What is a pager? .. How can pager explode?
A spree of simultaneous detonations of pagers across Lebanon killed eight people and injured around 2,750 on Tuesday. The Hezbollah said in a statement that at 3:30 pm (1230 GMT) pagers used by people working for the group’s institutions began exploding “mysteriously.”
Here’s a detailed overview of pagers, including their functionality, types, and historical context:
What is a pager and why is it used?
A pager, also known as a beeper, is a small, portable electronic device designed for receiving and, in some cases, sending short messages or alerts.
The basic operation of the device includes receiving and sending messages. Most pagers receive messages via radio frequencies from a base station or a central dispatch. These messages can be numeric (e.g., a phone number) or alphanumeric (text). The device then displays the message to alert the user.
What could be the probable cause of Lebanon pager explosion?
An anonymous Hezbollah official, speaking to news agency Associated Press under the condition of confidentiality, stated that the explosions were the result of a “security operation targeting the devices.”
The official claimed, without providing further details, that “the enemy (Israel) is behind this security incident.” He also mentioned that the pagers used by Hezbollah members were equipped with lithium batteries, which were likely responsible for the explosions.
Lithium batteries, known for their potential to overheat, can produce smoke, melt, and even catch fire. These batteries, commonly found in consumer electronics such as cellphones, laptops, and electric vehicles, can burn at temperatures reaching up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit (590 degrees Celsius).