Electromagnetic Interference - Mercury Owner's Manual

This section of the manual will provide the user with basic information that describes the problems with
EMI, known sources of EMI, protective measures either to lessen the possibility or exposure or to minimize
the degree of exposure, and suggested action should unexpected or erratic movement occur.
Attention: It is very important that you read this information regarding the possible effects of
electromagnetic interference on your Prism scooter.
2.4.1 ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI) FROM RADIO
WAVE SOURCES
Powered scooters may be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is interfering
electromagnetic energy (EM) emitted from sources such as radio stations, TV stations, amateur radio
(HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and mobile phones. The interference (from radio wave sources) can
cause the powered scooter to release its brakes, move by itself, or move in unintended directions. It can also
permanently damage the powered scooter's control system. The intensity of the interfering EM energy can
be measured in volts per metre (V/m). Each powered scooter can resist EMI up to a certain intensity. This
is called its "immunity level". The higher the immunity level, the greater the protection. At this time,
current technology is capable of achieving at least a 20 V/m immunity level, which would provide useful
protection from the more common sources of radiated EMI. This powered scooter model as shipped, with
no further modification, has an immunity level of 20 V/m without any accessories.
There are a number of sources of relatively intense electromagnetic fields in the everyday environment.
Some of these sources are obvious and easy to avoid. Others are not apparent and exposure is unavoidable.
However, we believe that by following the warning listed below, your risk to EMI will be minimized.
The sources of radiated EMI can be broadly classified into three types:
1. Hand-held portable transceivers (transmitter-receivers with the antenna mounted directly on the
transmitting unit). Examples include: citizens band (CB) radios, "walkie talkies", security, fire, and
police transceivers, mobile telephones and other personal communication devices.
Attention:
Some mobile telephones and similar devices transmit signals while they are ON, even when not being
used.
2. Medium-range mobile transceivers, such as those used in police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and
taxis. These usually have the antenna mounted on the outside of the vehicle
3. Long-range transmitters and transceivers, such as commercial broadcast transmitters (radio and TV
broadcast antenna towers) and amateur (HAM) radios.
Attention: Other types of hand-held devices, such as cordless phones, laptop computers, AM/FM
radios, TV sets, CD player, and cassette players, and small appliances, such as electric shavers and
hair dryers, so far as we know, are not likely to cause EMI problems to your scooter.
Mercury Prism Electric Scooter Page 6 of 28 Owner's Handbook (Part Code: Z40949)