Can mobile phones destroy sensitive electronics?

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#46

From: Adam
Date: Fri, 18 May 2001 08:14

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Most of us have seen the warning signs at petrol stations telling us
to switch off our mobile phones. Obviously, some people believe that
the transmission from a mobile phone is powerful enough to induce a
spark in a nearby object.

What about sensitive electronic componentry thats particularly
susceptible to electrostatic discharge? If a mobile phone is operated
near such equipment/components, is there a risk of damage? Can the
signal couple with a loop on a PCB and induce a voltage capable of
destroying a sensitive device? eg. If you're modifiying your computer
& receive a call on your mobile, is it actually possible to screw up
your motherboard if you get too close to it?

I've spoken to an Electrical Engineer about this, and we were unable
to discount the possibility. If anyone knows more, please contribute.

Thanks,
Adam Gerlach.

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From: hideo@tne.net.au (Adam)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics.misc,sci.electronics.components,sci.electronics.basics,aus.computers,aus.electronics
Subject: Can mobile phones destroy sensitive electronics?
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