Ferromagnetic cell phone detectors are a specific type of device that identify cell phones based on their ferromagnetic materials instead of radio waves. This type of cell phone detector works by monitoring the ambient magnetic field with sensors. When a ferromagnetic object—such as certain cell phone components—enters the monitored area, it distorts the magnetic field. This distortion serves as a telltale sign that something is amiss.
While entire cell phones aren’t ferromagnetic, specific parts—like screws, metal frames, and internal circuitry—are. Every mobile phone contains about 3% iron, which is used in everything from the casing and frame to the battery and charging accessories. Ferromagnetic detectors effectively detect these components.
What are Ferromagnetic Materials?
Ferromagnetic materials are specific metals, such as iron, cobalt, and nickel, that can be magnetized or attracted to magnets.
You’ll also find ferromagnetic materials in everyday devices like electric motors, generators, phones, loudspeakers, and magnetic strips on credit cards. They’re essential for non-volatile storage in hard drives, and information processing thanks to their magnetic properties and interactions with electric current and light.
In cell phones, ferromagnetic materials contribute to structural components for added strength and help power mobile batteries.
Pros and Cons of Ferromagnetic Cell Phone Detectors
Ferromagnetic detectors are a great option for many facilities, but they can also come with some drawbacks. Evaluating the pros and cons of these detectors can help you determine whether they’re a good fit for your building.
Pros of Ferromagnetic Cell Phone Detectors
- Identification Regardless of Status: Ferromagnetic detectors can identify mobile phones even when they’re off or in airplane mode.
- Detection of Multiple Threats: In addition to cell phones, ferrous metal detectors can detect certain weapons or contraband concealed under clothing, in bags, or even within the body.
- Detects Essential Phone Parts: Ferromagnetic detectors can identify individual components, like mainboards and speakers, closing the loophole that helps unassembled gadgets go undetected.
- Spot-on Detection: Ferromagnetic detectors only flag real threats, easily distinguishing between a smartphone and everyday metal items like jewelry or belt buckles.
Cons of Ferromagnetic Cell Phone Detectors
- Limited Detection Range: The detector’s range is only 1-2 feet. If a phone is out of reach, such as in an adjacent room or corridor, it may go undetected.
- Training and Operation: Ferrous metal detectors may require team training, as users should be equipped to reposition detectors.
Ferromagnetic Cell Phone Detectors vs. RF Cell Phone Detectors
Cell phone detection devices generally fall into two categories: radiofrequency detectors and ferromagnetic detectors (FMDs).
Ferromagnetic detectors are advantageous in environments where proximity security is paramount. These mobile metal detectors can pinpoint unauthorized devices even when powered off, making them ideal for scanning individuals or placed at security checkpoints for temples, offices, exam halls, and prisons.
In contrast, radiofrequency cell phone detectors capture the radio waves emitted by cell phones. They have a detection range extending up to a mile with no false positives. While these detectors excel at securing entire premises, they won’t work effectively if the cell phone is off or on airplane mode.
How to Find the Best Cell Phone Detector for Your Facility
A cell phone detection approach will differ from business to business. For instance, for educational institutions, cheating can be deterred with a ferromagnetic detector at the exam entrance.
In high-security settings like correctional facilities, ferrous metal detectors at visitor checkpoints can enforce safety and order. For more comprehensive security, they can be paired with radio frequency detection, allowing officers to identify and confiscate inmate communication devices.
When evaluating options, think about how accurate you need your device to be. A radio frequency detector is a smart investment if false alarms—like accidentally flagging a harmless device—are an issue. For securing strict no-phone zones or checkpoints, a ferrous metal detector could be more suitable.
Also consider how quickly you need alerts on unauthorized devices. For a research lab with proprietary data or a defense contractor handling classified information, immediate detection is the first line of defense against potential breaches.
At the sophisticated end of the spectrum are multi-protocol devices. These cell phone scanners work across 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth and are essential for facilities with numerous smart devices. Similarly, ferrous metal detectors are not limited to scanning cell phones. They can be an effective option for IoT-equipped manufacturing facilities where various external devices may pose a risk.
How Cellbuster’s Zone Protector™ Detects Cell Phones
Cellbuster’s Zone Protector™ is a sought-after radio frequency detector designed for immediate and accurate cell phone detection. It continuously scans for cell phone signals and user-selectable RF transmissions, activating customizable alerts or silently logging detected activity. Engineered to the highest of standards, the Zone Protector™ offers excellent accuracy with virtually zero false positives.
Interested in what Zone Manager™ and Zone Protector™ have to offer? Add maximum protection to your environment today. Learn how our solutions can help you secure your facility.
