What can happen if an instrument is subject to excessive EMI noise?

When an instrument is subjected to excessive electromagnetic interference (EMI) noise, it can significantly affect its accuracy. EMI can introduce unwanted signals or disturbances in the instrument's readings, resulting in incorrect measurements. This distortion may lead to erroneous data, which can be particularly critical in process control and measurement applications where precision is essential.

While it is true that EMI can potentially cause instrument damage, blow fuses, or affect electronic components like capacitors, the primary concern in the context of instrument performance is the inaccuracy that arises from the interference. Ensuring instruments are designed or shielded against EMI is vital for maintaining the integrity of their measurements and overall functionality.