Quick Dips

Cellphone Shield

Possible health hazards to cellphone users from their antenna's radio emissions are currently the subject of much argument. The antenna has to radiate enough radio energy to reach its base station, which connects its call to the network. When a cellphone is in use the antenna is often very close to the user's head, which absorbs some of the radiated energy.

This energy absorption could conceivably have biological effects on users and there is continuing debate and research into whether this could lead to cancer and other illnesses.

Regardless of the validity of such concerns, three scientists from Industrial Research have come up with a device that may ease users' worries.

The team has developed a compact shield which could be easily clipped onto a cellphone. Researcher Neil Scott says they found about 30-50% of the total radio energy the antenna emits is directed towards the head. The shield can deflect about 30% of that energy.

Another advantage of deflecting the radio energy is that rather than being soaked up by the head, it can be directed where intended and so improve the phone's reception.

Industrial Research is looking for a suitable manufacturer, but already has some idea on how the device might look.

"We have produced some models where the deflector is attached to the phone and can be swivelled up to block out radiation during a call, or pulled out like some antennas are. Some of these designs are quite simple and that's the nice thing. Plus, it works," Scott says.