MIL-STD-461: Devices And Subsystems Testing

MIL-STD-461 is a Military Test Standard that provides requirements for the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of devices and subsystems created for and used by the United States Department of Defense (DoD). The first Military Standard 461 was issued in 1967 and was followed by Revisions MIL-STD-461A, MIL-STD-461B, MIL-STD-461C, MIL-STD-461E, MIL-STD-461F. The three different branches of the military (Army, Air Force, and Navy) have collaborated to produce updated and expanded versions, cumulating in the most recent edition of the standard: MIL-STD-461G.

MIL-461 tests are best suited for items that have the following features:
• Electronic enclosures that are no larger than an equipment rack;
• Electrical interconnections that are discrete wiring harnesses between enclosures and electrical power input derived from prime power sources.

MIL-STD-461G has a comprehensive set of test procedures that are defined to fulfill the DoD’s electromagnetic emissions and susceptibility regulations. The test procedures are divided by groups:
• CE – Conducted emissions;
• CS – Conducted susceptibility;
• RE – Radiated emissions;
• RS – Radiated susceptibility.