The Short Circuit is a promotional secondary weapon for the Engineer. It is a futuristic handheld electrical device consisting of two probes and rubber sealing, that appears to replace Engineer's right arm.

This weapon fires a burst of electrical energy that does minor damage to enemies and has the ability to destroy enemy projectiles within a 180 degree radius at the expense of 35 metal. The weapon's electrical arcs are capable of hitting both multiple enemies and multiple projectiles in a single shot. Although unable to deliver critical hits either randomly or through the Kritzkrieg or to operate underwater, the Short Circuit does not require reloading and instead draws ammunition directly from the Engineer's metal supply.

Enemies hit by the Short Circuit will emit white electrical sparks for a brief moment. Additionally, enemies killed by the weapon will suffer a distinctive death by vaporization, similar to the weapons in Dr. Grordbort's Victory Pack.

It was awarded in Genuine quality to players that pre-ordered Deus Ex: Human Revolution before August 26, 2011.