Limiting values, recommendations. Measurement of HF Radiation 4. Audio Frequency Analysis Warranty 15. Step-by-Step-Instruction to HF-Measurement 5

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1 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r HF58B-r HF-Analyser for Frequencies from 800 MHz to 2.5 GHz (to 3.3 GHz with additional tolerance) Instruction Manual Revision 4.5 This manual will be continuously updated, improved and expanded. You will find the current version at your local distributors homepage or at Please carefully review the manual before using the device. It contains important advice for use, safety and maintenance of the device. In addition it provides the background information necessary to make reliable measurements. by GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution in part or total without editor s written permission. Professional Technology With the HF analyzers, SOLU- TIONS sets new standards in HF testing. Professional measurement engineering is offered with a unique price/performance ratio - the only one of its kind worldwide. This was made possible through the consistent use of innovative integrated components, as well as highly sophisticated production engineering. Some features have patents pending. The HF analyzer you purchased allows a competent assessment of HF exposures between 800 MHz and 2.5 (3.3) GHz. From a building biology perspective, this particular frequency range is particularly relevant because cellular phones, cordless phones, microwave ovens as well as next-generation technologies such as UMTS/3G or Bluetooth and WLAN all make extensive use of it. We appreciate the confidence you have shown in purchasing this HF Analyzer. With the confidence that your expectations will be met, we wish you great success in collecting valuable information with this HF analyzer. If you should encounter any problems, please contact us immediately. We are here to help. Canada and U.S.: Enviratest Inc. 8 Settlers Court, Morriston, On, N0B 2C0 Other: GmbH, Germany Langenzenn Contents Functions & Controls 2 Getting Started 3 Introduction to Properties and Measurement of HF Radiation 4 Step-by-Step-Instruction to HF-Measurement 5 Limiting values, recommendations and precautions 11 Audio Frequency Analysis Warranty Analysis of the modulated / pulsed signal 13 Use of Signal Outputs 13 Battery management 14 Remediation and Shielding 15 Conversion tables 16 Safety Instructions: It is imperative to carefully study the instruction manual prior to using the HF analyzer. Important information regarding safety, use and maintenance is provided herein. The HF analyzer should never come into contact with water or be used outdoors during rain. Clean the case only from the outside, using a slightly moist cloth. Do not use cleaners or sprays. Prior to cleaning the HF analyzer or opening the case, shut it off and unplug all extension cords. There are no userserviceable parts inside the instrument. Due to the high sensitivity level, the electronics of the HF analyzer are very sensitive to heat, impact as well as touch. Therefore do not leave the instrument in the hot sun, on a heating element or in other damaging environments. Do not let it drop or try to manipulate its electronics inside when the case is open. This HF analyzer should only be used for the purposes described in this manual and only in combination with supplied or recommended accessories. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 1

2 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r English printwork to follow! The HF component of the testing instrument is shielded against interference by an internal metal box at the antenna input (shielding factor ca db) Functions and Controls 1) Volume control for the audio analysis. 2) Jack, 3.5 mm : AC output for the modulated part of the signal, for Audio analysis via PC or headset. 3) Jack, Volt DC for charging the battery. AC adapter for 230 Volt/50 Hz and 60 Hz is included. For other Voltages/Frequencies please get an equivalent local AC adaptor with the output parameters Volt DC / >100mA. Caution: If an alkaline battery is used, under no circumstances should the power adapter be connected at the same time, otherwise the battery may explode. 4) Measurement ranges coarse = mw/m² (=19 990µW/m²) medium = µw/m² fine = µw/m² Scaling with external amplifier or damper is different! 5) Selector switch for signal evaluation. Standard setting: Peak. In peak hold mode you can choose a time setting for the droop rate (Standard = Slow) With the push button (pos. 13 ) you can manually reset the peak hold value. 6) A little bar on the very left of the LCD indicates the unit of the numerical reading: bar on top = mw/m² (Milliwatts/m²) bar on bottom = uw/m² (Microwatts/m²) 7) DC output, allows you to connect additional instruments, e.g. data logging devices(1 VDC full scale). 8) Connecting socket for antenna cable. The antenna is inserted into the cross like opening at the front tip of the instrument. 9) Power Level Adapter Switch for external optional amplifier or attenuator only. For regular use of the instrument the switch should be in pos. 0 db. (Any other position will shift the decimal point to an incorrect position.) 10) ON/OFF switch. In middle switchposition...., the audio analysis mode is activated. In upper position. setting, you can additionally hear a signal similar to a Geiger counter, proportional to the field strength 1. 11) Signal fraction: In mode Full, the total signal strength is displayed. In Pulse mode, only the pulsed / amplitude modulated part of the signal is displayed. 12) This instrument has an Auto-Power-Off function to avoid unintentional discharge of the battery 2. 13) Push button to reset peak hold. (Push and hold for 2 seconds or until the readings do not further decrease ) 14) Switch for choosing the Video Bandwidth for the LF-Signal processing. Standard setting: TP30MHz Typical default settings of major functions are marked yellow in the text above. 1 2 For this feature the volume control should be turned down completely because otherwise the sound mixes with the audio analysis. Similar to Geiger counter. The instrument switches off after about 30 Minutes at regular charging level of the battery and after about 3 Minutes when Low Batt. is displayed on the LCD. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 2

3 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Long and short switches Some of the switches are recessed in the casing of the instrument to avoid unintentional switching for rarely used functions Contents of the package Instrument Attachable antenna NiMH rechargeable Batteries (inside the meter ) AC-Adaptor Several Adaptor-connectors Comprehensive instruction manual Check the HF analyzer and its antenna by following the instructions under Getting Started. Getting Started Connecting the Antenna Screw the angle connector of the antenna connection into the uppermost right socket of the HF analyzer. It is sufficient to tighten the connection with your fingers. (Do not use a wrench or other tools because over tightening may damage the threads.) This SMA connector has gold-plated contacts is the highest quality commercial HF connector in that size. Carefully check the tight fit of the connection at the antenna tip. This connection, at the tip of the antenna, must not be opened. At the tip of the antenna, there are two LED s for monitoring the proper function of all connections of the antenna and the cable during operation. The red one checks the cable, the green one the antenna itself. Slide the antenna into the vertical / cross shaped slot at the rounded top end of the HF analyzer. Make sure the antenna cable has no tension and lies below the instrument. It may help to loosen the SMA-connector temporarily to let the cable fall into a relaxed position. Do not bend, break or stretch the antenna cable! The antenna can be used by attaching it to the top end of the HF analyzer or holding it in your hand. When holding the antenna in your hand, please ensure that your fingers do not touch the first resonator or antenna conductors. Therefore it is recommended to hold it at the opposite end. For a precision measurement, the antenna should not be held with your fingers, but be attached to the designated slot at the top end of the HF analyzer. There are small ferrite-rolls fitted on the connectors of the antenna cable. They serve the purpose of fine-tuning 3. Do not remove them! Checking Battery Status When the Low Batt indicator appears in the center of the display, measurement values are not reliable anymore. In this case the battery needs to be charged. If there is nothing displayed at all upon switching the analyzer on, check the connections of the rechargeable battery. If that does not help try to insert a regular 9 Volt alkaline, (non-rechargeable) battery. If a nonrechargeable battery is used, do not connect the Analyser to a charger / ACadaptor! Insert fully charged batteries only. Note Each time you make a new selection (e.g. switch to another measurement range) the display will systematically overreact for a moment and show higher values that droop down within a couple of seconds. The instrument is now ready for use. In the next chapter you will find the basics for true, accurate HF-measurement. 3 Should they loosen they can be glued again with any household glue Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 3

4 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Introduction to Properties and Measurement of HF Radiation This instruction manual focuses on those properties that are particularly relevant for measurements in residential settings. Across the specified frequency range (and beyond), HF radiation causes the following effects in materials exposed to it: 1. Partial Permeation 2. Partial Reflection 3. Partial Absorption. The proportions of the various effects depend, in particular, on the exposed material, its thickness and the frequency of the HF radiation. Wood, drywall, roofs and windows, for example, are usually rather transparent spots in a house. Minimum Distance In order to measure the quantity of HF radiation in the common unit power density (W/m²), a certain distance has to be kept from the HF source. The distance depends on the frequency the higher the Frequency the lower the distance. The transition frequency between so called far field and near field conditions is not determined exactly, but here are some typical distances: At 27 MHz from ca. 27 meters At 270 MHz from ca. 2.7 meters At 2700 MHz from ca meters That means the distances are inversely proportional. Polarization When HF radiation is emitted, it is sent off with a polarization. In short, the electromagnetic waves propagate either vertically or horizontally. Cellular phone technology, which is of greatest interest to us, is usually vertically polarized. In urban areas, however, it sometimes is already so highly deflected that it runs almost horizontally or at a 45- degree angle. Due to reflection effects and the many ways in which a cellular handset can be held, we also observe other polarization patterns. Therefore it is always strongly recommended to measure both polarization planes, which is defined by the orientation of the antenna. Please note that the LogPer-antenna supplied with this instrument is optimized for one polarization only (vertical if mounted to the instrument - even if the horizontal wing suggests the opposite.) Fluctuations with Regards to Space and Time Amplification or cancellation effects can occur in certain spots, especially within houses. This is due to reflection and is dependent on the frequencies involved. Most transmitters or cellular handsets emit different amounts of energy during a given day or over longer periods of time, because reception conditions and network usage change constantly. All the above-mentioned factors affect the measurement technology and especially the procedure for testing. This is why in most cases several testing sessions are necessary. Measuring HF Radiation When testing for HF exposure levels in an apartment, home or property, it is always recommended to record individual measurements on a data sheet. Later this will allow you to get a better idea of the complete situation. It is important to repeat measurements several times: First, choose different daytimes and weekdays in order not to miss any of the fluctuations, which sometimes can be quite substantial. Second, once in a while, measurements should also be repeated over longer periods of time, since a situation can literally change overnight. A transponder only needs to be tilted down by a few degrees in order to cause major changes in exposure levels (e.g. during installation or repair of cellular phone transmitters). Most of all it is the enormous speed with which the cellular phone network expands every day that causes changes in exposure levels. In the future we will also have to deal with third generation networks (e.g. UMTS/3G), which are expected to increase exposure levels considerably since their system design requires much more tightly woven cells of base stations compared to current GSM networks. Even if you only intend to test indoors, it is recommended first to take measurements in each direction outside of the building. This will give you an initial awareness of the HF tightness of the building and also potential HF sources inside the building (e.g. 2.4 GHz telephones, also from neighbours). Furthermore you should be aware that taking measurements indoors adds another dimen- Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 4

5 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r sion of testing uncertainties to the specified accuracy of the used HF analyzer due to the narrowness of indoor spaces. According to the theory quantitatively accurate HF measurements are basically only reproducible under so-called free field conditions, yet we have to measure HF inside buildings because this is the place where we wish to know exposure levels. In order to keep system-immanent measurement uncertainties as low as possible, it is imperative to carefully follow the measurement instructions. As mentioned earlier in the introduction, only slight changes in the positioning of the HF analyzer can lead to rather substantial fluctuations in measurement values. (This effect is even more prevalent in the ELF range.) It is suggested that exposure assessments are based on the maximum value within a locally defined area even though this particular value might not exactly coincide with a particular point of interest in, for example, the head area of the bed. The above suggestion is based on the fact that slightest changes within the environment can cause rather major changes in the power density of a locally defined area. The person who performs the HF testing, for example, affects the exact point of the maximum value. It is quite possible to have two different readings within 24 hours at exactly the same spot. The maximum value across a locally defined area, usually changes only if the HF sources change, which is why the latter value is much more representative of the assessment of HF exposure. Step-by-Step-Instruction to HF-Measurement Preliminary Notes Concerning the Antenna The supplied logarithmic-periodic antenna (or aerial), has exceptional directionality. Thus it becomes possible to reliably locate or target specific emission sources in order to determine their contribution to the total HF radiation level. To know exactly the direction from where a given HF radiation source originates is a fundamental prerequisite for effective shielding. Our logarithmic periodic antenna, the LogPer antenna, provides a distinct division of the horizontal and vertical polarization plane. Also the frequency response is exceptional. There is a patent pending for its design. The missing directionality of standard telescope antennae is one of the reasons why they are not suited for reliable HF measurements in building biology EMR. Important: As the LogPer Antenna provided with this instrument is shielded against ground influences one should aim about 10 degrees below the emitting source one wants to measure. This is to avoid distortions of the reading. The upper edge of the foremost resonator is a good aiming aid for the required angle. It does not matter if the angle gets a little too wide. The readings from the instrument s display reflect the integral power density in the antenna lobe. (ie., the antenna is most sensitive, with a rounded peak, to radiation from a direction parallel to its axis with the sensitivity tapering off rapidly with increasing angle of incidence.) The frequency range of the LogPer aerial supplied covers cellular phone frequencies (e.g. GSM800, GSM1900, TDMA, CDMA, AMPS, iden), 2.4-GHz (DECT) cordless phones, frequencies of third generation technologies, such as UMTS, WLAN and Bluetooth, as well as other commercial frequency bands and microwave ovens. All the frequencies in between are also included. This is the frequency range which you would find most pulse-modulated signals, concerned scientists are worried about. For monitoring of these critical sources of radiation as conveniently as possible the frequency band of the LogPer aerial supplied together with the instrument has been limited intentionally by its design to frequencies above 800 MHz, i.e. frequencies below 800 MHz are suppressed. The suppression is additionally enforced by an internal highpass filter at 800 MHz. This reduces the disturbing impact of most sources like radio broadcasting, television stations or amateur radio on the measurements to a minimum. In order to measure frequencies below 800 MHz down to 27 MHz the instruments HFE35C and HFE59B are available from Gigahertz Solutions. They come with an active Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 5

6 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r horizontally isotropic ultra broad band aerial down to 27 MHz, the UBB27 In order to measure frequencies below 800 MHz down to 27 MHz the instruments HFE35C and HFE59B are available from Gigahertz Solutions. They come with an active horizontally isotropic ultra broad band aerial down to 27 MHz, the UBB27 Measurements for a Quick Overview This is helpful to gain insight into the overall situation. Since the actual number values are of secondary interest in this phase, it is usually best to simply follow the audio signals which are proportional to the field strength. (Set On/Off switch ( Mode to:, and turn down the audio analysis knob to low). Procedure for the Quick Overview Measurement: The HF analyzer and antenna are to be checked following the instructions under Getting Started. First set the measurement range ( Range Selection ) switch to Coarse. Only if the displayed measurement values are persistently below ca mw/m², change to the measurement range Medium (199.9µW/m²) or to Fine (19.99 μ W/m²). Note: When switching from the range 19.99mW/m² to 199.9µW/m², the volume of the audio signal increases sharply. When switching from the range 199.9µW/m² to 19.99µW/m² there is no difference in volume. Set the Signal Evaluation switch to Peak HF radiation exposure can differ at each point and from all directions. Even though the HF field strength of a given space changes far more rapidly than at lower frequencies, it is neither feasible nor necessary to measure all directions at any given point. Since this is not an accurate quantitative measurement, but a quick overview assessment, the antenna can be removed from the top end of the HF analyzer, for convenience. Holding the antenna at its very end as described in Getting Started, the polarization plane (vertical or horizontal) can easily be changed with a turn of your wrist. However, you can just as well use the HF analyzer with the antenna attached to it. Since there is no need to look at the display during an overview measurement, you only need to listen to the audio signal. It is very easy to walk slowly through in-door or outdoor spaces in question. In doing so constantly moving the antenna or the HF analyzer with attached antenna, in each direction. This will provide you with a quick overview of the situation. In in-door spaces, antenna movements towards the ceiling or the floor will reveal astonishing results. As already mentioned above, overview measurements are not meant to provide accurate results, but to identify those zones within which local peak values are found. Quantitative Measurement: Settings After having identified the relevant measurement points following the instructions in the previous section. The actual testing can begin. Setting: Measurement Range Selection Select the appropriate switch settings as described under Quick Overview Measurements. Basic rule for measurement range selection: - As coarse as necessary, as fine as possible. Note: To allow for as wide a range of power densities to be read out without using an external attenuator, a factor of 100 lies between adjacent ranges. That means for example an actual value of 150 µw/m² will be displayed as µw/m² in the range Medium and as 0.15 mw/m² in the range Coarse. Due to technical reasons the tolerances of the instrument are relatively high in this overlapping 1% of the next higher range 4. 4 Power densities of a few hundred µw/m², displayed as 0.01 up to about 0.30 mw/m² in the setting "Coarse", are those with the highest measurement uncertainties as % of the actual values. On the other hand setting the switch to "Medium" activates an internal amplifier, which brings with it an additional waviness of up to +/- 1 db, depending on the actual frequency analysed. Worst case combined to worst case could absorb almost +/- 3 db, the maximum tolerance of the instrument. For very small readings in "Coarse" that could result in a factor of 4 difference of the corre- Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 6

7 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Rules of thumb for the interpretation of the results Readings in the two adjacent sensitivity ranges Medium and Coarse use the one with the higher value. Numbers below 0.05 mw/m² shown in the range Coarse are within the range of its potential zero bias. Use the reading shown in range Medium. For comparative measurements (before / after shielding) use the same range selector position when possible. Power densities beyond the designed range of the instrument (display shows 1 on its left side with the range set on Coarse ) can still be measured by inserting the attenuator DG20_G3, available as an optional accessory. By setting the Adapter switch to Attenuator 20 db on your instrument ensures the correct display of the measurement. Also available are two HF preamplifiers for factors 10 (HV10) and 1000 (HV30) as plugins into the antenna input socket 5. Theoretically the HF58B-r would have a minimum sponding reading with setting "Medium". Numerical example: In "Medium" you read µw/m². In "Coarse" you could read up to 0.6 mw/m² or down to 0.03 mw/m² in an extreme case. Normally the differences shown will be much smaller. 5 The power level adaptor switch is provided for the factor HV10 amplifier only, not for the HV1000. The HV1000, has the decimal point in its correct position. The numbers are displayed in nanow/m² instead of µw/m² which is indicated on the LCD. resolution of µw/m², displayed as 0.01 Nanowatt/m². The actual minimum resolution depends on the video bandwidth selected. When the video Bandwidth Switch is set to: TPmax (Radar) : Approx. 1 nw/m² TP 30kHz (Standard) : Approx. 0.1 nw/m². A list of all ranges, which can be measured and displayed, is at the end of this brochure. Setting: Signal Evaluation Signal Evaluation Average / Peak A pulsed signal consists of sections of its time period with high output and another sections with zero output. Their maximum output is the wave peak. The following illustration shows the difference in the evaluation of a pulsed signal if displayed as an average value reading or a peak value reading. peak value: 10 avg. value: 1 HF-energy in µw/qm e.g. 1 pulse every 10 µs Note: The peak HF radiation value, not the average value, is regarded as the measurement of critical biological effects. The peak value is displayed in the switch setting: Peak. The average value is displayed in the switch setting: Average. An experienced measuring technician will be able to obtain additional information from the comparison of average and peak values. Basic Rule: The more the two measurement values differ from one another (in 2.4-GHz cordless phones the ratio can be as high as 1:100.), the higher is the potential of a contribution from e.g. a 2.4-GHz cordless phone or other pulsed signal source to the total maximum value. Still today, some field meters only display average values. They are of little help when considering the potential health risks associated with pulse-modulated HF radiation since through the averaging of steep HF pulses, HF radiation exposure can be underrated up to a factor of 100, such as in 2.4-GHz cordless phones. Signal Evaluation Peak Hold Many measuring technicians work with the function Signal Evaluation Peak Hold. In peak hold mode the highest value of the signal within a defined time span can be obtained / collected. In order to obtain accurate readings you must use the small black button on the meter face labeled "Peak Hold Cancel. Failure to clear the LCD display screen by pressing this button, for two seconds, will result in inaccurate readings. While this button is pushed and held, the readings are regular "Peak" readings. If any switch settings are changed while measuring, and also in order to start any new "Peak Hold" measurement, you must always first hold this "Peak Hold Cancel" button for 2 seconds, then release it. This will ensure accurate readings. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 7

8 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r In everyday measurement practice this function has great value. The peak value is related to the actual signal situation. This is important because the immission situation can change rapidly with time, direction of the radiation, polarization, and the points of measurements.. The Peak Hold mode guarantees that you do not miss single peaks. The tone signal works independently of data collection in the peak hold mode. Its sound is proportional to the actual value measured. It helps to identify the location, direction, and polarization of the maximum field strength. You can chose the (inevitable) droop rate, at which the held peak value decreases over time. Set the switch below the signal evaluation switch (recessed in the casing) to Slow or Fast. In Slow mode it takes about 20 minutes to run out of tolerance, but in order to get an accurate reading the display should be checked frequently. If very short signal peaks occur then the holding capacity of the function needs some recurrences to load fully. Setting: LF-Processing - Video Bandwidth The video bandwidth defines the minimum duration of short pulses that still can be measured by the meter without being distorted. For measurement of exceptionally short pulses (e.g. Radar) or specific signals like UMTS/3G an extremely high video bandwidth is needed for accurate readings. The HF58B-r allows for 2 MHz video bandwidth, an unparalleled high value which guarantees the best accuracy available on this sector. Use the setting TPmax only for measuring radar and UMTS/3G signals, as along with the high video bandwidth comes a higher noise level as illustrated in the picture below. low Noise UMTS (3G) and Radar readings displayed too small Videobandwidth "low" "high" (e.g. 30 khz) (e.g. 2 MHz) higher noise ideal for Radar and UMTS (3G) The standard setting therefore is TP30kHz. Only if a Radar signal or UMTS (G3) signal is detected, by means of the audio analysis, the Tpmax setting is used. Some technical background The circuits processing the incoming high frequencies are only a small fraction of the total circuitry. Their output is a signal proportionate to the power density in the frequency of the modulations or the pulses of the incoming HF signal, i.e. an LF signal in the broadest sense. The video bandwidth is important for the potential as well as the limitations of an instrument. Your HF analyzer allows you to select between two settings of bandwidth, depending on the objective of the measurement: - TPmax (Radar): With this setting the full 2 MHz bandwidth is at your disposal. Select this when you have identified Radar or a UMTS/3G signal by audio analysis. Please note that with this setting not only the UMTS/3G and the Radar signals are measured, also any signals from other sources in this frequency range. With this setting TPmax and the range selector fine the noise can be up to a value between 30 and 120 digits. The tolerance level of bandwidth and associated noise is wide, but the bandwidth is beyond 2 MHz minimum. A high noise level indicates an even higher bandwidth of the instrument 6. Please note: In view of the unavoidable higher noise associated with the high video bandwidth one should not use TPmax as standard setting. - TP30kHz (Standard): This should be the standard default setting for general purpose use of the instrument. The video bandwidth is about 30 khz, which will represent the shortest continuously pulsed signals (e.g. DECT) without distortion. At the same time, even with the range switch on Fine the noise is significantly less than with TPmax. 6 When the setting Tpmax and Peak Hold slow is chosen the reading on the display will at first rise for a few second or even minutes, as also minute stochastic peaks will be picked up and retained, which in normal processing would be just averaged out. After some time some slightly varying state of equilibrium will be established. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 8

9 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Quantitative Measurement: Determination of Total High Frequency Pollution As described in Getting Started, attach the LogPer antenna to the HF analyzer. Hold the HF analyzer with a slightly outstretched arm because objects (mass) directly behind it like yourself, have effects on the testing result. Your hand should not get too close to the antenna, but should be near the bottom end of the instrument. In the area of a local maximum, the positioning of the HF analyzer should be changed until the highest power density (the most important measurement value) can be located. This can be achieved as follows: - When scanning all directions with the LogPer to locate the direction from which the major HF emission(s) originate, move your wrist right and left. For emission sources behind your back, you have to turn around and place your body behind the HF analyzer. - Through rotating the HF analyzer, with attached LogPer antenna, around its longitudinal axis, determine the polarization plane of the HF radiation. - Change the measurement position and avoid measuring exclusively in one spot.. because that spot may have local or antenna-specific cancellation effects. Some manufacturers of field meters propagate the idea that the effective power density should be obtained by taking measurements of all three axes and calculating the result. Most manufacturers of professional testing equipment, however, do not share this view. In general, it is well accepted that exposure limit comparisons should be based on the maximum value emitted from the direction of the strongest radiation source. But the details of the situation need to be considered! For example, if a 2.4-GHz telephone inside the house emits a similar level of microwaves as a nearby cellular phone base station outside the house, it would be helpful to first turn off the 2.4-GHz telephone in the house. Now measure the exposure level originating from the outside. After having measured the emission of the 2.4-GHz telephone on its own, the sum of both measurement values could be used for the exposure assessment. There is no official regulation nor clearly defined testing protocol, because according to German national standard-setting institutions, as described earlier, quantitatively reliable, targeted and reproducible measurements are only possible under free field conditions but not in indoor environments. Cellular phone channel emissions vary with the load. The minimum HF level occurs, when only the control channel operates. It is suggested that measurements should be taken at different times during the day / week in order to find out the times of highest traffic. Quantitative Measurement: Special case 1: UMTS / 3G (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System, also known as the third generation of mobile phones.) This technology is designed to process huge amounts of data and has a narrowly meshed network. For measuring UMTS/3G the switch Low Frequency Video Bandwith should be set to TPmax. With LogPer aerial and in Peak mode identify the main direction of the signal and switch to Peak Hold long Now gather the highest value without moving the meter ( use a wooden tripod ) for at least 2 minutes in the same position. This is important as because of the signal characteristics of the UMTS/3G signal fluctuations by the factor +/- 6 are common. To hear samples how a UMTS/3G signal sounds in the audio-analysis please check our website for links to MP3 files. Please note that when measuring UMTS/3G you should not use the combination of switch-positions Average and Pulse. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 9

10 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Quantitative Measurement: Special Case 2: Radar For air and sea navigation a radar antenna slowly rotates around its own axis, thereby emitting a tightly bundled radar ray. Even with sufficient signal strength, this ray can only be detected every couple of seconds, for a few milliseconds. This requires special measurement technology. The HF58B-r with its video bandwidth of 2 MHz provides this technology. Please use the following procedure to ensure correct readings: Setting: Video bandwidth to Tpmax. Signal Evaluation Peak. With the help of the audio analysis (a very short Beep every couple of seconds), one can clearly identify a radar signal. With this setting and the LogPer antenna you can identify the direction of the source of the signal. With the signal Evaluation switch set to Peak Hold and the LogPer antenna directed towards the signal emitting source. Wait for several circles of the radar ray, move the instrument a little left and right in order to get the relevant maximum reading. The long delays between pulses may consume a great deal of time trying to detect signal direction with a LogPer aerial. Please note that there are Radar systems that are operated at even higher frequencies that can be measured with this instrument, yet possibly not the full intensity. Quantitative Measurement: Identify where the radiation enters a structure As a first step eliminate sources from within the same room (e.g. cordless phones, wireless routers, etc.) Once this is completed, the remaining radiation will originate from outside. For remedial shielding it is important to identify those areas of all walls (including doors, windows and window frames!), ceiling and floor, which are penetrated by the radiation. To do this one should not stand in the centre of the room, measuring in all directions from there, but monitor the permeable areas with the antenna (LogPer) directed and positioned close to the wall 7. That is because the antenna lobe widens with increasing frequency. In addition reflections and cancellations inside rooms make it difficult and often impossible to locate the leaks accurately. See the illustrating sketch below! right! antenna wall potentially HF-permeable part of the wall wrong! The uncertainty of localization with HF-antennas antenna wall potentiell durchlässiger Bereich The shielding itself should be defined and surveyed by a specialist and in any case the area covered by it should be much larger than the leak 7 Please note: In this position the readings on the LCD only indicate relative highs and lows that cannot be interpreted in absolute terms. Limiting values, recommendations and precautions Precautionary recommentation for sleeping areas for pulsed radiation Below 0.1 µw/m² (SBM 2003) below 1 µw/m² (Landessanitätsdirektion Salzburg, Austria) The official regulations in many countries specify limits far beyond the recommendations of environmentally oriented doctors, building biologists and many scientific institutions and also those of other countries. They are vehemently criticised, but they are nonetheless official. The limits depend on frequencies and in the HF range of interest here they are between 4 and 10 W/m², far beyond 10 million times the recommendations. Official limits are determined by the potential heat generation in the human body and consequently measurements of averages rather than peaks. This ignores the state of environmental medicine. The official limits are far beyond the range of this instrument, which is optimized for accurate measurement of power densities targeted by the building biologists. The standard SBM 2003 cited above classifies power densities of below 1µW/m² as no anomaly for non pulsed radiation in sleeping areas, and for pulsed radiation one tenth of that. The "Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland e. V." (BUND) proposes 100 Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 10

11 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r µw/m² outside buildings. In view of the shielding properties of normal building materials, far lower values exist inside buildings. In February 2002 the Medical Authority of the Federal State Salzburg, Austria, recommends to reduce its Salzburger Precautionary Recommendation from µw/m² to 1 µw/m² inside buildings and 10 µw/m² outside. These limits are based on empirical evidence over the past few years. The ECOLOG-Institute in Hannover, Germany made a recommendation only for outside areas, namely µw/m². This is well above the recommendation by building biologists and aims at getting consent also from the industry. This would possibly enable a compromise for a more realistic limit than the government regulations cited above. The authors qualify their recommendation in - The limit should be applicable to the maximum possible emission of the transmitting stations. As the emission measured depends on the constantly varying actual load, this restricts the normal exposure much further. - A single station should not contribute more than one third to this total. - The extensive experience and findings of medical and building biology specialists could not be considered for the proposed limits, as their results are not sufficiently documented. The authors state, that scientific scrutiny of their recommendations is needed urgently. - Not all effects on and in cells found in their research could be considered for the proposed limits, as their damaging potential could not be established with sufficient certainty. In summary it confirms the justification of precautionary limits well below the present legal limits. Note for owners of cellular phones: Unimpaired reception of calls is possible with power densities far below even the very strict precautionary recommendation of 0.1 µw/m² for pulsed HF frequencies by the SBM Audio Frequency Analysis Many different frequencies within the frequency band between 800MHz and 2.5GHz, are being used by many different services. The audio analysis of the modulated portion of the HF signal, help to identify the source of a given HF radiation signal. First get the HF analyzer ready for testing by following the instructions in the relevant section. Important: For the audio analysis switch the small switch on the right of the display to Pulse. This will eliminate the content of unpulsed signals, since their acoustical marking ( rattling with 16 Hz) will make the acoustical analysis difficult. How to proceed: For audio analysis, simply turn the volume knob of the speaker at the top of the case all the way to the left ( - ). If you are switching to audio analysis while high field strength levels prevail, high volumes can be generated quite suddenly. This is especially true for measurements which are to be taken without audio analysis. The knob is not fastened with glue to prevent over winding. However, if by accident you should turn the knob too far, simply turn it back again. No damage will be caused. Set the On/OFF switch at. Sounds and signals are very difficult to describe in writing. The best way to learn the signals is to approach known HF sources very closely and listen to their specific signal patterns. Without detailed knowledge, the characteristic signal patterns of the follow- Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 11

12 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r ing HF sources can be easily identified: 2.4- GHz telephones (base station and handset) as well as cellular phones, the signal patterns of which can be divided into a live connected phone call, stand-by mode and especially the establishing of a connection. The typical signal patterns of a cellular phone base station can also be identified this way. For comparison reasons you are well advised to take measurements during high-traffic times, as well as some times during the night, in order to familiarize yourself with the different noises. The volume can be controlled with the volume (speaker) knob. Note: The power consumption of the speaker is directly proportional to the volume. The optional variable frequency filters VF2 or VF4 available help to facilitate the audio analysis significantly and at the same time add to its accuracy. They filter out individual frequencies so contributions from other sources can be identified. On our home page ( is a link to some typical samples of audio analyses as MP3-files. For more on acoustical marking of unpulsed signals see the next section. Analysis of the modulated / pulsed signal ( total / pulse ) The exposure limits of pulsed radiation (acc. to SBM2003) are lower by a factor of 10 than that of non pulsed signals. It is very important to distinguish between these two types. Without this knowledge you will not be able to determine which limit to apply.. The feature to distinguish between these two types of radiation in absolute numbers has been introduced for a broad band instrument of this price range for the first time. This is a significant advantage over the commercial spectrum analyzers, with which this differentiation requires extra work. The little switch to the right of the display allows one to distinguish between the complete signal including the pulsed part and its pulsed or modulated part only. In the Full setting, the power densities of all signals in the frequency range of interest are displayed. In Pulse setting only those which are amplitude modulated are displayed. Signals like GSM (mobile phone), DECT, Radar and WLAN/Bluethooth and others can have similar intensities in either switch setting. Even within tolerance limits, they have no content of carrier frequency. Superposition and background radiation, however, will mostly lead to a moderate difference in intensity. Marking of unpulsed signals Un-pulsed signals by their very nature are not audible in the audio analysis and therefore easily missed. For that reason they are marked by a uniform rattling tone, with its volume proportional to its contents of the total signal. This marking has a frequency of 16 Hz, and an audio sample can also be downloaded as a MP3 file from our website. This marking tone will only be audible with the switch to the right of the display set to Full. If the switch is set to Pulse the circuitry to suppress the content of un-pulsed signals is activated. There will be nothing to be marked. Note concerning the switch setting Pulse : Under special laboratory conditions a signal can be created, which causes an additional deviation from the actual value of up to -3 db. Under field conditions like DECT and GSM signals only minimal deviations. Use of Signal Outputs AC output: The AC output PC/head-set, 3.5 mm jack socket, is meant for in-depth analysis of the AM/pulsed content of the signal by headset or a PC-audiocard and appropriate software. For PC sound card or headphones or PC software please ask or write us. DC output (2.5 mm jack socket): For logging devices or optional external display unit. When Full Scale is displayed, it has 1 VDC output, depending on the position of switch 7. The auto power off function is deactivated if external devices are connected. Nevertheless, the battery is still protected against total discharge. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 12

13 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Further Analysis / Optional Accessories: Gigahertz Solutions offers a range of preamplifiers and attenuators, to widen the range of power densities which can be processed with this instrument, See section Quantitative Measurement. Furthermore there are two variable frequency filters ( variable traps ) for quantitative separation between different sources of radiation. One of them blocks the selected frequency by 20 db to one hundredth of its real intensity; the other version blocks by 40 db for a more accurate reading. Future developments for this instrument: 1. A digital extension module, which amongst other features will enable to display the results in other units, like e.g. V/m and widen the range displayable to instead of the present digits. 2. A digital internal extension module for recording of single readings or for a long term series of readings (data logging) including PC software for their evaluation. Instrument for lower frequencies For measurement of signal frequencies above 27 MHz (including: CB radioing, analogue and digital TV and radio TETRA etc.) we offer the instruments HFE35C and HFE59B. We are working on a new instrument for the analysis of yet higher frequencies (up to about 6 GHz, i.e. WLAN, WIMAX and some directional radio sources and flight radar).this will be available in Available for low frequencies: Electrosmog is not limited to the Radio Frequency range! Also for the low frequency range such as power (distribution and domestic installations) including their higher harmonics we offer a broad range of affordably priced instruments with high professional standards. Please refer to a list of contacts is at the end of this brochure. Battery Management Conditioning of the internal rechargeable battery The instrument comes with a rechargeable internal NiMH-Battery. This should be conditioned to achieve its maximum capacity. Please proceed as follows: 1. Plug the included, 2.5mm adapter connector into either the AC or DC output. This will deactivate the automatic power off function. Switch on the meter until it turns off (which happens automatically shortly before the battery is damaged by deep discharging ) 2. Connect the AC-Power adaptor. The green Charging LED should turn on. If not, switch the analyzer on and then off until it turns on.. After 10 to 13 hours the charging process will finish automatically. When charging is complete, the green LED will turn off automatically. 3. Repeat this procedure one or two more times. Repeat every few months to maintain maximum charging capacity. The rechargeable battery will thank you with a longer life and a full capacity. Instrument for yet higher frequencies Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 13

14 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Changing the rechargeable Battery The battery compartment is at the back of the analyzer. To remove the lid, press on the grooved arrow and pull the cap off. Insert only rechargeable batteries. If you use regular alkaline (non rechargeable) batteries do not use a charger or AC-adapter! Auto-Power-Off This function conserves energy and extends the total operating time. 1. In case you have forgotten to turn OFF the HF analyzer or it has been turned ON accidentally during transport, it will shut off automatically after 40 minutes of continuous use. 2. If low batt appears vertically between the digits in the center of the display, the HF analyzer will turn OFF after 3 min in order to avoid unreliable measurements. In that case charge the rechargeable battery. 3. The built-in function, Auto-Power-Off, will only be de-activated by plugging in a 2.5mm jack into one of the output sockets AC or DC, see Conditioning two sections up. The function will be reactivated to automatically prevent total discharging of the battery by further operation. Remediation and Shielding Please call us or send us an . We will assist you in any shielding project you might have. The shielding effect of the various materials is stated normally in - db, e.g. 20 db. Conversion of shielding effect into reduction of power density -10dB is measured value divided by 10-15dB is measured value divided by ~30-20dB is measured value divided by dV is measured value divided by ~300-30dB is measured value divided by 1000 etc. Please be aware of the manufacturer s notes about the normally achievable shielding effects, as 100 % shielding is almost always impossible. Partial shielding reduces the attenuation considerably. That is why shielding of seemingly radiation tight adjacent areas is highly recommended. Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 14

15 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Warranty We provide a two year warranty on factory defects of the HF analyzer, the antenna and accessories. Antenna Even though the antenna appears to be rather delicate, it is made from a highly durable FR4 base material that can easily withstand a fall from table height. HF Analyzer The analyzer itself is not impact proof, due to the comparatively heavy battery and the large number of wired components. Any damage as a result of misuse is excluded from this warranty Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 15

16 Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B-r Measurement ranges of the HF58B-r Instrument as delivered, i.e. without preamplifier or attenuator switch "Adapter"("Pegelanpassung") to "0 db" Bar on LCD Range Displayed value & unit Coarse mw/m² Medium µw/m² Fine µw/m² Simply read out, no correction factor With ext. Attenuator DG20, switch "Adapter" to "Attenuator -20 db" Bar on LCD Range Displayed value & unit Coarse mw/m² Medium mw/m² Fine mw/m² Simply read out, no correction factor With ext. Preamplifier HV10, switch "Adaptor" to "Amplifier +10dB" Bar on LCD Range Displayed value & unit Coarse µw/m² Medium µw/m² Fine µw/m² Simply read out, no correction factor With ext. Preamplifier HV30, switch "Adapter"("Pegelanpassung") to "0 db" Bar on LCD Range Displayed value & unit Actual unit Coarse mw/m² µw/m² Medium µw/m² nw/m² Fine µw/m² nw/m² Same decimal point, but next smaller unit (Coarse = grob; Medium = mittel; Fine = fein) Why no column dbm? Most recommended limiting values for HF radiation are given in W/m² (sometimes also in V/m), which is why this instrument is displaying in power density, µw/m² resp. mw/m². A display in dbm as e.g. on a spectrum analyzer requires transformation by a complicated formula, which depends on frequency and specifics of the antenna used. A reconversion therefore does not make sense. Conversion Table ( µw/m² to V/m ) µw/m² mv/m µw/m² mv/m µw/m² mv/m 0,01 1,94 1,0 19, ,2 21, ,4 23, ,6 24, ,8 26, ,02 2,75 2,0 27, ,5 30, ,03 3,36 3,0 33, ,5 36, ,04 3,88 4,0 38, ,05 4,34 5,0 43, ,06 4,76 6,0 47, ,07 5,14 7,0 51, ,08 5,49 8,0 54, ,09 5,82 9,0 58, ,10 6,14 10,0 61, ,12 6,73 12,0 67, ,14 7,26 14,0 72, ,16 7,77 16,0 77, ,18 8,24 18,0 82, ,20 8,68 20,0 86, ,25 9,71 25,0 97, ,30 10,6 30, ,35 11,5 35, ,40 12,3 40, ,50 13,7 50, ,60 15,0 60, ,70 16,2 70, ,80 17,4 80, ,90 18,4 90, Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, Langenzenn, Germany Revision 4.5 (Febuary 2006) Page 16

17 R GIGAHE SOLUTIO GIGAH SOLUT TZ ME 3951A GIGA NS SOLU RTZ GIG ONS With F1B2H31 (Frequency Filter Module: 16 Hz Band Pass/50Hz High Pass/2kHz High Pass) SOL ERTZ G TIONS SO HERTZ G UTIONS S AHERTZ LUTIONS IGAHERTZ GIGAHER OLUTIONS SOLUTION GIGAHE SOLUTIO GIGAH SOLUT GIGA SOLU GIG SOL G SO G S User's Guide GIGAHER SOLUTION - Functions & Controls GIGAHE - Operation and Maintenance SOLUTIO GIGAH - Measurement Instructions SOLUT - Field Theory GIGA SOLU GIG It is important to read carefully the instruction manual prior to using the field meter. Important information regarding SOL safety, use and maintenance is provided herein. G SO 1

18 R Preface With the field meters of the ME 3 series, sets new standards in electromagnetic field testing. Professional measurement engineering is offered with a unique price/performance ratio - the only one of its kind worldwide. This was made possible through the consistent use of innovative integrated components, some of which have patents pending, as well as highly sophisticated production engineering. The field meter you purchased allows a competent assessment of AC electric as well as AC magnetic field exposures according to the internationally recognized Swedish guidelines for computer monitors (TCO/MPR), covering the entire frequency range from 5 Hz up to 400 khz. We appreciate the confidence you showed when purchasing the ME 3951A field meter. With the confidence that your expectations will be met, we wish you great success in collecting useful information with this field meter. by the manufacturer: GmbH, D Langenzenn. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or recorded by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing by GmbH. 2 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

19 Contents, Safety Instructions R Contents Page Safety instructions...3 Function & controls...4 Getting started...6 Measurement instructions...8 Changing Batteries...16 Battery management...18 Safety Instructions: It is important to read carefully the instruction manual prior to using the field meter. Important information regarding safety, use and maintenance is provided herein. The adapter is only to be used with the specified, rechargeable battery. Never try to recharge nonchargeable primary batteries (e.g. zinc-coal or alkaline batteries) with it: Explosion Hazard! The grounding of the field meter required for the electric field measurements should be performed with the supplied grounding lead, which can be connected to bare water, gas or heating pipes. If there is none of the above-mentioned grounding options available, a licensed electrician could temporarily also make use of the grounding conductor in a grounded outlet. In this case, however, an electric shock hazard may occur when the grounding clip touches the current-carrying phase conductor. To prevent shock hazards or the destruction of the field meter, neither the instrument itself nor the adapter should ever come into contact with water. The penetration of water into the case may lead to the destruction of the electronics inside. Field meters are not to be stored outdoors or used during rain. Clean the case only from the outside, using a slightly moist cloth. Do not use cleaners or sprays. Prior to cleaning the field meter or opening the case, shut it off and unplug all extension cords. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the instrument. Due to the high sensitivity level, the electronics of the field meter are very sensitive to heat, impact as well as touch. Therefore do not leave the instrument in the hot sun, on a heating element or the like. Do not let it drop nor try to manipulate its electronics inside when the case is open. This field meter should only be used for the purposes described herein and only in combination with supplied or recommended accessories. by GmbH, Langenzenn, 3

20 R Function & Controls Battery Charging Extension cord of the supplied adapter: VDC, with (+) at the internal conductor and (-) at the external conductor. Only to be used during battery charging see pages 6, 18 Range Selection 200 nt/vm: (fine) 0 to Nanotesla (nt) 0 to Volt per Meter (V/m) 2000 nt/vm: (coarse) 0 to 1999 Nanotesla (nt) 0 to 1999 Volt per Meter (V/m) see page 9 DC - Signal output 0 to -1 VDC Signal output Suitable for long-term monitoring with a data logger or data plotter, but also for connecting the optional external display unit (DP 3000A) see page 15 AC - Signal output 1 VAC at maximum display: Connector for a spectrum analyzer to analyze the frequency spectrum of the measured signals. At maximum display, the maximum frequency output is 30 khz. see page 15 Ground Connection of the grounding lead (for electric field testing) see page 9 Field type E: Electric Field M: Magnetic Field Test: Offset Display see pages 7, 10, 11 Operation "Speaker Icon": Speaker turned on On: Field meter turned on Off : Field meter turned off see pages 7, 11, 18 Frequency Filter F1B2H31 16 Hz Band pass, 50 Hz High pass, 2 khz Highpass, for building biology assessments to identify railway systems, electric power grid as well as harmonics of higher frequencies see pages 11, 12, 14 Light diode: comes on while battery is being charged see page 18 Button to be pressed for the display of the battery status as well as the display check see page 19 Display of the Field Type in Use Dash at the top: Electric field strength is displayed Dash at the bottom: Magnetic flux density is displayed Two Dashes: Self-diagnostics LC-Display: 3.5-digit display of the measurement value (mean value) see page 19 Picture 01 4 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

21 Function & Controls Switch to short-circuit the magnetic sensor, which is only used by the manufacturer for calibration purposes. Sensor for AC Electric Fields ("Field plate") see pages 7 R Switch to short-circuit the field plate, which is only used by the manufacturer for calibration purposes Sensor for AC Magnetic Fields see pages 7 Pegs to hold the rechargeable battery in place Rechargeable Battery ( 9 Volt E-Block ) Caution: Battery should only be used within the supplied isolation compartment made of cardboard in order to avoid short-circuit damage of the instrument. see pages 17 Frequency Filter Module F1B2H31 Can be replaced with modules featuring other threshold frequencies. see pages 11, 12, 14 2 Miniature Speakers in a magnetically shielded circuit Battery Compartment LC-Display: 3.5-digit display of the measurement value (RMS) including field type and low batt. indicator see page 19 Picture 02 by GmbH, Langenzenn, 5

22 R Instrument Contents, Getting Started Instrument Contents: 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.) 8.) 9.) 1.) Field meter 2.) Adapter with external voltage jack (2.0 mm) 3.) Grounding lead (5 m) with jack plugs (2.5 mm, mono) and alligator clip 4.) Grounding clip 5.) BNC measurement adapter on jack plug (3.5 mm, mono) 6.) Measurement jack adapter (3.5 mm, mono) on jack plug (2.5 mm, mono) 7.) Jack plug (2.5 mm, mono) for creating your own measurement adapter 8.) Wedge for opening the case to change batteries or frequency filter modules 9.) Rechargeable battery with 9 V nominal voltage (Depending on shipping conditions, it is sometimes already inserted into the field meter.). Getting Started Turning On If no display is activated, insert rechargeable battery. (See section "Changing Battery"). Charging If display shows low-batt. indicator, charge battery or insert a fully charged battery. (See section "Battery Management"). 6 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

23 Function Testing, Offset R Function Testing - Display of Magnetic Flux Density: 1. Display: Field Type = M, Measurement Range = 200 nt/vm, Frequency Range = 5 Hz khz, Operation = "Speaker Icon 2.Move the field meter in fast and short movements around its longitudinal axis back and forth, as shown in picture 03. Picture 03 As a result, the static geomagnetic field is turned into a "quasi alternating field." The faster and greater the movements, the stronger the induced alternating field will be. This will be reflected in the higher measurement values on the display and the faster "rattling" noise from the speaker, which is proportional to the field strength. Function Testing - Display of Electric Field Strength: Tap here! 1. Display: Field Type = E, Measurement Range = 200 nt/vm, Frequency Range = 5 Hz khz, Operation = "Speaker Icon 2.Keep the field meter steady while tapping the front of the case with your fingers, as shown in picture 04. Picture 04 Due to your fingers' mass potential a "quasi AC electric field" is created whose strengths is reflected through higher measurement values on the display and the faster "rattling" noise from the speaker. Defining the Offset: Turn on the instrument and set the switch "field type" to the "test" position. On the left-hand side of the display a "1" (as icon for the test mode) will appear and on the right-hand side either "00.0" or "000", depending on the selected measurement range. If instead of "000" or "00.0" a higher measurement value is displayed, this value would reflect the current deviation from zero. Picture 05 Such a situation can occur because of current environmental conditions (e.g. temperature, air humidity, etc.) The tolerance of the subsequent electric and magnetic field measurements will be increased by this deviation value. by GmbH, Langenzenn, 7

24 R Measurement Instructions Measurement Instructions Introduction to the Properties of AC Electric and Magnetic Fields Generally speaking, the sensory organs of the human body cannot perceive alternating electric and magnetic fields. These fields are "simply there" and expand into three-dimensional space, following rather complex physical laws. For measurement practice, the following properties of alternating electric and magnetic fields are very important: 1. Any measurement is always determined by position as well as direction. The slightest change in position or direction of the field meter can have substantial consequences for the measurement value, especially in AC magnetic fields. 2. Electric as well as magnetic fields not only penetrate into solid materials including walls, glass or the like, but also pass right through them. This holds especially true for magnetic fields, whose shielding is rather costly. 3. AC electric fields occur whenever an alternating voltage is applied. In residential situations, for example, all plugged-in extension cords and appliances including switches are surrounded by alternating electric fields. This even holds true when the appliance is turned off! As soon as an appliance is turned on, there is current flow and an AC magnetic field is added. 4. Beside the field strength, AC electric or magnetic fields are also characterized by their frequency. We distinguish between the low frequencies of the ELF and VLF range between 5 Hz and 400 khz as defined by the MPR/TCO guidelines for the assessment of computer monitors as well as all the higher frequencies including radio waves and microwaves. Furthermore there are also static magnetic and electrostatic fields, each of which requires a totally different approach to testing just like RF radiation. Introduction to Measurement Instructions In order to obtain meaningful testing results, the Ökotest magazine (6/96) demands the following minimum requirements for testing equipment of electric and magnetic fields in the ELF and VLF range: 1. Separate measurements of AC electric fields (with ground reference) and AC magnetic fields. 2. Reproducible, high accuracy. 3.Flat frequency response across the entire specified frequency range, which should at least cover the railway frequency Hz all the way through to the kilohertz range (only in Europe). 4.High sensitivity: 10 nt or 1 V/m, or better. The field meters by meet all the above requirements. 8 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

25 Measurement Instructions R Preparations Prior to Testing 1. Check the field meter according to the instructions laid out under "Getting Started". 2. First of all take measurements of AC electric and magnetic fields outdoors to get a feel for the background radiation. If the field meter registers more than 5 V/m or 5 nt (0.05 mg), this will give you an idea of the background exposure. By means of turning off the circuit breakers in the main panel, it is possible to determine which of the fields are caused from inside the house and which ones from outside such as high-tension power lines, railway trails, pole-mounted or surface transformers as well as neighboring houses/apartments. If external fields are suspected, their sources can be traced by moving the field meter into the direction of the highest readings. 3. When performing an EMR survey in homes or at workplaces, all typical electric appliances and electronic devices should be turned on, also including those that come on only temporarily such as refrigerators or storage space heaters (e.g. in adjoining rooms). By turning the various appliances off and on, it is possible to locate the most important field sources. 4. A sketch of the area to be measured that shows the corresponding test results and allows for a later analysis of the situation. Thus appropriate remediation strategies can be assigned. 5. Start with the measurement range "200 nt/vm." Only if the display goes in overload because of rather high ambient field strengths, switch to the higher range "2000 nt/vm". 6. Ideally, all measurements are to be repeated during various times of the day and on different days of the week in order to identify fluctuations. 7. The additional sound signal that is proportional to the field strength makes the detection of field sources easy. Measurement Instructions - AC Electric Fields 1. Grounding the Field Meter and the Person Performing the Testing According to relevant guidelines (TCO, MPR II, TÜV), prior to any electric field testing the field meter needs to be connected to ground potential through the supplied grounding lead in order to obtain reliable, reproducible testing results. Without a proper connection to ground potential no reliable statements on AC electric fields can be made. Picture 06 Unvarnished, metal piping for water, gas or heating can be used to connect the grounding lead with its grounding clip. As an alternative, a licensed electrician could also use an alligator clip to establish a grounding connection through the grounding conductor in a grounded outlet. Warning: In case the phase conductor is touched, an electric shock hazard may result. by GmbH, Langenzenn, 9

26 R Measurement Instructions Insert the jack plug of the grounding lead into the dedicated socket ("ground", "ground icon") and at the same time run the grounding lead alongside the case to the back. Touch the "AC" or "DC" socket with your finger in order to bring your own body to ground potential. Picture 07 Picture 07 Picture 08 Picture 09 Picture 10 Caution: In case the grounding lead runs in front of the instrument case or a finger is between the DC socket and the front of the instrument case, testing results will become distorted. (See also footnote 1) 2. Positioning of the Field Meter for AC Electric Field Testing The field meter is calibrated for measurements taken in close proximity to the body (Picture 11). The field sources located behind the field meter are shielded through the body. Therefore misleading concentrations of field lines onto the electric field sensor are avoided. Therefore try to avoid taking measurements with a stretched-out arm. In general, this would lead to higher testing results (Picture 12). This type of distortions can be reduced or avoided by placing a conductive surface behind the field meter. (Picture 13, see also footnote 1)). Picture 11 Picture 12 Picture 13 1) The electric field strength measured with ground reference always depends on the geometry of the field source and the sensor, the distance between sensor and field source as well as ambient potentials. Following TCO guidelines, the ME 3951A is calibrated according to the TCOcalibrated field meter "Radians Innova - Enviromentor EMM-4 (Serial. No. 4348)" at a distance of 50 cm from a 4-sqm large copper plate operating at 50 Hz and 270 V. Instead of a person, which is also grounded during testing in the field, a grounded, square copper plate measuring 50 cm (ca. 20") on its sides is placed behind the field meter during calibration. The same procedure is recommended for reproducible tripod measurements. Testing results of the ME 3951A can only be expected to correspond with those of an original TCO sensor when the distance from the field plate is greater than 30 cm (12"). The measured field strength represents a spatial integral across the testing equipment, whose simplification "measurement value in the direction of the highest display = resultant field strength" is a good approximation for practical purposes. 10 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

27 Measurement Instructions R 3. AC Electric Field Testing Turn on the field meter and set the switch "Field Type" to "E" for AC electric field. (Picture 14) Set the switch for the frequency filter to "50 Hz to 400 khz". Thus self-inductions due to micromovements (shaking of hand) will be suppressed. (Picture 14) Picture 14 During testing always ensure that the grounding lead runs to the back of the case and that the person performing the survey as well as anybody else present are located behind the field meter. Keep the field meter close to your body. The further away you hold the instrument or if it is even put down, the falsely higher the testing results tend to become. Either point to the suspected field source or - if no such concrete source is known - check the space systematically. Proceed as follows: - First of all, move slowly through the room to be measured. - Stop frequently and take measurements pointing to the back, to the left, to the right and to the ceiling. Always keep in mind to have the grounding lead run to the back of the instrument. - Follow into the direction of the highest reading in order to identify the field source. - In areas where people spend substantial amounts of time such as in bed or at a workplace, check all directions as mentioned above and make note of the orientation of the field meter at maximum readings. In such a position, a reference measurement of the absolute value should be taken as close to the body as possible. - After having checked all directions, the maximum measurement value can be used as a first approximation of the resultant field strength.(see footnote 1)) When the field meter is placed on a tripod or on a table, it is necessary to also place a person 5 cm (2") behind the instrument to obtain accurate measurements. For reproducible measurements, a metal plate (50 cm x 50 cm) is required to be orthogonal and centered 5 cm behind the instrument. An EMR survey of sleeping areas should also include measurements under "sleep conditions," that is bedside lamp turned off. Under certain circumstances the electric field can even increase after something was turned off. Recommended Exposure Limit up to 2 khz: Below 10 V/m, better yet below 1 V/m. (For frequencies above 2 khz always below 1 V/m) by GmbH, Langenzenn, 11

28 R Measurement Instructions AC Magnetic Field Testing: Turn on the field meter and set the switch "Field Type" to "M" for AC magnetic field. (Picture 15) Set the switch for the frequency filter to "50 Hz to 400 khz". Thus self-inductions due to micromovements (shaking of hand) will be suppressed. (Picture 15) Picture 15 For reliable measurements of AC magnetic fields, neither the field meter nor the person performing the measurements need to be grounded. Other persons or mass potentials in the vicinity of the field meter do not affect the testing results. If a field source is suspected, point into that direction. Otherwise check the space systematically. Proceed as follows: - First of all, move slowly through the room to be measured. The magnetic sensor is positioned in such a way in the instrument that most typical field sources in residential settings are detected as long as the field meter is held horizontally. In addition, all three dimensions should be checked from time to time as shown in the pictures 16 through In practice, the identification of a field source has proven to be most effective by locating the direction of the highest reading first. Then you follow the direction, which continues to show increasing measurement values. Simply keep the field meter aligned in the direction of the maximum readings. For an accurate measurement, however, hold the instrument very steady or put it down at a relevant measurement point. - In the important places where we work, sit or sleep, all three dimensions of AC magnetic fields should be checked each time. Proceed as follows. Accurate Measurement of the Magnetic Field Strength in the Presence of Several Field Sources In this event, it is necessary to take three separate measurements and write the readings down. The field meter should be held as shown in the pictures: point to the front (Picture 16), to the ceiling (Picture 17) and to the side so that it is perpendicular to the front axis (Picture 18). In order to estimate the resultant, that is the actual AC-magnetic-field exposure, the following rules of thumb can be applied. Rules of Thumb for Estimating the Total Magnetic Field Strength Measurement Value: Corresponding Total Magnetic Field : - One high, two low values ~ Highest value - Two high, one low value ~ Highest value + half of the second highest value - Three similar values ~ One and a half times of the highest 12 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

29 Measurement Instructions R Picture 16 Picture 17 Picture 18 Recommended Exposure Limit up to 2 khz: Below 200 nt, better yet below 20 nt. (For frequencies above 2 khz below 20 nt, better yet below 2 nt) The resultant, total magnetic field strength (the sum of the single field strengths, 3-D Measurement) can be accurately calculated according to the following equation: Resultant Field Strength = Square Root(x² + y² + z²) Picture 19 illustrates the direction of the resultant field, which is also called "substitute field." The photos for pictures 16 through 18, showing the single measurements of the three dimensions, as well as picture 20 were taken in a kitchen during a typical testing session. If you would insert the display values in the above equation, the result would come very close to the value, which is displayed in picture 20. There the field meter is held perpendicular to the resultant field. x Res. z y Picture 19 Picture 20 by GmbH, Langenzenn, 13

30 R Measurement Instructions Frequency Analysis (AC Electric and Magnetic Fields) An AC electric or magnetic field is not only defined by its field strength, but also by the frequency with which the polarity of the field changes. We encounter various common frequencies: - Overhead railway wires operate at 16.7 Hz (only in Europe). - The electric power grid (home wiring, high-tension power lines) operates at a 60-Hz frequency in North America and at a 50-Hz frequency in Europe. So-called natural harmonics are the multiples of the respective fundamental frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz). - In addition, various electronic devices are used in our homes that generate a variety of fields with higher frequencies in the khz range (artificial harmonics) such as switch-mode power adapters ("transformers"), ballasts of fluorescent tubing and energy saving lamps as well as dimmer switches with so-called switch mode technology and the like. For the assessment of a certain area and especially with regards to appropriate remediation strategies, it is very useful to know how many of the different frequencies contribute to the total exposure. An exposure caused by overhead railway wires, for example, cannot be remedied by installations of the homeowner. However, it is possible to avoid certain signals of the khz range by choosing devices without such emissions (e.g. incandescent lamp instead of fluorescent tubing) (only in Europe). The ME 3951A field meter offers you different options to analyze frequencies: Frequency Analysis with Frequency Filter Module F1B2H31 Picture 21 Picture 22 Depending on the testing situation, offers several different frequency filter modules for the ME 3951A. The Frequency Filter Module F1B2H31 (Picture 21/22) already supplied with the field meter is specifically designed for building biology needs. The following frequencies can be selected: 1) 5 Hz to 400 khz = Entire TCO frequency range, best suited for tripod measurements 2) 16.7 Hz = 4th order band pass filter with Q-Factor 10 for the frequency of overhead railway wires (only in Europe) 3) 50 Hz to 400 khz = 5th order high pass filter for the electric power grid and its harmonics 4) 2 khz to 400 khz = 5th order high pass filter for so-called artificial harmonics above 2 khz. This frequency range corresponds with band 2 of the Swedish TCO guidelines. In order to measure fields of overhead railway wires or harmonics, first the respective filter in the 14 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

31 Measurement Instructions R field meter needs to be activated. Generally speaking, the testing follows the same principles as described in the section "Measurement Instructions" for the fields of the power grid system. There are only two points, which deserve special mention here: - Usually the source of the railway currents is located outside of a house. It is recommended, nonetheless, that the entire house is roughly checked anyway because sometimes railway frequencies can also be found on, for example, water or gas piping as well as the electric wiring system due to coupling effects. If a house to be tested is closer than 2 to 3 km to an electric railway track, such potential sources should be checked to be on the safe side. - "Artificial" harmonics usually are less energetic than power or railway frequencies and therefore show lower testing results. For this frequency band, however, all renowned institutes recommend exposure limits that are 10 times lower than those for power frequency fields. Therefore the frequency range "200 nt/vm" is usually sufficient. Note: Due to 1/f higher and white noise, filter tolerances, micromovements of the instrument and frequencies beyond the filtered frequency bands, the testing results of the position "5 Hz to 400 khz" can deviate from the sum of the filtered values. Frequency Analysis via AC Output Even in a "normal" work and living environment it is possible to encounter a great variety of frequencies in addition to the power frequency 60 Hz or 50 Hz, respectively. For a more detailed analysis of the different frequencies, a spectrum analyzer can be connected directly to the AC output of the field meter by means of the supplied adapter. At the AC output a DC offset of maximum 50 mv is applied. It is standard in oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers that this DC offset is usually suppressed by a capacitive coupling. In case the peripheral analysis instruments are connected to the power grid including grounding conductor, the grounding of the field meter should not be connected in order to avoid ground loops! Following convention, the technical specifications of the field meter refer to the maximum values given on the display, according to which the bandwidth of the AC output is limited to 30 khz. If, however, the measurement value is less than 1/20 of the maximum reading (e.g. in the measurement range 2000 nt this would equal 100 nt), there is still a sinusoidal input signal up to 400 khz with a non-linearity < 1% provided at the AC output. Since the field strengths in home and workplace settings often are in this range and not that much higher, this output can actually be used up to 400 khz then. With a mono headset (adjustable volume is recommended) plugged into the AC socket, it is possible to perform a rough acoustic frequency analysis across the audible frequency range (ca. 16 Hz to 20 khz). If needed, use adapter plug. The headset LS0002 is available as an accessory from. Data Logging via DC Output The field strength of a given point in space often changes over a longer period of time. For a complete assessment, it is recommended to monitor the field strengths (DC values), for instance, for 24 hours. Therefore the field meter comes equipped with outputs where data logging and analy- by GmbH, Langenzenn, 15

32 R Measurement Instructions sis equipment can be connected. In general, the DC output (direct current output) is used for longterm monitoring with, for example, data loggers or data plotters. Across the DC output a DC signal is applied, which is proportional to the measurement values. It equals minus 0.5 mv per digit. That would, for example, translate into minus 1 Volt at a maximum reading "2000 nt/vm" or "200 nt/vm". The negative signal was preferred over the positive signal because it clearly offered better linearity and correspondence with the display value. Most analysis instruments can internally convert the input signal into the appropriate absolute value. If this is not the case, simply reverse the polarity of the plug of the analysis instrument in order to display positive values. When using the BNC adapter, the shielding of the testing lead is connected to mass potential. Even though the maximum values of the display show either 2000 nt or 2000 V/m, the DC signal at the DC output is actually still quite linear up to 5000 nt or 5000 V/m, respectively. The technical specifications of the field meter refer to the values shown as maximum values on the display. As long as a jack plug is plugged into the DC socket, the "Auto-Power-Off" function is deactivated in order to accommodate long-term data logging. Caution: If during data logging the battery runs so low that "low Batt." is displayed, the "Auto- Power-Off" function will be activated in order to prevent the battery from becoming completely discharged, which otherwise might destroy the rechargeable battery. 24-hour data logging can be supported through a connection to the electric power system via the adapter or a 12 V battery. In the event a power outage occurs during data logging, the rechargeable battery in the instrument will take over automatically. As soon as electric power comes back on, the instrument will automatically switch back to the adapter. Place the adapter as far away from the field meter as possible in order to keep the detection of its emissions as low as possible. By making note of the field strength with and without having the adapter plugged into the outlet, it is possible to calculate the correction value, which of course should be subtracted from the total measurement values. Changing Batteries Opening the Case Turn off the field meter and disconnect all extension cords plugged into it. Having the labeled side facing up toward you, hold the field meter in your hand or put it down on a table. Use the supplied wedge to open the case. Picture 23 1.While opening the case, hold the instrument firmly in one hand and with the other insert the wedge into the notch on the side, about 1 cm (1/2") below the upper corner, and press the wedge down on its thick end. There the lid will then lift slightly. Picture 23. Picture by GmbH, Langenzenn,

33 Changing Batteries R 2.The same procedure shall be repeated on the same side, but this time about 1 cm (1/2") above the lower corner. Picture 24 Now the cover is open on one side. Picture 25 3.Points 1 through 2 will also have to be repeated on the opposite side. Pictures 25 and 26 Now the cover can be easily lifted off. Picture 26 Closing the Case Picture 27 Place the cover flush with the open field meter. Ensure that the battery check button, the light diode and the frequency filter button all fit snugly into their designated openings in the cover. Using thumbs and pointing fingers of both hands, press down on the cover with a steady and gentle pressure. As a result, the cover will snap into its place on both sides. Picture 27 Removing Batteries Change batteries only while the instrument is turned off! After having opened the cover, the rechargeable battery including its clip can be removed or lifted out sideways. Picture 28 In order to remove the battery clip from the rechargeable battery, slip the small end of the wedge as far up between both contacts as possible, then move the wide end of the wedge up and down. Thus the clip can be easily detached. Picture 28 Under no circumstances ever pull at the leads or the plastic clip of the contacts; otherwise they can easily be damaged or broken. Inserting Batteries Attach the new rechargeable battery to the battery clip and place it back into the battery compartment. While putting the battery back into the compartment, ensure that none of the battery by GmbH, Langenzenn, 17

34 R Battery Management leads will get trapped between the battery and some protruding part from the circuit board. In this case you would be unable to slide the cover back properly. In order to replace the supplied frequency filter with another one from SOLUTI- ONS, please follow the instructions enclosed with the new frequency filter. Battery Management Operating Time: Immediately after having recharged the supplied battery for a total of 11 continuous hours, it can be operated continuously for about 8 hours. Battery Charging: First, plug the supplied or a similar power adapter into an outlet. Insert the low-voltage jack of the power adapter into the designated socket (upper left). Caution: Take great care that the polarity of the adapter ((+) internal conductor and (-) external conductor) as well as the corresponding voltage (12-24 VDC) are correct! In order to start charging the battery, turn on field meter and then off just once. After that leave it turned off. The green light of the diode will shine during the charging. After about 11 hours the charging mode will be turned off automatically. Low Batt.: 1.When the field meter is turned on and the two dots appear in the display (low batt.), the battery is in a low state. Using the meter in this condition will cause measuring errors. Picture 29 Picture 29 But even before the low-battery indicator comes on, you can find out the charge status of the battery with the "Batt. Check" by pressing the respective button. Auto-Power-Off This function conserves energy and extends the total operating time. 1. In case you forgot to turn off the field meter or it was accidentally turned on during transport, it will be automatically shut off after 40 minutes of continuous use. 18 by GmbH, Langenzenn,

35 Battery Management R 2. When two dots appear in the center of the display (low batt.), the field meter will be turned off after 3 min in order to protect the rechargeable battery from becoming completely discharged, which would cause damage. In order to turn on the field meter after an Auto-Power-Off, simply turn it off and on again. Caution: If the DC signal output is connected, the normal Auto-Power-Off function is disabled. This way it becomes possible to perform data logging supported by the rechargeable battery, up to 8 hours. The low-battery shut-off, however, will kick in after 3 min just the same in order to protect the rechargeable battery from the damages of a complete (deep) discharge. With an alkaline battery, it is possible to perform 24-hour data logging. Caution: If an alkaline battery is being used, under no circumstances ever should the power adapter be connected at the same time. Otherwise the battery may explode. Checking Battery Status and Display-Check Press the button! Since the integrated rechargeable battery is not always charged completely, it is possible to find out the remaining operating time as well as the proper functioning of all display segments by pressing the "Batt.-Check" button. Picture 30 1.In order to check the battery status, simply turn on the field meter, press the button and continue to keep it pressed. If the display shows "1999" or "1888," the instrument is optimally supplied with power and all display elements function accurately. Picture 30. Press the button! 2.When the instrument is turned on and the low battery button is pressed, low batt. in the center of the display indicate that under normal conditions the operating time will be less than 1 hour. Picture 31 If need should be, recharge battery or turn off field meter. Picture 31 Contact: Gigahertz Solutions GmbH Am Galgenberg 12 D Langenzenn Germany Phone +49 (9101) Fax +49 (9101) For your local distributor please contact by GmbH, Langenzenn, 19