HIRF

Part 3 of our HIRF series examines four electromagnetic test environments protecting aircraft, explains certification levels based on failure severity, and demonstrates how understanding aircraft shielding can reduce cost and weight while maintaining safety standards.

The evolution of HIRF (High Intensity Radio Frequency) testing standards was driven by "fly-by-wire" aircraft vulnerabilities. From 1989, test requirements jumped dramatically from 1-2 V/m to 200 V/m, prompting extensive research and new guidelines for protecting aviation electronics.

High-Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF) are powerful man-made electromagnetic emissions that can disrupt aircraft electronics. Researchers from military and aviation agencies have extensively studied these fields to understand their potential risks and develop protective certification standards.