Susceptibility of Civilian GPS Receivers to Electromagnetic Radiation

Civilian handheld global positioning system receivers were tested for their susceptibility against radiated electromagnetic disturbances of different characteristics and field levels. This susceptibility data were compared to the existing electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) immunity requirements for electronic devices. Some of the receivers were disrupted by continues waves at in-as well as out-of-band frequencies, at field levels far below the existing EMC requirements. The possible reason for this is discussed. In general, due to the ever-growing use of commercial-off-the-shelf equipment even for critical functions, certificates of conformity to current EMC requirements may be inadequate.