www.myamigo.com
13
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
RADIO WAVE SOURCES MAY AFFECT POWER-OPERATED VEHICLE (POV) CONTROL. FOLLOW THE WARNINGS
LISTED BELOW TO MINIMIZE YOUR RISK TO EMI.
The driving performance of your Amigo can be influenced by electromagnetic fields, such as those emitted by cell phones and other
devices. We recommend the power on your unit be switched off when using such a device.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from radio wave sources
Powered vehicles may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic energy
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 powered vehicle to release its brakes,
move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the powered vehicle’s control system.
The intensity of the interfering EMI energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m).
Important information
1. 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.
2. The immunity level of this product is not known.
3. In some extreme circumstances, the Amigo's performance may be affected by the electromagnetic field emitted from alarm systems.
4. The program settings in the controller should only be altered by factory-trained service providers in order to maintain safe driving
functions.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types
1. Handheld portable transceivers (transmitters-receivers) with antenna mounted directly on the transmitting unit. Examples include:
citizens band (CB) radios, security, police transceivers, cellular telephones and other personal communication devices. Note:
Some
cellular devices transmit signals while they are ON, even when not in use.
2. Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks and taxis - 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 handheld devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, radios, TV sets and small
appliances such as electric shavers and hair dryers are less likely to cause EMI problems.
Powered vehicle electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Because EMI energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting antenna (source), the EMI fields from
handheld radio wave sources (transceivers) are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EMI energy very
close to the powered vehicle’s control system while using these devices. This can affect powered vehicle movement and braking.
Warnings
Follow the warnings listed to reduce the chance of unintended brake release or mobile vehicle movement, which could result in
serious injury.
1. DO NOT operate or turn ON handheld personal communication devices, such as citizens band (CB) radios and cellular phones while
the vehicle is turned on.
2. Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and avoid close proximity.
3. If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the vehicle off as soon as it is safe.
4. Adding accessories or modifying the vehicle may make it more susceptible to interference from radio wave sources. Note:
There is no
easy way to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the vehicle.
5. Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the vehicle manufacturer, noting whether there is a source
of EMI nearby.
