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Electromagnetic compatibility and communications and office equipment

Patient Services Electromagnetic Compatibility Guide

For Implantation Cardiac Devices

Communications and Office Equipment

Guidelines for safe operation of communications and office equipment include such factors as transmitting power, frequency, and antenna type. For items that transmit wireless signals through an antenna, it is recommended that you follow the noted distances between the antenna and your implanted heart device.

 No Known Risk

If the item is used as intended and in good working condition, there is no known risk:

  • Activity Bands (FitBit, Body Bug, Nike+, Jawbone)
  • Calculator
  • Copy Machine
  • Desktop/Laptop Computer
  • Digital Music player (iPod®) – non-transmitting
  • Fax Machine
  • Global Positioning System (GPS)
  • Infrared Scanner
  • LifeAlert Pendant
  • Pager – receiver only
  • Printer
  • Radio AM/FM
  • Scanner

 Minimal Risk

Maintain at least a 6-inch (15 cm) distance between the item and your heart device:

  • Amateur Radio, Ham Radio, Marine Radio, Walkie Talkie – 3 watts or less – from antenna
  • Cellular Phone – 3 watts or less – from antenna
  • Cordless Headphone Sending Unit (i.e., TV Ears®)
  • Digital Music Player (iPod) – transmitting
  • Disney Magic Bands (6" from band reader, band itself has no known risk)
  • Electronic Reader/Reading Devices
  • Electronic Tablets (i.e., Kindle, iPad, Surface)
  • Home Wireless Electronics – from antenna
  • OnStar™ Technology – from antenna
  • Remote Keyless Entry - Key Fob (such as Smart Key)
  • Remote Car Starter
  • Smart Meter (utility companies)
  • Security Badge Wall Scanner
  • Wireless Communication devices (computers, headsets, modems, routers, smartphones, Bluetooth®)
  • Wireless Controllers (Video Game Consoles, Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo)

 Special Considerations

Maintain at least the recommended distance between the item and your heart device:

12-Inch Distance (30 cm)

  • Amateur Radio, Ham Radio, Marine Radio, Walkie Talkie – between 3-15 watts – from antenna
  • Citizens Band (CB) Radio – 5 watts or less – from antenna
  • Uninterrupted Power Source (UPS)

2-Foot Distance (.6 m)

  • Amateur Radio, Ham Radio, Marine Radio, Walkie Talkie – between 15-30 watts – from antenna