Recorded Webinar | February 27, 2024
Presented by Steve Koster of Washington Laboratories
Military and aerospace systems must meet rigorous electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements to ensure reliable operation in demanding environments. MIL-STD-461 applies to Department of Defense procurements for equipment and subsystems and includes conducted emissions, radiated emissions, conducted susceptibility, and radiated susceptibility test methods.
In this Washington Laboratories Academy webinar, Steve Koster provides a practical overview of MIL-STD-461 testing, including test setup considerations, grounding and bonding, cable routing, LISN configurations, ESD, lightning-induced transients, and conducted and radiated testing methods.
What You’ll Learn
- How MIL-STD-461 applies to military and aerospace equipment and subsystems
- Key differences between emissions and susceptibility testing
- Common setup considerations, including grounding, bonding, cable routing, and LISN use
- Why ESD, lightning-induced transients, and susceptibility testing matter for system reliability
- How early test planning can help reduce delays during compliance programs
Watch the Webinar
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Download the Presentation
The Fundamentals of MIL-STD-461 Testing Presentation PDF
Watch More MIL-STD-461 Training Videos
Looking for additional MIL-STD-461 training resources? Explore related webinars and archived EMC training content covering conducted emissions, conducted susceptibility, and practical military EMC compliance topics.
View the MIL-STD-461 Testing Playlist →
Related MIL-STD-461 Resources
- MIL-STD-461 Testing Playlist
- May 2026 Washington Laboratories Newsletter Feature
- Request MIL-STD-461 Testing Support
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MIL-STD-461?
MIL-STD-461 is a military electromagnetic compatibility standard used for Department of Defense procurements involving equipment and subsystems. It defines test methods and limits for emissions and susceptibility to help ensure equipment can operate reliably in its intended electromagnetic environment.
What types of equipment require MIL-STD-461 testing?
MIL-STD-461 testing may apply to military and aerospace equipment, including systems used in ground, shipboard, aircraft, and space-related applications. Specific testing requirements depend on the equipment, platform, procurement specifications, and intended operating environment.
What is the difference between conducted and radiated testing?
Conducted testing evaluates electromagnetic energy that travels through cables and power lines, while radiated testing evaluates electromagnetic energy emitted through the air or susceptibility to radiated fields.
Why is early test planning important?
Early test planning helps manufacturers identify applicable requirements, prepare proper test configurations, address grounding and bonding considerations, and reduce the risk of delays during formal compliance testing.
Related Topics: MIL-STD-461G, EMC Testing, Conducted Emissions, Radiated Emissions, Conducted Susceptibility, Radiated Susceptibility, Military EMC Compliance, Defense Electronics Testing
Need MIL-STD-461 Testing Support?
Washington Laboratories provides EMC, RF, environmental, product safety, medical device, and MIL-STD testing services to help manufacturers prepare for compliance requirements and bring products to market with confidence.
