Abstract. The strength–duration curve for tissue excitation can be modeled by a parallel resistor–capacitor circuit that has a time constant. We tested several short-duration electric generators: five electric fence energizers, the Taser X26 and a high-frequency generator to determine their current-versus-time waveforms. We estimated their safety characteristics using existing IEC and UL standards for electric fence energizers. The current standards are difficult to follow, with cumbersome calculations, and do not explicitly explain the physiological relevance of the calculated parameters. Hence we propose a new standard. The proposed new standard would consist of a physical RC circuit with a certain time constant. The investigator would discharge the device into a passive resistor–capacitor circuit and measure the resulting maximum voltage. If the maximum voltage does not exceed a limit, the device passes the test.

Keywords: Taser, strength–duration curve, cardiac stimulation, ventricular fibrillation, electric safety, electric fences, high-frequency generators, standards

Print publication: Issue 1 (January 2009)
Received 18 August 2008, accepted for publication 25 November 2008
Published 22 December 2008