When referring to an improvised explosive device the acronym PIES refers to?

Answer 1

power supply initiator explosive material and switch.

Answer 2

• Power sources. The majority of IED contain an electric initiator and, as such, require an electric power source. Batteries (a common power source) are manufactured in numerous shapes and sizes; in some cases, they can be cut and shaped to make detection more difficult. Most commercially available batteries can reliably cause an initiator to function. Mechanical action, such as a spring under pressure, can store sufficient energy to cause the functioning of a non-electric initiator

• Initiators. Blasting caps or flame-producing components like fuse igniters for a length of time fuse. Improvised initiators causing low explosives or highly sensitive high explosives to detonate can easily be made. Examples of improvised initiators include a modified flash bulb, a percussion primer, or even improvised hobby fuses that impart flame much as time fuse, only at an uncontrolled burn rate. Initiators can also be improvised for high explosives. An example is an improvised blasting cap. Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) is a formulation used in improvised initiators

• Explosives. Have previously been discussed. However, as an IED component, explosives have a few additional characteristics that warrant discussion. When an explosive is incorporated into a device, it is not necessarily in contact with all other IED components. Often, these components will survive in some form after a device detonates. Recognize there is always evidentiary debris at a post-blast incident

• Switches. Incorporated into a device as either an arming switch or a fuse. They can be simple or complex in nature. More than one switch can be used to create redundancy in the system. Many IED will incorporate both an arming switch and a fusing switch. The arming switch is a safety for the IED and works by disarming (electrically disengaging) the fusing switch. When the arming switch is armed the fusing switch becomes functional; however, the circuit is still closed. When the fusing switch is activated, the circuit becomes open and will connect battery power to the initiator (blasting cap) -- detonation will occur. Switches are almost unlimited in design and constructed so any approach or action by its intended target or a first responder will result in detonation. Switches specifically for IED can take on any form and can appear quite innocent looking.completely fitting into the environment

• Fragmentation and shrapnel.Part of the IED, wherein materials are added to the device for inflicting maximum casualties. Examples include ball bearings, nails, BBs, etc