5G network is a response to people’s demand for high-speed internet with a low latency rate. The 5G technology would be able to support emerging technologies like augmented reality and self-driving cars. But to make this possible, 5G uses a different infrastructure than the previous 4G cellular network. So, what kind of waves does 5G use?
Another question we need to ask should be, ‘is 5G safe?’ That’s a fair question to ask given that the cellular network uses radio frequencies. The radio waves are a form of EMF radiation that is potentially a risk to our health.
5G network radiation risks
To accomplish high-speed goals, this new network will use the millimeter wave band in the radio wave spectrum. Also called the EHF (Extremely High Frequency) band, these would effectively provide higher bandwidths but at the cost of your health. Millimeter waves have a shorter wavelength, therefore a shorter range.
In order to extend the 5G network in a region, more cellular towers would be needed. This would transmit high-frequency radio waves to every nook and corner. More people would be exposed to high levels of EMF radiation.
Also Read: What material can block EMF?
Why does the 5G network need millimeter waves?
Since many previous generations, wireless technology has relied on the same band of radio waves. This overcrowding of the network, due to an increase in the number of users, has caused congestion in cellular traffic.
Millimeter waves, on the other hand, use frequencies from 30 to 300 GHz. These are 10 to 100 times higher than the frequencies used earlier, which solves the problem of a congested network. This also means that internet data can be transmitted at a much higher rate. Obviously, there is a downside to it.
Prolonged exposure to this RF radiation could have serious health problems for people. Those with electromagnetic hypersensitivity would be worse affected by these EHF radio waves.
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Effects of 5G on the human body
Technological advancement must not cost us our health right? The EM waves that 5G use can lead from health problems ranging from brain tumors to chronic headaches. Of course, the extent of health issues would be realized after some years of exposure after the 5G roll out.
Most of the devices we use today rely on radio waves for communication. We may experience the harms of EMF radiation if we continue to use EMF emitting technology for long periods at a close distance to our body. Unfortunately, the cell phone is one of the gadgets we spend the most time with and use it close to our head and chest region.
RF radiation is non-ionizing. The symptoms won’t appear in a few months or a year. However, prolonged exposure to this radiation can be hazardous for our health.
Also Read: Where is 5G Banned?
Conclusion
5G uses high-frequency radio waves with a low wavelength. This means that they can cause more damage to health relative to 3G or 4G cellular networks. They would also require more cell towers to provide connectivity in every area. The answer to ‘what kinds of waves does 5G use’ makes us aware of the EMF risks associated with 5G.
It becomes critical to shield ourselves from RF radiation emitted devices using the 5G network. It is recommended to avoid overuse of such devices. Another way to block EMF radiation is to use EMF shields such as faraday cage.
