Low frequency magnetic emissions and resulting induced voltages in a pacemaker by iPod portable music players
2008
Effects of iPods on Pacemakers
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Howard Bassen
Primary Institution: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Hypothesis
Can low frequency magnetic emissions from iPods interfere with pacemaker function?
Conclusion
The study found that iPods do not induce significant voltages in pacemakers, suggesting no interference effects.
Supporting Evidence
- Measurements showed emissions from iPods were below the noise level of the instruments used.
- Voltages induced in the pacemaker were less than 0.5 mV pp in the 0 – 1 kHz band.
- The study concluded that no interference effects can occur in pacemakers exposed to the tested iPods.
Takeaway
The study tested if iPods could mess up pacemakers, and it turns out they don't.
Methodology
In-vitro evaluations of magnetic field emissions from various iPod models and induced voltages in a pacemaker.
Limitations
The probe used for measurements may not accurately capture low frequency fields and the spatial averaging could affect results.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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