Why Do EMF Meters Measure ELF/VLF Differently?

In summary, the difference in measurement units for EMF is probably due to the different radiation risks posed by different frequencies.
  • #1
Curiousphy
41
4
Why do EMF meters measure ELF and VLF in flux density units but RF in power density units? Is it because ELF/VLF have low power density and high flux density, and RF has high power density and low flux density? They are all EM waves, right? what's driving the difference in measurement units? thanks
 
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  • #2
I don't know anything about EMF meters, but I'd hazard a guess at the reason for discriminating between EM waves at VLF (and below) versus those at substantially higher frequencies (you don't specify a region for these.)
My first thought was near field and far field, as you are always in the near field region at VLF and below. But at what most people call RF, say MF and above, you are still going to be within the near field for much of the time.
So, not knowing your context, I wonder whether it is to do with radiation resistance? In common situations any energised man-made conductor is going to be a very small fraction of a wavelength at VLF and below and have a tiny radiation resistance. So unless the currents are very large, there is very little radiation. On the other hand there can be a detectable magnetic field close to the conductor.
Why or how people measure RF power density, I don't know.
 
  • #3
Merlin3189 said:
So, not knowing your context, I wonder whether it is to do with radiation resistance?
Or perhaps to do with the fact that the impedance will not be free space. The units could perhaps be E field or H field, depending. If it's to do with the actual interference power onto a signal the significance would be a bit specific. Very different from free space interference into an antenna.
 
  • #4
Curiousphy said:
Why do EMF meters measure ELF and VLF in flux density units but RF in power density units? Is it because ELF/VLF have low power density and high flux density, and RF has high power density and low flux density? They are all EM waves, right? what's driving the difference in measurement units? thanks
The body is only about 2m long, so it is a very inefficient antenna for the long waves associated with ELF and VLF. Therefore it couples very little power out of a passing wave, and the heating effect is small. On the other hand, the body might be exposed to very large electric fields, for instance in the case of a rigger working on a transmitting antenna. Such fields can produce dielectric heating of the body. Very strong magnetic fields are also subject to recommended limits, as adverse effects are thought to occur.
The transmitting antennas for long waves require huge voltages and currents in order to radiate significant power, so the body is more at risk from these fields than from the radiation intensity. As a matter of interest, we have in the UK a national LF broadcast transmitter radiating 500 kW at 198kHz.
The international recommendations from ICNIRP are published at the following URL:
http://www.icnirp.org/cms/upload/publications/ICNIRPemfgdl.pdf
 
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Related to Why Do EMF Meters Measure ELF/VLF Differently?

1. Why do EMF meters measure Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) and Very Low Frequency (VLF) differently?

EMF meters measure ELF and VLF differently because they operate based on different principles. ELF refers to electromagnetic frequencies that range from 3 to 30 Hz, while VLF refers to frequencies between 3 kHz and 30 kHz. These frequencies have different wavelengths and properties, which require different detection methods.

2. How do EMF meters measure ELF and VLF frequencies?

EMF meters measure ELF and VLF frequencies by using different types of sensors. ELF frequencies are typically measured using a magnetic field sensor, as these frequencies produce a magnetic field that can be easily detected. VLF frequencies, on the other hand, are measured using an electric field sensor, as they produce an electric field that can be easily detected.

3. Can EMF meters measure both ELF and VLF frequencies at the same time?

Yes, some EMF meters are capable of measuring both ELF and VLF frequencies at the same time. These meters will typically have two sensors, one for measuring magnetic fields and another for measuring electric fields. However, it is important to note that these frequencies may still be measured differently due to their different properties.

4. Do ELF and VLF measurements on EMF meters differ in terms of health risks?

While both ELF and VLF frequencies have been linked to potential health risks, the level of risk may differ depending on the specific frequency. For example, ELF frequencies have been associated with increased risk of cancer, while VLF frequencies may impact the nervous system and cause other health effects. Therefore, it is important to consider the specific frequency being measured when assessing potential health risks.

5. Are there any limitations to using EMF meters for measuring ELF and VLF frequencies?

Yes, there are some limitations to using EMF meters for measuring ELF and VLF frequencies. These meters may not be able to accurately measure frequencies outside of their designated range, and they may also be affected by external interference or electronic devices nearby. Additionally, the placement and orientation of the meter can also impact the accuracy of the measurements.

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