Working with a audio demagnetizer

I have a large studio Reel to Reel recorder and it needs to have its heads demagnetized now and then.
I don't have anyone else to do it for me and so I am trying to figure out if there is a safe way for me to do it.
The device is strong at the front where the tip is, so I was wondering about attaching the device to a 3 foot sturdy rod, so that the device would be at least 3-4 feet away from me at all times.
I could still use it to get at the heads due to the design of the audio deck and I doubt that such a small device could produce a field to the rear that would be a danger 3-4 feet away.
But I thought I would post the question to see what people think.
I can't measure the magnetic field directly ( I do have such a meter), because the device cycles with the power line, so the instrument can't read anything. (Wish it could, it would be nice info to have).

Thanks,

Bruce

2 Comments

Magnets & PM's.

by donr - 2012-09-21 09:09:00

Bruce: You have a regular PM, so if a magnet affects it, all you need do is back away & all will return to normal.

It would have to be one BIIIG magnet for it to affect you at even arm's length, so I don't think you need worry. Dunno how the field is designed, but it's probably not a precision instrument. I had one a lifetime ago for my reel to reel machine & it was pretty cheap, so I don't expect much in the way of a precise magnetic field. IIRC, it was plugged in to house power, so the field was 60 Hz varying one.

If you want to find out if it will affect your PM, here's what you do: Have someone else hold it & turn it on while standing about 6 ft away (Way over the safe range, but why not? You appear to be skittish.) Approach it slowly to see if it makes you feel funny because it switches it into the TEST mode & may or may not make it cycle in & out of that mode because of the varying field. If it does,stop & back off - the feeling will go away. Eventually you should get close enough to touch the handle & then hold it. If so, you are home free. If not, get the long rod.

Good luck!

Don

Demagnetizer and PM

by timefleas - 2012-11-30 01:11:32

Don's reply was good for a blind trial, but in general, if you are holding a demagnetizer in your hand it WILL interfere with your pacemaker. It sends out electrical impulses, which your PM picks up. You also need to stay away from anything that generates a spark such as car engines, chain saws and other gas powered tools.

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