Gigahertz Solutions HF58B User manual

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 1
HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
High Frequency Analyser
27 MHz (HF59B) / 800 MHz to 2.7 GHz (up to
3.3 GHz with additional tolerance).
Instruction Manual
Revision 6.0 (08/14)
The devices of the professional HF5xx line are of identical
configuration. The HF58B-r comes with an additional switcha-
ble video bandwidth, and the HF59B has an extended fre-
quency range down to 27 MHz.
This manual is subject to continuous updates, amendments
and adjustments. The most current version can always be
found for download on your local distributor’s homepage or
under www.gigahertz-solutions.de
Please carefully review the manual before using the device. It
contains important advice for use, safety and maintenance of
the device. In addition it provides the background information
necessary to make reliable measurements.
© by GIGAHERTZ SOLUTIONS GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn,
Germany. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution
in part or total without the editor’s written permission.
Thank you!
We appreciate the confidence you have
shown in purchasing this HF Analyser. It will
allow a professional analysis of the exposure
with high frequency (HF) radiation corre-
sponding to the baubiology recommenda-
tions.
Further to this manual you are welcome to
have a look at the training videos on our
homepage (www.gigahertz-solutions.de) for
an optimal use of our measurement technol-
ogy.
If you should encounter any problems,
please contact us immediately. We are here
to help.
For your local distributor pls check:
www.gigahertz-solutions.com
Contents
Functions & Controls 2
Getting Started 3
Introduction to Properties and
Measurement of HF Radiation 4
Step-by-Step-Instruction
to HF-Measurement 7
Limiting values, recommendations
and precautions 11
Audio Frequency Analysis 12
Analysis of the modulated / pulsed signal 13
Use of Signal Outputs 13
Battery management 14
Remediation and Shielding 14
Warranty 14
Conversion tables 16
Safety Instructions:
The HF analyser should never come into contact with water or
be used outdoors during rain. Clean the case only from the
outside, using a slightly moist cloth. Do not use cleaners or
sprays.
Due to the high sensitivity level, the electronics of the HF
analyser are very sensitive to heat, impact as well as touch.
Therefore do not leave the instrument in the hot sun, on a
heating element or in any other damaging environment. Do not
let it drop or try to manipulate its electronics inside when the
case is open.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 2
The HF component of the testing instru-
ment is shielded against interference by
an internal metal box at the antenna input
(shielding factor approx. 35 – 40 dB)
Functions and Controls
1) Volume control for the audio analysis
(on/off switch . ).
2) Jack, 3.5 mm : AC output for the modu-
lated part of the signal, for audio analysis
via PC or headset (mono).
3) Only for HF59B: Normed AC output 1
Volt peak-peak, proportional to the field
strength.
4) Jack, 12-15 Volt DC for charging the bat-
tery. AC adapter for 230 Volt/50 Hz and
60 Hz is included. For other Voltag-
es/Frequencies please get an equivalent
local AC adaptor with the output parame-
ters 12 – 15 Volt DC / >100mA.
Caution: If an alkaline battery is used,
under no circumstances should the pow-
er adapter be connected at the same
time, otherwise the battery may explode.
5) Measurement ranges
max = 19.99 mW/m² (= 19,990 µW/m²)
med = 199.9 µW/m²
min = 19.99 µW/m²
Scaling differs when applying an amplifier or
damper!
6) Selector switch for signal evaluation.
Standard setting: “Peak hold”. In the
peak hold mode you can choose a time
setting for the droop rate (Standard =
“+”). The peak hold value can be manual-
ly reset by pressing (14) “clear”.
7) A little bar on the very left of the LCD in-
dicates the unit of the numerical reading:
bar on top = mW/m² (Milliwatts/m²)
bar on bottom = µW/m² (Microwatts/m²)
8) DC output, allows you to connect addi-
tional instruments, e.g. data logging de-
vices for longterm recordings. Scalable to
1 V DC full scale. (For HF59B: scalable to 2 V
DC, only for the use of an external display unit) .
9) Connecting socket for antenna cable. The
antenna is inserted into the cross slot at
the front tip of the instrument.
10) Power Level Adapter Switch for external
optional amplifier or attenuator only (not
part of the standard scope of supply) . For regu-
lar use of the instrument the switch
should be in pos. “0 dB“. (Any other position
will shift the decimal point to an incorrect position).
11) ON/OFF switch. Using the top switch-
position ..activates the audio analy-
sis mode.
12) Load indicator
13) Signal fraction: In the “Full“ mode, the
total signal strength is displayed. In the
“Pulse” mode, only the pulsed / ampli-
tude modulated part of the signal is dis-
played.
14) Push button to reset peak hold. (Push and
hold for 2 seconds or until the reading no longer
drops)
15) For HF58B-r and HF59B only: Switch for
choosing the Video Bandwidth. Stand-
ard setting: “VBW Standard”
Typical default settings of major functions are
highlighted in the above text.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 3
Long and short switches
Long switches: Standard functions.
Short switches: In order to avoid unintention-
al switching for rarely used functions, some
of the switches are recessed in the casing of
the instrument.
Contents of the package
Instrument
Attachable antenna incl. cable
NiMH rechargeable Batteries
(inside the meter )
Mains adapter
Comprehensive instruction manual
Check the HF analyser and its antenna by
following the instructions under
“Getting Started.“
Getting Started
Connecting the LogPer Antenna
Screw the angle connector of the antenna
connection into the uppermost right socket
of the HF analyser. It is sufficient to tighten
the connection with your fingers. (Do not use
a wrench or other tools because over tight-
ening may damage the threads.)
This SMA connector with its gold-plated con-
tacts is the highest quality commercial HF
connector in that size.
Carefully check the tight fit of the connection
at the antenna tip. This connection, at the tip
of the antenna, must not be opened.
At the tip of the antenna, there are two LEDs
for monitoring the proper function of all con-
nections of the antenna and the cable during
operation. The red LED checks the cable, the
green one the antenna itself.
Slide the antenna into the vertical / cross
shaped slot at the rounded top end of the HF
analyser. Make sure the antenna cable has
no tension and lies below the instrument. It
may help to loosen the SMA-connector tem-
porarily to let the cable fall into a “relaxed”
position.
Do not bend, break or stretch
the antenna cable!
There are small ferrite-rolls fitted on the con-
nectors of the antenna cable. They serve the
purpose of fine-tuning
1
. Do not remove them!
1
Should they loosen in the course of time, they can be
glued with any household glue
The connection of the UBB27-antenna (op-
tional for the HF59B, but included in the
HFE59B-kit) is described in its manual.
Checking Battery Status
If the “Low Batt“ indicator appears in the
center of the display, measurement values
are no longer reliable. In this case, the bat-
tery needs to be charged.
If there is no display at all upon switching the
analyser on, check the connections of the
rechargeable battery. If that does not help try
to insert a regular 9 Volt alkaline, (non-
rechargeable) battery. If a non-rechargeable
battery is used, do not connect the ana-
lyser to a charger / AC-adaptor !
Insert fully charged batteries only.
Note
Each time you make a new selection (e.g.
switch to another measurement range), the
display will systematically overreact for a
moment and show higher values which will,
however, droop down within a couple of se-
conds.
The instrument is now ready for use.
In the next chapter you will find the basics
for true, accurate HF-measurement.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 4
Introduction to Properties and
Measurements of HF Radiation
This instruction manual focuses on those
properties that are particularly relevant for
measurements in residential settings.
Across the specified frequency range (and
beyond), HF radiation causes the following
effects in materials exposed to it:
1. Partial Permeation
2. Partial Reflection
3. Partial Absorption.
The proportions of the various effects de-
pend, in particular, on the exposed material,
its thickness and the frequency of the HF
radiation. Wood, drywall, roofs and windows,
for example, are usually rather transparent
spots in a house.
Minimum Distance
In order to measure the quantity of HF radia-
tion in the common unit “power density“
(W/m²), a certain distance has to be kept
from the HF source. The distance depends
on the frequency – the higher the frequency
the lower the distance. The transition fre-
quency between so called far field and near
field conditions is not determined exactly, but
here are some typical distances:
27 MHz from approx. 27 meters
270 MHz from approx. 2.7 meters
2700 MHz from approx. 0.27 meters
That means the distances are inversely pro-
portional to the frequencies.
Polarization
When HF radiation is emitted, it is sent off
with a “polarization“. In short, the electro-
magnetic waves propagate either vertically or
horizontally. Cellular phone technology,
which is of greatest interest to us, is usually
vertically polarized. In urban areas, however,
it is sometimes already so highly deflected
that it runs almost horizontally or at a 45-
degree angle. Due to reflection effects and
the many ways in which a cellular handset
can be held, we also observe other polariza-
tion patterns. Therefore, it is always strongly
recommended to measure both polarization
planes, which is defined by the orientation of
the antenna.
Please note that the LogPer-antenna sup-
plied with this instrument is optimized for one
polarization only.
Fluctuations with Regards to Space and
Time
Amplification or cancellation effects can oc-
cur in certain spots, especially within houses.
This is due to reflection and is dependent on
the frequencies involved. Most transmitters
or cellular handsets emit different amounts of
energy during a given day or over longer pe-
riods of time, because reception conditions
and network usage change constantly.
All the above-mentioned factors affect the
measurement technology and especially the
measurement procedure. This is why in most
cases several measurement sessions are
necessary.
Measuring HF Radiation
When testing for HF exposure levels in an
apartment, home or property, it is always
recommended to record individual meas-
urements on a data sheet. Later this will al-
low you to get a better idea of the complete
situation.
It is important to repeat measurements sev-
eral times: First, choose different daytimes
and weekdays in order not to miss any of the
fluctuations, which sometimes can be quite
substantial. Second, once in a while, meas-
urements should also be repeated over long-
er periods of time, since a situation can liter-
ally change “overnight”. A transponder only
needs to be tilted down by a few degrees in
order to cause major changes in exposure
levels (e.g. during installation or repair of cel-
lular phone transmitters). Most of all it is the
enormous speed with which the cellular
phone network expands every day that caus-
es changes in exposure levels. In the future
we will also have to deal with third generation
networks (e.g. UMTS or LTE), which are ex-
pected to increase exposure levels consider-
ably since their system design requires much
more tightly woven “cells“ of base stations
compared to current GSM networks.
Even if you only intend to test indoors, it is
recommended first to take measurements in
each direction outside of the building. This
will give you an initial awareness of the “HF
tightness“ of the building and also potential
HF sources inside the building (e.g. 2.4 GHz
telephones, also from neighbours).
Furthermore, you should be aware that tak-
ing measurements indoors adds another di-
mension of testing uncertainties to the speci-

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 5
fied accuracy of the used HF analyser due to
the narrowness of indoor spaces. According
to the “theory”, quantitatively accurate HF
measurements are basically only reproduci-
ble under so-called “free field conditions”,
yet we have to measure HF inside buildings
because this is the place where we wish to
know exposure levels. In order to keep sys-
tem-immanent measurement uncertainties as
low as possible, it is imperative to carefully
follow the measurement instructions.
As mentioned earlier in the introduction, even
slight changes in the positioning of the HF
analyser can already lead to rather substan-
tial fluctuations in measurement values. (This
effect is even more prevalent here than in the
ELF range.) It is suggested that exposure
assessments are based on the maximum
value within a locally defined area even
though this particular value might not exactly
coincide with a particular point of interest in,
for example, the head area of the bed.
The above suggestion is based on the fact
that slightest changes within the environment
can cause rather major changes in the power
density of a locally defined area. The person
who performs the HF testing, for example,
affects the exact point of the maximum val-
ue. It is quite possible to have two different
readings within 24 hours at exactly the same
spot. The maximum value across a locally
defined area, however, usually only changes
if the HF sources are subject to change. This
is why the latter value is much more repre-
sentative for the assessment of HF exposure.
The descriptions in the following mainly refer
to immission measurements, i.e. to the defi-
nition of the total power flux density relevant
for limit value comparisons.
In addition, this device can also be used to
identify the source of radiation, and – most
important – to determine appropriate shield-
ing measures. The logper antenna which
comes with the meter is predestined for this
aim.
Preliminary Notes Concerning the An-
tenna
The supplied logarithmic-periodic antenna (or
aerial), has exceptional directionality. Thus
it becomes possible to reliably locate or “tar-
get” specific emission sources in order to
determine their contribution to the total HF
radiation level. To know exactly the direction
from where a given HF radiation source origi-
nates is a fundamental prerequisite for effec-
tive shielding. Our logarithmic periodic an-
tenna, the “LogPer antenna”, provides a dis-
tinct division of the horizontal and vertical
polarization plane. Also the frequency re-
sponse is exceptional. There is a patent
pending for its design.
The missing directionality of standard tele-
scope antennae is one of the reasons why
they are not suited for reliable HF measure-
ments in building biology EMR.
Important:
As the LogPer Antenna provided with this
instrument is shielded against ground influ-
ences one should “aim” about 10 degrees
below the emitting source one wants to
measure. This is to avoid distortions of the
reading.
The upper edge of the foremost resonator is
a good “aiming aid” for the required angle. It
does not matter if the angle gets a little too
wide.
The readings from the instrument’s display
always reflect the integral power density at
the measurement location coming from the
direction the antenna is pointing at (i.e.
based on the spatial integral of the “antenna
lobe”).
The LogPer aerial supplied with the meter
covers a frequency range of approx. 800
MHz to 2700 MHz (= 2.7 GHz), i.e. cellular
phone frequencies (e.g. GSM900, GSM1800,
TDMA, CDMA, AMPS, iDEN), 2.4-GHz
(DECT) cordless phones, frequencies of third
and fourth generation (3G/4G) technologies,
such as UMTS, LTE, WLAN and Bluetooth,
as well as other commercial frequency bands
and microwave ovens. All the frequencies in
between are also included. This is the fre-
quency range in which you would find most
of the pulse-modulated signals concerned
scientists are worried about.
In order to avoid measurement values to be
falsified by radiation sources from frequen-
cies below 800 MHz when measuring with
the LogPer antenna, the HF58B and the
HF58B-r are equipped with an additional
internal high pass filter at 800 MHz, causing
these lower frequencies to be suppressed.
As the HF59B picks up frequencies below
800 MHz, it has no integrated high pass filter.
However the filter is available for external
connection if needed, and is to be placed
between the antenna entry and the antenna
cable.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 6
In addition, the HF59B is able to capture nu-
merous sources of radiation in the lower HF
band which are not pulsed (i.e. amplitude
modulated). By their nature these non-pulsed
sources are not available for audio analysis.
That means you can get a significant reading
on the instrument without hearing any audio
signal, which makes the interpretation of the
readings more difficult. To avoid this source
of misinterpretation the instrument marks
those “inaudible” signals by a rattling tone,
the loudness of which is in proportion to its
share in the total signal. The frequency of this
marking is very low (16 Hertz). An example of
it can be found on our homepage. With the
switch to the right of the display in the
“Pulse” position, these sources of radiation
as well as the corresponding rattling “mark-
ing” are blanked out.
For a quantitative measurement of frequen-
cies below 800 MHz with the HF59B, Giga-
hertz Solutions provides the active, horizon-
tally isotropic ultra broadband antenna
UBB27_G3 responding to frequencies from
27 MHz right up to more than 3.3 GHz.
LogPer or Isotropic Aerial?
The selection depends on the objective of
the measurements and is clear in the follow-
ing cases:
•For frequencies below 800 MHz the UBB27
aerial is the only option, as for geometrical
reasons the LogPer antenna only starts at
800 MHz.
•For long term data logging in most cases
the isotropic observations make most
sense: Again UBB27.
•For a quick survey of the total immission
(that is: Total exposure to radiation) the
UBB also has clear advantages.
•However, when it comes to improve a giv-
en situation by shielding measures, then
the location of the emmission of the radia-
tion needs to be identified. To do that the
LogPer technique is definitely superior to
the isotropic measurement.
When it comes to quantifying the total emis-
sion in more detail, then one has to weigh the
pros and cons of the two approaches against
each other:
•Under typical measuring conditions, an
isotropic measurement has a broader error
band by its very nature, and the interpreta-
tion of the results is also more difficult. But
the measurement is faster and more en-
compassing.
•On the contrary the LogPer aerial offers a
higher precision and better localization for
the same kind of work, and the interpreta-
tion of the results is easier. But a compre-
hensive measurement is more time con-
suming and restricted to a smaller frequen-
cy band.
Up to now no reliable and affordable iso-
tropic aerials have been available. That is
why most of the current guides to measuring
techniques for biological evaluation of build-
ings consider LogPer aerials only. The
UBB27 now offers an alternative. It remains
to be seen how the community of experts will
respond in the next few years.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 7
Step-by-Step-Instruction to
HF-Measurement
Measurements for a Quick Overview
This is helpful to gain insight into the overall
situation. Since the actual number values are
of secondary interest in this phase, it is usu-
ally best to simply follow the audio signals
which are proportional to the field strength.
Procedure for the
Quick Overview Measurement:
The HF analyser and antenna are to be
checked following the instructions under
“Getting Started.“
First set the measurement range (“Range”)
switch to “max”. Only if the displayed meas-
urement values are persistently below ap-
prox. 0.10 mW/m², change to the measure-
ment range “med” (199.9µW/m²) or to “min”
(19.99 µW/m²).
Note: When switching from “max” to “med”,
the volume of the audio signals will increase
considerably; Between “med” and “min”,
there is no difference in loudness.
Set the “Signal” switch to “Peak”
HF radiation exposure can differ at each
point and from all directions. Even though the
HF field strength of a given space changes
far more rapidly than in the lower frequen-
cies, it is neither feasible nor necessary to
measure all directions at any given point.
Since there is no need to look at the display
during an overview measurement, you only
need to listen to the audio signal. It is very
easy to walk slowly through in-door or out-
door spaces in question. In doing so, con-
stantly move the antenna or the HF analyser
with attached antenna in each direction. This
will provide you with a quick overview of the
situation. In in-door spaces, antenna move-
ments towards the ceiling or the floor will
reveal astonishing results.
Quantitative Measurement:
Settings
Once the relevant measurement points have
been identified following the instructions in
the previous section, the quantitative and
precise measurements can be started.
Setting: “Range”
Select the appropriate switch settings as
described under “Quick Overview Measure-
ments“. Start with the switch set to “max”,
and only switch to “med” or even “min” if the
display constantly shows very low values.
Basic rule for measurement range selection:
As coarse as necessary, as fine as possible.
Recommendations for the range “max”
2
:
Values < 0.15 mW/m²: Switch to “med”
Values > 0.15 mW/m² up to 1.5mW/m²:
-Ideally use HV10!
-Alternatively the larger value applies.
If you intend to do comparative measure-
ments (such as “before vs. after”), please
always measure in the same range.
Note: When switching from “min” to “med”,
there will be no difference in volume.
Power densities beyond the designed range
of the instrument (display shows “1” on its
left side with the range set to “max”) can still
be measured by inserting the attenuator
DG20_G3, available as an optional accesso-
ry. By setting the “ext. adapt.” switch to 20
dB
3
on your instrument, you will ensure a
correct display of the measurement value.
Also available is a HF preamplifier for a fac-
tors 10 (HV10) as a plug-in into the antenna
input socket.
A list of all possible ranges can be found at
the end of this brochure.
Setting: Signal - Peak / RMS
A pulsed signal consists of sections of its
time period with high output and another
sections with zero output. Their maximum
output is the wave peak. The following illus-
2
There is a factor of 100 between “med” and “max”
thus allowing to display as large power flux densities as
possible withouth having to apply an attenuator.
3
Please note that you will have a very high noise level
when doing recordings or using peak hold in this com-
bination

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
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tration shows the difference in the evaluation
of a pulsed signal if displayed as an average
value reading or a peak value reading (“RMS”
and “Peak”):
HF-energy in µW/qm
peak value: 10
avg. value: 1
e.g. 1 pulse every 10 µS
Note: The peak HF radiation value, not the
average value, is regarded as the measure-
ment of critical “biological effects“. The peak
value is displayed in the switch setting:
“Peak”. The average value is displayed in the
switch setting: “RMS”.
An experienced measuring technician will be
able to obtain additional information from the
comparison of average and peak values.
Basic Rule: The more the two measurement
values differ from one another (in 2.4-GHz
cordless phones the ratio can be as high as
1:100.), the higher is the potential of a contri-
bution from e.g. a 2.4-GHz cordless phone or
other pulsed signal source to the total maxi-
mum value.
Still today, some field meters only display
average values. They are of little help when
considering the potential health risks associ-
ated with pulse-modulated HF radiation since
through the “averaging” of steep HF pulses,
HF radiation exposure can be underrated up
to a factor of 100, such as modern cordless
phones (DECT).
Setting: Signal - Peak Hold
Many measuring technicians work with the
function “Signal” “Peak hold“. In “Peak hold”
mode the highest value of the signal within a
defined time span can be obtained
/“collected”.
In order to obtain accurate readings you
must use the small black button on the meter
face labeled "clear”. Failure to clear the LCD
display screen by pressing this button, for
two seconds, will result in inaccurate read-
ings. While this button is pushed and held,
the readings are regular "Peak" readings. If
any switch settings are changed while meas-
uring, and also in order to start any new
"Peak hold" measurement, you must always
first hold this "clear" button for 2 seconds,
then release it. This will ensure accurate
readings.
In everyday measurement practice this func-
tion has great value. The peak value is relat-
ed to the actual signal situation. This is im-
portant because the immission situation can
change rapidly with time, direction of the
radiation, polarization, and the points of
measurements. The “Peak hold” mode guar-
antees that you do not miss single peaks.
The tone signal works independently of data
collection in the peak hold mode. Its sound is
proportional to the actual value measured. It
helps to identify the location, direction, and
polarization of the maximum field strength.
You can chose the (inevitable) droop rate, at
which the held peak value decreases over
time. Set the switch below the signal evalua-
tion switch (recessed in the casing) to “+” or
“-”. In the slow mode it takes about 20
minutes to run out of tolerance, but in order
to get an accurate reading the display should
be checked frequently. If very short signal
peaks occur then the holding capacity of the
function needs some recurrences to load
fully.
Quantitative Measurement:
Determination of Total High Frequency
Pollution
As described in Getting Started, attach the
LogPer antenna to the HF analyser. Hold
the HF analyser with a slightly outstretched
arm because objects (mass) directly behind
it “like yourself”, have effects on the testing
result. Your hand should not get too close to
the antenna, but should be near the bottom
end of the instrument.
In the area of a local maximum, the posi-
tioning of the HF analyser should be changed
until the highest power density (the most im-
portant measurement value) can be located.
This can be achieved as follows:
-When scanning “all directions“ with the
LogPer to locate the direction from which
the major HF emission(s) originate, move
your wrist right and left. For emission
sources behind your back, you have to
turn around and place your body behind
the HF analyser. When scanning with the
isotropic UBB27 aerial (HF59B), it is suffi-
cient to move the instrument to see the
field distortions effected by your body.
-Through rotating the HF analyser, with
attached LogPer antenna, around its lon-
gitudinal axis, determine the polarization

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 9
plane of the HF radiation. When using the
UBB27 (HF59B) you only need to do this
in locations, where radiation from directly
below or above cannot be ruled out (mul-
tistorey buildings, town houses, etc)
-Change the measurement position and
avoid measuring exclusively in one spot,
because that spot may have local or an-
tenna-specific cancellation effects.
Some manufacturers of field meters propa-
gate the idea that the effective power density
should be obtained by taking measurements
of all three axes and calculating the result.
Most manufacturers of professional testing
equipment, however, do not share this view.
In general, it is well accepted that
exposure limit comparisons should be
based on the maximum value emitted
from the direction of the strongest
radiation source. When using
the UBB27, of course, the directional
component will not apply.
But the details of the situation need to be
considered! For example, if a 2.4-GHz tele-
phone inside the house emits a similar level
of microwaves as a nearby cellular phone
base station outside the house, it would be
helpful to first turn off the 2.4-GHz telephone
in the house. Now measure the exposure
level originating from the outside. After hav-
ing measured the emission of the 2.4-GHz
telephone on its own, the sum of both meas-
urement values could be used for the expo-
sure assessment. (This is necessary only
when using the LogPer aerial. The isotropic
UBB27 does this in a single measurement.)
There is no “official regulation” nor clearly
defined testing protocol, because according
to national standard’s setting institutions, as
described earlier, quantitatively reliable, tar-
geted and reproducible measurements are
only possible under “free field conditions“
but not in indoor environments.
Cellular phone channel emissions vary with
the load. The minimum HF level occurs,
when only the control channel operates. It is
suggested that measurements should be
taken at different times during the day / week
in order to find out the times of highest traf-
fic.
Evaluating the different radio services
As the standard please set the instrument to
“Peak hold” and “VBW standard
4
” (default in
the HF58B).
The displays of the meters of this series
show the sum of the total power density
within the frequency range of the most com-
mon digital radio services. This means for the
often dominating sources GSM, PCT/DECT
or the wireless LAN beacon signal (standby-
“rattling”), as well as analogue sources:
Simply take the readings and compare them
to the building biology standard values!
To be able to evaluate the different radio
standards, transmission and modulation pat-
4
the VBW of your HF-Analyser is so chosen, that “mis-
taken additions” cannot occur, even if multiple GSM
traffic channels are fully used.
terns with one single measurement technolo-
gy, compensation is required. The following
approach is recommended:
CDMA, UMTS/3G, LTE/4G, WiMAX, DVB,
Wireless LAN during full data transmission :
The modulation of these high-speed services
includes high, needle-like peaks compared to
the average power transmitted. Such signals
are referred to as “high crest factor” signals.
Measure these signals for 1 or 2 minutes
(with peak hold) by slightly panning the meter
pointing to the direction of the main source.
For the assessment of the peak values of
such signals (including the crest factors)
keep the standard setting “Peak hold” and
“VBW standard” (default in the HF58B)
5
.
For the compensation of the crest factor mul-
tiply the displayed reading by a correction
factor. A flat factor of 10 offers a good ap-
proximation
6
.
Often you will find different telecommunica-
tion services being present at the same time.
With the help of the audio analysis, you will
be able to estimate how much of the total
value shown is caused by such high crest
factor signals.
5
Ideally one would keep the setting "RMS", as the
utilized circuitry by its nature ensures the correct dis-
play of RMS values independently of the signal's crest
factor. For practical reasons one can nonetheless use
the convenient "Peak hold" setting, as with "VBW
standard" the readings for RMS and Peak won't differ
significantly for the signals in question.
6
Even if the standards of these radio services in specify
far higher crest factors, the industry strives for crest
limitation for economic reasons, so that the resulting
correction doesn't exceed a factor of 10.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 10
Depending on the proportion to the total sig-
nal, please apply the following “rules of
thumb”:
Slightly audible portion of “high crest fac-
tor signals”: multiply display reading by 2.
~“Fifty-fifty”-ratio:
multiply display reading by 5
Dominating “high crest factor signals”:
multiply display reading by 10.
This adjusted measurement value can now
be recorded or compared directly to the
building biology recommendations. Taking
into account the multiple external factors of
measurement uncertainty, this approach is
perfectly adequate for an assessment of the
total pollution.
The use of a frequency filter and service spe-
cific correction factors will allow an increased
accuracy.
7
Note the background noise level. In the com-
bination of settings "VBW Maximum",
"Range: min" and "Peak hold" noise can sum
up to a value of 1.00 or more on the display.
In order to reach lower levels you can use the
preamplifier HV10.
For obvious reasons the use of a correction
factor only makes sense for readings above
the noise level.
Radar
For air and sea navigation a radar antenna
slowly rotates around its own axis, thereby
7
For the time being with LTE a factor of 20 may still
occur. For TETRA a factor of 2, for WLAN (“standby-
rattling”) a factor 4 is enough.
emitting a tightly bundled “radar ray”. Even
with sufficient signal strength, this ray can
only be detected every couple of seconds,
for a few milliseconds. This requires special
measurement technology.
HF58B-r and HF59B:
Select setting “VBW Maximum”. Set signal
switch to “Peak hold” and direct the LogPer
antenna towards the signal emitting source.
Wait for several circles of the radar ray, move
the instrument left and right in order to identi-
fy the main direction of the source and get
the relevant quantitative measurement value.
If the location of the radar station is unknown
it is particularly convenient to use the iso-
tropic UBB27 antenna. However the trade-off
is no information of the direction. The long
delays between pulses may consume a great
deal of time trying to detect signal direction
with a LogPer aerial.
HF58B only:
The HF58B does not have the required VBW
to perform a quantitative measurement of
radio signals.
However the audio analysis identifies even
those radar pulses that cannot be measured
quantitatively. As long as the radar pulse re-
sults in a reading above the surrounding sig-
nal level you get a rough estimation by the
following procedure:
To begin with use of the “Peak” setting to
identify the main direction of the source and
to check if the pulses are above the sur-
rounding signal level.
Then switch to “Peak hold”. Several circles of
the radar ray should be awaited to reach a
balance between drop and rise. This can take
several minutes. Depending on the type and
distance of the radar station, the real flux
density will be at least a factor ten higher
than the displayed reading.
Please note that there are radar systems that
are operated at even higher frequencies than
can be measured with these instruments.
Quantitative Measurement:
Smart Meters
The frequencies / radio services implied are
those of standard wireless communication
standards. The challenge with measuring
emissions of smart meters lies in their duty
cycles. They transmit data in very short, but
intensive bursts that happen only about every
1 to 10 or even more minutes, where the pe-
riod between the bursts is subject to change
unpredictably.
To measure these bursts use the standard
setting (Peak hold/VBW standard), keep the
meter in the same location and monitor it
until a burst occurs.
For the HF58B it is helpful to use the “-“
(“minus”) setting for Peak hold to catch the
short bursts.
The HF58B-r and HF59B have a patented
circuitry that allows for the exact measure-
ment of the extra fast rise times of the bursts
even in the “+”-setting for Peak hold.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 11
Quantitative Measurement:
Identify where the radiation enters a struc-
ture
As a first step eliminate sources from within
the same room (e.g. cordless phones, wire-
less routers, etc.). Once this is completed,
the remaining radiation will originate from
outside. For remedial shielding it is important
to identify those areas of all walls (including
doors, windows and window frames!), ceiling
and floor, which are penetrated by the radia-
tion. To do this one should not stand in the
centre of the room, measuring in all direc-
tions from there, but monitor the permeable
areas with the antenna (LogPer) directed and
positioned close to the wall
8
. That is because
the antenna lobe widens with increasing fre-
quency. In addition reflections and cancella-
tions inside rooms make it difficult and often
impossible to locate the “leaks” accurately.
See the illustrating sketch below!
wall
antenna
wall
antenna
potentiell
durchlässiger
Bereich
wrong!
right!
potentially HF-permeable
part of the wall
The uncertainty of localization with HF-antennas
The shielding itself should be defined and
surveyed by a specialist and in any case the
area covered by it should be much larger
than the leak.
8
Please note: In this position the readings on the LCD
only indicate relative highs and lows that cannot be
interpreted in absolute terms.
Limiting values, reference values,
and precautionary values
Precautionary recommendation
for pulsed radiation in sleeping areas
Below 0.1 µW/m²
(SBM 2008: “no concern”)
below 1 µW/m² (“for indoors”)
(Landessanitätsdirektion Salzburg, Austria)
The official regulations in many countries
specify limits far beyond the recommenda-
tions of environmentally oriented doctors,
“building biologists” and many scientific in-
stitutions and also those of other countries.
They are vehemently criticised, but they are
nonetheless “official”. The limits depend on
frequencies and in the HF range of interest
here they are between 4 and 10 W/m², far
beyond 10 million times the recommenda-
tions (1 W/m² = 1,000,000 µW/m²). Official
limits are determined by the potential heat
generation in the human body and conse-
quently measurements of averages rather
than peaks. This ignores the state of envi-
ronmental medicine. The “official” limits are
far beyond the range of this instrument,
which is optimized for accurate measurement
of power densities targeted by the building
biologists.
The standard SBM 2008 cited above classi-
fies power densities of below 1 µW/m² as “no
anomaly” for non pulsed radiation in sleeping
areas, and for pulsed radiation one tenth of
that.
Building biology guideline
acc.to SBM-2008
© Baubiologie Maes / IBN
Readings
in µW/m²
no
concern
slight
concern
strong
concern
extreme
concern
< 0.1 0.1 - 10 10-1000 > 1000
Critical radio waves, such as pulsed or peri-
odic signals (mobile phones, DECT, WLAN,
digital radio, etc.) should be considered more
damageable, especially when frequently
measured, whereas less critical radio waves,
such as unpulsed or non periodic signals
(VHF, short wave, MW, LW, analogue radio,
etc.) can be considered less important, es-
pecially when less frequently measured.
The "Bund fuer Umwelt und Naturschutz
Deutschland e. V." (BUND) proposes 100
µW/m² outside buildings. In view of the
shielding properties of normal building mate-
rials, far lower values exist inside buildings.
In February 2002 the Medical Authority of the
Federal State of Salzburg, Austria, recom-
mends to reduce its “Salzburger Precaution-
ary Recommendation” from 1,000 µW/m² to
1 µW/m² inside buildings and 10 µW/m² out-
side. These limits are based on empirical
evidence over the past few years.
The ECOLOG-Institute in Hanover, Germany
made a recommendation only for outside
areas, namely 10,000 µW/m². This is well
above the recommendation by building biol-
ogists and aims at getting consent also from
the industry. This would possibly enable a
compromise for a more realistic limit than the
government regulations cited above. The
authors qualify their recommendation in
-The limit should be applicable to the maxi-
mum possible emission of the transmitting

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 12
stations. As the emission measured de-
pends on the constantly varying actual
load, this restricts the normal exposure
much further.
-A single station should not contribute more
than one third to this total.
-The extensive experience and findings of
medical and building biology specialists
could not be considered for the proposed
limits, as their results are not sufficiently
documented. The authors state, that “sci-
entific scrutiny of their recommendations is
needed urgently”.
-Not all effects on and in cells found in their
research could be considered for the pro-
posed limits, as their damaging potential
could not be established with sufficient cer-
tainty.
In summary it confirms the justification of
precautionary limits well below the pre-
sent legal limits.
Note for owners of cellular phones:
Unimpaired reception of calls is possible with
power densities far below even the very strict
precautionary recommendation of 0.01
µW/m² for pulsed HF frequencies by the
SBM.
Audio Frequency Analysis
Many different frequencies are being used by
many different services. The audio analysis of
the modulated portion of the HF signal, helps
to identify the source of a given HF radia-
tion signal.
First get the HF analyser ready for testing by
following the instructions in the relevant sec-
tion.
Important: For the audio analysis switch the
small switch on the right of the display to
“Pulse”. This will eliminate the content of
unpulsed signals, since their acoustical
marking (“rattling” with 16 Hz) will make the
acoustical analysis difficult.
How to proceed:
For audio analysis, simply turn the volume
knob of the speaker at the top of the case all
the way to the left (“-”). If you are switching
to audio analysis while high field strength
levels prevail, high volumes can be generated
quite suddenly. This is especially true for
measurements which are to be taken without
audio analysis. The knob is not fastened with
glue to prevent over winding. However, if by
accident you should turn the knob too far,
simply turn it back again. No damage will be
caused.
Sounds and signals are very difficult to de-
scribe in writing. The best way to learn the
signals is to approach known HF sources
very closely and listen to their specific signal
patterns. Without detailed knowledge, the
characteristic signal patterns of the follow-
ing HF sources can be easily identified: 2.4-
GHz telephones as well as cellular phones,
the signal patterns of which can be divided
into “a live connected phone call“, “stand-by
mode“ and especially the “establishing of a
connection“. The typical signal patterns of a
cellular phone base station can also be iden-
tified this way. For comparison reasons you
are well advised to take measurements dur-
ing high-traffic times, as well as some times
during the night, in order to familiarize your-
self with the different noises.
The volume can be controlled with the “au-
dio” knob. Note: The power consumption of
the speaker is directly proportional to the
volume.
There is a selection of audio data samples on
our homepage (www.gigahertz-solutions.de)
– follow “Mulitmedia” – for you to have a lis-
ten to.
For a quantitative differentiation of the
various radio services, we can offer selec-
tive frequency filters.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 13
Analysis of the modulated /
pulsed signal (Full/Pulse)
The feature to distinguish between these two
types of radiation in absolute numbers has
been introduced for a broad band instrument
of this price range for the first time. This is a
significant advantage over the commercial
spectrum analysers, with which this differen-
tiation requires extra work.
The little switch to the right of the display
allows one to distinguish between the com-
plete signal including the pulsed part and its
pulsed or modulated part only.
In the “Full” setting, the power densities of all
signals in the frequency range of interest are
displayed. In “Pulse” setting only those
which are amplitude modulated are dis-
played. Signals like GSM (mobile phone),
DECT, Radar and WLAN/Bluethooth and
others can have similar intensities in either
switch setting. Even within tolerance limits,
they have no content of carrier frequency.
Superposition and background radiation,
however, will mostly lead to a moderate dif-
ference in intensity.
Marking of CW signals
Un-pulsed signals by their very nature are not
audible in the audio analysis and therefore
easily missed. For that reason they are
marked by a uniform “rattling” tone, with its
volume proportional to its contents of the
total signal. This “marking” has a frequency
of 16 Hz, and is also available as audio sam-
ple on our website (see Mulitmedia).
For HF59B: Please note: When using the
UBB27, the frequency band 27 to 800 MHz,
which this antenna handles additionally, con-
tains very many unpulsed frequencies. So
you are likely to often find a “rattling” marker
tone ...
This marking tone will only be audible with
the switch to the right of the display set to
“Full“. If the switch is set to “Pulse” the cir-
cuitry to suppress the content of unpulsed
signals is activated. There will be nothing to
be marked.
Note concerning the switch setting “Pulse“:
Under special laboratory conditions a signal can be
created, which causes an additional deviation from the
actual value of up to -3 dB. Under field conditions like
DECT and GSM signals only minimal deviations.
Use of Signal Outputs
AC output:
The AC output “PC/head-set”, 3.5 mm jack
socket, is meant for in-depth analysis of the
AM/pulsed content of the signal by headset
or a corresponding PC-audiocard.
For PC sound card or headphones or PC
software please ask or write us.
DC output (2.5 mm jack socket):
For a longterm recording of the display value.
When “Full Scale“ is displayed, it has 1 VDC
output, and 2 VDC can be set for HF59B.
The auto power off function is automatically
deactivated as soon as external devices are
connected, but only as long as there is no
threat of total discharge.
Further Analysis /
Optional Accessories:
Available from Gigahertz Solutions:
Attenuators allowing an upward extension
of the measurement range for strong signal
sources
Frequency filters for a more specific dif-
ferentiation of the various sources
Meters for HF from 2.4 to 6 or 10 GHz
allowing the analysis of even higher fre-
quencies, i.e. the HFW35C (2.4 - 6 GHz) or
HFW59D (2.4 - 10 GHz)
Meters for the low frequencies:
Also for this frequency range, Gigahertz So-
lutions offers a broad range of professional
measurement technology. The new NFA se-
ries, for instance, which allows a three-
dimensional measurement of alternating
electrical and magnetic fields.
All NFA-meters can equally be applied as
data loggers for long-term recrodings with
our HF analysers (only those with DC output).

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 14
Battery Management
The instrument comes with a rechargeable,
high quality internal NiMH-Battery. The quali-
ty of these high-capacity NiMH batteries (far
better than NiCd batteries, for instance) can
be best maintained if they are almost totally
discharged (i.e. used) before being fully re-
charged (until the green charging LED turns
off).
Changing the rechargeable Battery
The battery compartment is at the back of
the analyser. To remove the lid, press on the
grooved arrow and pull the cap off. Insert
only rechargeable batteries. If you use
regular alkaline (non – rechargeable) bat-
teries do not use a charger or AC-adapter!
Auto-Power-Off
This function conserves energy and extends
the total operating time.
1. In case you have forgotten to turn OFF
the HF analyser or it has been turned ON
accidentally during transport, it will shut
off automatically after 40 minutes.
2. If “low batt” appears vertically between
the digits in the center of the display, the
HF analyser will turn OFF after 3 min in
order to avoid unreliable measurements.
In that case charge the rechargeable
battery.
3. The built-in function, Auto-Power-Off,
will automatically be de-activated by
plugging in a 2.5 mm DC. The function
will also automatically be re-activated to
prevent a total discharge of the battery
by further operation.
Mains operation
The HF analyser can also be supplied with
power by using the mains adapter (for in-
stance for long-term measurements). When
doing so, please take care to turn the volume
button right down to zero (“-”), otherwise you
will be hearing the 50 Hertz noise of the
mains voltage.
Warranty
We provide a two year warranty on factory
defects of the HF analyser, the antenna and
accessories.
Remediation and Shielding
Please call us or send us an e-mail.
We will assist you in any shielding project
you might have.
Any professionally implemented shielding
solution will be of proven effect. There is a
large selection of shielding possibilities, and
an individually fitted solution is definitely rec-
ommendable.
The shielding effect of the various materials
is normally stated in “- dB”, e.g. “- 20 dB”.
Conversion of shielding effect into reduction
of power density
“-10dB“ is measured value divided by 10
”-20dB” is measured value divided by 100
”-30dB” is measured value divided by 1000
Please be aware of the manufacturer’s notes
about the normally achievable shielding ef-
fects, as 100% shielding is almost always
impossible. Partial shielding reduces the at-
tenuation considerably. That is why shielding
of seemingly radiation tight adjacent areas is
highly recommended.

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 15

Digital High Frequency Analyser HF58B / HF58B-r / HF59B
© Gigahertz Solutions GmbH, 90579 Langenzenn, Germany Page 16
Measurement Ranges
Range
Bar on LCD
Instrument as delivered,
i.e. without preamplifier or attenuator
switch "Adapter"("Pegelanpassung") to "0 dB"
Displayed value & unit
max
0.01 - 19.99 mW/m²
med
00.1 - 199.9 µW/m²
min
0.01 - 19.99 µW/m²
Simply read out, no correction factor
Range
Bar on LCD
With ext. Attenuator DG20,
switch "Adapter" to "Attenuator -20 dB"
Displayed value & unit
max
1 - 1999 mW/m²
med
0.01 - 19.99 mW/m²
min
.001 - 1.999 mW/m²
Simply read out, no correction factor
Range
Bar on LCD
With ext. Preamplifier HV10,
switch "Adaptor" to "Amplifier +10dB"
Displayed value & unit
max
00.1 - 1999 µW/m²
med
0.01 - 19.99 µW/m²
min
.001 - 1.999 µW/m²
Simply read out, no correction factor
Why no column „dBm“?
Most recommended limiting values for HF radiation are
given in W/m² (sometimes also in V/m), which is why
this instrument is displaying in power density, µW/m²
resp. mW/m². A display in dBm as e.g. on a spectrum
analyser requires transformation by a complicated
formula, which depends on frequency and specifics of
the antenna used. A “reconversion” therefore does not
make sense.
Conversion Table
( µW/m² to V/m )
µW/m²
mV/m
µW/m²
mV/m
µW/m²
mV/m
0.01 1.94 1.0 19.4
100
194
- - 1.2 21.3
120
213
- - 1.4 23.0
140
230
- - 1.6 24.6
160
246
- - 1.8 26.0
180
261
0.02 2.75 2.0 27.5
200
275
- - 2.5 30.7
250
307
0.03 3.36 3.0 33.6
300
336
- - 3.5 36.3
350
363
0.04 3.88 4.0 38.8
400
388
0.05 4.34 5.0 43.4
500
434
0.06 4.76 6.0 47.6
600
476
0.07 5.14 7.0 51.4
700
514
0.08 5.49 8.0 54.9
800
549
0.09 5.82 9.0 58.2
900
582
0.10 6.14 10.0 61.4
1000
614
0.12 6.73 12.0 67.3
1200
673
0.14 7.26 14.0 72.6
1400
726
0.16 7.77 16.0 77.7
1600
777
0.18 8.24 18.0 82.4
1800
824
0.20 8.68 20.0 86.8
2000
868
0.25 9.71 25.0 97.1
2500
971
0.30 10.6 30.0 106
3000
1063
0.35 11.5 35.0 115
3500
1149
0.40 12.3 40.0 123
4000
1228
0.50 13.7 50.0 137
5000
1373
0.60 15.0 60.0 150
6000
1504
0.70 16.2 70.0 162
7000
1624
0.80 17.4 80.0 174
8000
1737
0.90 18.4 90.0 184
9000
1842
DRU0203