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21 November 2009

Answer to Question #265 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Cell Phones

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

Could you please explain, if it's true, that hands-free cell phone car microphones radiate more than any other instrument used with these phones? I heard that it was on the news but cannot seem to find the source or data. Thank you.

Hands-free cell phone car microphones have been tested by the manufacturers and meet the current ANSI/IEEE (American National Standards Institute/Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standards for radiofrequency (RF) safety. These are the same standards that the Federal Communications Commission enforces under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and they place limits on the specific absorption rate (SAR) of RF energy in the body. Recent inflammatory articles in the British press were not substantiated by testing at ISO-accredited testing facilities at Motorola. Manufacturers of cell phones are required under FCC regulations to assure that their products meet the SAR limits on both hand-held and hands-free units. Further information can be obtained on the Internet at The Center for Devices and Radiological Health (FDA information) or Office of Engineering and Technology (FCC information).

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