IEEE 1642-2015

IEEE 1642-2015 is a recommended practice for protecting publicly accessible computer systems from intentional electromagnetic interference (IEMI). It addresses how exposed computing and control equipment can be affected by deliberate electromagnetic disturbances, and why protective planning matters in shared or open environments. As an IEEE 1642-2015 technical document, it is especially relevant where system availability, resilience, and controlled exposure to electromagnetic threats are important concerns in Fields, Waves and Electromagnetics applications.

Overview of IEEE 1642-2015

This standard provides guidance for understanding and reducing the impact of intentional electromagnetic interference on public-facing computer systems. IEEE 1642-2015 fits within the broader electromagnetic engineering context by focusing on susceptibility, protective measures, and practical mitigation considerations. It is commonly used as a reference when evaluating how equipment, installations, and operating practices may be exposed to IEMI-related risk. The document helps align technical expectations for protection planning, assessment, and implementation.

Typical use cases

IEEE 1642-2015 is often consulted when designing or reviewing computer systems installed in locations accessible to the public, such as service kiosks, terminal equipment, monitoring stations, and other exposed information systems. It may also support engineering teams working on site hardening, electromagnetic risk reviews, and protective design for sensitive electronics. In procurement and integration workflows, the standard can help define expectations for resilience against intentional electromagnetic disturbance in environments where accessibility cannot be fully controlled.

Why it matters

The standard matters because intentional electromagnetic interference can disrupt operations, degrade performance, or create avoidable downtime in systems that people can physically approach. IEEE 1642-2015 supports more consistent protection strategies, clearer design decisions, and better alignment between system requirements and real-world exposure conditions. For organizations responsible for public systems, it can help reduce risk, improve reliability, and provide a structured basis for evaluating mitigation measures during design, testing, and deployment.

• Protection guidance for public-access systems
• Intentional electromagnetic interference risk focus
• Mitigation and hardening considerations
• Relevant to exposed computer and control equipment
• Useful for assessment, design, and review