
Invacare® MK6i™ Electronics
18.2
Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic
Interference (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves
closer to the transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from
handheld radio wave sources (transceivers) are of special concern.
It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very
close to the powered wheelchair's control system while using these
devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking.
Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent
possible interference with the control system of the powered
wheelchair.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and
TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios,
and cellular phones can affect powered wheelchairs and motorized
scooters.
FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD
REDUCE THE CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR
POWERED WHEELCHAIR MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT
IN SERIOUS INJURY.
WARNING!
–
DO NOT operate handheld transceivers (transmitters
receivers), such as citizens band (CB) radios, or turn
ON personal communication devices, such as cellular
phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;
–
Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV
stations, and try to avoid coming close to them;
–
If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn
the powered wheelchair OFF as soon as it is safe;
–
Be aware that adding accessories or components, or
modifying the powered wheelchair, may make it more
susceptible to EMI (Note: There is no easy way to
evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the
powered wheelchair); and
–
Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake
release to Invacare and note whether there is a source
of EMI nearby.
WARNING!
Important Information
–
20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and
useful immunity level against EMI (as of May 1994) (the
higher the level, the greater the protection);
–
This device has been tested to a radiated immunity
level of 20 volts per meter.
–
The immunity level of the product is unknown.
–
Modification of any kind to the electronics of this
power wheelchair as manufactured by Invacare may
adversely affect the EMI immunity levels.
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