The "Cantenna" Microwave Oven Leakage Detector John Mills c. 1993 John Mills Most microwave ovens leak radiation around the door, through the vent holes,and where the power cord comes out. Some responsible scientists think that this leaking microwave radiation is safe. Other responsible scientists think that it is dangerous, especially for pregnant women and young people. Until we know more, it's probably best for us to be careful with leaking microwave ovens. The "Cantenna" is a simple microwave oven detector you can build for around $20.00 to listen to microwaves in your environment. [insert HOW IT WORKS] The coffee can and the diode wire work as a mini antenna to collect the microwaves. The diode changes the microwaves into pulses that our ears can hear. The amplifier and speaker make the growling signal loud enough so that we can hear it. The broomstick lets the person making the measurement stand away from the oven for safety and the plastic lid on the coffee can keeps the metal part of the can from touching the metal parts of the microwave ovens. [INSERT MILLSDEMO] Install the battery and turn the amplifier on with the volume to max. Point the plastic lid end of the cantenna toward a microwave oven that is turned on. If you hear growling noises from the amplifier this indicates you are picking up microwave leakage signals. Loud growling means more leakage.