Effects of Low Intensity Microwaves on Performance,
Abstract
The purpose of the investigation was to determine the effects of low intensity microwave frequency electromagnetic signals on performance. Animal experiments were devised exposing Rhesus monkeys to microwave radiation for 10-95 minutes, while performing an operant conditioned task which is universally applied psychological technique to measure the performance in order to establish the effects of microwaves on activity level of the organism. The intensity levels of microwave exposure were 10mwatts/sq cmand 13mwatts/sq cm at 750 MHz, 3mwatts/sq cm and 8mwatts/sq cm at 1000 MHz frequencies. Exposure to microwaves was found to decrease the performance rate directly proportional to field intensity and exposure time. No difference was observed in the general detrimental effects of microwaves at the frequency of 750 MHz vs 1000 MHz, and under continuous vs pulsed (2-12 Hz) irradiation. Low intensity radiation (3 mw/sq cm) seemed to have a double effect on performance: stimulation during short exposure, inhibition during longer exposure. Further deterioration of performance can be expected in the execution of more complex psychological tasks than the one employed in the report, or under higher intensity levels. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0730105
Entities
People
- John P. Jankovich