Measurements of Electromagnetic Fields in the Close Proximity of CB Antennas
Paul S. Ruggera · 1979
Government researchers were measuring RF exposure from personal communication devices decades before cell phones became widespread.
Plain English Summary
This 1979 government study measured electromagnetic field levels near CB (Citizens Band) radio antennas to understand radiation exposure in close proximity to these transmitters. The research focused on documenting actual field strengths that CB radio operators and nearby individuals might encounter during typical use.
Why This Matters
This early government research represents an important milestone in understanding RF exposure from personal communication devices. CB radios, popular in the 1970s, transmitted at power levels similar to today's cell phones but used different frequencies and antenna configurations. What makes this study significant is its focus on 'close proximity' measurements - the kind of exposure patterns we now recognize as critical for health assessment. The reality is that CB operators often positioned antennas on vehicles or homes, creating potential exposure scenarios that parallel today's concerns about cell towers and rooftop installations. While we lack the specific findings, government agencies were clearly recognizing the need to quantify RF exposure levels from consumer communication devices nearly half a century ago.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Show BibTeX
@article{measurements_of_electromagnetic_fields_in_the_close_proximity_of_cb_antennas_g4113,
author = {Paul S. Ruggera},
title = {Measurements of Electromagnetic Fields in the Close Proximity of CB Antennas},
year = {1979},
}