What does the car microwave window mean?
2 Answers
Car microwave window is a designated area for placing electronic tags, typically located at the upper right center of the front windshield. Generally, the car microwave window should not be obstructed by brackets such as rain sensors or lane departure warning systems, with center wavelengths of 1.4mm, 3.3mm, and 8mm respectively. Currently, microwave windows have been widely adopted, where side-view radars primarily utilize windows with wavelengths greater than 0.5cm and the 8mm window, while the 1.4mm and 3.3mm windows are mainly used for satellite communication and missile tracking. According to European standards, automakers must reserve a metal-ion-free microwave window measuring at least 120mm in length and 70mm in width behind the rearview mirror on the upper part of the front windshield, exclusively for electronic tag use.
Last time I went to get my car repaired, the technician explained to me about the car's microwave window. It turns out to be a special area on the front bumper or grille, specifically designed for radar sensors, allowing microwave signals to pass through unobstructed like radio waves. This is because modern car radars detect objects ahead, and if metals or other materials block the microwaves, the system might give false alarms or fail to work. I drive a car with adaptive cruise control, and on rainy days, if the microwave window gets dirty, it tends to malfunction, but it works fine after cleaning. Although small, this component is crucial as it affects driving safety. Don't overlook it during regular maintenance or car washes, especially in winter when it's prone to icing or getting debris, which might cause the automatic braking system to fail. If the window is damaged, it should be replaced promptly to avoid significant risks.
