Comments on: How plausible is it that cell phones can set off electronic explosives?

By: Richard W

Richard W — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:02:55 +0000

Implausible. Some phone that work on radio waves, like Nextel have potential, but tests show it to be so low it is insignificant. The web site is all bunk.

By: NoLifeSigns

NoLifeSigns — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:02:55 +0000

A cell phone can set off a ringer in someone else’s cell phone, can’t it? In the end it is just a switch. Explosive detonators are mostly radio controlled, and are keyed to standard radio frequencies. What do you think?

Cell phones may use digital transmissions, but, those transmissions still travel on standard radio frequencies.

By: ♥Carol♥

♥Carol♥ — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:02:55 +0000

If they can interfere with electronic equipment, such as a heart machine in a hospital ward … I can see your question as being plausible.

Terrorists have long used cellular phones to trigger improvised explosive devices (IEDs) not only on Iraq roadsides, but also in attacks worldwide. Notably, cell phones detonated the bombs that destroyed public transportation in Madrid and London in 2004 and 2005 respectively; terrorists also planned to use them to bomb commercial U.S. flights in August 2006.

Bombers use the cell phone as a typical remote control: to send a signal via radio airwaves. The signal energizes a relay connected to a blasting cap, which in turn detonates explosive material.

By: Tommy

Tommy — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:02:55 +0000

First responders, to bomb calls I have worked, always entered radio and cell phone silent at least a city block from the call. That means turned off.

I see absolutely nothing positive about cell phones or any other personal electronics at school.

In high school if you have a drivers license and meet grade qualifications and/or are employed; I think you should be allowed to drive to school. At 16 I would allow cell phones in school for those with passing grades.**

**This might give some incentive to many American students who turn 16 in the eighth grade every year.