How to Make a Faraday Cage
Who needs a faraday cage? In today’s technology-driven world, we are all surrounded by true wireless devices promising everything from convenience to improved quality of life. From smartphones to garage door openers, TV controllers to baby monitors, keyless entry systems to WIFI enabled thermostats…the list is endless. Unfortunately, this giant leap in technology has also opened the door for new opportunities to be exploited. Specifically, wireless signals, devices, and networks across the market have been shown to be prone to interference. Unprotected signals can be susceptible to attack like car hijacking, jamming, and even service disruption due to malicious gain of control. Without protection, smart devices, like your phone or cell phones, radios and home automation systems can be hacked and can be used against you or your family. In short, wireless signals are continuously at risk. Thus, began the necessity for the Faraday Cage.
What is are Faraday Cages?
Faraday Cages were born with the idea that there should be a way to isolate the transmissions from the outside world and provide the safest atmosphere for devices. Named after the English physicist Michael Faraday, it is really an enclosure that has a complete metal covering on all six sides and is grounded on one or more of its ends. The radio waves and the signals around us are made up of electromagnetic energy (EM waves) and have a particular pattern. The Faraday cage produces powerful electromagnetic fields that interfere with the EM wave with the same frequency component, thus neutralizing the waves’ effect inside it. However, the material has no restriction as to what it actually protects from getting in the way of EM waves. Anything that is not meant to be shielded must be put outside the cage, or it will get affected. As an example, you will not receive a call on your phone while in the faraday cages.
Now that we have established a basic understanding of the concepts involved in electromagnetic interference and what these Faraday cages are for, it’s time to learn how to make one. Here are three crucial steps to effectively harness the power of metal cages to your advantage:
Step 1. Find a Conductive Container
Step 2. Layer Plastic Wrap Inside
Step 3. Place Your Device
Conclusion
