EMI WARNING
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from Radio Wave Sources
Powered electric chairs may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which is a kind of interfering electromagnetic energy (EMI) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios and cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the power chairs to release its brakes, move by itself or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the powered chair’s control system.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:
1.Hand-held portable transceivers (transmitters-receivers) with the antenna mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, “walkie talkies”, security, fire and police transceivers, cellular telephones and other personal communication devices
NOTE: Some cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON, even when not being used.
2.Medium-Range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
3.Long-Range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios.
NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, cassette players and small appliances such as electric shavers and hair dryers, so far, as we know, are not likely to cause problems to your power chair.