SECTION 3—ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) INFORMATION
18
WARNING
Powered Wheelchair Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the
transmitting antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources
(transceivers) are of special concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high
levels of EM energy very close to the powered wheelchair's control system while
using these devices. This can affect powered wheelchair movement and braking.
Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible
interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations,
amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect
powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters. Also, the electronics used in our
powered wheelchair can generate a low level of electromagnetic interference,
which however will remain within the tolerances permitted by law.
FOLLOWING THE WARNINGS LISTED BELOW SHOULD REDUCE THE
CHANCE OF UNINTENDED BRAKE RELEASE OR POWERED WHEELCHAIR
MOVEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens
band (CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular
phones, while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;
2) Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid
coming close to them;
3) If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair
OFF as soon as it is safe;
4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered
wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (NOTE: There is no easy way
to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and
5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered
wheelchair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby.
Important Information
1) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level
against EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);
2) This device has been tested to a radiated immunity level of 20 volts per meter.
3) The immunity level of the product is unknown.
Modification of any kind to the electronics of this wheelchair as manufactured by
Invacare may adversely affect the EMI immunity levels.
CAUTION
Risk of Injury or Damage
EMC interference affecting other products may result in injury or damage.
To avoid impacting the operation and function of other products:
- Products not specified by Invacare that may be used on or near the wheelchair
may be impacted by emissions from this product if they have a sensitivity level that
is lower than the recognized standard and provided by this wheelchair. Refer to the
manufacturer specifications for any electronic device BEFORE use near this product
to determine its level of immunity and potential risk.
