Hoveround Spitfire EX 4-Wheel Travel Scooter Owners Manual - Page 6

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) This portion of the manual will provide the user with basic information about the problems with EMI (electromagnetic interference), protective measures can be used to either lessen the possibility of exposure or to minimize the degree of exposure; this section also shows some conditions that unexpected or erratic movements may cause. Caution It is very important that you read this information regarding the possible effects of electromagnetic interference on your electric ActiveCare mobility scooter. ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI) FROM RADIO WAVE SOURCES Mobility scooters may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the mobility scooter to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the mobility scooter's control system. The intensity of the interfering EM energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each mobility scooter can resist EMI up to a certain intensity level. The higher the immunity level the greater the protection. At this time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level, which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of radiated EMI. This mobility scooter model as shipped, with no further modification, has an immunity level of 20 V/m without any accessories. There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday environment. Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoidable. However, we believe that by following the warning listed below, your risk to EMI will be minimized. The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types: 1. Hand-held portable transceivers (transmitter-receivers with the antenna mounted directly on the transmitting unit). Examples include: citizens band (CB) or hand held radios, (security, fire, and police transceivers), cellular telephones and other personal communication devices. NOTE: Some cellular telephones transmit a signal while they are ON but not being used. 2. Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and taxis usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the scooter. 3. Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios. NOTE: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD player, and cassette players, and small appliances, such as electric shavers and hair dryers, are not likely to cause EMI problems to your mobility scooter. 5 Spitfire EX 1320/1420 Owner's Manual