2.4 GHz RF WLAN EMI in Medical Devices

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Abstract
The increased use of the 2.4 GHz Industry, Science and Medicine (ISM) band for RF wireless local area network (RF WLAN) spread spectrum communication introduces RF linked portable 500 mW computers and other devices into the clinical environment. Peak electric field strengths can exceed 3 V/m resulting in the possibility of electromagnetic interference (EMI) effects with biomedical devices. Forty-four medical related electronic devices were exposed to 2.4000 GHz to 2.4835 GHz frequency hopped electromagnetic radiation with peak E field strengths exceeding 15 V/m in accordance with a modified ANSI C63.18 ad hoc test protocol and also in an in-situ clinical environment test simulating actual use. Degradation in functionality was observed for one device while exposed to measured peak electric fields of approximately 4 V/m and greater. Two other devices exhibited intermittent malfunctions in ad hoc tests with peak fields greater than 13 V/m but did not malfunction in in-situ tests. No malfunctions or deterioration in functionality of any exposed device was observed during a six-month period of follow-up function testing. It is suggested that implementation planning include consideration of “field leveling,” that post installation acceptance tests include EMI testing, and that general and area specific minimum separation requirements be implemented if needed. Further study regarding EMI's relationship to device state and pulsed emission timing is needed.

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