1330 is shown as a hardware component attached to the bus 1325, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the logic 1330 may be implemented in the processor 1310, stored in the memory 1315, or stored on the disk 1335.

[0157] In one embodiment, logic 1330 or computer is a means (e.g., structure: hardware, non-transitory computer-readable medium, firmware) for performing the described actions. In some embodiments, the computing device can be a server operating in a cloud computing system, a server configured in a software as a service (SaaS) architecture, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet computing device, etc.

[0158] The component may be implemented, for example, as an ASIC programmed for high-sensitivity detection and identification of counterfeit components in utility power systems using EMI frequency kiviat tubes. The component may also be implemented as stored computer-executable instructions that are presented to computer 1305 as data 1340, which is temporarily stored in memory 1315 and then executed by processor 1310.

[0159] The logic 1330 may also provide means (eg, hardware, non-transitory computer-readable media storing executable instructions, firmware) for performing high-sensitivity detection and identification of counterfeit components in utility power systems using EMI frequency kiviat tubes.

[0160] Generally describing an example configuration of computer 1305, processor 1310 can be a variety of different processors, including dual microprocessors and other multi-processor architectures. Memory 1315 can include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include, for example, ROM, PROM, etc. Volatile memory can include, for example, RAM, SRAM, DRAM, etc.

[0161] Storage disk 1335 can be operatively connected to computer 1300 via, for example, input / output (I / O) interface (e.g., card, device) 1345 and input / output port 1320. Disk 1335 can be, for example, a magnetic disk drive, a solid-state disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, a Zip drive, a flash memory card, a memory stick, etc. Additionally, disk 1335 can be a CD-ROM drive, a CD-R drive, a CD-RW drive, a DVD ROM, etc. For example, memory 1315 can store processes 1350 and / or data 1340. Disk 1335 and / or memory 1315 can store an operating system that controls and allocates resources of computer 1305.

[0162] The computer 1305 can interact with input / output (I / O) devices via the I / O interface 1345 and the input / output ports 1320. The input / output devices can be, for example, a keyboard 1380, a microphone 1384, a pointing and selection device 1382, a camera 1386, a video card, a display 1370, a scanner 1388, a printer 1372, speakers 1374, a disk 1335, a network device 1355, and the like. The input / output ports 1320 can include, for example, serial ports, parallel ports, and USB ports. The input / output devices can include a wide spectrum (or other spectrum) radio monitor 1390 and an associated antenna 1392.

[0163] The computer 1305 can operate in a network environment and, therefore, can be connected to a network device 1355 via the I / O interface 1345 and / or the I / O port 1320. Through the network device 1355, the computer 1305 can interact with a network 1360. Through the network 1360, the computer 1305 can be logically connected to a remote computer 1365. Networks with which the computer 1305 can interact include, but are not limited to, LANs, WANs, and other networks.

[0164] —Definitions and Other Examples—

[0165] In another embodiment, the described methods and / or their equivalents may be implemented using computer-executable instructions. Thus, in one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable / storage medium is configured with computer-executable instructions having stored algorithms / executable applications that, when executed by a machine(s), cause the machine(s) (and / or associated components) to perform the described methods. Example machines include, but are not limited to, processors, computers, servers operating in a cloud computing system, servers configured with a Software as a Service (SaaS) architecture, smartphones, and the like. In one embodiment, a computing device is implemented with one or more executable algorithms configured to perform any of the disclosed methods.

[0166] In one or more embodiments, the disclosed methods or their equivalents are performed by any of the following: computer hardware configured to perform the methods; or computer instructions embodied in a module stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, wherein the instructions are configured as an executable algorithm that is configured to perform the methods when executed by at least one processor of a computing device.

[0167] Although for the purpose of simplifying explanation, the method illustrated in the figure is shown and described as a series of square blocks of an algorithm, it should be appreciated that these methods are not limited by the order of the square blocks. Some square blocks may appear in a different order than shown and described and / or appear simultaneously with other square blocks. Moreover, the example method can be implemented using square blocks less than all the illustrated square blocks. Square blocks can be combined or divided into multiple actions / components. In addition, additional and / or alternative methods can adopt additional actions not illustrated in the square blocks.

[0168] The following includes definitions of selected terms used herein. The definitions include various examples and / or forms of components that fall within the scope of the terms and can be used to implement them. The examples are not intended to be limiting. Both singular and plural forms of the terms may be included within the definitions.

[0169] References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example," "an example," etc. indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) described herein may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation, but not every embodiment or example must include that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Furthermore, repeated use of the phrase "in one embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but may.

[0170] ASIC: Application-Specific Integrated Circuit.

[0171] CD: compact disc.

[0172] CD-R: CD Recordable.

[0173] CD-RW: CD-Rewritable.

[0174] DVD: Digital Versatile Disc and / or Digital Video Disc.

[0175] LAN: Local area network.

[0176] RAM: Random Access Memory.

[0177] DRAM: Dynamic RAM.

[0178] SRAM: Synchronous RAM.

[0179] ROM: Read-only memory.

[0180] PROM: Programmable ROM.

[0181] EPROM: Erasable PROM.

[0182] EEPROM: Electrically Erasable PROM.

[0183] USB: Universal Serial Bus.

[0184] XML: Extensible Markup Language.

[0185] WAN: Wide Area Network.

[0186] As used herein, a "data structure" is an organization of data stored in a memory, storage device, or other computerized system in a computing system. A data structure can be, for example, any of a data field, a data file, a data array, a data record, a database, a data table, a graph, a tree, a linked list, and the like. A data structure can be formed from and contain many other data structures (e.g., a database includes many data records). Other examples of data structures are possible according to other embodiments.

[0187] As used herein, "computer-readable medium" or "computer storage medium" refers to a non-transient medium that stores instructions and / or data that are configured to perform one or more of the disclosed functions when executed. In some embodiments, data can be used as instructions. Computer-readable media can take the form of, but is not limited to, non-volatile media and volatile media. Non-volatile media can include, for example, optical disks, magnetic disks, etc. Volatile media can include, for example, semiconductor memories, dynamic memories, etc. Common forms of computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, other magnetic media, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices, compact disks (CDs), other optical media, random access memories (RAMs), read-only memories (ROMs), memory chips or cards, memory sticks, solid-state storage devices (SSDs), flash drives, and other media that computers, processors, or other electronic devices can utilize to work. If each type of media is selected for implementation in one embodiment, it can include stored instructions of an algorithm that is configured to perform one or more of the disclosed and / or claimed functions.

[0188] As used herein, "logic" refers to a component implemented using computer or electrical hardware, a non-transient medium with instructions of stored executable applications or program modules, and / or a combination of these to perform any function or action as disclosed herein, and / or to cause a function or action from another logic, method, and / or system to be performed as disclosed herein. Equivalent logic may include firmware, a microprocessor programmed with an algorithm, discrete logic (e.g., ASIC), at least one circuit, analog circuit, digital circuit, programmed logic device, a memory device containing instructions of the algorithm, etc., any of which may be configured to perform one or more of the disclosed functions. In one embodiment, logic may include one or more gates, a combination of gates, or other circuit components configured to perform one or more of the disclosed functions. In the case of describing multiple logics, it is possible to merge multiple logics into one logic. Similarly, in the case of describing a single logic, it is possible to distribute that single logic between multiple logics. In one embodiment, one or more of these logics are corresponding structures associated with performing the disclosed and / or claimed functions. Choosing which type of logic to implement can be based on the desired system conditions or specifications. For example, if higher speed is considered, hardware will be selected to implement the function. If lower cost is a consideration, stored instructions / executable applications will be chosen to implement the functionality.

[0189] An "operable connection," or a connection through which entities are "operably connected," is a connection through which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications can be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. An operable connection may include different combinations of interfaces and / or connections sufficient to allow operable control. For example, two entities may be operably connected to transmit signals to each other directly or through one or more intermediate entities (e.g., a processor, an operating system, logic, a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Logical and / or physical communication channels may be used to create an operable connection.

[0190] As used herein, a "user" includes, but is not limited to, one or more persons, computers or other devices, or a combination of these.

[0191] Although the disclosed embodiments have been illustrated and described in considerable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Of course, it is not possible to describe every contemplated combination of components or methods for the purpose of describing various aspects of the subject matter. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific details or illustrative examples shown and described. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover changes, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0192] To the extent that the term "comprising" is employed in the detailed description or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to how the term "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in the claims.

[0193] To the extent the term "or" is employed in the detailed description or claims (e.g., A or B), it is intended to mean "A or B or both." When the applicants intend to indicate "only A or B but not both," then the phrase "only A or B but not both" will be used. Thus, the use of the term "or" herein is inclusive, not exclusive.

Claims

1. A method for detecting the calibration status of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, the method comprising: Using EMI fingerprint scanning equipment to collect electromagnetic signals at a geographical location for a continuous test period; detecting one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to a carrier frequency or center frequency assigned to a local radio station at the geographic location to determine if a match is found; and Based at least in part on the comparison, a calibration status signal is generated to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, allowing initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device; as well as In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, initiation of an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device is prevented.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: performing an EMI fingerprint scan of the target utility device to generate an EMI fingerprint of the target utility device; Generates proof of calibration of an EMI fingerprint scan from collected electromagnetic frequencies, assigned radio station frequencies, and calibration status signals; and Includes certificate of calibration with EMI fingerprint.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising, in response to the calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, initiating a recalibration process to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device, wherein the recalibration process comprises: identifying an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; deriving at least a correction factor from the error; as well as The correction factor is applied to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the comparing of the one or more peak frequency bands further comprises: requesting radio station frequency information for radio stations near a geographical location from a frequency data service; Parsing the response from the frequency data service to determine a list of local radio station frequencies; as well as It is determined whether any one of the one or more peak frequency bands is included in the list, wherein a no-match signal is generated when the peak frequency band is not included in the list, and a match signal is generated when the peak frequency band is included in the list.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the comparing of the one or more peak frequency bands further comprises, for at least one of the one or more peak frequency bands: requesting, from a frequency data service, radio station identification information of radio stations broadcasting at the one peak frequency band near a geographical location; and A response from the frequency data service is parsed to determine whether the one peak frequency band is assigned to a radio station, wherein a no match signal is generated when the response does not include a radio station identification for the one peak frequency band, and a match signal is generated when the response includes a radio station identification for the one peak frequency band.

7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, presenting a visual calibration verification on a graphical user interface of the scanning device, and In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, a visual calibration warning is presented on a graphical user interface of the scanning device.

8. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions for detecting a calibration status of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor of the EMI fingerprint scanning device, causing the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: Collect electromagnetic signals using EMI fingerprint scanning equipment at the geographical location for a continuous test period; detecting one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to a carrier frequency or center frequency assigned to a local radio station at the geographic location to determine if a match is found; and Based at least in part on the comparison, a calibration status signal is generated to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

9. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 8, wherein the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to initiate an EMI fingerprint scan of the target device using the EMI fingerprint scanning device in response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 8, wherein in response to the calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: identifying an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; deriving at least a correction factor from the error; as well as The correction factor is applied to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

11. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 8, wherein the instructions for comparing the one or more peak frequency bands further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: requesting radio station frequency information for radio stations near the geographical location from a frequency data service; and At least a portion of the radio station frequency information returned by a frequency data service is used to determine whether to generate a match signal or a non-match signal.

12. An electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, comprising: processor; a memory operatively connected to the processor; a radio receiver operatively connected to the processor and the memory; A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions for detecting a calibration status of an electromagnetic interference (EMI) fingerprint scanning device, wherein the instructions, when executed by at least a processor, cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: Using EMI fingerprint scanning equipment to collect electromagnetic signals at a geographical location for a continuous test period; detecting one or more peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; comparing the one or more peak frequency bands to a carrier frequency or center frequency assigned to a local radio station at the geographic location to determine if a match is found; and Based at least in part on the comparison, a calibration status signal is generated to indicate whether the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated.

13. The EMI fingerprint scanning device of claim 12, wherein the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is calibrated, Presenting visual calibration verification on the scanning device's graphical user interface, and Allows initiation of EMI fingerprint scanning of the target device using an EMI fingerprint scanning device, and In response to the calibration status signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, Presenting visual calibration warnings on the scanning device's graphical user interface, Blocking the initiation of EMI fingerprint scanning of the target device using an EMI fingerprint scanning device, and Initiate a recalibration process to correct the calibration of the EMI fingerprint scanning device.

14. The EMI fingerprint scanning device of claim 12 , wherein in response to the calibration verification signal indicating that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is not calibrated, the instructions further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: identifying an error based at least on a difference between one or more of the one or more assigned radio station frequencies and one or more of peak frequency bands in the collected electromagnetic signal; deriving at least a correction factor from the error; as well as The correction factor is applied to the radio receiver so that the EMI fingerprint scanning device is recalibrated.

15. The EMI fingerprint scanning device of claim 12 , wherein the instructions for comparing the one or more peak frequency bands further cause the EMI fingerprint scanning device to: accepting as geographic location latitude and longitude coordinates from a global positioning system (GPS) receiver associated with the EMI fingerprint scanning device; Requesting information about radio stations near a geographical location from a frequency data service; and At least a portion of the information returned by the frequency data service is used to determine whether to generate a match signal or a no-match signal.

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