Simultaneous SAR testing is a method used to measure the amount of radio frequency (RF) energy absorbed by the tissue in the head and body when using multiple wireless devices simultaneously. With the increasing prevalence of mobile devices and wireless technology, there is a growing need to understand the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to RF energy.
This article will provide an overview of the SAR testing process, including the use of the Specific Anthropomorphic Mannequin (SAM) phantom for head and body SAR testing, the different test positions used, and the specific protocol for measuring SAR values. We will also discuss the importance of SAR testing in ensuring the safety of wireless technology use and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.
Simultaneous Head SAR Testing
Head SAR testing is conducted using the SAM phantom, which is designed to simulate the RF absorption characteristics of different human tissues. The mobile phone is placed under the phantom in the cheek or tilt position, and a radio frequency (RF) signal is sent to the phone at its highest power level. The SAR value is then measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg) to determine the rate at which RF energy is absorbed by the tissue in the head closest to the phone’s antenna.
In the cheek position, the phone is rotated so that the vertical center line goes through the middle of the phone, and then lifted against the phantom so that the ear and cheek touch it. In the tilt position, the angle is increased by 15 degrees, and other changes are not made compared to the cheek position.
Simultaneous Body SAR Testing
Body SAR testing is conducted using the flat part of the SAM phantom to measure the back and front side of the mobile phone. The phone is lifted until a separation distance of 5mm is reached between the mobile phone and the bottom of the phantom. The definitions on how to place the mobile phone under the phantom for both cheek and tilt positions, as well as body test position, are explained in detail in relevant standards.
The Importance of SAR Testing
SAR testing is critical in ensuring the safety of wireless technology use. The SAR value represents the amount of RF energy absorbed by the tissue in the head and body closest to the phone’s antenna. The SAR limit for mobile devices in the United States is 1.6 W/kg, and devices must be tested and certified to ensure they do not exceed this limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is SAR testing?
A: SAR testing is a method used to measure the amount of RF energy absorbed by the tissue in the head and body from wireless devices.
Q: Why is SAR testing important?
A: SAR testing is important in ensuring the safety of wireless technology use and ensuring that the level of RF exposure is within safe limits.
Q: What is the SAM phantom?
A: The SAM phantom is a model of the human head and body that is used in SAR testing to simulate the RF absorption characteristics of different human tissues.
Q: What is the SAR limit for mobile devices in the United States?
A: The SAR limit for mobile devices in the United States is 1.6 W/kg.
Q: What is the SAR testing protocol?
A: The SAR testing protocol involves a reference measurement, an area scan, a zoom scan, and a drift measurement to ensure the power from the device does not drift during the measurement.
Conclusion
SAR testing is a critical process in ensuring the safety of wireless technology use. The use of the SAM phantom and specific testing protocol provides a standardized and repeatable method for measuring the amount of RF energy absorbed by the tissue in the head and body. By adhering to SAR limits and testing protocols, we can better understand the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to RF energy and ensure the safety of wireless technology use.
While SAR testing is an important step in ensuring the safety of wireless technology, it is important to remember that there are still many unknowns when it comes to the long-term effects of RF energy exposure. As technology continues to advance and new wireless devices are introduced, it is important to continue to research and monitor the potential health risks associated with their use.
In addition to SAR testing, there are also other measures that individuals can take to reduce their RF exposure, such as using hands-free devices, keeping the mobile phone away from the body, and limiting mobile phone use, especially for children.
Overall, SAR testing is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of wireless technology use and should be taken seriously by manufacturers, regulators, and individuals alike. By following SAR limits and testing protocols, we can better understand and mitigate the potential risks associated with long-term exposure to RF energy.
