Testing and Evaluation of an Ultra-Wideband Pulse Generator for HPM Weapon Simulation

Abstract

The potential for high power microwave (HPM) and radio frequency weapons (RFW) to degrade or destroy electronics has been studied for decades. However, the fast pace of change in the underlying digital technologies of modern electronics makes it necessary to continually re-evaluate the susceptibilities of such systems. The Directed Energy Technology Office has developed a major test complex at the Naval Surface Warfare Center- Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) to study the effectiveness of a variety of HPM and RFW prototypes. The facility consists of two concrete block buildings populated with a variety of modern commercial infrastructure electronics. In this paper we discuss a recent project which typifies the testing activities at the NSWCDD facility. Schriner Engineering, Inc. built a pulse generator, the S-30, to simulate an ultra-wideband RF weapon. The S- 30 operates from AC mains and uses a series of AC and pulsed transformers to charge a wide-band antenna structure up to 100's of kV. The S-30 radiates a fast risetime short pulse (<3 ns) when an oil-filled spark gap switch closes. We report our evaluation of the S-30 design and operation, measurements of the radiated output, and modeling of the antenna pattern. We also describe the electronic systems which were tested for susceptibility to the S-30 and the test protocol that was followed.