Susceptibility of Network Components to Pulsed Medium Power Microwave Fields

We provide a summary of susceptibility measurements conducted on commercial network components with pulsed microwave fields in the frequency range between 150-3400 MHz. In our field coupling facility field strengths up to 1 kV/m can be achieved at the position of the test objects. The test setup consists of two computers linked together via twisted pair cables over a hub or switch as a typical network component. Optionally, a part of the data connection is realized with fibre optic cables and media converters. The main coupling of fields to network components takes place via attached cabling and is most effective for the lowest frequencies. For the majority of tested equipment failures can be induced already at fields of some 100 V/m for frequencies above 200 MHz and at some 10 V/m below 200 MHz. The use of shielded cables clearly reduces the malfunctions. The media converter can be identified as another important failure source.