How does a microwave leak detector work?
| Microwave leak detectors work by measuring the power of electromagnetic radiation, which is measured in mW/cm.2 (milliwatts per square centimeter). | |
| The accepted standard for maximum microwave oven radiation leakage is 5 mW/cm.2. Microwave leak detectors that do not give a numerical (analogue) reading will use this level to distinguish between safe and unsafe readings. |
 | The reading depends on the distance between the source and the device. This means that the microwave leak detector must be kept at a constant distance from the microwave source, usually 5 cm is recommended, but check individual manufacturers' specifications before use. In some microwave leak detectors, the sensor is positioned so that this is the correct reading distance when another part of the device comes into contact with the microwave. This reduces the risk of human error and should give a more reliable result. |
 | A microwave leak detector usually has a set frequency range, typically 3 MHz to 3 GHz, which includes microwave ovens, which typically operate at 2,450 MHz (2.45 GHz), as well as other radiating household items. |
 | Most microwave leak detectors are factory calibrated before purchase - they cannot be recalibrated by the user. Calibration means comparing the readings of the meter to an established standard to ensure the accuracy of the meter. Some microwave leak detectors can be reset before each use. Here, any background readings are removed before the instrument is placed near the microwave source. |
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