Taser X26 - Manual (Page 14)

14 Chapter 4 Cartridges & ECD Operation
The firing sequence for all TASER cartridges is designed to be initiated by an electrostatic discharge delivered by
the TASER ECD. This is an important design and functional element for the TASER ECD and cartridge. However, an
electrostatic discharge can come from many sources. When an electrostatic discharge, regardless of the source,
contacts the front of a TASER cartridge, it is possible for the cartridge to discharge (and even to discharge when
not inserted into the ECD).
TASER cartridges should be kept away from conditions known to create an electrostatic discharge, such as
rubbing cloth (e.g., jacket liner) across a cartridge in an environment known to create static shocks.
Occasionally, blast doors will be knocked off the front of a cartridge. Because those cartridges cannot be relied
upon to consistently discharge, TASER recommends removing those cartridges from service. TASER operators
should not attempt to fire a cartridge with no blast doors on it unless they are facing an immediate threat and
do not have the time or option to reload. Attempting to deploy a cartridge with no blast doors could result in a
charge being created and held in the wires. Any conductive material that comes into contact with the front of
the cartridge, even after the cycle has ended, could draw the charge to the ignition pin and deploy the probes.
TASER offers a Blast Door Repair Kit that can be used to safely replace blast doors that come off. Cartridges with
replaced blast doors should only be used for training and should not be deployed to the field. Go to www.
TASER.com for more information on the Blast Door Repair Kit.
AFID
Every time a TASER cartridge is deployed, at least 20–30 small confetti-like Anti-Felon Identification (AFID) tags
are ejected. Cartridges can be assigned to individual users, as each is serialized. Each AFID tag is printed with
the corresponding serial number of the cartridge deployed, allowing determination of which user deployed
the cartridge.
Loading and Unloading the TASER Cartridges
WARNING
Never place your hands, fingers or other body part in front of the cartridge when loading or unloading the
cartridge. Serious injury could result. When loading and unloading, always hold the cartridge on the sides
or top.