Test Procedure
for
Conducted Energy Weapons

Version 1.1
2010/07/31

Contents
Page
0.0

Disclaimer

1

1.0

Foreword

3

2.0

Purpose and Scope

4

3.0

Test Equipment

5

4.0

General Procedure

6

5.0

Specific Procedure

6

6.0

Data Analysis

8

7.0

Sample Report Format

11

8.0

Acknowledgements

12

Appendices
Appendix A

TASER M26

13

Appendix B

TASER X26

23

Test Procedure
for
Conducted Energy Weapons

0.0 Disclaimer
The persons referred to as “Authors” herein include the following list of individuals and their
organizations: Andy Adler (Carleton University), Dave Dawson (Carleton University), Ron Evans
(Datrend Systems Inc), Laurin Garland (Vernac Ltd.), Mark Miller (Datrend Systems Inc.), and
Ian Sinclair (MPB Technologies).
The term “implementers” includes all individuals and organizations which choose to implement
any or all of the recommendations in this paper.
0.1 Limited Purpose
The Authors prepared this paper for a readership limited to test personnel and their employer
organizations (“Readers”). The purpose of the paper is to assist the Readers by providing a set
of recommendations intended to allow Readers to carry out tests on Conducted Energy
Weapons (“CEWs”) in a controlled and repeatable manner across jurisdictions. The consistent
application of the recommendations may enable Readers to establish that they have followed
consistent procedures to determine that their CEWs are performing within specification at time
of test. The consistent application of the recommendations may also enable the collection of
uniform data to allow future assessment of any trends in performance.
0.2 No Warranty
This paper is provided on the terms “As Is, Where Is”, and the Authors give no warranty or
representation of any kind whatsoever as to the appropriate policies for the use of, nor the
safety of the use of CEWs. The Authors expressly disclaim all express or implied warranties
relating to the contents of the paper.
The Authors give no warranty or representation of any kind whatsoever that the
recommendations contained in this report are comprehensive.
The Authors give no warranty or representation of any kind whatsoever that the
recommendations are up to date beyond the date on which the paper is published.
0.3 Working Paper Only
This paper is a “working paper” meaning that it reflects the knowledge of the Authors relating to
the procedures for testing of CEWs as at the time the paper is written, without any commitment
to update or revise the paper.

1

0.4 Implementer Responsibility
The Implementer acknowledges and agrees that it is possible and probable that new
developments will give rise to a need for new testing limits and it is incumbent upon the
Implementer to ensure that he/she understands that the paper is up to date to the knowledge of
the Authors, only to the time it is written. The Implementer understands and accepts exclusive
liability for the decision to rely on the paper and the decision to implement some or all of the
recommendations.
0.5 Implementer Indemnifies Authors
THE IMPLEMENTER SHALL INDEMNIFY AND SAVE THE AUTHORS HARMLESS FROM
AND AGAINST ANY CLAIMS, LIABILITY OR COST (INCLUDING LEGAL COSTS) TO
WHICH THE AUTHORS MAY BE SUBJECT OR THAT MAY BE BROUGHT AGAINST THE
AUTHORS BY REASON OF THE IMPLEMENTER’S DECISION TO IMPLEMENT ANY OR
ALL OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE PAPER.

2

1.0 Foreword
Several studies including the Braidwood Commission report, the Report of the Standing
Committee on Public Safety and National Security of the Conducted Energy Weapon, the report
of the Commission for Public Complaints against the RCMP and other provincial reports and
coroners’ recommendations have discussed the need for reliable uniform testing of Conducted
Energy Weapons (CEWs) independent of the manufacturer.
This Test Procedure will enable organizations across Canada to test CEWs in a reliable,
repeatable manner to determine whether they are operating within manufacturer’s
specifications. Test results so obtained will be usable in various ways.
The CEW inventory of a given police service can be tested on acceptance and regularly
thereafter to ensure all issued weapons are functioning as intended.
Any CEW involved in an incident resulting in personal injury will be able to be tested
after the incident to reliably determine its operating parameters.
All data collected from weapons tests across Canada will be known to be reliable and
comparable. As a result, new data will be able to be added to the growing body of
knowledge concerning CEW operation over time so that future research may be able to
determine trends in age or other factor related changes in performance
This document contains a set of recommendations for measurement of the performance
characteristics of conducted energy weapons. It represents the opinions of its authors
(Section 8.0), a group of subject matter experts who have been involved in research on or
testing of CEWs, and is subject to the disclaimer presented in 0.0.
None of the authors has any financial or personal interest in TASER International or any other
CEW manufacturer. Several of the authors have discussed weapons testing with staff from
TASER International.
The authors grant permission to copy, distribute, and adapt this work on the condition that the
adapted work cites this document (under the creative commons attribution licence).

3

2.0 Purpose and Scope
2.1 Purpose
The CEW Test Procedure:
Establishes a methodology by which testing facilities and personnel across Canada will
be able to test CEWs and determine whether they are operating within manufacturers’
specifications,
Defines data collection requirements so that data collected during the testing of any
CEW in Canada may be used in forensic analysis of that weapon and may also be
added to a central data base for future research and data mining programs,
2.2 Scope
This Test Procedure is meant for use with Conducted Energy Weapons that have the following
characteristics:
They are hand held
They use a pulse or pulse train to deliver electrical energy to the target
They are meant to function by causing temporary human electro-muscular incapacitation
2.3 Definitions
Pulse

A short discharge of electrical energy

Peak Voltage

Peak of the voltage waveform for the pulse

Peak Current

Peak of the current waveform for the pulse

Net Charge

The integral of the value of the current waveform for a specified
portion of the pulse

Monophasic Charge

The maximum of the absolute values of A and B, where
A = the integral of all positive current in a pulse, and
B = the integral of all negative current in a pulse.

Total Charge

The integral of the absolute value of the current waveform for
the full pulse duration

Burst Length

Time from the first pulse to the last pulse for a single firing of
the CEW

Pulse Duration

The time between the points at which the voltage waveform
crosses through a specified start point voltage to a specified
end point voltage.
For an interval which contains N pulses, the Pulse Repetition
Rate is (N-1) divided by the time from the first to last pulse.

Pulse Repetition Rate

Detailed descriptions and values for these parameters are included in the appendices for
specific models of CEW.
4

3.0 Test Equipment
3.1 Introduction
The equipment required for the electrical testing is listed in this section.
3.2 Calibration
All test equipment must be calibrated yearly to national standards.
3.3 Data Acquisition and Storage System
Minimum resolution of 1% of the maximum specified voltage (Section 10 of Appendices)
Minimum bandwidth of 10 MHz and sampling rate of 10 MSamples/s or sufficient to
achieve at least 1% maximum voltage sampling error as per good engineering practice.
Anti-aliasing low pass filter (5 MHz) in accordance with good engineering practice
Minimum 8 bit digitization of stored sample data
Sufficient storage capacity to record all pulses
Adequate pretrigger interval if pulse triggering is used
3.4 Voltage Probe
Voltage reduction probe (1000:1)
Minimum 10kV rating
AND/OR
3.5 Current Probe
Suitable for ranges to 30 A
3.6 Resistive Load
Pure resistance (low reactance, non-inductive) at 100 kHz. Note: wire wound resistors
are not generally acceptable.
10 W power rating
Value specified in Appendices for specific models of CEW.
3.7 Connecting wires
Should be as large a gauge as practical in order to minimize impedance
Should be kept as short as possible
3.8 Mounting Jig
A jig or other mounting method is required to stabilize the weapon and allow hands-off
operation during test. It will typically employ a spent cartridge. (Note 1)
3.9 Insulating Surface
The test set up should be mounted on an insulating surface to ensure protection of the
test staff from electrical discharge.
Note 1: A mechanical/electrical system equivalent to a spent cartridge may be used. If so, it
must include a housing designed to firmly hold the weapon and expose it to equivalent electrical
connections and spark gap as would be seen with a spent cartridge.
5

4.0 General Procedure
4.1 Initial Inspection
Carry out a visual inspection of the weapon prior to testing. If there are obvious physical
deficiencies such as poor fitting of the battery pack or safety and trigger switches, do not
proceed with the electrical testing.
4.2 Measurement
Acquire and store relevant data from full bursts except where noted. Obtain quantitative data on
Peak Voltage (measured directly or calculated by measuring the peak current and
multiplying by the load resistance)
Peak Current (measured directly or calculated by measuring the peak voltage and
dividing by the load resistance).
Net Charge
Total Charge
Monophasic Charge
Pulse Duration
Pulse Repetition Rate.
4.3 Analysis
Determine if the CEW is In Tolerance or Out of Tolerance by comparison of measured values
with specifications.

5.0 Specific Procedure
5.1 Introduction
This procedure gives test set up, conduct and analysis methodology. Detailed test equipment
operating procedures have not been provided. Good engineering practice, proper laboratory
processes and familiarity with laboratory measurement equipment is expected. Detailed
quantitative data for determining compliance with manufacturer’s specifications are given in the
appendices for specific models of CEW.
5.2 Initial Inspection
Prior to beginning testing, record the following
Manufacturer of the test weapon
Model number and Serial number
Battery model and serial number (if available without opening unit under test)
Battery capacity (if available without opening unit under test)
Software version installed (if available without opening unit under test)
Temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure of the test environment
CAUTION: High voltages will be present during the test. Exercise caution in the layout of the
equipment and conduct of the test to avoid exposure to the high voltage.
6

CEW

Spent
Cartridge

Current
Probe
Resistive
Load

Voltage
Probe

Data Acquisition
and
Storage System

(1000x)

Data
Analysis
Software

Use current probe
and/or voltage probe

Report
FIGURE 1: TEST SETUP

5.3 Measurement
5.3.1 Setup
Set up the test equipment on the insulating surface.
Select a sampling rate on the Data Acquisition System of 10 MSamples/s or greater.
Connect the probe(s) to the test apparatus:
o connect the high voltage probe across the test load.
AND/OR
o place the current probe around the appropriate lead from the weapon to the load.
Connect the probe leads to the Data Acquisition System
Prepare the weapon for test by stabilizing it with a spent cartridge. (Note 1, Note 2)
Set up the weapon in the test jig or similar apparatus to allow hands-off support.
5.3.2 Test
Connect the weapon across the test load. (Note 3)
Pull the trigger on the weapon to initiate the burst.
Allow the weapon to fire for the full duration of the burst.
Verify that all data has been acquired and stored.
Fire the weapon two more times and record the data. (Note 4)
Verify data has been acquired and stored.
Identify the data records with the serial number of the weapon under test.
Note 2: Repeated use of the spent cartridge will result in build up of deposits due to arcing.
Inspect and clean the cartridge regularly.

7

Note 3: We consider the test loads recommended by TASER International (600 Ohm for the
X26 and 500 Ohm for the M26) to be an adequate model of the impedance load of the body.
These CEWs behave largely as a current source and have relatively little variation in charge
with load. Savard et al3, found a variation of approximately 25% from the average current across
loads below 1000 Ohm. Such variation may be accounted for by the safety factor
Note 4: The full procedure with three weapon firings is meant to collect additional data for future
data mining. This should be used for acceptance testing and regularly scheduled maintenance
testing. For users wishing to conduct daily testing, only two firings are required in order to
determine weapon compliance with manufacturer’s specifications.

6.0 Data Analysis
6.1 Data Analysis Software
Tests may be run most efficiently with data analysis software. (Note 5)
6.2 Parameters averaged over the last second of the burst
The software will determine the following from pulses that fit into the last second of the burst
during the first firing of the weapon:
Pulse Repetition Rate
6.3 Parameters averaged over the last 8 pulses
The analysis software will also determine the following by averaging data from the last 8 pulses
recorded for the second firing of the weapon:
Peak Voltage
Peak Current
Net Charge
Pulse Duration
6.4 CEW status as per manufacturer specifications
All of the previous five values are required in order to determine whether operation of the
weapon is within manufacturer’s specifications. Compare the output of the analysis software
with the manufacturer’s specifications given in the appendix. Determine for each of the
parameters whether the weapon’s performance was,
Above Tolerance
In Tolerance
Below Tolerance
6.5 Within Specification
If all five parameters are In Tolerance, then the weapon may be reported as having performed
within manufacturer’s specifications. (Note 6)
8

6.6 Charge Measurements
The analysis software will determine the following for each pulse in each of the three firings of
the weapon:
Monophasic Charge
Total Charge
CEWs with Monophasic Charge for any individual pulse in excess of the value listed in the
corresponding appendix should be declared Out of Tolerance (Note 7).
6.7 Parameter Statistics over the burst
The software should calculate and store, for each of the seven parameters listed (Pulse
Repetition Rate, Peak Voltage, Peak Current, Net Charge, Pulse Duration, Monophasic Charge
and Total Charge) the value for each pulse for each firing.
In addition, the maximum, minimum and average of each parameter for all pulses in each of the
three firings should be calculated and stored. Note that the average pulse repetition rate is the
pulse repetition rate for the burst length, and not the average of the pulse repetition rates for
each pulse in the burst.

9

Note 5: An implementation of the analysis software has been created by Carleton University.
This software may be used in the analysis of the stored data. It is available under an opensource license from Dr. Andy Adler, Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University.
Note 6: If a weapon performs out of tolerance, replacement of the batteries or Digital Power
Module may bring the weapon to within expected performance. Note that for some weapons,
introduction of a new DPM may introduce new operating software, which will create an
essentially new configuration for the weapon. This procedure should only be carried out if prior
agreement on this policy has been established with the owner of the weapon and, in any event,
a complete test series should be repeated on the new weapon/power system combination and
reported as a separate test with a separate test report.
Note 7: There is no specification which applies exactly to the waveforms of complex CEW
discharges. In our opinion, the most relevant specification is that of IEC TS 60479 Part 2
(Section 11) which considers the “effects of unidirectional single impulse currents of short
durations” (0.1 ms and above). This section of the specification defines curves based on the
"probability of fibrillation risk for current flowing through the body from the left hand to both feet".
We base our calculation on the "C1 curve" which is defined as "no risk of fibrillation". For a
0.1 ms pulse, this is equivalent to a 710 µC charge2. To account for differences in body size and
placement of stimulation electrodes, we recommend an additional safety factor of four be
imposed, so the maximum allowable value for any individual stimulating pulse would be the
value listed in the corresponding appendix for specific models of CEW. Since CEW waveforms
are not unidirectional, two possible parameters may be compared to the IEC 60479-2 based
threshold: 1) Total Charge, or 2) Monophasic Charge. Total Charge is a more conservative
measure, however, Monophasic Charge may be justified based on physiological models such
as Reilly et al4. Based on our understanding of the current literature, Monophasic Charge is the
appropriate measure. We note that our recommendations are relevant to the waveforms of the
TASER M26 and X26 (Appendices A and B), and that this comparison of Monophasic Charge
based on IEC 60479-2 may not be appropriate for other CEW waveforms.
Note 8: Additional performance requirements may be added to this test procedure as medical
knowledge and/or data mining on collected test data indicates a scientific basis for such
requirements. The implementer of this procedure should ensure that the most recent version of
the test procedure is being used.
________________________________________
1

IEC/CEI/TS 60479-2:2007, "Effects of current on human beings and livestock – Part 2: Special
Effects", Figure 20, “Threshold of ventricular fibrillation”.
2

DP Dawson, Y Maimaitijian, A Adler. "Development of a Performance Calibration System for
X-26 TASERs”. International Workshop on Medical Measurement and Applications (MeMeA),
Ottawa, Apr 30 – May 1, 2010
3

P Savard, R Walter, A Dennis, "Analysis of the Quality and Safety of the Taser X26 devices
tested for Radio-Canada / Canadian Broadcasting Corporation by National Technical Systems,
Test Report 41196-08.SRC", Dec 2, 2008, Online: www.cbc.ca/news/pdf/taser-analysis-v1.5.pdf
4

JP Reilly, AM Diamant and J Comeaux. Dosimetry considerations for electrical stun devices.
Physics in Medicine and Biology, 54 (2009) 1319-1335.
http://iopscience.iop.org/0031-9155/54/5/015
10

7.0 Sample Report Format
7.1 Report Format
The following report format is presented as a sample which shows all of the relevant information
collected during testing. Comments in Line 7 could include, for example, notes on the operation
of the CEW display or on its general appearance or on obvious discrepancies in the operation of
the device itself.

Conducted Energy Weapon Test Report

Date:

Weapon: (mftr and model)

Serial Number:

Police Service:

Police Officer:

Test Service:

Tester:

Visual Inspection

Case □ Battery □ Electrodes □

Data Download Performed

□

Comments
Software Version
Battery Charge
Battery Model and Serial
Temperature
Humidity
Atmospheric Pressure
Max
Firing No

1

2

Min
3

1

2

Avg
3

1

2

Avg-TI
3

1

Peak Voltage (V)
Peak Current (A)
Net Charge (μC)
Pulse Duration (μs)
Pulse Rep Rate (P/s)
Monophasic Charge (μC)
Total Charge (μC)
Burst Length (s)
Within Specifications: Yes □ / No □

7.2 Data Protection
If an electronic report is used, care should be taken to electronically protect the data from
corruption. Digital signatures or encryption may be employed.

11

2

3

8.0 Acknowledgements
This Test Procedure was developed as a result of an initiative spearheaded by Carleton
University, Systems and Computer Engineering who organized workshops on the topic of CEWs
with partial funding from Public Safety Canada and the Canadian Police Research Centre
(CPRC). These workshops brought together a wide range of participants with experience in the
field to discuss concerns around the use of these weapons and to develop suggestions for a
way forward.
The group which put together this Test Procedure included the following participants:
Dr. Andy Adler, Carleton University
Mr. Dave Dawson, Carleton University
Mr. Ron Evans, Datrend Systems Inc.
Mr. Laurin Garland, Vernac Ltd. (coordinator – under contract to CPRC)
Mr. Mark Miller, Datrend Systems Inc.
Dr. Ian Sinclair, MPB Technologies (with thanks also for the contents of Appendices A and B
which were based on his publications of Test Concepts for the TASER M26 and X26)

12

Appendix A
Detailed Specifications
TASER M26

13

Appendix A
Detailed Specifications
TASER M26
A.1 Introduction
This appendix gives details of the waveform, definitions and specifications for the parameters of
interest for the TASER M26.
A.2 Pulse Waveform
The TASER M26 pulse consists of a damped oscillation with a 17 s time constant. The initial
half sinusoid is known as the “Strike Phase” as shown in Figure A1. The pulses are delivered in
a burst as shown in Figure A2. The burst consists of about 75 pulses over 5 seconds, at the
rate of 15 pulses per second if an alkaline battery is used. The burst has 100 pulses at the rate
of 20 pulses per second if a NiMH battery is used.

Strike Phase

Decay Phase
Full Pulse

FIGURE A1: PULSE, CONSISTING OF STRIKE PHASE AND DECAY PHASE

Pulse

Current (I)

Time (t)

Burst

FIGURE A2: BURST OF APPROXIMATELY 75 OR 100 PULSES

14

A.3 Parameters of Interest
Information is derived primarily from the Strike Phase, since this is the pulse that captures the
motor neuron. It is 10 µs long, and delivers about 100 µC of charge in a single direction,
whereas the remainder of the pulse delivers about 100 µC spread over 40 µs in alternating
negative and positive directions.
Some plots show the Strike Phase above the axis, some show it below the axis (Figure A3).
This is merely a question of how the load is connected to the scope. Either orientation of the
pulse shows the same thing.

Voltage (V)
or
Current (A)

Voltage (V)
or
Current (A)

Time (t)

Time (t)

FIGURE A3: M26 PULSE INVERSIONS

Parameters of individual M26 pulses will be calculated as shown in Figure A4 to Figure A8.
These describe, respectively,
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

peak voltage (strike phase)
peak current (strike phase)
net charge
(strike phase)
pulse duration (full pulse),
pulse repetition rate
Monophasic Charge
Total Charge

15

A.4 Peak Voltage and Peak Current

Peak Strike Phase
Voltage

Voltage (V)

Time (t)

Peak Strike Phase
Current

Current (A)

Time (t)

FIGURE A4: M26 PEAK STRIKE PHASE VOLTAGE AND CURRENT

16

A.5 Net Charge
Start when pulse
increases to150V / 500
=300 mA
Finish at first zero crossing

Net Charge (Strike Phase)
Absolute value of area under
the current curve.

Current (A)

Time (t)

Charge unit Coulombs =
Amps seconds
FIGURE A5: M26 STRIKE PHASE NET CHARGE

A. 6 Pulse Duration

Finish when pulse decreases
to 225V = 500
450 mA to
avoid 20 s tail close to zero.

Start at initial crossing of
150 V

Pulse Duration
(full pulse)

Voltage (V)

Time (t)
FIGURE A6: M26 FULL PULSE DURATION

17

A.7 Pulse Repetition Rate

Pulse Repetition Rate
(1-second average)

Current (I)

Time (t)

Pulse Repetition Rate
(burst length average)

Current (I)

Time (t)

FIGURE A7: M26 PULSE REPETITION RATE

18

A.8 Monophasic Charge and Total Charge

A = integral of positive
current in pulse waveform

Current (A)

Time (t)
Monophasic Charge:
Maximum of absolute values
of A and B
Total Charge:
Sum of absolute
values of A and B

Current (A)
B = integral of negative
current in pulse waveform

Time (t)

FIGURE A8: M26 MONOPHASIC CHARGE

19

A.9 Specifications
Advanced TASERTM M26 Electronic Control Device Specification Version 2.0, released
February 6, 2009 (which may be found at http://ecdlaw.info/, search for “M26 specifications”).
This document contains the following electrical specifications.
TABLE A1: TASER M26 SPECIFICATIONS AS PER TI

Item

Value

Waveform

Damped oscillation

Peak loaded voltage

6,900 to 9,400 V

Strike Phase charge

70 to 120 µC

Pulse duration

32 to 60 µs

Pulse rate (NiMH rechargeable cells)

15 to 26 pulses per second

Pulse rate (alkaline cells)

11.25 to 19.5 pulses per second

Two other specifications, Strike Phase Duration and Full Pulse Net Charge are also listed in the
specification, but are not included here. The values listed are taken to be sufficient for the
purpose of characterizing a device.
The TI specifications call the beginning of the pulse the “Main Phase”. For the purpose of this
testing and reporting, this nomenclature has been changed to “Strike Phase” in order to avoid
confusion with the Main Phase of the X26 pulse.
The “Strike Phase” is both the arc-creating and current-delivering phase in the M26; the
remainder of the pulse could be termed the “Decay Phase”, as it represents the pulse decay in
the form of a damped sinusoid.
It is noted in the TASER documentation in part as follows:
output specifications were derived from a 500 Ω resistive load
output specifications may vary depending on temperature, battery charge, and load
characteristics.
Pulse rate specifications at room temperature. Temperatures below 32 F (0 C) can
significantly reduce the pulse rate.

20

A.10 Test Details
These test details are required in order to determine whether the init under test is operating
within manufacturer’s specifications. Additional test data such as maximum, minimum and
average for each parameter from all pulses over all three firings should also be reported.
TABLE A2: TASER M26 SPECIFICATIONS WITH TEST CONDITIONS

Parameter

Peak of absolute value of voltage, on
a pulse averaged over the last eight
pulses

6900 – 9400 V

Peak Current

Peak of absolute value of current, on
a pulse averaged over the last eight
pulses

13.8 – 18.8 A

Net Charge

Area under Strike Phase current vs
time curve, on a pulse averaged over
the last eight pulses

70 – 120 µC

Pulse Duration

Between initial point of waveform1
and final point2, on a pulse averaged
over the last eight pulses

32 – 60 µs

Pulse Repetition Rate

Average over last second of 1st firing
- Alkaline battery
- NiMH battery

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
*

2

Spec into 500

Peak Voltage

Monophasic Charge*
(see Note 7)

1

Condition

The maximum of the absolute values
of A and B, where A = the integral of
all positive current in a pulse and
B = the integral of all negative current
in a pulse.

Load

15 +5/-4 pulses/s
20 +6/-5 pulses/s
< 180 µC

TASER International TASER M26 Specifications have been applied.
Load resistor is 500 Ω non-inductive high voltage pulse-tolerant
Peak current specs calculated from peak voltage: e.g. 13.8 A = 6900 V/500
Use expended cartridge for the tests; check contacts when changed to next test unit
o Sparks jump across additional gaps when this part of the device is installed
o This simulates the actual conditions of deployment
Carry out tests on a non-conductive surface
Minimum digitizer resolution 75 V (corresponding to 1% of the maximum specified peak
voltage)
Raw trace data to be retained to permit further post-test analysis.
Uncertainty calculations for instrumentation setup, as per IEC/ISO 98-3:2008 Guide to
the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM).
Monophasic Charge is not part of TASER International Specifications

Initial point is first point in the pulse where absolute voltage reaches 150 V with 500 Ω load
Final point is last point in the pulse where absolute voltage drops below 225 V with 500 load

21

A.11 Sample Test Data
Test data to be measured/calculated during a typical test are as follows:
TABLE A3: TASER M26 CEW TEST OBSERVATION DETAILS

Parameter

Method of Measurement

Typical Values

Model Number

Device label

M-26

Serial Number

Device label

P1-009601

Battery Status

Battery usage record.
Power supply voltage

< 25 discharges
12 Vdc

Lab Temperature

Thermometer in the lab

26 C

Battery Version

Battery labels.
Power supply description

Duracell Ultra
Fixed DC Supply

Load resistance

Multimeter

495 Ω

TABLE A4: TASER M26 CEW OPERATING PARAMETERS, TYPICAL VALUES

Parameter

Method of Measurement

Typical Values

Peak Voltage

Maximum voltage out of all
samples during Strike
Phase.

7400 V

Peak Current

Maximum current out of all
samples during Strike
Phase.

15.2 A

Net Charge

Current at each sample of
the strike phase multiplied
by the time between data
samples, all samples then
summed up.

105 C

Pulse Duration

Time between crossing of
initial and final thresholds of
the full pulse

40 s

Pulse Repetition Rate

Number of pulses during
the burst minus 1 divided
by the burst length.

14.5 pps

Note that TASER International also specifies Full Pulse Net Charge and Strike Phase Duration
as parameters for the M26. It is believed that Strike Phase Charge and Full Pulse Duration are
the more important parameters. This also maintains consistency with the parameters measured
for the X26 model.

22

Appendix B
Detailed Specifications
TASER X26

23

Appendix B
Detailed Specifications
TASER X26
B.1 Introduction
This appendix gives details of the waveform, definitions and specifications for the parameters of
interest for the TASER X26.
B.2 Pulse Waveform
The TASER X26 pulse consists of an “arc phase” and “main phase” as shown in Figure B1.
The pulses are delivered in a burst consisting of approximately 95 pulses over 5 seconds, at the
rate of 19 pulses per second, as shown in Figure B2.

Arc Phase
Main Phase

FIGURE B1: PULSE, CONSISTING OF ARC PHASE AND MAIN PHASE

Pulse

Current (I)

Time (t)

Burst

FIGURE B2: BURST OF APPROXIMATELY 95 PULSES

24

B.3 Parameters of Interest
Information is derived primarily from the main phase, where most of the pulse energy resides.
The main phase delivers about 100 µC of charge, whereas the arc phase has only 10 µC. The
purpose of the arc phase is to create an arc to allow efficient delivery of current during the main
phase
The arc phase has a faster rise time and a higher peak than seen on many oscilloscopes,
because of integrating effects in voltage and current probes. For this reason, measurements of
the peak voltage, peak current and charge of the arc phase may be in error.
Parameters of individual X26 pulses are calculated as shown in Figure B4 to Figure B8. These
describe, respectively,
-

peak voltage (main phase)
peak current (main phase)
net charge
(main phase)
pulse duration (full pulse),
pulse repetition rate,
Monophasic Charge
Total Charge

B.4 Peak Voltage and Peak Current

Voltage (V)

Peak Main Phase Voltage

Time (t)

Current (I)

Peak Main Phase Current

Time (t)

FIGURE B3: X26 PEAK MAIN PHASE VOLTAGE AND CURRENT

25

B.5 Net Charge

Start at departure of main
phase above 0V (0 mA)

Finish when pulse decreases to
50V / 600 = 83 mA

Net Charge (main phase)
Area under curve

Current (I)

Time (t)
Charge unit Coulombs =
Amps seconds

FIGURE B4: X26 MAIN PHASE NET CHARGE

B.6 Pulse Duration
Finish when pulse
Start at initial crossing of
50 V

decreases to 50 V

Pulse Duration
(full pulse)

Voltage (V)

Time (t)

FIGURE B5: X26 PULSE DURATION
26

B.7 Pulse Repetition Rate

Pulse Repetition Rate
(1-second average)

Current (I)

Time (t)

Pulse Repetition Rate
(burst length average)

Current (I)

Time (t)

FIGURE B6: X26 PULSE REPETITION RATE

27

B.8 Monophasic Charge and Total Charge

A = integral of positive
Current in pulse waveform

Current (I)

Time (t)

Monophasic Charge:
Maximum of absolute
values of A and B

Total Charge:
Sum of absolute
values of A and B

Current (I)
B = integral of negative
Current in pulse waveform

Time (t)

FIGURE B7: X26 MONOPHASIC CHARGE

28

B.9 Specifications
TASERTM X26E Series Electronic Control Device Specification Version 2.0, released
February 6, 2009 (which may be found at http://ecdlaw.info/, search for “X26 specifications”).
This document contains the following electrical specifications.
TABLE B1: TASER X26 SPECIFICATIONS AS PER TI

Item

Value

Waveform

Complex shaped pulse

Peak loaded voltage

1,400 to 2,520 V

Main phase charge

80 to 125 µC

Pulse duration

105 to 155 µs

Pulse rate

16.5 to 20 pulses per second

It is noted in the TASER documentation as follows:
output specifications were derived from a 600 Ω resistive load
output specifications may vary depending on temperature, battery charge and load
characteristics
Pulse rate specifications are at room temperature. Temperatures below 32°F (0 C) can
significantly reduce the pulse rate

29

B.10 Test Details
These test details are required in order to determine whether the init under test is operating
within specifications. Additional test data such as maximum, minimum and average for each
parameter from all pulses over all three firings should also be reported.
TABLE B2: TASER X26 SPECIFICATIONS WITH TEST CONDITIONS

Parameter

Peak of main phase voltage
(following arc phase), on a pulse
averaged over the last eight pulses

1400 – 2520 V

Peak Current

Peak of main phase current
(following arc phase), on a pulse
averaged over the last eight pulses

2.3 – 4.2 A

Net Charge

Area under main phase current vs
time curve, on a pulse averaged over
the last eight pulses

80 – 125 µC

Pulse Duration

Between initial point of waveform1
and final point2 on a pulse averaged
over the last eight pulses

105 – 155 µs

Pulse Repetition Rate

Average over last second of 1st firing

16.5 – 20 pps

Monophasic Charge*
(see Note 7)

The maximum of the absolute values < 180 µC
of A and B, where A = the integral of
all positive current in a pulse and
B = the integral of all negative current
in a pulse.

-

*

2

Spec into 600

Peak Voltage

-

1

Condition

Load

TASER International TASER X26 Specifications have been applied.
Load resistor is 600 Ω non-inductive
Peak current specs calculated from peak voltage: e.g. 2.3 A = 1400 V/ 600
Use expended cartridge for the tests; check contacts when changed to next test unit
o Sparks jump across additional gaps when this part of the device is installed
o This simulates the actual conditions of deployment
Carry out tests on a non-conductive surface
Minimum digitizer resolution 25 V (corresponding to 1% of the maximum peak voltage)
Note the remaining battery capacity and software revision from the digital display.
Inserting a fresh battery pack will update the unit with the latest revision software. The
tests are valid for software versions 15 and greater.
Raw trace data to be retained to permit further post-test analysis.
Uncertainty calculations for instrumentation setup, as per IEC/ISO 98-3:2008 Guide to
the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM).
Monophasic Charge is not part of TASER International Specifications

Initial Point is first point in the pulse where absolute voltage reaches 50 V with 600 Ω load
Final point is last point in the pulse where absolute voltage drops below 50 V with a 600 Ω load

30

B.11 Sample Test Data
Test data to be measured/calculated during a typical test are as follows:
TABLE B3: TASER X26 CEW TEST OBSERVATION DETAILS

Parameter

Method of Measurement

Typical Values

Model Number

Device label

X-26

Serial Number

Device label

X00-157163

Battery Status

LED display in device

30% to 97%

CEW Temperature

LED display in device

26 C

Software Version

LED display in device

15, 18, 20, 21, 22

Battery Version

Label on the side of the
DPM

21, 22, or XX if
indecipherable

Load resistance

Multimeter

595 Ω

TABLE B4: TASER X26 CEW OPERATING PARAMETERS, TYPICAL VALUES

Parameter

Method of Measurement

Typical Values

Peak Voltage

Maximum voltage out of all
samples during main
phase.

1905 V

Peak Current

Maximum current out of all
samples during main
phase.

3.2 A

Net Charge

Current at each sample of
the main phase multiplied
by the time between data
samples and summed.

105 C

Pulse Duration

Time between crossing of
initial and final thresholds of
the full pulse

135 s

Pulse Repetition Rate

Number of pulses during
the burst minus 1 divided
by the burst length.

17.5 pps

31