Spark Gap Electromagnetic Interference Generator

The article presents a mobile generator of intentional electromagnetic interference (EMI) based on a spark gap and an inductive element. The developed device is designed to generate adjustable electromagnetic pulses in the frequency range of up to 2.5 GHz with an electric field intensity of up to 5 kV/m. The generator includes a boost step up power module, a spark gap, and an inductor; it can operate from a compact battery power source. Experimental studies have confirmed the effective impact of the generated interference on data transmission lines implemented with unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables of 5e category. Analysis of oscilloscope waveforms showed that the induced interference is a damped sinusoidal signal, whose parameters can be adjusted by modifying the spark gap width and inductor configuration. The classification of the emitted interference spectrum identified the device as a mesoband-type generator. The developed generator is compact, autonomous, and suitable for evaluating the resistance of radio-electronic equipment to electromagnetic interference in conditions requiring mobile testing equipment.