Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

EMC is defined as the ability of devices and systems to operate in their electromagnetic environment without impairing their functions and without faults and vice versa. EMC ensures that operation does not influence the electromagnetic environment to the extent that the functions of other devices and systems are adversely affected. https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/analogue_circuits/emc-emi-electromagnetic-interference-compatibility/what-is-emc-basics-tutorial.php#

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Electromagnetic interference” (EMI) is defined as the “degradation in the performance of equipment or transmission channel or a system caused by an electromagnetic disturbance” (IEV 161-01-06)
A common example of EMI is when a cell phone is placed near powered audio equipment or speakers, and it causes a noise or series of beeps to be heard. https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/electromagnetic-interference

“Design for Electromagnetic Compatibility–In a Nutshell”

Electromagnetic compatibility is a topic that is becoming more and more important in our modern and high-tech society. EMC no longer just helps to ensure that the television screen does not flicker when the vacuum cleaner is running.EMC is important because interference and disturbances of electrical equipment can seriously harm people, infrastructure, and the environment. For example, in 1992, a woman died because the heart machine of the ambulance shut down every time the technicians turned on their radio transmitter to ask for advice [12]. Another example is the explosion of the Texaco refinery in Milford Haven UK, on the 24th of July 1994, which was caused by an electrical storm giving rise to power surges which tripped out a number of pump motors while leaving others running. The explosion led to 26 people being injured and damage of £48 million [12].

Source: Design for Electromagnetic Compatibility–In a Nutshell (open access book). https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-14186-7 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-14186-7

(2014) EMI Problems between AM Transmitters and Cranes

Electromagnetic fields from two high-power AM transmitters close to a construction site induced dangerously high voltages in crane booms, damaging equipment and injuring workers. The source of the interference was quickly identified: two AM transmitters located approximately 230 meters from the construction site. The antennas operated at 100 kW and the maximum radiation direction from the antennas was directed towards the construction site.

Citation: M. B. Perotoni and R. M. Barreto, Resolving Safety-Critical EMI Problems between AM Transmitters and Cranes Using a 3D Field Solver, High Frequency Electronics, 2014.

EMC Standards

There are global EMC standards set by agencies such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Some countries have their own standards set by national agencies such as the VDE in Germany, BIS in India, the Canadian Standards Association in Canada, and the FCC in the USA.

The (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU limits electromagnetic emissions from equipment to ensure that, when used as intended, such equipment does not disturb radio and telecommunication, as well as other equipment. The directive also governs the immunity of such equipment to interference and seeks to ensure that this equipment is not disturbed by radio emissions, when used as intended.

The main objectives of the directives are to regulate the compatibility of equipment regarding EMC

• equipment (apparatus and fixed installations) needs to comply with EMC requirements when it is placed on the market and/or taken into service
• the application of good engineering practice is required for fixed installations, with the possibility that competent authorities of EU countries may impose measures in instances of non-compliance

https://resources.system-analysis.cadence.com/blog/msa2021-the-emc-standards-list-common-standards-and-their-significance

https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/electromagnetic-compatibility-emc-directive_en

The challenges of EMC in the all-electric society

Bettina Funk, Technical Expert at SEK Svensk Elstandard, the IEC Swedish National Committee, a member of the IEC Standardization Management Board (SMB) and the Chair of CISPR, the International Special Committee on Radio Interference) explains the considerable challenges ahead for electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.

Some of the current limits were agreed upon decades ago and some are no longer fit for purpose as we move towards an all-electric and especially an all-connected society.

She gives an example of the changing electromagnetic environment; we now have solar panels on roofs mushrooming everywhere, even off-grid, some of which include or are connected to inverters. Those need to be EM compatible with all the other electronic devices that are already on the same roof, sometimes less than a metre away. In the 1970s, we often needed to protect analogue terrestrial TV, while we now have a multitude of radio services on or underneath the roof that need to work without performance degradation.

https://etech.iec.ch/issue/2023-04/the-challenges-of-emc-in-the-all-electric-society

“EMC specifications taking into account 5G technologies” –  ITU: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) aspects in ICT environment

The electromagnetic environment is changing rapidly through the development and installation of new types of electric/electronic equipment and evolving the telecommunication infrastructure. Examples include deployment of products with higher clock frequencies, deployment of new radio systems and use of wireless power transmission (WPT) systems with high power radio frequency current which changes the electromagnetic environment. Focus will also be addressed to electromagnetic aspects for the green growth deployment of ICT.

The philosophy of EMC standard specified the protection of radio services used in close environments. Instead, in the future it needs to address the deployment of high density of radio devices in the same environment and this will increase the mutual-interference and intermodulation cases.

https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/studygroups/2017-2020/05/Pages/q4.aspx

An up-to-date status of work under this Question is contained in the ITU-T SG5 work programme

https://www.itu.int/ITU-T/workprog/wp_search.aspx?q=4/5

Utilization of 5G Technologies in IoT Applications: Current Limitations by Interference and Network Optimization Difficulties—A Review https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/8/3876

5G applications include autonomous vehicles, remote surgery, and virtual and augmented reality, and these require high bandwidth, low latency, and reliable connectivity. However, there are challenges associated with 5G networks, such as interference and network optimization difficulties. The coexistence of 5G networks and IoT applications is a concern, and optimization challenges in 5G networks need to be addressed to enable efficient and effective implementation. Interference in 5G networks can occur due to a variety of factors such as environmental conditions, radio frequency congestion, and the deployment of too many access points in a limited area.

Interference in 5G networks can have a significant impact on IoT devices that rely on a stable and reliable connection to operate effectively.

Another critical aspect of interference in 5G networks is the potential for security breaches. As the number of connected devices increases, the risk of cyber attacks also grows. Interference in 5G networks can make it easier for hackers to gain unauthorized access to IoT devices and the data they transmit. This can have serious consequences, particularly for devices that are used in critical infrastructure, such as healthcare systems, power grids, and transportation networks.

To mitigate the impact of interference in 5G networks on IoT devices, it is essential to ensure that the network is properly configured and managed. This includes deploying access points strategically to minimize congestion, using directional antennas to focus signals and reduce interference, and implementing security measures to prevent unauthorized access. In addition, new technologies such as edge computing and network slicing can help to reduce latency and improve the reliability of IoT device communication.

Figure 10. Challenges of 5G networks

Table 13. Interference characteristics in 5G networks and IoT services

Citation: Pons, M.; Valenzuela, E.; Rodríguez, B.; Nolazco-Flores, J.A.; Del-Valle-Soto, C. Utilization of 5G Technologies in IoT Applications: Current Limitations by Interference and Network Optimization Difficulties—A Review. Sensors 2023, 23, 3876. https://doi.org/10.3390/s23083876

Renewable Energy

Renewable Energy; Microgrids and EMI

A microgrid can be thought of as a small ‘subset’ of the electricity grid that provides energy generation and storage at a local level. They can incorporate renewable energy generation (for example, from solar panels or wind turbines) as well as battery energy storage and electric vehicles.

Microgrids are very complicated power systems and are often affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI) which is non-negligible in renewable energy integrated power systems. Radiofrequency emissions emanate from microgrids to the external environment and impact nearby communication devices and radio receivers. System components in microgrids can also be affected by EMI. The renewable energy power system is the source as well as the victim of EMI.

Microgrids and telecommunication systems

Electromagnetic interference and renewable energy microgrids have an unavoidable impact on telecommunication systems. The influence of radiofrequency emissions from microgrids can not be ignored when designing a telecommunication system in its vicinity and vice versa.

https://resources.pcb.cadence.com/blog/2022-electromagnetic-interference-and-renewable-energy-microgrids

Microgrids: A review, outstanding issues and future trends

https://vbn.aau.dk/en/publications/microgrids-a-review-outstanding-issues-and-future-trends

7.4. Regulatory challenges

Standards need to be reviewed: MG is a relatively new industry. Standards and protocols for micro source integration and participation in traditional and deregulated power markets, as well as recommendations for safety and protection, should be developed. To properly combine MGs with active distribution networks, standards such as G59/1 and IEEE 1547 should be reviewed and restructured. Also, research is needed to review IEEE 2030.7-2017– IEEE Standard for the Specification of Microgrid Controllers.

Administrative and legal barrier: In most countries, there is no standard legislation or regulation that regulates the operation of MGs. Some governments are promoting the development of green electricity MGs, although standard regulations have yet to be drafted for future implementation.

Citation: Uddin, M., Mo, H., Dong, D., Elsawah, S., Zhu, J., & Guerrero, J. M. (2023). Microgrids: A review, outstanding issues and future trends. Energy Strategy Reviews, 49, [101127]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esr.2023.101127

Karpowerships

Karpowerships are floating power plants that generate electricity. Compliance with EMC and EMI requirements is essential for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of Karpowerships, as any interference or malfunction can have serious consequences. Karpowership operators and manufacturers must work closely with regulatory authorities and follow best practices to address these challenges effectively.

FCC permits very low power device operations in 6 GHz band

The Federal Communications Commission recently opened the 6 GHz band to a new class of very low power devices that will operate alongside other WiFi-enabled devices. The new rules however are careful to limit these devices to very low power levels and subject them to other technical and operational requirements that will permit these devices to operate across the United States while protecting incumbent licensed services that operate in the 6 GHz band.The Commission also proposed expanding operation of these very low power unlicensed devices to the remainder of the 6 GHz band and permitting VLP devices more operational flexibility through higher power levels subject to a geofencing system that provides interference protection to licensed incumbent operations in the band. https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-397829A1.pdf

Energy meters

Beyond the Noise: Maintaining Accuracy with EMC in Energy Metering 

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is a critical aspect of designing and manufacturing energy meters. As these devices are responsible for accurately measuring and monitoring energy consumption, it is crucial that they function properly and do not interfere with other electronic devices. This article provides an overview of the EMC requirements outlined in IEC standard IEC62052 https://clouglobal.com/beyond-the-noise-maintaining-accuracy-with-emc-in-energy-metering/

Electromagnetic interference on static electricity meters running backwards

An interference case in a household situation resulting in a perceived power generation by a smart meter. This perceived power generation has occurred in a house in the Netherlands with no power generating equipment such as solar panels, wind mills or any other. https://www.utwente.nl/en/eemcs/pe/3.research/past/static_electricity-meters/

6G

Evolution of Wireless Communication to 6G: Potential Applications and Research Directions https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/10/6356

7.9. Electromagnetic Compatibility

We should note that 6G is anticipated to use frequencies higher than 100 GHz [82]; 6G foresees a large number of varied devices connected through the wireless medium. This huge number of diverse nature-interconnected devices will require higher data rates as stated above. This however would result in an “overburdened and overloaded electromagnetic (EM) spectrum”.

In 6G, the problem of capability of wireless communication network requires a solution and mechanism, which, at the same time, sense and communicate through EM spectrum. Heterogeneity of devices calls for EMI compatibility. The requirements of EMI compatibility in B5G are also being explored by the researchers. B5G radio requirements call for a dynamic solution for spectrum sensing for sending and receiving RF signals to THZ bands. A transformation mechanism is needed [16,83], whereby the diverse devices can interact and share spectrum EM “dynamic sensing” and “multiband communication” for collocated devices [83]. The higher “bandwidth”, “frequencies” and “co-location densities” have been considered challenging, which require devising mechanisms. The possible concerns as a result of EMC, with respect to the 6G KPI for collocated devices, may include (i) collocated devices having greater densities, demanding EM environments, (ii) the addition of more autonomous and flying objects may create unpredictability for collocated devices, (iii) radiated properties of new frequencies, (iv) VR glassed and body implants having sensors, and (v) integration of “3CLS” etc. [84]

Citation: Asghar, M.Z.; Memon, S.A.; Hämäläinen, J. Evolution of Wireless Communication to 6G: Potential Applications and Research Directions. Sustainability 2022, 14, 6356. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14106356

EMC challenges with 6G https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9901285

Abstract:

The development of mobile technologies is going on for 5G. At the same time, research has already started for the future 6G development. This research is in its initial stage and no agreements about key technical parameters and standards have yet been done. However, suggestions on general principals and goals have been published from different actors. It is therefore interesting to see how these visions will affect the area of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) in a larger sense. In this paper, some of the current thoughts about 6G will be summarized as well as an analysis about possible impact on the area of EMC. The challenges that emerge as a result of the mass increase of wirelessly consumer devices, dense co-located, working in new frequency bands and in scenarios characterized by being highly dynamic, flexible and non-predictable, will be complex and will require new EMC equipment, theoretical models and methodologies for EMC analysis and testing to be developed. In this paper, numerical results from some dense co-location scenarios are presented to show examples of interference challenges to be handled. The overall conclusion is that if present expected technical parameters for 6G will become true, this will lead to a need for a large development step within the EMC area.

Citation: K. Wiklundh and P. Stenumgaard, “EMC challenges with 6G,” 2022 International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility – EMC Europe, Gothenburg, Sweden, 2022, pp. 19-24, doi: 10.1109/EMCEurope51680.2022.9901285. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9901285

Medical devices – EMI

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can affect several types of medical devices that have electrical or electronic systems. Examples of devices that can be affected include:

• pacemakers or defibrillators – implanted or external
• implanted neurostimulators
• programmable hydrocephalus shunts
• cochlear implants
• ECG monitors
• infusion pumps

Manufacturers of medical devices are required to minimise the risk that their device can cause, or be affected by, EMI. Where the risk is not eliminated, the manufacturer must include information about the residual risk in the instructions for use. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electromagnetic-interference-sources/electromagnetic-interference-sources

Interference by Modern Smartphones and Accessories with Cardiac Pacemakers and Defibrillators https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11886-022-01653-0

Smartphones, smartwatches, wireless headphones, and accessories use is growing rapidly in the USA. Newer generation of these devices are incorporating increasing amounts of magnets for various purposes such as optimization of wireless inductive charging, attachment of accessories, and convenience functionalities. These magnets have the potential to cause CIEDs to revert into magnet mode, only if in close contact and properly aligned. Magnet reversion mode in pacemakers will lead to temporary asynchronous pacing and in ICDs will transiently disable tachytherapies. If smartphones and their accessories are maintained at 6 inches distance from the CIED then the risk of inadvertent induction of magnet mode in a CIED is extremely unlikely. Citation: Nadeem, F., Tran, C.T., Torbey, E. et al. Interference by Modern Smartphones and Accessories with Cardiac Pacemakers and Defibrillators. Curr Cardiol Rep24, 347–353 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-022-01653-0

The complexities and challenges of EMC and EMI in our modern and hyper connected world are ever increasing and standards will have to keep up. Compliance will have to be closely monitored by regulatory authorities in order to ensure public safety.

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A few spectators who had come by car, parked in the central car park of the racecourse. Upon leaving they were unable to use their remote control to unlock the doors. 

A transmitter, activated for the countdown to the start of the race, had remained on!

The 433.8 MHz frequency scrambled the remote opening controls of the cars, set to the same frequency.

Read more at: ANFR INVESTIGATIONS – FREE THE RACEGOERS!

https://www.anfr.fr/toutes-les-actualites/actualites/les-enquetes-de-lanfr-liberez-les-turfistes/

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8th December 2021

5G and landing aircraft in bad weather might not be a good mix

New 5G expansion is bad news for air travelers when bad weather hits

Airliners, private planes and helicopters may have to limit landings in low-visibility conditions and follow other restrictions under a government directive to ensure safe operations once a new band of 5G mobile-phone service starts in January. https://www.seattletimes.com/business/when-bad-weather-hits-a-new-5g-expansion-is-bad-news-for-air-travelers/

U.S. warns 5G wireless use could prompt flight diversions

WASHINGTON, Dec 7 (Reuters) – The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Tuesday warned that interference from planned use of 5G wireless spectrum posed an air safety risk and could result in flight diversions. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/us-warns-5g-wireless-use-could-prompt-flight-diversions-2021-12-07/

U.S. aviation industry pans AT&T, Verizon 5G precautions https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/u.s.-aviation-industry-pans-att-verizon-5g-precautions-0

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by Jason Rainbow — July 26, 2021

TAMPA, Fla. — British telecoms regulator Ofcom is proposing rule changes that would affect Starlink, OneWeb and other satellite constellations operating in non-geostationary orbits (NGSO).

It is increasingly difficult for companies to agree on how to operate their NGSO networks without causing harmful radio interference to each other, Ofcom warned in a July 26 consultation document it issues before creating new rules. 

NGSO operators are required to coordinate their networks under International Telecommunication Union (ITU) radio regulations; however, Ofcom pointed to how “in many cases” these arrangements have not yet concluded.

“This creates a risk that interference between NGSO networks could cause localised degradation to the quality and reliability of these services,” it stated.

SpaceX’s Starlink constellation is currently estimated to exceed 1,600 satellites in NGSO, U.K.-based OneWeb has 254 and Canada’s Kepler Communications is operating around 15. All aim to expand their network significantly.

Canada-based Telesat, Amazon’s Project Kuiper and other NGSO ventures are racing to join them with large constellations of their own in low Earth orbit.

Ofcom proposes new checks on interference risks when it considers NGSO license applications and more powerful tools to deal with them if they emerge.

It said it is also seeking greater visibility into license applications in a public comment period that ends Sept. 20.

Read more at: https://spacenews.com/u-k-to-strengthen-regulations-for-starlink-oneweb-and-other-ngso-constellations/

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JUL 20, 2021 – BY DAVID HOSANSKY

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States must protect radio frequencies that are essential for weather forecasts and understanding the climate system, NCAR Associate Director William Mahoney told the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology today.

Mahoney, a meteorologist and expert in forecasting systems needed to protect life and property, testified at a committee hearing, “Spectrum Needs for Observations in Earth and Space Sciences.” His remarks came as meteorologists and other atmospheric scientists have raised increasing concerns that transmissions of 5G networks will interfere with satellite observations, significantly degrading weather forecasts, impairing our ability to advance our knowledge of the Earth system and prepare for climate change.

“At a time of increasing weather hazard vulnerability, it is imperative that critical Earth observations be protected from interference,” Mahoney said in his prepared remarks. “The impact of lost Earth observing data could be catastrophic for the nation.”

Read more at: https://news.ucar.edu/132801/5g-wireless-networks-threaten-weather-forecasts-ncar-expert-tells-congress

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NBAA joined with 20 industry groups and aircraft and avionics manufacturers in alerting leaders of the Departments of Transportation and Commerce to “an imminent safety risk facing the U.S. aviation industry and the general public” from the deployment of new 5G cellular systems across the country, while also acknowledging the wider benefits of the advanced communications technology.

Despite appeals from a coalition of industry groups, in December 2020 the Federal Communications Commission auctioned flexible-use overlay licenses for spectrum in the 3.7–3.98 GHz band, also referred to as the C-band. These frequencies, utilized by 5G networks, are adjacent to those used by radar altimeters in commercial aircraft and helicopters, including many business aircraft.

“Radar altimeters are the only device aboard every aircraft that can directly measure the distance between the aircraft and the ground,” the stakeholders wrote in the July 14 letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. The letter continues: “Interference to radar altimeters from 5G signals “can cause lost, inaccurate, or erroneous data from a broad range of avionics, leading even the most well-trained of pilots to take incorrect actions based on hazardously misleading or missing information, which will put the NAS [National Airspace System] and the general public in danger.”

Read more at https://nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/communications-navigation-surveillance-cns/global-positioning-system-gps/gps-interference/nbaa-coalition-urge-action-to-reduce-5g-effects-on-radar-altimeters/

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Source BBC https://bbc.in/3A3sZJw

Apple has listed products it says should be kept a “safe distance” away from medical devices like pacemakers and implanted defibrillators.

The list includes iPhone 12 models, Apple Watch and MacBook Pro.

Many consumer-electronic devices contain components, such as magnets, which can interfere with medical devices.

The BBC has asked for comment from Apple, which has promoted heart health as a feature of its products.

Some Apple Watches can take an electrocardiogram test that records the timing and strength of the electrical signals that make the heart beat.

But the current notice warns of risks from components in some products.

Read more at https://bbc.in/3A3sZJw

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Source: https://www.reuters.com/technology/fcc-votes-approve-spacex-satellite-plan-official-2021-04-27/

Reuters, David Shepardson

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) said on Tuesday it had voted to approve a SpaceX plan to deploy Starlink satellites at a lower earth orbit as part of the company’s push to offer space-based broadband internet service.

The decision, which Reuters reported earlier on Tuesday, includes a number of conditions to ensure the safety of the plan.

The approval order addresses some concerns raised by Amazon.com’s (AMZN.O) Kuiper Systems satellite project. The FCC said SpaceX has agreed to accept interference from the Kuiper system “where operating SpaceX’s satellites at lower altitudes will potentially make SpaceX more susceptible to interference.”

Elon Musk’s SpaceX had asked the FCC for approval to fly 2,824 additional satellites at a lower orbit as part of its space-based broadband internet service plan.

Read more at https://www.reuters.com/technology/fcc-votes-approve-spacex-satellite-plan-official-2021-04-27/

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Abstract

The aim of this literature review is to encompass the importance of integrating smartphones in the life of a surgeon especially in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the progression of technology, telesurgery, remote pre and postoperative care, smartphone-assisted intraoperative navigation and transcontinental education can be made a reality. Nonetheless, rates of nosocomial infections have been raised and the increased use of a smartphone can compound this issue. Similarly, there is a greater potential for operator distraction, medical equipment interference and increased radiation exposure for the user. All the above create a new set of problems for the surgeon. We hereby attempt a review of the advantages and harmful effects from the usage of smartphones.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13126-020-0571-6

PDF https://www.emfsa.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/13126_2020_Article_571.pdf

Excerpts only, kindly see the full study

Concerns with use of smartphones

1. Health care associated infections

Multiple studies have been done to demonstrate the association between use of white coats and incidence of hospital acquired infections. However, smartphones and mobile phones are used extensively by health care professions and are arguably a more common source of infection as compared to white coats in the current era.

2. Distraction

Smartphones are a huge distraction, especially in the operating theatre, not only for the operating team but for the anaesthesia team and circulatory staff as well. Studies have shown that the self-reported use of mobile phones among health workers ranges from once every 15 minutes to once every 2 hours [21]. Nomophobia, refers to discomfort, anxiety, nervousness or anguish caused by being out of contact with a mobile phone or computer [22]. This has become a significant problem even amongst medical field personnel and significantly increasing the level of distraction.

3. Interference with medical equipment

At present, there are no fixed guidelines or regulations on the use of smartphones near medical equipment in operating theatres or in the wards. The safest option is Irnich and Tobisch “one meter rule” which entails restriction of the use of phones less than 1 meter from medical equipment [26]. Most interference is in relation to the disturbance of the cardiac monitor signals [27]. However, with technological advancement, studies haveshown that newer equipment has become less sensitive to interference from external sources [25].

4. Radiation exposure

Multiple studies have been done to ascertain the risk of radiation exposure associated with the use of mobile phones. One such study showed that the use of cell phones for more than 50 minutes a day could be associated with early dementia [28]. In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) determined that Radio Frequency Radiation (RFR) emitted by cell phones belongs to Group 2B (“possible”) human carcinogen [29]. Current knowledge shows that there is ample justification to warn the general public that having a cell phone in close proximity is harmful [30]. Thus, surgeons are no exception to the same recommendations and should try to minimize unnecessary use.

5. Effect on body

Users of smartphones commonly maintain their necks at approximately 45 degrees of flexion. This causes an alarming level of strain on the cervical spine. In the neutral position, the head weighs a relative 10-12 lbs as compared to 27lbs, 40lbs, 49lbs and 60 lbs at 15 degrees,30 degrees, 45 degrees and 60 degrees respectively [31].This causes serious musculoskeletal consequences. Longitudinal studies have also shown that there is a relation with time spent texting and persistent neck and upper back pain. Thus, physicians and the general public should be aware of the potential strain on the spine by the use of smartphones and take appropriate measures such as posture adjustment to avoid ‘text neck’ and other detrimental effects [32].

6. Loss of personal touch

In spite of all the advantages of using a smartphone, there is definitely a lack of personal touch when using a smartphone for communication, especially with regards to patient care. The general lack of eye contact and face to face communication all adds to the perception of detachment. One possible way to mitigate this is to use video calls more often and be more expressive while texting.

7. Compromise to patient’s privacy

One of the major concerns with the use of smartphones in relation to patient care is protection of the patient’s health information. Prior to giving permission of the use of smartphones for storage of personal healthcare information, security threats must be thoroughly assessed.

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