[kpozin]

My data is anecdotal, but I've observed that Panasonic inverter ovens that I've used interfered in the 2.4GHz range, while models of other brands (e.g. GE) have not.

(This is unfortunate because Panasonic seems to be the only brand that can actually adjust power output, whereas the others simulate lower power levels by cycling on and off.)

[lathiat]

Adjusting the power output is the definition of “inverter” basically. A few brands offer it, it seems like it was probably patented as it was only 3-4 higher end well known brands at least in Australia.

Inverters themselves are potential noise sources though so may be part of the issue but other implementations may not interfere.

[callalex]

You can thank terribly written intellectual property laws for that exclusivity. It’s not like inverters are some kind of new technology, and yet here we are.

[londons_explore]

I suspect the inverter design is now cheaper too.

The traditional design needs all power to go through a transformer. A 1 kilowatt 60Hz transformer necessarily uses a lot of copper and steel. The inverter design can use MOSFETs (theoretically cheap, but a reasonable IP cost) and far less copper and steel.

[xattt]

I know of at least two Panasonic inverter microwaves that failed within a 5 year period of ownership.

Mine emitted white smoke warming up some tea while I was in another room. I hope to God it wasn’t beryllium.

I still have a Panasonic OTR microwave, but it’s inverterless. It appears to be an improved design of a GE model from the same OEM.

[londons_explore]

Probably burnt paint from the inside of the waveguide.

Happens frequently when the mica sheet that covers the injection port gets moisture from steam (who'd have thought - steam in a microwave?!?)

Simple fix is to replace the mica (a few cents from AliExpress) and use steel wool to get rid of any carbon residue around the injection port.

[xattt]

It sounded like there was no magnetron load on the power supply, because the cooling fan was spinning a little faster and the interior was a little brighter. This was during the few seconds between the smoke show and from me pulling the plug.

There was indeed a char mark on the mica sheet, but the beryllium terror at the time was enough for me to chuck it.

[londons_explore]

You would expect less load on the power supply if there was an arc causing a short in the waveguide.

[alexdbird]

We have a Panasonic Inverter microwave here, must be 20 years old. It works great and I have never noticed any interference with WiFi or Bluetooth, both of which also get a lot of use in the kitchen. Just another anecdata point!

[xattt]

The earlier inverter models sound like they’re workhorses. The problematic ones I knew of were from around 2012 - 2014.

[Jeff_Brown]

Oh no. Is that something that happens? Mine has smelled a little like metallic smoke lately.

[liminalsunset]

LG now sells inverter microwaves under the NeoChef brand, I believe. I saw one in a second hand store recently so they've existed for a while now. I haven't tested one to see if it interferes with anything, though.

[nkerkin]

I have one, and yes, much interference.

[instagib]

GE inverter microwave with interference 20-30ft away and it goes through a wall.