Microwave technology had existed since 1947, but the first commercial unit was the size of a refrigerator, weighed 750 pounds, and cost $5,000. Amana shrunk it down to fit on a kitchen counter in 1967. The Radarange retailed for $495, about $4,500 in today's money. Most American homes wouldn't own one until the mid-80s. Early users were terrified of them. Rumors spread that they would sterilize you, give you cancer, or cook your hands if you opened the door too fast. None of which is true, but it took a generation to convince Americans that the kitchen had changed forever.