Avoiding hotspots in a microwave oven.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the technology and effectiveness of microwave ovens, particularly focusing on the issue of hot spots in cooking and the advancements in flat bed microwave models. Participants share their experiences and seek insights on mode stirring mechanisms and their efficiency compared to traditional turntable designs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the advantages of flat bed models over traditional turntable microwaves, specifically mentioning issues with hot spots in cooking.
  • Another participant suggests that in some models, the antenna may rotate, but expresses uncertainty about whether this is more effective than a turntable.
  • Several participants share their personal cooking methods for oatmeal, indicating varied preferences and practices unrelated to the technical discussion.
  • Some participants discuss recycling components of broken microwaves, sharing humorous anecdotes about their experiences with the internal parts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of flat bed technology versus traditional turntables, and there is no consensus on the superiority of one method over the other. Additionally, personal cooking methods vary widely, indicating a lack of agreement on best practices.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes anecdotal evidence and personal experiences, which may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects of microwave technology. There are also unresolved questions regarding the effectiveness of different stirring mechanisms.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in purchasing a new microwave, those curious about microwave technology, and users looking for tips on cooking methods may find this discussion relevant.

sophiecentaur
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Our Panasonic has finally given up the ghost, with a broken internal door catch mechanism. I have a go at most things but I really believe this one is not 'user serviceable' (:cry:)
Time for a new one and I can see advantages in using a flat bed model. We had one without a turntable, several years ago and there were definite problems with hot spots. The recently defunct one was very good (using chaos defrosting, which was also very clever and effective). There is a new generation of what they now call 'flat bed' technology. Does anyone know how the 'mode stirring' is achieved these days - is it different from the rotating paddle in the roof that our old one had?
Is it any more effective and why?
I need to order something fairly quickly as my morning porridge is a regular treat. I should appreciate some background expertise on this, guys.
 
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I think, at least in some models, the antenna itself is rotating. Whether that is better or not, I don't know - still using a turntable variant here. Though it seems that these models are very hit or miss, so make sure to read the reviews on that specific microwave first.
 
I make my morning oatmeal in boiling water on the stove for one minute.
 
Four minutes on Medium for me. We get very set in our ways.
 
Recycle.
The transformer makes a great paperweight, and I do mean "great'.
The magnets are perfect for keeping notes attached to the fridge.
And that what are youmacallit thing for making the cooking rays is a neat looking minature futuristic space ship.
Years ago I sawed one in half to see what's inside and and mysteriously found nothing there.
 
256bits said:
Recycle.
The transformer makes a great paperweight, and I do mean "great'.
The magnets are perfect for keeping notes attached to the fridge.
And that what are youmacallit thing for making the cooking rays is a neat looking minature futuristic space ship.
Years ago I sawed one in half to see what's inside and and mysteriously found nothing there.

Oh yes. The magnet! I salvage them from hard drives but forgot about the magnetron.
I may use the transformer to put in a guest's suitcase and see if they notice. :smile:
 
sophiecentaur said:
Oh yes. The magnet! I salvage them from hard drives but forgot about the magnetron.
I may use the transformer to put in a guest's suitcase and see if they notice. :smile:

:laugh:
 

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