Drive Medical Design Odyssey Mobility Scooter - Manual (Page 8)

8
SAFETY NOTICE
EMI
This portion of the content will provide the user with basic information that describes the
problems with EMI, known sources of EMI, protective measures either to lessen the
possibility or exposure or to minimize the degree of exposure, and suggested action should
unexpected or erratic movement occur.
CAUTION:
It is very important that you read this information regarding the possible
effects of electromagnetic interference on your electric SCOOTER.
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI) FROM
RADIO WAVE SOURCES
Powered vehicle may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is
interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV
stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and mobile phones. The
interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the powered scooter to release its brakes,
move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the
powered scooter’s control system. The intensity of the interfering EM energy can be
measured in volts per meter (V/m). Each powered scooter can resist EMI up to a certain
intensity. This is called its “immunity level”. The higher the immunity level, the greater the
protection. At this time, current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m
immunity level, which would provide useful protection from the more common sources of
radiated EMI. This powered scooter model as shipped, with no further modification, has an
immunity level of 20 V/m without any accessories.
There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday
environment. Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent
and exposure is unavoidable. However, we believe that by following the warning listed
below, your risk to EMI will be minimized.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:
1. Hand-held portable transceivers (transmitter-receivers with the antenna mounted directly
on the transmitting unit. Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, “walkie talkie”,
security, fire, and police transceivers, cellular telephones and other personal communication
devices.
NOTE: Some mobile telephones and similar transmit signal while they are ON, even when
not being used.
2. Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks,
ambulances and taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the
vehicle.