Do you know the radiation safety distance of industrial routers?

The electromagnetic radiation of industrial routers mainly comes from the transmission of their wireless signals. When the router is working, it emits electromagnetic waves outward through the antenna to achieve communication between wireless devices. The frequencies of these electromagnetic waves are usually in frequency bands such as 2.4GHz or 5.8GHz. They belong to non-ionizing radiation and have relatively low energy. Unlike ionizing radiation such as X-rays, they do not damage the DNA structure of the human body.

(I) Transmission power
The transmission power is the key factor determining the radiation intensity. Generally speaking, the greater the transmission power, the wider the transmission range of the router, but at the same time, the stronger the electromagnetic radiation it generates. However, excessive transmission power not only increases energy consumption but may also have potential impacts on human health. Therefore, all countries have imposed strict regulations on the transmission power of wireless devices. For instance, in China, the transmission power of wireless routers generally needs to be controlled within 100mW (20dBm).
(II) Antenna gain
Antenna gain affects the propagation direction and coverage range of electromagnetic waves. High-gain antennas can more intensively emit electromagnetic waves in a specific direction, thereby reducing radiation in other directions to a certain extent. This is conducive to optimizing the coverage effect of wireless signals and is also beneficial for controlling the radiation safety distance.
(III) Usage Environment
The influence of the usage environment on the radiation safety distance cannot be ignored either. In an open environment, the attenuation of electromagnetic wave propagation is relatively small, and the radiation safety distance is relatively long. In an environment with obstructions or electromagnetic interference, electromagnetic waves will rapidly attenuate, and the radiation safety distance will be correspondingly shortened. For instance, when a router is placed in a metal cabinet or close to large mechanical equipment, its radiation range and intensity will be greatly affected.

(I) Refer to national standards
The state has clear regulations on the electromagnetic radiation limits of wireless devices, and these standards are important bases for determining the radiation safety distance. As long as industrial routers comply with national standards, their radiation levels under normal usage conditions are safe. For instance, according to national standards, when a wireless router is at a certain distance from the human body (such as more than 1 meter), its electromagnetic radiation power density value is usually far below the limit.
(II) Actual Testing and Evaluation
In practical applications, the radiation intensity of industrial routers at different locations can also be measured and evaluated through professional electromagnetic radiation testing equipment. Based on the test results, determine the specific radiation safety distance. This method can more accurately reflect the radiation situation in the actual usage environment and provide a scientific basis for the reasonable layout of the equipment.

(I) Arrange the equipment reasonably
Place the industrial router far away from areas where people are active, such as installing it high on the wall or on the roof. This can not only expand the wireless coverage but also effectively reduce the radiation that people are exposed to. At the same time, avoid placing the router in places where people stay for a long time, such as bedrooms.
(II) Control the transmission power
Set the transmission power of the router reasonably according to actual needs and do not blindly pursue high power. On the premise of meeting communication requirements, appropriately reducing the transmission power can significantly reduce electromagnetic radiation.
(III) Use shielding materials

For some environments that are highly sensitive to radiation, it is advisable to consider wrapping or isolating routers with electromagnetic shielding materials to further reduce radiation leakage.

The radiation safety distance of an industrial router is not a fixed value but is influenced by a combination of multiple factors. By rationally selecting equipment parameters, optimizing the usage environment and taking effective protective measures, we can ensure the efficient operation of the industrial Internet of Things while guaranteeing the health and safety of personnel. It is hoped that this article can help you better understand and deal with the radiation problem of industrial routers, and make scientific and reasonable decisions in actual work.