SK Teletech SKT800 Dual-Band CDMA Phone User Manual
SK Teletech Company Limited Dual-Band CDMA Phone Users Manual
Users Manual
User Manual
SK T800
2
LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT
1. WHAT THIS WARRANTY COVERS:
SK offers you a limited warranty that the enclosed subscriber unit and its enclosed accessories will be free from
defects in material and workmanship, according to the following terms and conditions:
(1) The limited warranty for the product extends for 15 months beginning on the date of manufacture, as
indicated on the date code on the product.
(2) The limited warranty extends on to the original purchaser of the product and is not assignable or
transferable to any subsequent purchaser/end user.
(3) This warranty is good only to the original purchaser of the product during the warranty period as long
as it is in the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories and Canada.
(4) The external housing and cosmetic parts shall not be covered under these limited warranty terms.
(5) Upon request from SK, the consumer must provide information to reasonably prove the date of
purchase.
(6) The customer shall bear the cost of shipping the product to the Customer Service Department of SK.
SK shall bear the cost of shipping the product back to the consumer after the completion of service
under this limited warranty.
2. WHAT THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER:
(1) Defects or damages resulting from use of the product in other than its normal and customary manner.
(2) Defects or damages from abnormal use, abnormal conditions, improper storage, exposure to moisture
or dampness, unauthorized modifications, unauthorized connections, unauthorized repair, misuse,
neglect, abuse, accident, alteration, improper installation, or other acts which are not the fault of SK,
including damage caused by shipping blown fuses spills of food or liquid.
(3) Breakage or damage to antennas unless caused directly by defects in material or workmanship.
(4) That the Customer Service Department at SK was net notified by consumer of the alleged defect or
malfunction of the product during the applicable limited warranty period.
(5) Products which have had the serial number removed or made illegible.
(6) The limited warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied either in fact or by operations
law, statutory or otherwise, including, but limited to any implied warranty of marketability or fitness
for a particular use.
(7) Damage resulting from use of non-SK approved accessories.
(8) All plastic surfaces and all other externally exposed parts that are scratched or damaged due to normal
customer use.
(9) Products operated outside published maximum ratings.
(10) Products used or obtained in a rental program.
(11) Consumables (such as fuses).
3. STATE LAW RIGHTS:
No other express warranty is applicable to this product. THE DURATION OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MARKETABILITY, IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF
THE EXPRESS WARRANTY HEREIN. SK INFOCOMM INC. SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR THE LOSS
OF THE USE OF THE PRODUCT, INCONVENIENCE, LOSS OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES, DIRECT OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, RISING OUT OF THE USE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PRODUCT OR FOR
ANY BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF MARKETABILITY APPLICABLE TO THIS PRODUCT. Some states do not allow the
exclusive of imitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty
lasts; so these limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and
you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
3
SUBJECT
The phone SK T800 has been designed to operate on the latest digital mobile communication technology, Code
Division Multiple Access (CDMA). The phone SK T800 support fully Multimedia color LCDs, 64poly Audio,
1.3M pixels Digital Camera, MPEG-4, Photo album, etc.
This phone is the one of tri - band tri - mode - 800Mhz CDMA, 1900Mhz PCS, 1500Mhz GPS.
CDMA Standard
Designator
Description
Basic air interface
TIA/EIA-95A
TSB-74
ANSI J-STD-008
TIA/EIA-IS2000
CDMA Dual –Mode Air Interface
14.4kbps radio link protocol and
Inter-band operations
IS-95 adapted for PCS frequency band
CDMA2000 1xRTT Air Interface
Network
TIA/EIA/IS-634
TIA/EIA/IS-651
TIA/EIA/IS-41-C
TIA/EIA/IS-124
MAS-BS
PCSC-RS
Intersystem operations
Nom-signaling data comm.
Service
TIA/EIA/IS-96-B
TIA/EIA/IS-99
TIA/EIA/IS-637
TIA/EIA/IS-657
IS-801
Speech CODEC
Assign data and fax
Short message service
Packet data
Position Determination Service(gpsOne)
Performance
TIA/EIA/IS-IS-97
TIA/EIA/IS-98
ANSI J-STD-018
ANSI J-STD-019
TIA/EIA/IS-125
Cellular base station
Cellular mobile station
PCS personal station
PCS base station
Speech CODEC
EVDO
TIA/EIA/IS-856
TIA/EIA/IS-878
TIA/EIA/IS-866
TIA/EIA/IS-890
CDMA2000 High Rate Packet Data Air Interface
1xEV-DO Inter-Operability Specification for
CDMA2000 Access Network Interfaces
Recommended Minimum Performance Standards for CDMA2000
High Rate Packet Data Access Terminal
Test Application Specification(TAS) for High
Rate Packet Data Air Interface
# TSB-74 : Protocol between an IS-95A system and ANSI J-STD-008
4
Introduction
Important Information
This user’s guide provides important information on the use and operation of the phone. Please read all the
information carefully prior to using the phone for the best performance and to prevent any anticipated damage to
or misuse of the phone. Any unapproved change or modification will void your warranty.
Check Accessories
Your mobile phone comes with standard accessories of a two-slot desktop charger and a rechargeable battery.
Please make sure that those accessories are all included.
Safety Instructions
WARNING! To reduce the electric shock, do not expose your phone in high humidity areas, such as the
bathroom, swimming pool.
IMPORTANT! Please read the SAFETY AND GENERAL INFORMATION on page 000 prior to using your
phone.
FCC RF Exposure Information
WARNING! Read this information before operating the phone
In August 1996 the Federal Communications (FCC) of the United States with its action in Report and Order FCC
96-326 adopted an updated safety standard for human exposure to radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic energy
emitted by FCC regulated transmitters. Those guidelines are consistent with the safety standard previously set by
both U.S. and international standards bodies. The design of this phone complies with the FCC guidelines and
these international standards.
Precautions
Please read the precautions carefully in order to prevent any damage. Read this user’s manual and keep it in a
safe place.
Using the phone while driving a car may cause traffic accident and may give an influence to
the electronic parts in the car. If you are to use the phone while driving, make sure to use a
safety device such as an ear-microphone.
Make sure to turn off the phone while you are in an airplane or at the hospital. Using the phone
in the restricted area may cause an accident of the transportation or may affect the medical
devices. (Please follow the instructions of the place on use of cellular phones.)
Using the phone where inflammable gas such as profane or gasoline erupts may cause
explosion or fire. Make sure to turn off the phone at the gas station or in areas where it may
cause fire or explosion.
Safety guides.
!
Avoid impact.
Impact on the phone may cause excessive heat or fire.
!
Be careful when using the phone in the rain.
Be careful not to have the phone wet in the rain, and do not use the phone when lightening
flashes.
5
Avoid metal products.
If a conductible material (aluminum foil, needle, necklace, metal chain, coin, key and etc.)
meets the bottom of the battery, the bottom of the phone or the metal part of the charger
instantaneously or continuously, the phone may generate excessive heat, fire, electric shock or
explosion. (Do not carry or store the phone and the battery on the bag or in the pocket with
metal products. The phone may be deformed, damaged or broken.)
!
Too loud ringer~
You may be startled at sudden vibration or ringer. Set the vibration and ringer to an appropriate
level. Keep your ears away from the speakers of the phone, or you may be startled or your
hearing may fall at sudden ringer.
If you have a hand strap or a neck strap attached to the phone~
You may get injured if the trap is pulled or caught by something. Be careful not to run against
something or tumble down with the phone inside the pocket.
The phone may get heated if you use the phone for a long time.
!
Using the phone near a high-voltage pole may cause electric shock or explosion of the battery.
In order to use the phone for a long time
Keep the rubber caps plugged to protect the phone against foreign substance except when you
need to remove the caps for intended purpose.
Do not disassemble or remodel the phone at your own discreet.
Please contact the authorized service center for repair.
!
Keep the phone away from a magnet.
Carrying or storing the phone with any magnetic material may cause malfunction.
You may suffer loss of money if you lose information on the magnetic cards (credit cards, bank
cards, transportation cards).
!
The phone is sensitive to radio wave.
The phone performance may be deteriorated if you use an unauthorized antenna or accessory,
or if you place the phone on any material that may interrupt radio wave (steel desk, computer,
microwave range and etc.). Do not put the phone or the battery in a microwave range. It may
explode.
Keep the phone clean.
The battery may not be recharged if the metal part on the charger or the battery is stained.
Wipe out the foreign substance with soft cloth or towel, and never use a chemical solution
(thinner, solvent, and etc.).
6
Be careful not to drop the phone.
Do not move violently or run with the phone hung on your neck with ear microphone or neck
strap. Do not sit on with the phone put in the rear pocket. The phone may be broken or
deformed.
Avoide water, fire and damp
Avoid water.
If the phone, battery, charger or other optional accessory is wet, the label inside the product
changes color, and electric shock, damage or heat may be resulted in. If the phone is wet, leave
the power off, remove the battery, and contact the nearest service center.
Watch out of fire.
The phone and the battery may explode in the fire.
Avoid excessive heat, cold weather, or where temperature changes severely.
The phone and the battery left in severe heat, under direct sunray, or inside the car in summer
time may result in explosion or fire. Performance and durability of the phone can be
deteriorated if it is stored in low temperature. Do not place the phone in front of the air
conditioner since high humidity and sudden temperature change may result in corrosion and
damage.
Keep the phone away from children or pets
Keep the phone dry.
Foreign substance or water in the phone, battery, charger or other optional accessories may
result in mechanical trouble or injury of children.
Make sure that the children should not swallow the parts including rubber caps (in stereo ear
microphone and bottom contact of the phone).
Teach the children how to use the phone, and check if they are using the phone properly.
Use the battery properly
Do not hold or contact the antenna with hands during the call to get better signal. Spinning the
phone while holding the antenna may give damage on the phone or the antenna, or may
decrease receiving sensitivity. If the antenna is broken, make sure to replace it immediately, or
you may be affected by electricity or scratched. Make sure to use the antenna supplied by SK
Teletech. Using unauthorized antenna may endanger safety, and may cause defect.
Make sure to use the genuine battery.
Using unauthorized battery may result in damage or explosion of the phone and the battery.
Do not give impact to the battery.
Damaged battery must be repaired by the authorized service engineer only. Disassembling or
repairing the battery by unauthorized person may result in fire or explosion.
7
Do not apply excessive force or give damage with a sharp tool.
Applying excessive force or boring battery with an awl or a pin may result in fire or explosion.
!
If the battery leaks,
Wash your skin with running water. If the solution runs into an eye, wash the eye with clean
water and see the doctor immediately.
When not in use for a long time,
If the phone is left unused with the battery installed, although the power is off, the battery may
leak and disable the phone. If you don’t use the phone for a long time, take the battery apart
from the phone. If you use the phone again (and when you first use the phone after
purchasing), charge the battery fully.
Turn the power off first.
If you remove the battery while the phone is on, the phone or the LCD screen may be
damaged.
Using the charger
Replace the battery.
Purchase a new battery if running time reduces by half. Because the battery is a consumable
part, repeated charging/discharging results in reduction of running time. Because the battery
contains the recyclable metal, make sure to dispose the battery to the designated place.
Check the contact points before charging the battery.
If the battery is mounted on the charger with incorrect polarity, the battery can be damaged or
exploded.
Charge the battery where it is well ventilated.
Covering the charger and the battery with cloth may result in fire.
Storing the charger
!
Pay attention to the power cord.
Do not pull the power cord of the charger, and do not place a heavy object on the power cord.
Damaged power cord may cause fire. Do not plug in the power with a wet hand to prevent
shock.
5
If you switch on the phone in 5 seconds after power off, the power key can be disabled.
Wait for 5 seconds before switching on the phone.
8
CAUTION
Use only the supplied or and approved antenna. Use of unauthorized antennas, modifications could impair call
quality, damage the phone or result in violation of FCC regulations. Do not use the phone with the damaged
antenna. If the damaged antenna comes into contact with the skin, a minor burn may result. Please contact your
local dealer for replacement of the antenna.
Body-worn Operation
SAR compliance for body-worn operating configurations is limited to the specific belt-clip/holster supplied
or approved by SK Teletech, if available. The use of accessories that do not satisfy these requirements may
not comply with FCC RF exposure compliance and should be avoided.
For more information about RF exposure, please visit the FCC Web site at www.fcc.gov.
Vehicle Mounted External Antenna
(optional, if available.)
A minimum separation distance of 7.9 inches (20) must be maintained between the user/bystander and the
vehicle mounted external antenna to satisfy FCC RF exposure requirements.
For more information about RF exposure, please visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov
FCC Part 15 Class B Compliance
This device and its accessories comply with part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device and its accessories may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device and its
accessories must accept any interference received, including interference that cause undesired operation.
Caution For Battery Use
→ Do not disassemble.
→ Do not short-circuit.
→ Do not exposure to high temperature : 60 (140 )
→ Do not incinerate.
Caring for Battery Use
→ Must be recycled or disposed of properly
Caution For Adapter (Charger) Use
→ Using the wrong battery charger could cause damage to your phone and void your warranty may burst causing
injury to person and damage.
→ The charger or adapter is intended for indoor use only.
→ The charger or adapter is intended for indoor use only.
Do not expose the battery charger or adapter to direct sunlight nor use it in any place of high humidity, such as
the bathroom.
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Contents
LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT...........................................................................2
SUBJECT .............................................................................................................................3
Introduction..........................................................................................................................4
Important Information......................................................................................................................................... 4
Check Accessories .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Safety Instructions .............................................................................................................................................. 4
FCC RF Exposure Information ........................................................................................................................... 4
Caution................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Body-worn Operation ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Vehicle Mounted External Antenna (optional, if available.) ..............................................................................8
FCC Part 15 Class B Compliance....................................................................................................................... 8
Caution For Battery Use ..................................................................................................................................... 8
Caring for Battery Use ....................................................................................................................................... 8
Caution For Adapter (Charger) Use.................................................................................................................... 8
Getting Started...................................................................................................................10
Installing and Removing the Battery ................................................................................................................ 10
Turning Your Phone On and Off ...................................................................................................................... 10
Main Menu ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
Power Save Mode ............................................................................................................................................. 10
Antenna............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Signal Strength.................................................................................................................................................. 10
Battery Capacity ...............................................................................................................................................10
Using the Travel Charger.................................................................................................................................. 10
Display Menu .....................................................................................................................11
Security............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Security Menu................................................................................................................................................... 11
Locking Your Phone......................................................................................................................................... 11
Unlocking Your Phone ..................................................................................................................................... 11
Changing the Lock Code .................................................................................................................................. 11
Safety Guideline ............................................................................................................................................... 11
TIA Safety Information .................................................................................................................................... 11
FDA Consumer Update .....................................................................................................14
Consumer Information on SAR (Specific Absorption Rate)............................................................................. 17
10
Getting Started
Installing and Removing the Battery
To install the battery, insert the bottom of the battery into the opening on the back of the phone. Then, push the
battery down until the latch clicks.
To remove the battery, press down on the latch and remove the battery from the phone.
Turning Your Phone On and Off
To turn your phone on, move the On/Off Switch (near the antenna) to the ON position. Your phone performs a
short self-test before letting you know it is operational.
If your phone does not turn on, make sure the battery is installed correctly and is adequately charged or has
external power (via the Travel Charger Vehicle Power Charger to Hands-Free Car Kit). To turn your phone off,
move the On/Off Switch to the OFF position.
Main Menu
When your phone acquires Service, the Greeting (a banner of text), the current time and date and the Main Menu
are displayed. If you are in authorized analog cellular provider’s service area, you are ready to send and receive
calls.
Power Save Mode
When the phone is in an area without service for 15 minutes, it stops searching for service and enters into the
power Save Mode. When your phone activates this feature, Power Save is displayed on your screen.
The phone automatically checks for service periodically or you can check manually by pressing any key.
Antenna
The antenna on your SK T800 provides maximum reception by extending of retracting it.
!!! WARNING – CHOKING HAZARD – ANTENNA MAY BECOME DISLODGED
Attempting to remove or repeated twisting of the antenna will loosen the materials securing it into antenna. Once
the antenna is loosened or removed, only an authorized service provider Representative can restore the antenna’s
original integrity. Do not attempt to remove or twist the antenna.
Signal Strength
The quality of each call you make or receive depends on the signal strength on your area. The number of bars in
the Signal Strength icon informs you of the current strength. The more bars, the stronger the signal.
Battery Capacity
Your SK T800 is equipped with a Lithium-ion battery. It allows you to recharge your battery before it is fully
drained.
Note: Long backlight settings affect the battery’s talk and standby times.
When the battery reaches 5% of its capacity, the battery icon blinks. When there is about one minute of talk time
left, the phone sounds an audible alert every 30 seconds and then powers down.
It is not necessary to let the battery completely run down before recharging.
To charge your batteries, use only approved charging accessories.
Using the Travel Charger
To charge the battery, plug the Travel Charger into a standard wall outlet and connect it to the phone via the I/O
Connector on the bottom of the phone. Alternatively, you can place the phone in the charging cradle provided
with your phone and connect the Travel Charger to the back of the cradle.
The battery Charge Status icon flashes during charging. When the battery is fully charged, the battery icon stops
flashing.
When the phone is turned on, check the Signal Strength icon to see of you are in a Service Area or authorized
PCS CDMA provider’s service area.
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Display Menu
Security
Accessing the Security Menu
You must enter your lock code to view the Security menu. If you forget your lock code, try using the last four
digits of your Social Security number, the last four digits of your Phone Number or 0000.
Security Menu
To access the Security menu:
1. From the Main Menu, select SETTING & TOOLS and press 4 – 2 (System – Security).
2. Enter your lock code.
Locking Your Phone
When your phone is locked, you can only make calls to 911, Customer Care and Special Numbers or receive
incoming calls.
To lock your phone:
1. From the Security menu, highlight Lock Phone and press [OK].
2. Highlight Lock Now or On Power up and press [OK]. If you select On Power Up, the phone will be locked
each time it power up.
Unlocking Your Phone
1. Highlight Unlock and press [OK].
2. Enter your lock code.
Changing the Lock Code
To change your lock code:
1. From the Security menu, highlight Change Lock and press [OK].
2. Enter your new lock code.
3. Reenter your new lock code.
Safety Guideline
Provided herein is the TIA Safety Information for Wireless Handheld phones. Inclusion of this text in the
terminal unit’s owner’s manual is required for CTIA Certification.
TIA Safety Information
Provided herein is the complete TIA Safety Information for Wireless Handheld phones. Inclusion of the text
covering Pacemakers, Hearing Aids, and Other Medical Devices is required in the owner’s manual for CTIA
Certification. Use of the remaining TIA language is encouraged when appropriate.
EXPOSURE TO RADIO FREQUENCY SIGNALS
Your wireless handheld portable telephone is a low power radio transmitter and receiver. When it is ON, it
receives and also sends out radio frequency (RF) signals.
In August, 1996, the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) adopted RF exposure guidelines with safety
levels for hand-held wireless phones. Those guidelines are consistent with the safety standards previously set by
both U.S. and international standards bodies:
ANSI C95.1 (1992)*
NCRP Report 86 (1986)
ICNIRP (1996)
Those standards were based on comprehensive and periodic evaluations of the relevant scientific
12
# American National Standards Institute; National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements;
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
literature. For example, over 120 scientists, engineers, and physicians from universities, government health
agencies, and industry reviewed the available body of research to develop the ANSI Standard (C95.1).
The design of your phone complies with the FCC guidelines (and those standards).
ANTENNA CARE
Use only the supplied or an approved replacement antenna. Unauthorized antennas, modifications, or
attachments could damage the phone and may violate FCC regulations.
PHONE OPERATION
NORMAL POSITION: Hold the phone as you would any other telephone with the antenna pointed up and over
your shoulder.
TIPS ON EFFICIENT OPERATION:
→ For your phone to operate most efficiently:
→ Extend your antenna fully.
Do not touch the antenna unnecessarily when the phone is in use. Contact with the antenna affects call
quality and may cause the phone to operate at a higher power level than otherwise needed.
# American National Standards Institute; National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements;
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
DRIVING
Check the laws and regulations on the use of wireless telephones in the areas where you drive. Always obey
them. Also, if using your phone while driving, please:
→ Give full attention to driving -- driving safely is your first responsibility;
→ Use hands-free operation, if available;
→ Pull off the road and park before making or answering a call if driving conditions so require.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from RF signals. However, certain electronic equipment may not
be shielded against the RF signals from your wireless phone.
Pacemakers
The Health Industry Manufacturers Association recommends that a minimum separation of six (6”) inches be
maintained between a handheld wireless phone and a pacemaker to avoid potential interference with the
pacemaker. These recommendations are consistent with the independent research by and recommendations of
Wireless Technology Research.
Persons with pacemakers:
→ Should ALWAYS keep the phone more than six inches from their pacemaker when the phone is turned ON;
→ Should not carry the phone in a breast pocket;
→ Should use the ear opposite the pacemaker to minimize the potential for interference.
→ If you have any reason to suspect that interference is taking place, turn your phone OFF immediately.
Hearing Aids
Some digital wireless phones may interfere with some hearing aids. In the event of such interference, you may
want to consult your service provider [or call the customer service line to discuss alternatives.] Optional for each
phone manufacturer.
Other Medical Devices
If you use any other personal medical device, consult the manufacturer of your device to determine if they are
adequately shielded from external RF energy. Your physician may be able to assist you in obtaining this
information.
13
Turn your phone OFF in health care facilities when any regulations posted in these areas instruct you to do so.
Hospitals or health care facilities may be using equipment that could be sensitive to external RF energy.
Vehicles
RF signals may affect improperly installed or inadequately shielded electronic systems in motor vehicles. Check
with the manufacturer or its representative regarding your vehicle. You should also consult the manufacturer of
any equipment that has been added to your vehicle.
Posted Facilities
Turn your phone OFF in any facility where posted notices so require.
AIRCRAFT
FCC regulations prohibit using your phone while in the air. Switch OFF your phone before boarding an aircraft.
BLASTING AREAS
To avoid interfering with blasting operations, turn your phone OFF when in a “blasting area” or in areas posted:
“Turn off two-way radio”. Obey all signs and instructions.
POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES
Turn your phone OFF when in any area with a potentially explosive atmosphere and obey all signs and
instructions. Sparks in such areas could cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily injury or even death.
Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not always marked clearly. Potential areas may
include: fueling areas (such as gasoline stations); below deck on boats; fuel or chemical transfer or storage
facilities; vehicles using liquefied petroleum gas (such as propane or butane); areas where the air contains
chemicals or particles (such as grain, dust, or metal powders); and any other area where you would normally be
advised to turn off your vehicle engine.
For Vehicles Equipped with an Air Bag
An air bag inflates with great force. DO NOT place objects, including either installed or portable wireless
equipment, in the area over the air bag or in the air bag deployment area. If in-vehicle wireless equipment is
improperly installed and the air bag inflates, serious injury could result.
14
FDA Consumer Update
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health Consumer Update on
Mobile Phones
1. Do wireless phones pose a health hazard?
The available scientific evidence does not show that any health problems are associated with using wireless
phones. There is no proof, however, that wireless phones are absolutely safe. Wireless phones emit low levels of
radiofrequency energy (RF) in the microwave range while being used.
They also emit very low levels of RF when in the stand-by mode.
Whereas high levels of RF can produce health effects (by heating tissue), exposure to low level RF that does not
produce heating effects causes no known adverse health effects. Many studies of low level RF exposures have
not found any biological effects. Some studies have suggested that some biological effects may occur, but such
findings have not been confirmed by additional research. In some cases, other researchers have had difficulty in
reproducing those studies, or in determining the reasons for inconsistent results.
2. What is FDA's role concerning the safety of wireless phones?
Under the law, FDA does not review the safety of radiation-emitting consumer products such as wireless phones
before they can be sold, as it does with new drugs or medical devices. However, the agency has authority to take
action if wireless phones are shown to emit radiofrequency energy (RF) at a level that is hazardous to the user. In
such a case, FDA could require the manufacturers of wireless phones to notify users of the health hazard and to
repair, replace or recall the phones so that the hazard no longer exists.
Although the existing scientific data do not justify FDA regulatory actions, FDA has urged the wireless phone
industry to take a number of steps, including the following:
→ Support needed research into possible biological effects of RF of the type emitted by wireless phones;
→ Design wireless phones in a way that minimizes any RF exposure to the user that is not necessary for device
function; and
→ Cooperate in providing users of wireless phones with the best possible information on possible effects of
wireless phone use on human health.
FDA belongs to an interagency working group of the federal agencies that have responsibility for different
aspects of RF safety to ensure coordinated efforts at the federal level. The following agencies belong to this
working group:
→ National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
→ Environmental Protection Agency
→ Federal Communications Commission
→ Occupational Safety and Health Administration
→ National Telecommunications and Information Administration
The National Institutes of Health participates in some interagency working group activities, as well.
FDA shares regulatory responsibilities for wireless phones with the
Federal Communications Commission (FCC). All phones that are sold in the United States must comply with
FCC safety guidelines that limit RF exposure. FCC relies on FDA and other health agencies for safety questions
about wireless phones.
FCC also regulates the base stations that the wireless phone networks rely upon. While these base stations
operate at higher power than do the wireless phones themselves, the RF exposures that people get from these
base stations are typically thousands of times lower than those they can get from wireless phones. Base stations
are thus not the subject of the safety questions discussed in this document.
3. What kinds of phones are the subject of this update?
The term “wireless phone” refers here to hand-held wireless phones with built-in antennas, often called “cell,”
“mobile,” or “PCS” phones. These types of wireless phones can expose the user to measurable radiofrequency
energy (RF) because of the short distance between the phone and the user’s head. These RF exposures are limited
by Federal Communications Commission safety guidelines that were developed with the advice of FDA and
other federal health and safety agencies. When the phone is located at greater distances from the user, the
exposure to RF is drastically lower because a person's RF exposure decreases rapidly with increasing distance
15
from the source. The so-called "cordless phones," which have a base unit connected to the telephone wiring in a
house, typically operate at far lower power levels, and thus produce RF exposures far below the FCC safety
limits.
4. What are the results of the research done already?
The research done thus far has produced conflicting results, and many studies have suffered from flaws in their
research methods. Animal experiments investigating the effects of radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures
characteristic of wireless phones have yielded conflicting results that often cannot be repeated in other
laboratories. A few animal studies, however, have suggested that low levels of RF could accelerate the
development of cancer in laboratory animals. However, many of the studies that showed increased tumor
development used animals that had been genetically engineered or treated with cancer-causing chemicals so as to
be pre-disposed to develop cancer in the absence of RF exposure.
Other studies exposed the animals to RF for up to 22 hours per day.
These conditions are not similar to the conditions under which people use wireless phones, so we don’t know
with certainty what the results of such studies mean for human health. Three large epidemiology studies have
been published since December 2000. Between them, the studies investigated any possible association between
the use of wireless phones and primary brain cancer, glioma, meningioma, or acoustic neuroma, tumors of the
brain or salivary gland, leukemia, or other cancers. None of the studies demonstrated the existence of any
harmful health effects from wireless phone RF exposures. However, none of the studies can answer questions
about long-term exposures, since the average period of phone use in these studies was around three years.
5. What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure from wireless phones poses a health risk?
A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies of people actually using wireless phones would
provide some of the data that are needed. Lifetime animal exposure studies could be completed in a few years.
However, very large numbers of animals would be needed to provide reliable proof of a cancer promoting effect
if one exists.
Epidemiological studies can provide data that is directly applicable to human populations, but 10 or more years’
follow-up may be needed to provide answers about some health effects, such as cancer. This is because the
interval between the time of exposure to a cancer-causing agent and the time tumors develop - if they do - may
be many, many years. The interpretation of epidemiological studies is hampered by difficulties in measuring
actual RF exposure during day-to-day use of wireless phones. Many factors affect this measurement, such as the
angle at which the phone is held, or which model of phone is used.
6. What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects of wireless phone RF?
FDA is working with the U.S. National Toxicology Program and with groups of investigators around the world
to ensure that high priority animal studies are conducted to address important questions about the effects of
exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF).
FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health Organization International Electromagnetic Fields
(EMF) Project since its inception in 1996. An influential result of this work has been the development of a
detailed agenda of research needs that has driven the establishment of new research programs around the world.
The Project has also helped develop a series of public information documents on EMF issues.
FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal Cooperative Research
and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless phone safety. FDA provides the scientific
oversight, obtaining input from experts in government, industry, and academic organizations. CTIA-funded
research is conducted through contracts to independent investigators. The initial research will include both
laboratory studies and studies of wireless phone users. The CRADA will also include a broad assessment of
additional research needs in the context of the latest research developments around the world.
7. How can I find out how much radiofrequency energy exposure I can get by using my wireless phone?
All phones sold in the United States must comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines
that limit radiofrequency energy (RF) exposures. FCC established these guidelines in consultation with FDA and
the other federal health and safety agencies.
The FCC limit for RF exposure from wireless telephones is set at a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.6 watts
per kilogram (1.6 W/kg).
The FCC limit is consistent with the safety standards developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic
Engineering (IEEE) and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurement. The exposure limit
takes into consideration the body’s ability to remove heat from the tissues that absorb energy from the wireless
phone and is set well below levels known to have effects.
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Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for each model of phone to the FCC. The
FCC website (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives directions for locating the FCC identification number on
your phone so you can find your phone’s RF exposure level in the online listing.
8. What has FDA done to measure the radiofrequency energy coming from wireless phones?
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is developing a technical standard for measuring the
radiofrequency energy (RF) exposure from wireless phones and other wireless handsets with the participation
and leadership of FDA scientists and engineers. The standard, “Recommended Practice for Determining the
Spatial-Peak Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in the Human Body Due to Wireless Communications Devices:
Experimental Techniques,” sets forth the first consistent test methodology for measuring the rate at which RF is
deposited in the heads of wireless phone users. The test method uses a tissue-simulating model of the human
head. Standardized SAR test methodology is expected to greatly improve the consistency of measurements made
at different laboratories on the same phone. SAR is the measurement of the amount of energy absorbed in tissue,
either by the whole body or a small part of the body. It is measured in watts/kg (or milliwatts/g) of matter. This
measurement is used to determine whether a wireless phone complies with safety guidelines.
9. What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radiofrequency energy from my wireless phone?
If there is a risk from these products--and at this point we do not know that there is--it is probably very small. But
if you are concerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your
exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives,
reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless phone will reduce RF exposure.
→ If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every day, you could place more distance
between your body and the source of the RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For
example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless phone away from your body or use a wireless phone
connected to a remote antenna
Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless phones are harmful. But if you are concerned about
the RF exposure from these products, you can use measures like those described above to reduce your RF
exposure from wireless phone use.
10. What about children using wireless phones?
The scientific evidence does not show a danger to users of wireless phones, including children and teenagers. If
you want to take steps to lower exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF), the measures described above would
apply to children and teenagers using wireless phones. Reducing the time of wireless phone use and increasing
the distance between the user and the RF source will reduce RF exposure.
Some groups sponsored by other national governments have advised that children be discouraged from using
wireless phones at all. For example, the government in the United Kingdom distributed leaflets containing such a
recommendation in December 2000. They noted that no evidence exists that using a wireless phone causes brain
tumors or other ill effects.
Their recommendation to limit wireless phone use by children was strictly precautionary; it was not based on
scientific evidence that any health hazard exists.
11. What about wireless phone interference with medical equipment?
Radiofrequency energy (RF) from wireless phones can interact with some electronic devices. For this reason,
FDA helped develop a detailed test method to measure electromagnetic interference (EMI) of implanted cardiac
pacemakers and defibrillators from wireless telephones. This test method is now part of a standard sponsored by
the Association for the Advancement of Medical instrumentation (AAMI). The final draft, a joint effort by FDA,
medical device manufacturers, and many other groups, was completed in late 2000. This standard will allow
manufacturers to ensure that cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators are safe from wireless phone EMI.
FDA has tested hearing aids for interference from handheld wireless phones and helped develop a voluntary
standard sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). This standard specifies test
methods and performance requirements for hearing aids and wireless phones so that that no interference occurs
when a person uses a “compatible” phone and a “compatible” hearing aid at the same time. This standard was
approved by the IEEE in 2000.
FDA continues to monitor the use of wireless phones for possible interactions with other medical devices. Should
harmful interference be found to occur, FDA will conduct testing to assess the interference and work to resolve
the problem.
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12. Where can I find additional information?
For additional information, please refer to the following resources:
→ FDA web page on wireless phones
(http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/phones/index.html)
→ Federal Communications Commission (FCC) RF Safety Program
(http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety)
→ International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
(http://www.icnirp.de)
→ World Health Organization (WHO) International EMF Project
(http://www.who.int/emf)
→ National Radiological Protection Board (UK)
(http://www.nrpb.org.uk/)
Consumer Information on SAR (Specific Absorption Rate)
THIS MODEL PHONE MEETS THE GOVERNMENT’S REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXPOSURE TO RADIO WAVES.
Your wireless phone is a radio transmitter and receiver. It is designed and manufactured not to exceed the
emission limits for exposure to radiofrequency (RF) energy set by the Federal Communications ‘Commission of
the U.S. Government. These limits are part of comprehensive guidelines and establish permitted levels of RF
energy for the general population. The guidelines are based on standards that were developed by independent
scientific organizations through periodic and thorough evaluation of scientific studies. The standards include a
substantial safety margin designed to assure the safety of all persons, regardless of age and health.
The exposure standard for wireless mobile phones employs a unit of measurement known as the Specific
Absorption Rate, or SAR. The SAR limit set by the FCC is 1.6W/kg. *Tests for SAR are conducted using
standard operating positions specified by the FCC with the phone transmitting at its highest certified power level,
the actual SAR level of the phone while operating can be well below the maximum value. This is because the
phone is designed to operate at multiple power levels so as to use only the power required to reach the network.
In general, the closer you are to a wireless base station antenna, the lower the power output.
Before a phone model is available for sale to the public, it must be tested and certified to the FCC that it does not
exceed the limit established by the government-adopted requirement for safe exposure. The tests are performed
in positions and locations (e.g., at the ear and worn on the body) as required by the FCC for each model.
[Labeling Committee note: if applicable, if body-worn SARs are required]. While there may be differences
between the SAR levels of various phones and at various positions, they all meet the government requirement for
safe exposure.
The FCC has granted an Equipment Authorization for this model phone with all reported SAR levels evaluated
as in compliance with the FCC RF emission guidelines. SAR information on this model phone is on file with the
FCC and can be found under the Display Gant section of http://www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid after searching on FCC ID
OL6SK T800.
Additional information about Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) can be found on the Cellular
Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA) web-site at http://www.wow-com.com.
*In the United States and Canada, the SAR limit for mobile phones used by the public is 1.6 watts/kg (W/kg)
averaged over one gram of tissue. The standard incorporates a substantial margin of safety to give additional
protection for the public and to account for any variations in measurements.