Why We Care - EMR

Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR)

Cell phones are essential to us; not only for communications, but also for safety reasons. However, cell phones emit a powerful form of microwave energy called Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR). This energy radiates radio frequency (RF) waves which transmit data to, and receive it from, cell towers. Most consumers are unaware that between 48% and 68% of the EMR emitted by their phones is absorbed into their heads and bodies.

There are two forms EMR radiating from your phone; Near Field Intensity (NFI) and Far Field Intensity (FFI). NFI is defined as that energy which is less than one wavelength from the source to the user. NFI, which can be easily seen in the photo below on the left, is much more concentrated energy. Exposure to NFI by cell phone users is the major cause for concern among physicians, scientists, and lawmakers who believe this exposure to be a health hazard.

FFI is defined as radiation more than one wavelength away from the source. FFI is the energy required for communications with the cell tower. In open space, NFI would "propagate" or transmit forward as FFI. However, when the phone is placed next to the head, much of the NFI is absorbed by the caller and cannot propagate. The absorption of NFI into your head is not just a health issue; it also disrupts the FFI necessary to communicate with the cell tower.

 

As can be seen by the picture above, the most intense EMR (seen in the picture on the left as white/yellow) emanates from the phone's antenna, which is typically at or near the bottom of the phone, adjacent to the user's cheek and jaw. Pong redirects this Near Field Intensity (NFI) away from the user and allows it to propagate toward the cell tower.