RF Solution

PSS STC-RF T1

The PSS STC-RF T1 will come with a standard (field install) sound attenuation rating of 52 dB. and a (field install) RF attenuation rating of 42 dB. This assembly was designed and tested in an ICD-705 designed SCIF facility to ensure that our product will meet the industry requirement in the field. This assembly utilizes a split frame design which allows construction to continue smoothly and mitigates any damages to the door and frame as it can be installed along with final finishes in projects, this also allows for easy removal, or repairs to the assembly for maintenance.

The PSS STC-RF T1 is offered in varying sizes with a current maximum of 4’x8’. PSS is working on performing testing to ensure a double door unit will meet all ICD standards before release. All tests are performed on complete units with hardware to include a S&G 2890-T1, an electric power transfer hinge, and an LCN 4040XP closer. The testing unit was operational as it would be in a secure day to day scenario.

What are “Radio Frequencies”?

At their core, radio frequencies are simply electrical currents. Like sound waves, electrical currents pulse or oscillate at certain speeds; the rate at which current pulses measured in cycles per second, is called its frequency (or Hertz, abbreviated Hz). The range of frequencies usually being referred to when one speaks of radio frequencies, or RF, is between approximately 3,000 Hz (3 kHz) and 300,000,000,000 Hz (300 GHz).  It should be noted that this range includes much more than your standard AM/FM radio, which operates between approximately 300 kHz and 300 MHz Radio frequencies. The specific uses allowed at each frequency are regulated by the government.

The Importance of RF Energy

Energy that falls into the spectrum described above, “RF Energy” has several special properties. For our purposes, the most important property is that the energy in an RF current can radiate from a conductor into free space as electromagnetic waves (radio waves). While this concept is the basis for directed wireless communication (your AM\FM radio, Wi-Fi, Cell phone, etc.), RF energy is also created in many other ways.

RF energy is generated by most standard equipment used in today’s workplace. Computer chips (microprocessors), monitors, printers, and wires all generate signals that can be monitored, recorded, and reconstructed. Computers are already an indispensable part of the modern world; as they become smaller, lighter, and more capable, the signals that they can generate are also receiving more scrutiny.

Internal and External

The federal government of the United States has recognized the threat posed by RF energy emanating from equipment inside office space and work facilities. Modern eavesdroppers do more than stand around the corner listening to your conversation; sophisticated agents can monitor electronic communications from a great distance. For this reason, government facilities are required to protect themselves through a variety of technical security countermeasures designed to reduce or eliminate the ability of RF energy generated inside the facility to leak out and thus be exploited.

Problems caused by RF energy are not one-way concerns. Sensitive electronic equipment can be interfered with by external signals; directed energy can be used to “flood” an area for eavesdropping purposes; and exceptionally high levels or direct contact can induce sickness or burns in humans. For this reason, many companies who operate such equipment, or who electronically store and process sensitive information, often choose to survey the potential location(s) before building a new facility.

RF Testing on Facilities

RF tests are generally performed for two reasons: to assess a barrier’s ability to attenuate RF energy; and to determine the ambient levels that exist in an area. The goal of the tests performed was to determine the attenuation or shielding effectiveness of this area or facility and to determine if the metallic penetrations and cable egress points are a source and pathway for unintended signals to exit/enter the area. These tests are performed in the field, with specialized equipment used to generate signals at specific frequencies and power (Amplitude), as well as equipment to measure, observe, and record signals.

RF Defense believes that the Barrier Under Test (Door) meets the RF Attenuation required by US GOV specifications detailed in ICS-705 for accepted amounts of attenuation for a Shielded room in respect to TEMPEST. This application exceeds most installations that RF defense and its staff have seen to date. We are excited about the efforts Palmer is making and the progress achieved.