3/30/2004
6
EMI Warning
Shoprider® scooters may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is a kind
of interfering electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV
stations, amateur radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radio, and cellular phones. The
interference (from radio wave sources) can cause the scooter to release its brakes, move by itself,
or move in unintended directions. It can also permanently damage the scooter’s control system.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:
1. Hand-held portable transceivers (transmitters-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 cellular telephones and similar devices transmit signals 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.
3. Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio
and TV broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios.
NOTE! Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers,
AM/FM radios, TV sets, CD players, and cassette players, and small appliances, such as
electric shavers and hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause problems to the
scooter.
Scooter Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting
antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio sources (transceivers) are of special
concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very close to the
scooter’s control system while using these devices. This can affect scooter movement and
braking. Therefore, the warnings listed below are recommended to prevent possible interference
with the control system of the scooter.
WARNINGS
1. Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters-receivers), such as citizens band (CB)
radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular phones, while the
scooter is turned ON.
2. Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid coming close
to them.
3. If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the scooter OFF as soon as it is safe.
4. Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the scooter may make it more
susceptible to EMI.
NOTE! There is no easy way to evaluate the overall immunity of the scooter.
5. Report all incidents of unintended movement or braking to your Shoprider® dealer, and note
whether there are sources of EMI nearby.
WARNING: Shoprider® Mobility Products is not responsibl
e for damage or injury incurred
due to improper and unsafe use of our scooter.
