Test method for measuring the electrical output of electroshock weapons

Published

July 25, 2016

Author(s)

Nicholas G. Paulter Jr., David M. Jenkins, Norimitsu Ichikawa, Michael Leonesio

Abstract

Electroshock weapons (ESWs) have become a ubiquitous component of weapons used in the arsenal of domestic law enforcement (LE) agencies and the military around the world. It is a major contributor to the escalation of force policies and procedures of many LE agencies. ESWs function by providing a high-voltage low-current electrical shock that, when discharged into a live (typically human) target, can temporarily incapacitate that target. Consequently, it is important to accurately measure the output of the ESW to ensure it is operating properly. Moreover, accurate and standardized measurements of ESW output support collaborative transfer of information, thus facilitating the advancement of the knowledge of physiological ESW effects, promoting the advancement of the technology for safe and effective use, and facilitating accurate comparison of ESW performance.

Citation

Journal of Biomedical Systems & Emerging Technologies

Volume

3

Issue

2

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

conducted energy weapon, electroshock, electroshock weapon, ESW, IEC, incapacitation, neuromuscular disruption, standard test method, weapon

Citation

Paulter, N. , Jenkins, D. , Ichikawa, N. and Leonesio, M. (2016), Test method for measuring the electrical output of electroshock weapons, Journal of Biomedical Systems & Emerging Technologies, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=920175 (Accessed October 14, 2025)