Smart meter specifications and what to do about RF sickness
We recently had the "upgrade" at the cost of the people, included in everyone's bill to pay for smart meters. Thanks!!! I wanted a few more of my $$$ to advance this technology and not be able to opt out.
Anyway, the version we have is based on ZigBee, IEEE 802.15.4
More info here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.15.4
And here:
http://www.swema.org/meetings/documents/REVISED_OncorAdvancedMeterInfrastruct...
Claims of 900MHz mesh network. Meaning, many of these devices are active, but when and what times?
As of September 25, 2010, they have over 380 member companies and growing according to
http://www.zigbee.org/imwp/download.asp?ContentID=18882
It looks like the mesh network transmits to routers at strategic locations. Well, if you're next to a router, then the smart meter needs to communicate with many other meters in the mesh. That makes your home the most hit with ~900Mhz frequencies.
The point is more control and communication with your other devices at the cost of your freedom, but with the benefit of lower cost programs. For example, you use a lot of A/C to cool off your home. With smart meters talking with your A/C unit, they can shut it down for a while during peak hours - usually with your consent by signing up with cheaper rates for electricity.
The document claims the smart meter devices transmit every 15 minutes on power usage. Some ZigBee devices operate at 2.4GHz, in between Wi-Fi frequencies to prevent interference with networks with claims of up to 70 meters in range.
According to:
http://www.pge.com/myhome/edusafety/systemworks/rf/
Cell Phone s are much worse for health, but official sources are often biased to PUSH technology through and ignore some non-mainstream thinking.
But, these smart meters are being installed in many appliances for the home as well. As appliances get smarter, consumers will be able to control their appliances and electronics using ZigBee type technology. This begs the question of peeping technology into what is running in a home. As technology becomes aware of other technology, what's stopping it from phoning home? Or worse?
http://www.ccst.us/publications/2011/2011smartA.pdf
While it's good to know your power usage, these devices will frequently send out frequencies wirelessly.
If you're sensitive to constant frequencies, how about advice from here:
http://www.megadisc.com.au/index_files/rfsickness1.htm