Who Invented the Microwave: Its Innovation and Uses

Percy Spencer, an engineer at Raytheon Corporation, invented the microwave oven by accident in 1945 while testing radar magnetrons. A melted chocolate bar in his pocket led to the discovery.

• Spencer noticed his chocolate bar had melted near an active magnetron.
• He tested popcorn next, which popped, confirming microwaves could heat food.
• Raytheon launched the first commercial microwave, the Radarange, in 1947.

Convert the cost of your new microwave into Easy EMIs using Bajaj Finance's financing options at over 1.5 lakh partner stores such as Reliance Digital, Croma, Vijay Sales, and more, or find a partner store near you. Check your loan eligibility before getting started.

Percy Spencer, an engineer at Raytheon Corporation, was instrumental in discovering microwave cooking technology. His background in radar systems gave him access to powerful magnetrons, which emit microwaves, while he worked to improve their manufacturing process.

While testing a magnetron, Spencer noticed a chocolate bar in his pocket had melted. Intrigued rather than dismissive, he decided to investigate further rather than treat it as a minor equipment quirk.

Curious about the cause, Spencer placed popcorn kernels near the magnetron and watched them pop. He then tried an egg near the device, which exploded from rapid internal heating, confirming that microwaves could cook food quickly.

Raytheon recognised the significance of Spencer's discovery and moved quickly to develop it into a commercial product.

• 1945: Spencer's accidental discovery leads Raytheon to begin developing microwave cooking technology.
• 1947: Raytheon launches the first commercial microwave oven, named the Radarange.
• 1960s: Advances in technology and manufacturing make microwave ovens smaller and more affordable.
• 1970s: Countertop microwave ovens become popular in homes worldwide, changing how people prepare and reheat meals.

Early Radarange units were large, expensive, and used mainly in commercial kitchens, standing over five feet tall and weighing hundreds of kilograms. It took roughly two decades of refinement before the microwave became a practical, affordable appliance for the average home.

If you want to understand more about the different cooking modes available today, our guide on oven symbols and settings explains what each icon on your control panel means.

Understanding the science behind microwave cooking helps explain why it heats food so quickly compared with a conventional oven.

A component called a magnetron generates microwaves, which bounce off the oven's metal interior. When these microwaves penetrate food, they cause water molecules inside it to vibrate rapidly, generating heat. This process heats food from the inside out, which is why microwaves cook so quickly and evenly compared with conventional ovens.

Microwaves are non-ionising radiation, which makes them safe for cooking when used properly. The turntable inside a microwave ensures uniform heat distribution by rotating the food, while features such as variable power levels and preset cooking modes add further convenience.

Thinking of buying a new microwave?

Before you do that, explore the latest offers from Bajaj Finance. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Bajaj Finance offers two ways to convert your microwave purchase into affordable monthly payments. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 in India.

How to choose?

Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card suits shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time, while the Easy EMI Loan suits buyers financing a higher-value microwave purchase in a single transaction.

• Early Radarange units were commercial-grade and cost thousands of dollars; today's compact home models are far more affordable, though larger-capacity convection models still cost more than basic solo microwaves.
• The Insta EMI Card works well if you shop across categories over time, while the Easy EMI Loan suits a single, higher-value microwave purchase where you want a bigger card loan offer.
• With a longer repayment tenure, your monthly EMI is smaller, but you should always confirm the actual interest and fee structure in-store before signing.

With over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000, Bajaj Finance's network means you can finance your next microwave whether you live in a metro city or a smaller city such as Jaipur or Lucknow.

Upgrading to a new microwave is simple and affordable with Bajaj Finance's in-store financing options. The entire process usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Explore the range of microwave oven models available on Bajaj Mall. Compare cooking modes, capacity, and prices before heading to the store.
2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
3. Check the microwave in person: Visit the store and explore available models. Check the power levels, preset modes, and turntable size to find one that suits you.
4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
5. Complete payment and take your microwave home: Once approved, your purchase is processed immediately, and you can schedule delivery at your convenience.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better.

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