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Development of Electric and Magnetic Near-Field Probes

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Frank M. Greene · 1975

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Accurate magnetic field measurement tools are essential for understanding EMF health risks in our daily environment.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

This 1975 National Bureau of Standards technical report by Frank Greene focused on developing specialized probes for measuring magnetic near-fields around electromagnetic sources. The research addressed fundamental measurement challenges in electromagnetics, creating tools to accurately assess magnetic field exposure levels close to EMF-emitting devices.

Why This Matters

This foundational work represents a crucial step in EMF measurement science that directly impacts our ability to assess health risks today. The development of magnetic near-field probes in 1975 laid the groundwork for modern EMF detection equipment used to measure exposure from cell phones, WiFi routers, and power lines. What this means for you is that accurate measurement tools developed through research like this enable us to quantify the magnetic field exposures we face daily. The reality is that without reliable measurement techniques, we cannot properly evaluate the health implications of living in our increasingly electromagnetic world. This technical advancement helped establish the scientific foundation for understanding how magnetic fields behave near their sources, which is essential for both safety standards and personal protection strategies.

Exposure Information

A logarithmic frequency spectrum from 10 Hz to 100 GHz showing where this study's 10 MHz to 1000 MHz exposure sits relative to common EMF sources.Where This Frequency Sits on the EMF SpectrumELFVLFLF / MFHF / VHFUHFSHFmm10 Hz100 GHzThis study: 10 MHz to 1000 MHzPower lines50/60 HzCell phones~1 GHzWiFi2.4 GHz5G mm28 GHzLogarithmic scale

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.

Study Details

To develop portable electric and magnetic near-field probes for measuring hazard-level electromagnetic fields and to analyze measurement errors for extending their use to higher frequencies

Development of short dipole antennas and small, single-turn, balanced, loop antennas for measuring e...

Dipoles can now be used for measurements at frequencies up to 750 MHz and loops to 75 MHz with an es...

The developed probes can be used for measurements at frequencies up to 750 MHz for dipoles and 75 MHz for loops with an estimated uncertainty of 0.5 dB. Applying recommended corrections will provide a substantial further increase in the usable frequency range.

Cite This Study
Frank M. Greene (1975). Development of Electric and Magnetic Near-Field Probes.
Show BibTeX
@article{development_of_electric_and_magnetic_near_field_probes_g3861,
  author = {Frank M. Greene},
  title = {Development of Electric and Magnetic Near-Field Probes},
  year = {1975},
  
  
}
No DOI on file for this study.

Quick Questions About This Study

Magnetic near-field probes measure the strength and characteristics of magnetic fields very close to their sources, such as electrical devices, power lines, or wireless equipment. These specialized instruments help scientists understand field behavior near EMF-emitting sources.
In 1975, growing concerns about electromagnetic exposure from new technologies required accurate measurement tools. Better probes enabled researchers to properly assess magnetic field levels around electrical equipment and establish the foundation for modern EMF safety standards.
Near-field measurements capture electromagnetic behavior very close to the source, where fields are strongest and most complex. Far-field readings measure weaker, more uniform fields at greater distances where the electromagnetic energy has spread out.
The National Bureau of Standards (now NIST) developed specialized magnetic probes that improved measurement accuracy near electromagnetic sources. This 1975 research helped establish standardized methods for assessing magnetic field exposure levels around electrical equipment.
Yes, the fundamental principles developed in 1975 magnetic probe research still apply to measuring emissions from modern devices like cell phones, WiFi routers, and smart meters, though the instruments have become more sophisticated and sensitive.