A microwave leak detector is an electronic device which can be used to detect the production of microwave radiation from sources including microwave ovens.
Microwaves are a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. For more information on this, see: Wonkee Donkee’s lesson on microwaves.
Although these instruments can vary in price, they are generally inexpensive and very simple to use.
Microwave leak detectors can be used in a more professional role when performing portable appliance testing (PAT), a health and safety regulation in the UK.
There are both analogue and digital microwave leak detectors. This produces two different types of reading, but does not majorly affect the way the devices work.
Some, but not all, microwave leak detectors require batteries – see individual models for clarification. The most common type needed is a 9V square battery.