How to Test Laptop, Tablet EMF Radiation

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

Laptop computers, tablet computers and other electronic devices that rest on our laps don’t just emit heat, Another harmful energy these electronics send out is Electromagnetic Field (EMF) radiation, also called Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR).

Heat radiation can be easily tested by measuring the heat emanating from the bottom of the electronic device using a thermometer.

On the other hand, Electromagnetic Field (EMF) radiation is a bit more difficult to measure. EMF radiation comes in two forms: Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) radiation and Radio Frequency (RF) radiation.

Both are differing emissions, requiring two different testing devices.

Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Radiation

Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) radiation is a byproduct of electronic devices that use electricity to operate.

When microprocessors, hard drives and other electronic device components operate, they emit radiating fields, just like those generated by overhead power lines or for that matter, identical to fields emitted from our TVs.

At a distance these fields are relatively less harmful.However, when these fields are at a zero distance from our bodies, they tend to be more dangerous to our health.

The way you can determine the strength of the field is by measuring the gauss. The gauss, abbreviated as G, is the unit of measurement of a magnetic field also known as the “magnetic flux density” or the “magnetic induction.”

Recommended ELF Measurement Tool

Extech 480826 Triple Axis EMF Tester

Radio Frequency (RF) Radiation

What is Radio Frequency (RF) radiation?

For laptop computers, cell phones, tablets or iPads, and other electronic devices, it is the transmitting radiation generated by the device communicating to the Internet via a WiFi, Bluetooth, and/or a cellular connection.

Transmitters emit Radio Frequency (RF) signals to your WiFi home base or a cellular tower. These transmissions are measured in volts/meter, abbreviated a V/m. A volt/meter is the measured unit of the signal strength, electric potential or electromotive force. Experts recommend that higher frequency, Radio Frequency (RF) radiation exposure should be limited to below .6 V/m.

Recommended RF Measurement Tool