EMP generators produce electromagnetic pulses, delivering massive amounts of energy for EMP tests. These generators are designed to store high amounts of energy and release it in as short a period as possible, enhancing each pulse to a level that simulates the strength of a real world electromagnetic pulse. ATEC carries a variety of pulse generators for rent with industry-leading rates, including NEMP, HEMP, and HPEM varieties and many test standards.
EMP generators are used to conduct radiated immunity EMC testing on devices, bombarding them with electromagnetic energy to test how susceptible to disruption the product will be in the field. Computers in particular are especially vulnerable to EMI due to the low volts necessary to disrupt circuit operation.
Types of Pulse Generators
There are several types of EMP tests and generators, including NEMP, HEMP, and HPEM.
- NEMP stands for Nuclear EMP and refers to an EMP caused by a nuclear explosion. After the initial pulse, the radiation ionizes the surrounding air and potentially causes a second EMP.
- HEMP is High-altitude Electromagnetic Pulse and is used in aerospace testing. Gamma rays convert to EMPs in the mid-stratosphere, and are much stronger due to the thinner air.
- HPEM is short for High Power Electromagnetic [environments] and encompasses NEMP and other phenomena including lightning.
EMP Test Standards
- MIL-STD-461 RS105: Radiated Susceptibility, Transient Electromagnetic Field, or EMP
- MIL-STD-188-125-2: HEMP Protection for Ground-Based C4I Facilities Performing Critical Missions, Part 2