electronics knock out weapon test

[VJ]

A bit surprised Doc missed this one:

http://www.boeing.com/Features/2012/10/bds_champ_10_22_12.html

CHAMP approached its first target and fired a burst of High Power Microwaves at a two story building built on the test range. Inside rows of personal computers and electrical systems were turned on to gauge the effects of the powerful radio waves.

Seconds later the PC monitors went dark and cheers erupted in the conference room. CHAMP had successfully knocked out the computer and electrical systems in the target building.

Cool thing... a bit curious of its effect on e.g. driving cars and other things containing electronics.

But some of the engineers must have had a d'oh! moment during the test:

Even the television cameras set up to record the test were knocked off line without collateral damage.

[Marshmallowman]

I think they may have something quite similar actually operating in Afghanistan, though it might just target communications equipment...

[dZeus]

I think they may have something quite similar actually operating in Afghanistan, though it might just target communications equipment...

I would like to have a portable and very directional version to take out people's car stereos in the middle of the night, or for people being extremely loud on cellphones in public transport

[cjolley]

"Even the television cameras set up to record the test were knocked off line without collateral damage. "

But some of the engineers must have had a d'oh! moment during the test:

Maybe all it knocks out is testing equipment