Building a Fast EMP Box.
Preparing for EMP can be a daunting task. A good place to start is preparing EMP hardened shelter for your electronic equipment. Critical supplies that are likely to be damaged by EMP include radios and navigation equipment. A good EMP countermeasure to consider is the Faraday cage.
What is a Faraday Cage?
A Faraday Cage is a conductive shield that encloses an insulated space. Faraday cages when properly constructed block electromagnetic fields and energy.
Because of its ability to stop electromagnetic energy, a Faraday cage is useful as an EMP countermeasure.
Thinking Inside the Box.
![](http://www.liverede.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210312_162332-2000x1500.jpg)
Building this box should be pretty straight forward as long as you have the right materials.
All you’ll need is a large tin with a tightly fitting lid. The cookie tin I used has a good tight lid that requires effort to remove.
You’ll also need something to insulate the inside. My box used bubble wrap, and cardboard. I used duct tape to hold the insides together. You could use foam rubber or other insulation to do this as well.
![](http://www.liverede.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210312_163203-2000x2000.jpg)
I cut cardboard insulation to size. I used duct tape to adhere the insulation. It isn’t critical to get the insulation on every part. I decided to insulate the bottom and sides for peace of mind.
![](http://www.liverede.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210312_164148-2000x1500.jpg)
As long there is insulation between the conductive sides and any sensitive items the box should work. Theoretically you could stuff a cell phone in a sock and get away with placing it inside a bare tin.
Testing the Faraday Cage.
One of the great things about this design is you can absolutely test it out.
![](http://www.liverede.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/20210312_164218-2000x1773.jpg)
Test the box by placing a powered on radio inside. Put the lid on and transmit to that radio. A well constructed Faraday cage won’t allow the radio to receive the transmission. Another good way to test the box is to put your cell phone inside and give it a call. If your build is working right your phone won’t ring. The lid has to be securely on the box to work right.
A Faraday cage EMP Box is important for anyone looking to protect sensitive electronics against EMP. Happy building, and Live Ready!