Update on 2008 Conducted Energy Weapons (CEW) Testing Results (Last updated: 2009-03-27)

In December 2008, the RCMP announced that it had undertaken a review of its national inventory of Conducted Energy Weapons (CEWs).

The testing began in late November 2008 on a sampling of 30 CEWs, including fifteen M-26 and fifteen X-26 TASER models.  The CEWs were randomly selected from detachments across Canada to determine if they were working within manufacturer’s specifications.  An ISO-certified (ISO-IEC 17025:2005) independent research centre, MPB Technologies Electronic Centre, conducted the testing using the 2005 TASER International testing protocol.

During the testing, completed on December 10, 2008, two of the M-26 CEWs were found to be outside the TASER International 2005 testing protocol variance for open circuit voltage.

On January 28, 2009, TASER International provided updated protocols for both the M-26 and X-26 models, which no longer included measurement of open circuit voltage.

To bring clarity to the new TASER International protocol, MPB Technologies further refined this testing protocol which then underwent extensive feedback and review from international experts and selected academia, including TASER International. The Canadian Police Research Centre (CPRC) assisted in this review by providing access to knowledge and information, and acting as liaison between MPB and subject matter experts from partner organizations.

The RCMP has requested MPB Technologies to use the new protocol to re-test the two M-26 CEWs that did not meet the open circuit voltage specifications under the initial 2005 TASER International protocol.  The re-testing is expected to take place in spring 2009.

The RCMP is working with the CPRC to develop a multi-year project to create a comprehensive and robust testing protocol that is independent from the manufacturer. This project will be undertaken in collaboration with industry, academia and international partners.

The RCMP is committed to sharing its testing results to support further refinement of this international protocol.

Please contact RCMP Access to Information office at 613-993-5162 to obtain a copy of the report on the Test Results for Load Voltage, Load Current and Open Circuit Measurements on the X26 and M26 Conducted Energy Weapon.