EMP Testing Services

An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is defined as a high amplitude, short duration, and broadband pulse of electromagnetic energy. EMP is the electromagnetic effect resulting from the detonation of a nuclear device at high altitudes (also known as HEMP, HAEMP, and HNEMP). EMP is a serious matter because it can have devastating effects on unprotected electronic equipment.

MIL-STD-461 includes radiated (RS105) and conducted (CS116) test methods and test levels for determining a device’s immunity to EMP. The coupling modes into the equipment enclosure and its interconnecting cabling can be complex and are, therefore, evaluated separately.

The RS105 test method addresses the risk of radiated exposure to an EMP event. Testing is generally applicable to equipment installed in exposed and partially exposed environments on aircraft, surface ships, submarines, and ground vehicles.

The CS116 test method addresses the effects of EMP coupling onto interconnecting wiring harnesses. The goal of this test is to ensure the equipment’s immunity to damped sinusoidal transients induced on the equipment’s cables. Testing is generally applicable to all applications with limited applicability to submarine equipment.