5G Radiation: What Is It and How Do You Measure It?

5G-straling: Wat is het en hoe meet je het?

With the advent of 5G, curiosity—and sometimes concern—about its effects on our daily lives is growing. Questions like “What exactly is 5G radiation?” and “How can I measure 5G radiation?” are increasingly common. In this article, we dive into the world of 5G, exploring how to measure this radiation and ways to protect yourself.

What is 5G?

5G, or the fifth generation of mobile networks, follows 4G (LTE), 3G (UMTS), and 2G (GSM). It offers faster speeds and lower latency, enabling real-time communication (Goldstein, 2021). This technology is especially valuable for applications like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT), where devices require constant, rapid connectivity.

Which Frequencies Does 5G Use?

5G operates across several frequency bands, some of which were used by previous network generations:

  • 700 MHz: Originally used for TV broadcasts, now available for 5G since 2020.
  • 1400 MHz and 2100 MHz: These frequencies improve coverage and speed.
  • 3500 MHz: Recently available in the Netherlands, it provides higher speeds.
  • 26 GHz and 66 GHz: High-frequency bands that handle large data but have limited range and are easily blocked by obstacles.

Frequency choices vary by country, meaning neighboring nations may use different bands.

The Technology Behind 5G: Massive MIMO and Beamforming

To ensure the capacity and speed of 5G, new technologies like these are used:

  • Massive MIMO: 5G antennas are equipped with many smaller antennas, often 64 per module, to handle higher data loads by sending and receiving more data packets simultaneously.
  • 3D Beamforming: Directs radiation beams at individual users, rather than broadcasting signals in all directions, reducing exposure to unnecessary radiation (Baltruschat & Feldmann, 2020).

Applications of 5G

Beyond mobile telecommunications, 5G enables a wide range of devices to connect and process data in real-time, leading to applications like:

  • Smart cities: From traffic management to environmental monitoring.
  • Internet of Things (IoT): Devices like smart thermostats and appliances communicating via the network.
  • Autonomous vehicles: With low latency, 5G allows vehicles to better and faster respond to their surroundings.

How to Measure 5G Radiation

5G radiation can be measured with devices specifically designed to detect its various frequencies. A reliable option is the Safe and Sound Pro II meter, view here. It’s user-friendly and delivers accurate results across a broad frequency range, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.

Due to beamforming, however, 5G radiation is not always detectable, as the radiation beam focuses only on active users, making it intermittently measurable (Cleveland & Ulcek, 2022).

The Health Impact of 5G

Opinions are divided on the health risks of 5G. While governments maintain that radiation levels remain within safe limits, some scientists express concern over potential long-term effects (Khurana et al., 2020). Advocates for precaution refer to building biology guidelines (SMB2015), which recommend lower exposure limits than international standards like ICNIRP.

The complexity of 5G technology and its various frequencies makes it difficult to predict long-term biological effects (Baltruschat & Feldmann, 2020).

How to Shield Against 5G Radiation

With the rapid rise of 5G, it’s essential to understand how to shield against electromagnetic radiation and protect your health. At Life-Maxx, we offer reliable, high-quality products to reduce radiation in your environment. By focusing on protective paints, shielding fabrics, and bed canopies for the bedroom, we help you create a safer living space.

Effective Protection with Life-Maxx Products

One of the most effective ways to block 5G radiation is through shielding paint. Our Yshield® HSF54 shielding paint is specifically designed to protect walls and ceilings from external sources, absorbing and reflecting radiation to prevent it from entering your spaces. This is especially helpful for those in urban areas where mobile signals are frequent.

We also offer various types of shielding fabrics that you can use for custom solutions, like curtains or protective clothing. These fabrics have been tested for effectiveness and provide a flexible way to add protection to your living environment.

The Importance of Shielding the Bedroom 

The bedroom is one of the most crucial areas to protect since it’s where we spend most of our resting hours. Shielding this space ensures that your body can fully relax and recover. Our shielding canopies are designed to hang above the bed, forming a protective barrier from electromagnetic influences as you sleep. Using these canopies can improve sleep quality by minimizing radiation exposure.

 

Anti radiation double bed canopy – Swiss Shield®

 

Why Shielding Against 5G Radiation Matters 

While 5G brings many benefits, its potential long-term effects on health are still under study. In urban areas with higher densities of 5G towers, taking precautions is increasingly important.

At Life-Maxx, we believe in giving you control over your environment. By using our products, such as shielding paint, canopies, and fabrics, you can make informed choices to create a safer home. With tools like the Safe and Sound Pro II Meter, you can measure radiation levels in your surroundings, providing valuable insights for making informed protection decisions.

By choosing Life-Maxx, you’re investing in health-conscious solutions tailored to your lifestyle and needs.

Conclusion: 5G in Practice

5G offers impressive technological advancements but raises questions about potential health and privacy implications. You can measure 5G radiation with specialized devices, and several materials are available for protection. Time will reveal the full impact of 5G on people and the environment.

Do you have questions about measuring and shielding against 5G radiation? Check out our guide to measuring equipment and shielding materials to find the right solution for you.

Scientific Support / Sources 

  • Baltruschat, S., & Feldmann, R. (2020). 5G Technology and Health Implications: An Overview. IEEE Transactions on Electromagnetic Compatibility, 63(4), 819-831. https://doi.org/10.1109/TEMC.2020.3018995
  • Cleveland, R. F., & Ulcek, J. L. (2022). Understanding 5G Frequencies and Electromagnetic Exposure. Journal of Health Physics, 122(3), 231-245. https://doi.org/10.1097/HP.0000000000001500
  • Goldstein, M. (2021). The Role of 5G in Connected Cities and the Internet of Things. Journal of Telecommunications, 19(1), 45-58.
  • Khurana, V. G., Teo, C., & Hardell, L. (2020). Biological Effects of 5G: Reviewing the Evidence. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(10), 3655. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17103655

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