User guide

Chapter 4 Cartridges & ECD Operation

All TASER ECD deployments should be in accordance with department training, policies, and procedures.

Normally, aim the LASER at the preferred target areas of the body, which are the lower torso (when the subject

is facing you), legs, and the subject’s back.

WARNING

Avoid head, face, throat, or groin exposure unless ocer safety or the situation dictates otherwise.

The top probe impacts the target near the LASER beam; however, the probe impact distance from the LASER

will vary depending on the distance between the ECD and the target, type of cartridge, etc.

The bottom probe impacts at an 8-degree angle from the top probe (except with the XP35 cartridge). This

results in a spread of approximately 1' (0.3 m) for every 7' (2.1 m) of distance from the ECD. Greater probe spread

increases eectiveness.

“Silence Is Golden”

The TASER ECD’s electrical current is relatively quiet when both probes make direct contact with a human or an

animal. In contrast, some practice conductive targets are loud because the energy is arcing in the air.

If electrical current is loud during eld deployment and the subject is not reacting as expected, the electrical

circuit may not be completed or the current may be shorting out and may not be eective. Deploy a second

cartridge or consider other options.

Potential Causes of Reduced or No Eectiveness

• Loose or Thick Clothing. If the probes lodge in clothing and are too far away from the subject, ECD

eectiveness is reduced or prevented.

• Miss or Single Probe Hit. The current must pass between the probes. If one probe misses, a second cartridge

may be deployed if practical and legally justiable. Using the X26 ECD in the drive-stun mode as described

below may also complete the circuit between the single probe and the ECD electrode.

• Low Nerve or Muscle Mass. If the probes impact in an area where there is very little muscle mass (e.g., the

side of the rib cage), the eectiveness can be signicantly diminished.

• Limited Probe Spread. Small probe spreads (including drive-stun) result in little or no eect from NMI and

become primarily a pain compliance option.

• Wires Break. If a wire breaks (e.g., during a struggle), the current will not ow to the probes. Drive-stun is still

available.