Nah

Question of definition I suppose.

I don't have a spectrum map to hand, so saying that 800-1Ghz isn't (legally & technically) microwave would likely be me talking shit without sufficient evidence. Likely (from memory) they're all in the same band class though - I usually demarc 1Ghz as Joe Soap definition of microwave. Meh.

And yes, you're right - we do tend to use "radio wave" or "directional antenna" as opposed to "microwave" and "focused beam aperture". The resistance you meet when installing even small links or networks is ridiculous if you're not careful about how you speak to the locals.

Harmless is also bang on the nail - I've worked around the stuff for years now, and not once had any ill effect. The worst I've experienced was a mild tingling in my hand when I stuck it in front of a high-power dish (Automatic TX Power Control coming on-line and increasing power when decreased RSSI is shown).

In actuality, the nastiest injuries I've heard of from working in radio have come from guys working on AM transmitters and broadcast stages - high field strengths, bad earthing, localised heating etc. But then most of them have arisen from some situ like someone sticking their thumb on a grounding stub, or shorting a TX line.

Strikes me you'd have a field day in my line of work..
(mymilkshakebringsallthemongstotheyard poison hearts, poison minds - joining hate, Thu 19 Feb 2009, 19:21, Reply)