Are interactive whiteboards in classrooms an EMF problem?
Interactive whiteboards in classrooms can be a very valuable teaching and learning tool. From an EMF point of view, systems which are powered using wires are not a problem at all. There are other ways of powering the systems that we are not as happy with. • The teacher has a console on the desk, and there is a WiFi connection from the console to the whiteboard. Children have to use the teacher’s console to input information. The teacher will be subject to constant low levels of microwaves whilst the system is working. Children going up to use the console will be exposed during the time of use, but not otherwise. • Bluetooth systems work at very low power and extend to a range of about 30 foot maximum. This is a lot less powerful than the wireless LAN systems. Although this works at a lower power, we cannot recommend it, as some people, and it is impossible at the moment to predict who, can be affected by levels of microwave exposure as low as 0.05 volts per metre. The effects reported
