Impact of CDMA wireless phone power output and puncture rate on hearing aid interference levels.
Fry TL, Schlegel RE, Grant H · 2000
View Original AbstractCell phone electromagnetic emissions create measurable interference with hearing aids, causing audible buzz and static that worsens as phone power increases.
Plain English Summary
Researchers tested how wireless phone power levels affect interference with hearing aids, finding that stronger phone signals create more audible buzz and static for hearing aid users. The study showed that reducing phone power significantly improves the listening experience for people with hearing aids that have poor electromagnetic shielding, while high-quality hearing aids remain relatively unaffected even at maximum phone power. This research demonstrates that the electromagnetic emissions from cell phones can directly interfere with medical devices people depend on daily.
Why This Matters
This study reveals a often-overlooked consequence of our wireless world: the electromagnetic interference that affects millions of Americans who rely on hearing aids. While the wireless industry typically tests devices at maximum power levels, this research shows that real-world interference occurs across a range of power outputs, creating daily challenges for hearing aid users trying to communicate clearly. What makes this particularly significant is that it demonstrates measurable, immediate effects from radiofrequency emissions on essential medical equipment. The finding that hearing aids with poor electromagnetic immunity experience substantial interference highlights how device design and shielding quality directly impact user experience. This research underscores why we need stronger electromagnetic compatibility standards for medical devices, especially as wireless technology becomes increasingly prevalent in our environment.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Study Details
The aim of this study is to investigate Impact of CDMA wireless phone power output and puncture rate on hearing aid interference levels.
Using a frequency analyzer, and several hearings aids and code division multiple access (CDMA) phone...
As phone power is increased, the interference signal becomes distinguishable from the ambient noise ...
Show BibTeX
@article{tl_2000_impact_of_cdma_wireless_2089,
author = {Fry TL and Schlegel RE and Grant H},
title = {Impact of CDMA wireless phone power output and puncture rate on hearing aid interference levels.},
year = {2000},
url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10690434/},
}