Electromagnetic pulses (EMP) are powerful bursts of electromagnetic energy that can cause serious disruption or even destruction of electronic devices within a certain area. These pulses can be caused by nuclear explosions, solar storms, and other sources. To identify the type, location, and duration of an EMP, specialized antennas mounted on a tripod are used. Each antenna covers a 90-degree quadrant.
At a monitoring station, a computer takes data from the device and provides answers on the screen about where the explosion came from and how long it lasted. The most dangerous type of EMP is known as the nuclear electromagnetic pulse. If a high-power explosion of approximately 10 megatons were to detonate 320 km (200 miles) above the center of the continental United States, it would affect nearly the entire country, as well as parts of Mexico and Canada. This type of EMP would destroy virtually all electronic devices and electrical transformers.
To protect networks from EMPs, procedures known as “hardening” are used. Hardening involves improving the ability of networks to withstand EMPs. This includes using surge protectors, shielding cables, and other methods to reduce the risk of damage from an EMP. In conclusion, detecting an electromagnetic pulse is essential in order to identify its type, location, and duration.
Specialized antennas mounted on a tripod are used to detect these pulses. The most powerful type of EMP is known as the nuclear electromagnetic pulse which can affect nearly an entire country if detonated at a certain height. To protect networks from EMPs, procedures known as “hardening” are used.
