Why do cell phones make my speakers buzz?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of cell phones causing interference with speakers, particularly in devices like alarm clocks and monitors. Participants share personal experiences and observations related to this issue, touching on the technical aspects of electromagnetic interference and its effects on various electronic devices.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes a buzzing sound from their radio alarm clock just before their cell phone rings, suggesting a connection between the phone's ringer circuit and electromagnetic interference.
  • Another participant humorously mentions that placing a mobile phone on a mouse cord causes the pointer to move before receiving a call, indicating a similar interference effect.
  • A different participant reports that their monitor shakes, implying that the interference may affect visual displays as well.
  • One participant observes that their speakers beep when they receive a text message or call, and they recall experiencing similar interference while making international calls, questioning if bandwidth limitations might be a factor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that cell phones can cause interference with speakers and other electronic devices, but there is no consensus on the underlying reasons or mechanisms behind this phenomenon.

Contextual Notes

Some claims rely on anecdotal evidence and personal experiences, and the discussion does not delve into the technical specifics of electromagnetic interference or the exact causes of the observed effects.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the interactions between cell phones and electronic devices, as well as those curious about electromagnetic interference and its effects on technology.

Ivan Seeking
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I noticed recently that just before my cell phone rings I can hear a 100 Hz or so buzzing from the speaker of a certain radio alarm clock of mine. I have also seen this sort of thing take down factory systems when standing near unprotected control centers. I know one factory engineer that this caused no end of grief until they figured out what was happening.

Not to perpetuate the EM health risk myths as this only involves the ringer circuit, but I find this a little amusing and worthy of mention.
 
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it is even funnier if you put your mobile on the mouse cord, the pointer starts moving before receiveing a call...
 
my monitor shakes.
 
Yes, I can hear whenever someone receives a phone text message or call: my speakers will start beeping :-p or when I was in the US calling home I would notice the same thing in the line :rolleyes:

I guess they're running out of bandwiths?
 

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