Wireless networking raises notebook electromagnetic emissions: study

This article was published by the Taiwan Headlines on January 25, 2007. It reports that according to results of tests recently conducted by the Taiwan Environmental Protection Union, some notebook computers release an excessively high level of electromagnetic waves during wireless Internet connection, which can be harmful to the health of their users.

The tests covered 25 notebook computer products of different brands and models. The results revealed that the electromagnetic emissions by 14 of the products register more than 2,000 microwatts per square meter during wireless Internet connection. This is much higher than the safe level of 1 microwatt set by Austria for indoor spaces. These 14 products covered brands including FIC, Asus, Twinhead, Acer, IBM and Gigabyte.

According to the Taiwan Environmental Protection Union, each of the aforementioned 14 products had undergone at least two tests, with similar results. However, their electromagnetic emissions were very low during a wired Internet connection.

According to the group, because electromagnetic waves in indoor spaces tend to exceed the safe level of two or more computers are using wireless networking at the same time, indoor wireless connection should not be encouraged in places such as classrooms, libraries and crowded spaces.

Specifically, children, teenagers, pregnant women and those who are sensitive to electromagnetic waves should avoid exposure for long periods to electromagnetic waves, which can trigger hereditary illnesses as well as diseases involving the central nervous system, immune system or reproductive system.

Meanwhile, users are advised not to place their computers too close to their abdomen or chest while using a wireless Internet connection. In order to protect consumers, authorities concerned are also urged to require that computer manufacturers label the electromagnetic emission levels of their products.