Rascal LiteWay 214 & 224 Owner’s Manual
EMC Part: 43132600 ~ Rev.02 ~ 08/24/10
4
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Regarding Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
This vehicle has an immunity level of 20 V/m which should protect it from Electromagnetic
Interference (EMI) from Radio Wave Sources. The rapid development of electronics, especially in
the area of communications, has saturated our environment with electromagnetic (radio) waves
that are emitted by television, radio and communication signals. These EM waves are invisible
and their strength increases as one approaches the source. All electrical conductors act as
antennas to the EM signals and, to varying degrees, all power wheelchairs and scooters are
susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI). This interference could result in abnormal,
unintentional movement and/or erratic control of the vehicle. This following statement shall be
incorporated to the user's manual for all electric vehicles:
Powered wheelchairs and electric scooters may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference
(EMI), which is interfering electromagnetic energy emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV
stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios and cellular phones. The interference
(from radio wave sources) can cause the vehicle to release its brakes, move by itself or move in
unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the vehicle’s control system. The intensity
of the EM energy can be measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each vehicle can resist EMI up to a
certain intensity level. This is called the "immunity level." The higher the immunity level, the
greater the protection. At this time, current technology is capable of providing at least 20 V/m of
immunity level which would provide useful protection against common sources of radiated EMI.
Following the warnings listed below should reduce the chance of unintended brake release or
vehicle movement that could result in serious injury:
1. Do not turn on hand-held personal communication devices such as citizens band (CB)
radios and 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 vehicle off as soon as it is safe.
4. Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the vehicle, may make it
more susceptible to interference from radio wave sources. (NOTE: There is no easy way
to evaluate their effect on overall immunity of the vehicle.)
5. Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the vehicle
manufacturer, and note whether there is a radio wave source nearby.
TURN OFF YOUR VEHICLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE WHEN EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
1. Unintended motions or movement!
2. Unintended or uncontrollable direction!
3. Unexpected
brake
release!
The FDA requires the manufacturers of power wheelchairs and electric scooters to test their
products to be sure they provide a reasonable degree of immunity against exposure to
unexpected radio waves (EMI). Vehicles are required to have an immunity level of at least 20
V/m, which provides a reasonable degree of protection against common sources of EMI. This
vehicle has been tested to meet or exceed the requirements for power wheelchairs or scooters.
