How to Make an Electromagnetic Pulse

Various designs of an electromagnetic pulse have seen a significant rise in popularity in the do-it-yourself electronics crowd. When created properly, knowing how to make an electromagnetic pulse can safely and effectively disable any electronic equipment within a certain radius. While an electromagnetic pulse creates the danger of unintentionally destroying electronic devices within a close radius, it can be used to purposefully disable electronic devices to ensure the security of personal or confidential data. The steps outlined below will guide you in creating an electromagnetic pulse with a destructive range of several feet.

 Steps

    1
    Wrap copper wire around a tube to create an electromagnetic coil.
        An iron tube will typically work best for creating a powerful electromagnet. The iron will increase the radius of the electromagnetic pulse. For a weaker pulse, consider using a tube made of a non-metal material.
        The size of the copper wire will also play a role in the strength of the electromagnetic pulse. A thicker wire will generate a more powerful pulse. Also, be sure to wind the copper wire very tightly around the tube.
        Winding the copper wire very tightly for the entire length of the tube will generate a powerful pulse. The entire length of the tube will need to be covered by the copper coil in order to produce a powerful electromagnetic pulse.
    2
    Obtain a capacitor to attach to the coil.
        An easy way to obtain a useful capacitor is to take apart a disposable camera. The mechanism which controls the flash in a disposable camera will work for igniting the electromagnetic pulse. You may also use a switch connected to an AC power source.
    3
    Attach the flash capacitor to the electromagnetic coil.
        Once wound properly, the electromagnetic coil should have a short length of copper wire protruding at each end. Connect each end of the copper wire to the flash capacitor.
    4
    Switch on the flash capacitor to send electricity through the coil, creating the electromagnetic pulse.
        When switched on, the flash capacitor will control the electromagnetic pulse. The electricity from the flash capacitor will travel to the electromagnetic copper coil, causing a short and effective pulse to emanate from the device. This pulse will be effective at destroying any electronic equipment within a close radius.

 Tips

    The size of the copper wire and length of the coil will determine the strength and radius of the electromagnetic pulse. For safety, start with a small device to test the effectiveness of your design before creating a larger, more powerful pulse.

 Warnings

    If you are unable to obtain a capacitor from a disposable camera or similar item, you may be able to ignite the pulse by inserting a magnet-covered firecracker into a small hole in the electromagnetic tube. While this method is substantially more dangerous, it will produce comparable results.
    Working with electromagnetic pulses is extremely dangerous. The risk of explosion, fire, or electronic damage is high. Clear all electronic devices from the room or working area prior to creating the copper coil. Any electronic devices within a distance of several feet from the pulse will be damaged.