Electrical systems, post-EMP?

Question

In the event of an EMP (electromagnetic pulse, such as released from a thermonuclear warhead), can electrical systems fried by the EMP be made to work again, as is, or would they have to be rebuilt/rewired/have new components added, etc.? I'm thinking about automobiles after an EMP, once the vehicle is rendered powerless, if they could somehow be restarted.

Answer 1

I have read that old, simple jeeps and other pre-onbaord computer vehicles will be the best to have.  Theory is that you would only need to change out the plugs, points, and maybe the wires.  Keep a space set in an old ammo can, along with some tools.  The started motor would probaby not work, but you can 'pop' start it.

Again, all theory that I read a while back.  My '04 Frontier with camper shell will make a nice place to get out of the rain, but that's about it.

Answer 2

Some things can be powered off and then powered back on and they will work. If they get hit with a low intensity pulse, it might just turn on or off many things at once that usually wouldnt be and they render the device useless until it is reset. If they get hit with a high intensity HPM pulse they could be destroyed because the pulse can put huge voltages across things. When things have a huge voltage go across them it can create very high current which burn out the electronics. In this case you cant just reset them.

The research on hitting new vehicles with HPM pulses is pretty new, I dont know if much is published about it yet

Answer 3

The delicate electronics would be fried and melted. Even some of the tougher stuff would be fried too depending on the distance from the emp.