Posted by Ken on January 24, 1999 at 18:45:27:
In Reply to: Could computers be the culprit? posted by Flo on January 24, 1999 at 13:12:42:
Hi Flo;
There are two types of electromagnetic waves eminating from a computer monitor that people have voiced concerns over.
The first was x-rays, which are produced when the energetic electrons strike the tube face, shadow mask, phosphors, etc. These are not good for you, but thankfully x-rays were eliminated as a cause for concern many years ago. The CRTs use highly leaded glass, which doesn't permit the x-rays to pass thru. Material selections have been refined, components redesigned and shielded as necessary to reduce x-rays to truly harmless levels. All designs also have to be certified for compliance by the FCC, and they do perform surprise spot-checks on shipments to this country. I had 200 Taiwanese monitors sit on a dock in LA once for a month, waiting for inspectors to check them out. BTW, there haven't been any TVs or monitors made in this country for many years.
The other type of radiation considered harmful (by a few) are the ULF (Ultra Low Frequency) electromagnetic waves. These would be represented by the 60Hz AC that powers your monitor, and the sweep circuits contained therein. This concern is only present at the "fringe science" level, more accurately termed "crackpots." No qualified researcher has ever, Ever, EVER supported this unqualified theory. People who believe ULF is harmful also believe in psychics and wear magnets on their bodies. Is that a clue? Hope this helps,
Ken