Samsung Electronics Co SGHE215L Cellular/PCS GSM Phone with Bluetooth User Manual E210
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd Cellular/PCS GSM Phone with Bluetooth E210
Users Manual
* Depending on the software installed or your service provider or country, some of the descriptions in this guide may
not match your phone exactly.
* Depending on your country, your phone and accessories may appear different from the illustrations in this guide.
World Wide Web
http://www.samsungmobile.com
Printed in Korea
Code No.:GH68-XXXXXA
English (LTN) . 04/2008. Rev. 1.0
SGH-E215L
User’s Guide
Draft01
Important safety
precautions
Drive safely at all times
Do not use a hand-held phone while driving. Park
your vehicle first.
Switch off the phone when refuelling
Do not use the phone at a refuelling point (service
station) or near fuels or chemicals.
Switch off in an aircraft
Wireless phones can cause interference. Using
them in an aircraft is both illegal and dangerous.
Switch off the phone near all medical
equipment
Hospitals or health care facilities may be using
equipment that could be sensitive to external radio
frequency energy. Follow any regulations or rules in
force.
Interference
All wireless phones may be subject to interference,
which could affect their performance.
Failure to comply with the following
precautions may be dangerous or illegal.
Copyright information
•Bluetooth
®
is a registered trademark of the
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. worldwide.
Bluetooth QD ID : B012882
•Java
TM
is a trademark or registered trademark of
Sun Microsystems, Inc.
• Picsel and Picsel Viewer
TM
are trademarks of
Picsel Technologies, Inc.
1
Be aware of special regulations
Meet any special regulations in force in any area
and always switch off your phone whenever it is
forbidden to use it, or when it may cause
interference or danger.
Water resistance
Your phone is not water-resistant. Keep it dry.
Sensible use
Use only in the normal position (held to your ear).
Avoid unnecessary contact with the antenna when
the phone is switched on.
Emergency calls
Key in the emergency number for your present
location, then press .
Keep your phone away from small children
Keep the phone and all its parts, including
accessories, out of the reach of small children.
Accessories and batteries
Use only Samsung-approved batteries and
accessories, such as headsets and PC data cables.
Use of any unauthorised accessories could damage
you or your phone and may be dangerous.
Qualified service
Only qualified service personnel may repair your
phone.
For more detailed safety information, see "Health
and safety information" on page 38.
• The phone could explode if the battery is
replaced with an incorrect type.
• Dispose of used batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
At very high volumes, prolonged listening
to a headset can damage your hearing.
2
About this Guide
This User’s Guide provides you with condensed
information about how to use your phone.
In this guide, the following instruction icons
appear:
Indicates that you need to pay careful
attention to the subsequent information
regarding safety or phone features.
→
Indicates that you need to press the
Navigation keys to scroll to the specified
option and then select it.
[ ] Indicates a key on the phone.
For example, [ ]
< > Indicates a soft key, whose function is
displayed on the phone screen. For
example, <
Menu
>
• Camera and camcorder
Use the camera module on your
phone to take a photo or record
a video.
Special
features of your phone
•Music player
Play music files on your phone.
You can use other phone
functions while listening to
music.
•FM radio
Listen to your favourite radio
stations anytime, anywhere.
3
•Offline mode
Switch your phone to Offline
mode to use its non-wireless
functions while on an
aeroplane.
•Bluetooth
Transfer media files and
personal data, and connect to
other devices using wireless
Bluetooth technology.
•Web browser
Access the wireless web to get
up-to-the-minute information
and a wide variety of media
content.
• Multimedia Message Service
(MMS)
Send and receive MMS
messages with a combination of
text, images, video, and audio.
•SOS message
Send SOS messages to your
family or friends for help in an
emergency.
•Organiser
Keep track of your daily,
weekly, and monthly schedule.
4
Contents
Unpack 6
Make sure you have each item
Get started 6
First steps to operating your phone
Assemble and charge the phone ..................... 6
Power on or off.............................................. 7
Phone layout ................................................. 7
Keys and icons .............................................. 8
Access menu functions .................................. 12
Enter text .................................................... 12
Customise your phone................................... 14
Step outside the phone 16
Begin with call functions, camera, music player, web
browser, and other special features
Make or answer calls ..................................... 16
Use the camera ............................................ 17
Play music................................................... 19
Listen to the FM radio ................................... 20
Browse the web ........................................... 21
Use Phonebook ............................................ 22
Send messages............................................ 23
View messages ............................................ 24
Use Bluetooth .............................................. 24
Menu functions 27
All menu options listed
Health and safety information 38
5
1 Call log
1 Recent contacts
2 Missed calls
3 Dialled calls
4 Received calls
5 Delete all
6 Call time
7 Call costs
1
2 Phonebook
1 Contact list
2 Create contact
3 Group
4 Speed dial
5 My namecard
6 Own numbers
7 Management
8 Service number
1
3 Applications
‡‡
1 Music player
2 Voice recorder
3 Alarm
4 FM radio
3 Applications
‡‡
5 World clock
6 Browser
‡
7 Java world
‡
8 Calculator
9 Converter
10 Timer
11 Stopwatch
12 Memo
13 SIM application toolkit
1
4 Yahoo search/Google/
Java world/Bluetooth‡
5 Messages
1 Create message
2 My messages
3 Templates
4 Delete all
5 Settings
6 SOS messages
7 Memory status
6 My files
1 Images
2 Videos
3 Music
4 Sounds
5 Other files
6 Memory card
2
7 Memory status
7 Calendar
8 Camera
9 Settings
‡‡
1 Time and date
2 Phone settings
3 Display settings
4 Sound settings
5 Light settings
9 Settings
‡‡
6 Network services
7 Bluetooth
‡
8 Security
9 Connection settings
10 Reset settings
10
1. Available only if supported
by your SIM card.
2. Available only if a memory
card is inserted.
‡ If the Yahoo search and
Google services are not
available, Browser, Java
world, or Bluetooth will
display in menu 4.
‡‡If the Yahoo search and
Google services are not
available, the order of
submenus will change.
Overview of menu functions
To access Menu mode, press <
Menu
> in Idle mode.
6
Unpack
Make sure you have each item
• Phone
•Travel adapter
•Battery
• User’s Guide
You can obtain various accessories from your
local Samsung dealer.
Get started
First steps to operating your phone
Assemble and charge the phone
The items supplied with your phone and the
accessories available at your Samsung dealer
may vary, depending on your country or service
provider.
To AC pow er
outlet
7
Removing the battery cover
Power on or off
Phone layout
With the phone open
Switch on
1. Open the phone.
2. Press and hold [ ].
3. If necessary, enter the
PIN and press <
OK
>.
Switch off
1. Open the phone.
2. Press and hold [ ].
Special
function keys
Power/Menu
exit key
Mouthpiece
Web access/
Confirm key
Volume keys
Left soft key
Right soft key
Navigation keys
(Up/Down/Left/
Right)
Main display
Delete key
Dial key
Alphanumeric
keys
Earpiece
Memory card
slot
Get started
8
With the phone closed
Keys and icons
Keys
Camera lens
External display
Multi-function jack
Camera key
Perform the function indicated on the
bottom line of the display.
In Idle mode, access the following
menus directly.
• Up: My menu mode
• Down/Left/Right: your favourite
menus
In Menu mode, scroll through menu
options.
In Idle mode, launch the web
browser.
In Menu mode, select the highlighted
menu option or confirm input.
9
Make or answer a call.
In Idle mode, retrieve the numbers
recently dialled, missed, or received.
Delete characters from the display or
items in an application.
Press and hold to switch the phone
on or off.
End a call.
In Menu mode, cancel input and
return the phone to Idle mode.
Enter numbers, letters, and some
special characters. In Idle mode,
press and hold [
1
] to access your
voicemail server. Press and hold [
0
]
to enter an international call prefix.
Enter special characters or perform
special functions. In Idle mode, press
and hold [ ] to activate or
deactivate Silent mode. Press and
hold [ ] to enter a pause between
numbers.
Adjust the phone volume.
Get started
10
Icons
The following icons may appear on the top line
of the screen to indicate your phone’s status.
Depending on your country or service provider,
the icons shown on the display may vary.
Signal strength
GPRS (2.5G) network or browsing
Internet on PC using phone as
modem
Connecting to GPRS (2.5G)
network
Transferring data in GPRS (2.5G)
network
Call in progress
Out of your service area or Offline
mode
Connected to secured web page
Synchronised with PC
Call diverting active
Home Zone
Office Zone
Roaming network
11
New message
• : Text, Multimedia, or
Configuration message
•: Voicemail
Bluetooth hands-free car kit or
headset connected
Bluetooth active
Memory card inserted
SOS message feature active
Alarm set
FM radio on
Silent mode (Mute)
Silent mode (Vibration)
Call ringer set to vibrate
Mute mode, during a call
Whisper mode, during a call
Battery power level
Get started
12
Access menu functions
Enter text
Select an
option
1. Press a desired soft key.
2. Press the Navigation keys to
move to the next or
previous option.
3. Press <
Select
> or [
OK
] to
confirm the function
displayed or option
highlighted.
4. Press <
Back
> to move up
one level.
Press [ ] to return to Idle
mode.
Use menu
numbers
Press the number key
corresponding to the option
you want.
Change the
text input
mode
• Press and hold [ ] to switch
between T9 mode and ABC
mode.
• Press [ ] to change case or
switch to Number mode.
• Press and hold [ ] to switch
to Symbol mode.
13
ABC mode
To en t e r a w or d:
Press the appropriate key until
the character you want appears
on the display.
T9 mode
To en t e r a w or d:
1. Press [
2
] to [
9
]
to start
entering a word.
2. Enter the whole word before
editing or deleting
characters.
3. When the word displays
correctly, press [ ] to insert
a space.
Otherwise, press [
0
] to
display alternative word
choices.
Number
mode
Press the keys corresponding
to the digits you want.
Symbol
mode
Press the corresponding
number key to select a symbol.
Other
operations
•Press [
1
] to enter
punctuation marks or
special characters.
• Press [ ] to insert a space.
• Press the Navigation keys to
move the cursor.
•Press [
C
] to delete
characters one by one.
•Press and hold [
C
] to clear
the entire display.
Get started
14
Customise your phone
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Phone
settings
→
Language
.
2. Select a language.
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Sound
settings
→
Incoming call
→
Ringtone
.
2. Select a ringtone category.
3. Select a ringtone.
4. Press <
Save
>.
Display
language
Call ringer
melody
In Idle mode, press [Volume]
to adjust the key tone volume.
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Display
settings
→
Wallpaper
→
Main display
.
2. Select an image category.
3. Select an image.
4. Press <
Select
>.
5. Press <
Save
>.
Key tone
volume
Idle mode
wallpaper
15
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Display
settings
→
Skin
.
2. Select a colour pattern.
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Phone
settings
→
Shortcuts
.
2. Select a key.
3. Select a menu to be
assigned to the key.
Menu mode
skin colour
Menu
shortcuts
You can switch the phone to
Silent mode to avoid disturbing
other people. In Idle mode,
press and hold [ ].
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Security
→
Phone lock
.
2. Select
Enable
.
3. Enter a new 4- to 8-digit
password and press <
OK
>.
4. Enter the new password
again and press <
OK
>.
Silent mode
Phone lock
16
Step outside the phone
Begin with call functions, camera, music player,
web browser, and other special features
Make or answer calls
1. In Idle mode, enter an area
code and phone number.
2. Press [ ].
Press [Volume] to adjust
the volume.
3. Press [ ] to end the call.
1. When the phone rings,
press [ ].
2. Press [ ] to end the call.
Make a call
Answer a call
During a call, press [
OK
] and
then <
Yes
> to activate the
speaker.
Press [
OK
] again to switch
back to the earpiece.
In noisy environments, you may have difficulty
hearing the calls while using the speakerphone
feature. For better audio performance, use the
normal phone mode.
1. During a call, call the
second participant.
2. Press <
Options
> and
select
Join
.
3. Repeat step 1 and 2 to add
more participants.
Use the
speakerphone
feature
Make a multi-
party call
17
Use the camera
4. During a multi-party call,
press <
Options
> and
select
Select one
:
• Press <
Options
> and
select
Private
to have a
private conversation with
one participant.
• Press <
Options
> and
select
Removed
to drop
one participant.
5. Press [ ] to end the
multi-party call.
1. In Idle mode, press and
hold [Camera] to turn on
the camera.
2. Aim the lens at the subject
and make any desired
adjustments.
3. Press [
OK
] or [Camera] to
take a photo. The photo is
saved automatically.
4.
Pres
s <
Preview
> to take
another photo.
Take a photo
Step outside the phone
18
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
My
files
→
Images
→
My
photos
.
2. Select the photo you want.
1. In Idle mode, press and
hold [Camera] to turn on
the camera.
2. Press [
1
] to switch to
Record mode.
3. Press [
OK
] or [Camera] to
start recording.
View a photo
Record a
video
4. Press [
OK
], < >, or
[Camera] to stop recording.
The video is saved
automatically.
5. Press < > to record
another video.
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
My
files
→
Videos
→
My
video
clips
.
2. Select the video you want.
View a video
19
Play music
Use these methods:
• Download from the wireless
web.
• Download from a PC using
the optional Samsung PC
Studio. See Samsung PC
Studio User’s Guide.
• Receive via Bluetooth.
• Copy to a memory card and
insert the card into the
phone.
Copy music
files to the
phone
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Applications
→
Music
player
.
2. Press <
Options
> and
select
Add music from
→
a
memory location.
3. Press [
OK
] to select files
and press <
Add
>.
4. Press <
Back
> to return to
the music player screen.
Create a
playlist
Step outside the phone
20
Listen to the FM radio
1. From the music player
screen, press [
OK
].
2. During playback, use the
following keys:
•
OK
: pause or resume
playback.
• Left: return to the
previous file. Press and
hold to scan backward in
a file.
• Right: skip to the next
file. Press and hold to
scan forward in a file.
• Up: open the playlist.
• Volume: adjust the
volume.
3. Press [Down] to stop
playback.
Play music
files
1. Plug the connecter of the
supplied headset into the
multi-function jack on the
phone.
2. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
>
and select
Applications
→
FM radio
.
3. Press [
OK
] to turn on the
radio.
4. Press [Left] or [Right] to
find available radio stations.
5. Press [
OK
] to turn off the
radio.
Listen to the
radio
21
Browse the web
1. From the station list, press
<
Options
> and select
Add
.
2. Enter the frequency of the
station and press <
Save
>.
In Idle mode, press [
OK
]. The
homepage of your service
provider opens.
Store radio
stations
Launch the
web browser
• To scroll through browser
items, press [Up] or
[Down].
• To select an item, press
[
OK
].
• To return to the previous
page, press <
Back
>.
• To access browser options,
press <
Options
>.
Navigate
the web
Step outside the phone
22
Use Phonebook
1. In Idle mode, enter a phone
number and press
<
Options
>.
2. Select
Save contact
→
a
memory location
→
New
.
3. For
Phone
, select a number
type.
4. Specify contact information.
5. Press <
Save
> or [
OK
] to
save the contact.
Add a contact
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Contacts
>.
2. Enter the first few letters of
the name you want.
3. Select a contact.
4. Scroll to a number and
press [ ] to dial, or press
[
OK
] to edit contact
information.
Find a contact
23
Send messages
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Messages
→
Create
message
→
Text
message
.
2. Enter the message text.
3. Press <
Options
> and
select
Save and send
or
Send only
.
4. Enter destination numbers.
5. Press [
OK
] to send the
message.
Send a text
message
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Messages
→
Create
message
→
Multimedia
message
.
2. Select
Subject
.
3. Enter the message subject
and press [
OK
].
4. Select
Image or video
and
add an image or a video
clip.
5. Select
Sound
and add a
sound clip.
6. Select
Text
.
7. Enter the message text and
press [
OK
].
Send a
multimedia
message
Step outside the phone
24
View messages Use Bluetooth
Your phone is equipped with Bluetooth
technology, enabling you to connect the phone
wirelessly to other Bluetooth devices and
exchange data with them, talk hands-free, or
control the phone remotely.
8. Press <
Options
> and
select
Send
.
9. Enter destination numbers
or email addresses.
10.Press [
OK
] to send the
message.
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Messages
→
My
messages
→
Inbox
.
2. Select a text message.
View a text
message
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Messages
→
My
messages
→
Inbox
.
2. Select a multimedia
message.
View a
multimedia
message
25
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
‡
→
Bluetooth
→
Activation
→
On
.
‡
Bluetooth
is available
under
Settings
if the
Yahoo search or Google
service is available.
2. Select
My phone’s
visibility
→
On
to allow
other devices to locate your
phone.
Turn on
Bluetooth
1. In Idle mode, press
<
Menu
> and select
Settings
→
Bluetooth
→
My devices
→
Search for
new devices
.
2. Select a device.
3. Enter a Bluetooth PIN or the
other device’s Bluetooth
PIN, if it has one, and press
<
OK
>.
When the owner of the
other device enters the
same code, pairing is
complete.
Search for
and pair with
a Bluetooth
device
Step outside the phone
26
1. Access an application,
Phonebook
,
My files
,
Calendar
,
or
Memo
.
2. Select an item.
3. Press <
Options
> and
select
Send via
→
Bluetooth
.
4. For sending a contact,
select which data you want
to send.
5. Search for and select a
device.
6. If necessary, enter the
Bluetooth PIN and press
<
OK
>.
Send data
1. When a device attempts to
access your phone, press
<
Yes
> to permit the
connection.
2. If necessary, press <
Yes
>
to confirm that you are
willing to receive.
Receive data
27
Menu functions
All menu options listed
This section provides brief explanations of
menu functions on your phone.
Call log Phonebook
Menu Description
Recent contacts,
Missed calls,
Dialled calls,
Received calls
Check the most recent calls
dialled, received, or
missed.
Delete all Delete all of the records in
each call type.
Call time Check the time record for
calls made and received.
Call costs Check the cost of your
calls, if supported by your
SIM card.
Menu Description
Contact list Search for contact
information stored in
Phonebook.
Create contact Add a new contact to
Phonebook.
Group Organise your contacts in
caller groups.
Menu Description
Menu functions
28
Applications
Speed dial Assign a speed dial number
for your most frequently
dialled numbers.
My namecard Create a name card and
send it to other people.
Own numbers Check your phone
numbers, or assign a name
to each of the numbers.
Management Manage contacts in
Phonebook or change the
default settings for
Phonebook.
Menu Description
Service number View the SDN (Service
Dialling Number) list
assigned by your service
provider, if supported by
your SIM card.
Menu Description
Music player Listen to music.
Voice recorder Record voice memos and
any other sounds.
Menu Description
29
Alarm Set alarms. The alert type
for a normal alarm
corresponds to the call
alert type setting.
FM radio Listen to music or news via
the FM radio on your
phone.
World clock Set your local time zone
and find out the current
time in another part of the
world.
Browser
‡
Connect your phone to the
network and load the
homepage of the wireless
web service provider.
Menu Description
Java world
‡
Access Java games and
applications.
Calculator Perform arithmetic
functions.
Converter Do conversions, such as
length and temperature.
Timer Set a period of time for the
phone to count down.
Stopwatch Measure elapsed time.
Memo Make memos for things
that are important and
manage them.
Menu Description
Menu functions
30
‡
If the Yahoo search and Google services are not available
depending on your country or service provider,
Browser
or
Java world
will move to menu 4.
Yahoo search/Google/Browser/Java
world/Bluetooth
Depending on your country or service provider,
you may have one of these menus here:
•
Yahoo search
: Launch the Yahoo search
engine to find information, news, images, or
local services from around the web. You can
also use the messenger service.
•
Google
: Launch the Google search engine to
find information, news, images, or local
services from around the web.
•
Browser
: Connect your phone to the
network and load the homepage of the
wireless web service provider.
•
Java world
: Access Java games and
applications.
•
Bluetooth
: Connect the phone wirelessly to
other Bluetooth devices.
SIM application
toolkit
Use a variety of additional
services offered by your
service provider.
Depending on your SIM
card, this menu may be
available but labelled
differently.
Menu Description
E210-2.fm Page 30 Thursday, July 5, 2007 4:29 PM
31
Messages
Menu Description
Create message Create and send text or
multimedia messages.
My messages Access messages that you
have received, sent, or that
have failed during sending.
Templates Make and use templates of
frequently used messages
or passages.
Delete all Delete messages in each
message folder all at once.
Settings Set up various options for
using the messaging
services.
SOS messages Specify options for sending
and receiving an SOS
message. You can send an
SOS message by pressing
[Volume] 4 times in Idle
mode, with the phone
closed.
Memory status Check information about
the memory currently in
use.
Menu Description
Menu functions
32
My files
Calendar
Keep track of your schedule.
Camera
Use the camera embedded in your phone to
take photos and record videos.
Settings
Menu Description
Images, Videos,
Music, Sounds,
Other files
Access media files and
other files stored in the
phone’s memory.
Memory card Access the files stored on a
memory card. This menu is
only available when you
insert a memory card into
the phone.
Memory status Check information about
the memory currently in
use.
Menu Description
Time and date Change the time and date
displayed on your phone.
Phone settings
→
Language
Select a language for the
display text.
Phone settings
→
Greeting
message
Enter the greeting that is
displayed briefly when the
phone is switched on.
33
Phone settings
→
Shortcuts
Set the Navigation keys as
shortcuts to access specific
menus directly from Idle
mode. [Up] is fixed as a
shortcut to My menu mode.
Phone settings
→
My menu
Set up a menu of your own
using your favourite menu
items, which can be easily
accessed by pressing [Up]
in Idle mode.
Phone settings
→
Volume key
Set how the phone reacts if
you press and hold
[Volume] when a call
comes in.
Menu Description
Phone settings
→
Extra settings
Change additional settings
for using the phone.
Phone settings
→
Offline mode
Switch the phone to Offline
mode, in which the phone
functions requiring network
connection are deactivated.
Display settings
→
Wallpaper
Set up the idle screen on
the main display.
Display settings
→
Main menu
style
Select a display style for
the main menu screen.
Display settings
→
Skin
Select a skin colour pattern
for Menu mode.
Menu Description
Menu functions
34
Display settings
→
Brightness
Adjust the brightness of
the display for varying
lighting conditions.
Display settings
→
Dialling
display
Customise the settings for
the display while dialling.
Display settings
→
Clock display
Select a clock type to be
displayed on the idle
screen.
Display settings
→
Show caller
information
Set the phone to display
missed call notifications
with the most recently
missed caller’s information.
Sound settings
→
Incoming call
Change the sound settings
for incoming calls.
Menu Description
Sound settings
→
Keypad tone
Select the tone that the
phone sounds when you
press a key.
Sound settings
→
Message tone
Change the sound settings
for incoming messages
individually according to
message type.
Sound settings
→
Power on/off
Select the melody that the
phone sounds when it is
switched on or off.
Sound settings
→
Silent mode
Set how the phone acts to
alert you to a specific event
while in Silent mode.
Sound settings
→
Extra tones
Customise additional tones
for the phone.
Menu Description
35
Light settings
→
Backlight time
Select the length of time
the backlight or display
stays on when the phone is
not used.
Light settings
→
Keypad light
Set how the phone controls
the use of the keypad light.
Network
services
→
Call
diverting
Set the phone to reroute
incoming calls to a phone
number that you specify.
Network
services
→
Call
barring
Set the phone to restrict
calls.
Menu Description
Network
services
→
Call
waiting
Set the phone to inform
you when someone is
calling you while on
another call.
Network
services
→
Network
selection
Select the network to be
used while roaming outside
of your home area, or let
the network be chosen
automatically.
Network
services
→
Caller
ID
Set the phone to hide your
phone number from the
person you are calling.
Network
services
→
Voice
mail server
Store the number of the
voicemail server and
access your voicemails.
Menu Description
Menu functions
36
‡ If the Yahoo search and Google services are not available
depending on your country or service provider,
Bluetooth
will
move to menu 4.
Network
services
→
Closed user
group
Set calls to be restricted to
a selected user group.
Bluetooth
‡
Connect the phone
wirelessly to other
Bluetooth devices.
Security
→
PIN
check
Activate your PIN to
protect your SIM card
against unauthorised use.
Security
→
Change PIN
code
Change the PIN.
Security
→
Phone lock
Activate your phone
password to protect your
phone against
unauthorised use.
Menu Description
Security
→
Change
password
Change the phone
password.
Security
→
Privacy
Lock access to messages,
files, or all menu functions
on the phone, except for
call functions.
Security
→
SIM
lock
Set the phone to work only
with the current SIM card
by assigning a SIM lock
password.
Menu Description
Menu Description
Security
→
Fixed
dialling mode
Set the phone to restrict
calls to a limited set of
phone numbers, if
supported by your SIM
card.
Security
→
Change PIN2
code
Change your current PIN2,
if supported by your SIM
card.
Security
→
Mobile tracker
Set the phone to send the
preset tracking message to
your family or friends when
someone tries to use your
phone with another SIM
card. This feature may be
unavailable due to certain
features supported by your
service provider.
Connection
settings
Create and customise the
profiles containing the
settings for connecting
your phone to the network.
Reset settings Reset the phone’s settings
you have changed.
Menu Description
Health and safety information
Exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) Signals
Your wireless phone is a radio transmitter and receiver.
It is designed and manufactured not to exceed the
emission limits for exposure to radio frequency (RF)
energy set by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) 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 the safety
standards that were developed by independent
scientific organizations through periodic and through
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 phones employs a
unit of measurement known as Specific Absorption
Rate (SAR). The SAR limit recommended by the FCC is
1.6W/kg.
*
R400.book Page 16 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
38
Health and safety information
17
SAR tests are conducted using standard operating
positions specified by the FCC with the phone
transmitting at its highest certified power level in all
tested frequency bands.
Although the SAR is determined at the 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 of the phone.
Before a new model phone 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. While there may be
differences between the SAR levels of various phones
and at various positions, they all meet the government
requirement.
The FCC has granted an Equipment Authorization for
this model phone with all reported SAR levels
evaluated as in compliance with the FCC RF exposure
guidelines. SAR information on this model phone is on
file with the FCC and can be found under the Display
Grant section of http://www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid after
searching on FCC ID printed in the label on the phone.
* In the U.S. 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.
R400.book Page 17 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
For body operation
For body worn operation, this model phone has been
tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines
when used with a Samsung-supplied or approved
accessory designated for this product or when used
with and accessory that contains no metal and that
positions the handset a minimum from the body.
The minimum distance for this model phone is written
in the FCC certification information from the body.
None compliance with the above conditions may
violate FCC RF exposure guidelines.
For more Information concerning exposure to radio
frequency signals, see the following websites:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
http://www.fcc.gov
Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association
(CTIA):
http://www.wow-com.com
U.S.Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer
World Health Organization (WHO)
http://www.who.int/peh-emf/en
Precautions when using batteries
• Never use any charger or battery that is damaged
in any way.
• Use the battery only for its intended purpose.
• If you use the phone near the network’s base
station, it uses less power; talk and standby time
are greatly affected by the signal strength on the
cellular network and the parameters set by the
network operator.
• Battery charging time depends on the remaining
battery charge, the type of battery and the charger
used. The battery can be charged and discharged
hundreds of times, but it will gradually wear out.
When the operation time (talk time and standby
time) is noticeably shorter than normal, it is time
to buy a new battery.
• If left unused, a fully charged battery will
discharge itself over time.
R400.book Page 18 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
19
• Use only Samsung-approved batteries and
recharge your battery only with Samsung-
approved chargers. When a charger is not in use,
disconnect it from the power source. Do not leave
the battery connected to a charger for more than a
week, since overcharging may shorten its life.
• Extreme temperatures will affect the charging
capacity of your battery: it may require cooling or
warming first.
• Do not leave the battery in hot or cold places, such
as in a car in summer or winter conditions, as you
will reduce the capacity and lifetime of the battery.
Always try to keep the battery at room
temperature. A phone with a hot or cold battery
may temporarily not work, even when the battery
is fully charged. Li-ion batteries are particularly
affected by temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F).
• Do not short-circuit the battery. Accidental short-
circuiting can occur when a metallic object (coin,
clip or pen) causes a direct connection between the
+ and – terminals of the battery (metal strips on
the battery), for example when you carry a spare
battery in a pocket or bag. Short-circuiting the
terminals may damage the battery or the object
causing the short-circuiting.
• Dispose used batteries in accordance with local
regulations. Always recycle. Do not dispose
batteries in a fire.
Road safety
Your wireless phone gives you the powerful ability to
communicate by voice, almost anywhere, anytime.
But an important responsibility accompanies the
benefits of wireless phones, one that every user must
uphold.
When driving a car, driving is your first responsibility.
When using your wireless phone behind the wheel of a
car, practice good common sense and remember the
following tips:
• Get to know your wireless phone and its features,
such as speed dial and redial. If available, these
features help you to place your call without taking
your attention off the road.
• When available, use a hands-free device. If
possible, add an extra layer of convenience and
R400.book Page 19 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
safety to your wireless phone with one of the many
hands-free accessories available today.
• Position your wireless phone within easy reach. Be
able to access your wireless phone without
removing your eyes from the road. If you get an
incoming call at an inconvenient time, let your
voice mail answer it for you.
• Let the person you are speaking with know you are
driving; if necessary, suspend the call in heavy
traffic or hazardous weather conditions. Rain,
sleet, snow, ice, and even heavy traffic can be
hazardous.
• Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while
driving. Jotting down a To Do list or flipping
through your Address Book takes your attention
away from your primary responsibility, driving
safely.
• Dial sensibly and assess the traffic; if possible,
place calls when you are not moving or before
pulling into traffic. Try to plan calls when your car
will be stationary. If you need to make a call while
moving, dial only a few numbers, check the road
and your mirrors, then continue.
• Do not engage in stressful or emotional
conversations that may be distracting. Make the
people with whom you are talking aware that you
are driving and suspend conversations that have
the potential to divert your attention from the
road.
• Use your wireless phone to call for help. Dial the
emergency number in the case of fire, traffic
accident or medical emergencies. Remember, it is
a free call on your wireless phone!
• Use your wireless phone to help others in
emergencies. If you see a car accident, crime in
progress or other serious emergency where lives
are in danger, call the emergency number, as you
would want others to do for you.
R400.book Page 20 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
21
• If you see a broken-down vehicle posing no serious
hazard, a broken traffic signal, a minor traffic
accident where no one appears injured, or a
vehicle you know to be stolen, call roadside
assistance or any other special non-emergency
wireless number.
Operating environment
Remember to follow any special regulations in force in
any area and always switch off your phone whenever it
is forbidden to use it, or when it may cause
interference or danger.
When connecting the phone or any accessory to
another device, read its user’s guide for detailed
safety instructions. Do not connect incompatible
products.
As with other mobile radio transmitting equipment,
users are advised that for the satisfactory operation of
the equipment and for the safety of personnel, it is
recommended that the equipment should only be used
in the normal operating position (held to your ear with
the antenna pointing over your shoulder).
Electronic devices
Most modern electronic equipment is shielded from
radio frequency (RF) signals. However, certain
electronic equipment may not be shielded against the
RF signals from your wireless phone. Consult the
manufacturer to discuss alternatives.
Pacemakers
Pacemaker manufacturers recommend that a
minimum distance of 15 cm (6 inches) be maintained
between a wireless phone and a pacemaker to avoid
potential interference with the pacemaker. These
recommendations are consistent with the independent
research and recommendations of Wireless Technology
Research.
Persons with pacemakers:
• should always keep the phone more than 15 cm (6
inches) from their pacemaker when the phone is
switched on.
• should not carry the phone in a breast pocket.
• should use the ear opposite the pacemaker to
minimize potential interference.
R400.book Page 21 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
If you have any reason to suspect that interference is
taking place, switch off your phone immediately.
Hearing aids
Some digital wireless phones may interfere with some
hearing aids. In the event of such interference, you
may wish to consult your hearing aid manufacturer to
discuss alternatives.
Other medical devices
If you use any other personal medical devices, consult
the manufacturer of your device to determine if it is
adequately shielded from external RF energy. Your
physician may be able to assist you in obtaining this
information. Switch off your phone 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. You should also consult
the manufacturer of any equipment that has been
added to your vehicle.
Posted facilities
Switch off your phone in any facility where posted
notices require you to do so.
R400.book Page 22 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
23
Potentially explosive environments
Switch off your phone 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.
Users are advised to switch off the phone while at a
refueling point (service station). Users are reminded of
the need to observe restrictions on the use of radio
equipment in fuel depots (fuel storage and distribution
areas), chemical plants or where blasting operations
are in progress.
Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are
often but not always clearly marked. They include the
areas below deck on boats, 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.
Emergency calls
This phone, like any wireless phone, operates using
radio signals, wireless and landline networks as well as
user-programmed functions, which cannot guarantee
connection in all conditions. Therefore, you should
never rely solely on any wireless phone for essential
communications (medical emergencies, for example).
Remember, to make or receive any calls the phone
must be switched on and in a service area with
adequate signal strength. Emergency calls may not be
possible on all wireless phone networks or when
certain network services and/or phone features are in
use. Check with local service providers.
To make an emergency call:
If the phone is not on, switch it on.
1.
Key in the emergency number for your present
location (for example, 911 or other official
emergency number). Emergency numbers vary by
location.
2.
Press [ ].
R400.book Page 23 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
If certain features are in use (call barring, for
example), you may first need to deactivate those
features before you can make an emergency call.
Consult this document and your local cellular service
provider.
When making an emergency call, remember to give all
the necessary information as accurately as possible.
Remember that your phone may be the only means of
communication at the scene of an accident; do not end
the call until given permission to do so.
Other important safety information
• Only qualified personnel should service the phone
or install the phone in a vehicle. Faulty installation
or service may be dangerous and may invalidate
any warranty applicable to the device.
• Check regularly that all wireless phone equipment
in your vehicle is mounted and operating properly.
• Do not store or carry flammable liquids, gases, or
explosive materials in the same compartment as
the phone, its parts or accessories.
• For vehicles equipped with an air bag, remember
that an air bag inflates with great force. Do not
place objects, including both installed or portable
wireless equipment in the area over the air bag or
in the air bag deployment area. If wireless
equipment is improperly installed and the air bag
inflates, serious injury could result.
• Switch off your phone before boarding an aircraft.
The use of wireless phones in aircraft is illegal and
may be dangerous to the aircraft’s operation.
• Failure to observe these instructions may lead to
the suspension or denial of telephone services to
the offender, or legal action, or both.
Care and maintenance
Your phone is a product of superior design and
craftsmanship and should be treated with care. The
suggestions below will help you fulfill any warranty
obligations and allow you to enjoy this product for
many years:
R400.book Page 24 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
25
• Keep the phone and all its parts and accessories
out of the reach of small children’s.
• Keep the phone dry. Precipitation, humidity and
liquids contain minerals that will corrode electronic
circuits.
• Do not use the phone with a wet hand. Doing so
may cause an electric shock to you or damage to
the phone.
• Do not use or store the phone in dusty, dirty areas,
as its moving parts may be damaged.
• Do not store the phone in hot areas. High
temperatures can shorten the life of electronic
devices, damage batteries, and warp or melt
certain plastics.
• Do not store the phone in cold areas. When the
phone warms up to its normal operating
temperature, moisture can form inside the phone,
which may damage the phone’s electronic circuit
boards.
• Do not drop, knock or shake the phone. Rough
handling can break internal circuit boards.
• Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents or
strong detergents to clean the phone. Wipe it with
a soft cloth slightly dampened in a mild soap-and-
water solution.
• Do not paint the phone. Paint can clog the device’s
moving parts and prevent proper operation.
• Do not put the phone in or on heating devices,
such as a microwave oven, a stove or a radiator.
The phone may explode when overheated.
• Use only the supplied or an approved replacement
antenna. Unauthorized antennas or modified
accessories may damage the phone and violate
regulations governing radio devices.
• If the phone, battery, charger or any accessory is
not working properly, take it to your nearest
qualified service facility. The personnel there will
assist you, and if necessary, arrange for service.
R400.book Page 25 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
Acknowledging Special Precautions
and the FCC and Industry Canada
Notice
FCC Notice
• This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1)This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2)This device must accept any
interference received,including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
• This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV
technician for help.
The phone may cause TV or radio interference if used
in close proximity to receiving equipment. The FCC
can require you to stop using the phone if such
interference cannot be eliminated. Vehicles using
liquefied petroleum gas (such as propane or butane)
must comply with the National Fire Protection
Standard (NFPA-58). For a copy of this standard,
contact the National Fire Protection Association, One
Battery march Park, Quincy, MA 02269, Attn:
Publication Sales Division.
R400.book Page 26 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
27
Cautions
Changes or modifications made in the radio phone, not
expressly approved by Samsung, will void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
Only use approved batteries, antennas and chargers.
The use of any unauthorized accessories may be
dangerous and void the phone warranty if said
accessories cause damage or a defect to the phone.
Although your phone is quite sturdy, it is a complex
piece of equipment and can be broken. Avoid
dropping, hitting, bending or sitting on it.
Appendix A: CERTIFICATION
INFORMATION (SAR)
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 radio frequency (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 safety
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 (SAR). The SAR limit set by the FCC is
1.6 W/kg. SAR Tests are conducted using standard
R400.book Page 27 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
operating positions accepted by the FCC with the
phone transmitting at its highest certified power level
in all tested frequency bands. Although the SAR is
determined at the 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 new model phone 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.
The highest SAR values of this model phone as
reported to FCC are,
[GSM850] Head Max: 0.91 W/Kg, Body Max: 0.65 W/Kg
[GSM1900] Head Max: 1.04 W/Kg, Body Max: 0.343
W/Kg.
Body-worn operations are restricted to Samsung-
supplied, approved or none Samsung designated
accessories that have no metal and must provide at
least 1.5cm separation between the device, including
its antenna whether extended or retracted, and the
user’s body. None compliance to the above restrictions
may violate FCC RF exposure guidelines.
The FCC has granted an Equipment Authorization for
this model phone with all reported SAR levels
evaluated as in compliance with the FCC RF exposure
guidelines. SAR information on this model phone is on
file with the FCC and can be found under the Display
Grant section of http://www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid after
searching on FCC ID A3LSGHE215L.
*
*In the United States and Canada, the SAR limit for mobile
phones used by the public is 1.6 watts/kilogram (W/kg) aver-
aged over one gram of tissue. The standard incorporates a sub-
stantial ma gin of safety togive additional protection for the
public and to account for any variations in measurements.
R400.book Page 28 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
29
Appendix B: Guide to Safe and
Responsible Wireless Phone Use
Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association
“Safety is the most important call you will ever make.”
A Guide to Safe and Responsible Wireless
Phone Use
TENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE IN THE U.S. TODAY
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE UNIQUE COMBINATION OF
CONVENIENCE, SAFETY AND VALUE DELIVERED BY
THE WIRELESS TELEPHONE. QUITE SIMPLY, THE
WIRELESS PHONE GIVES PEOPLE THE POWERFUL
ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE BY VOICE-ALMOST
ANYWHERE, ANYTIME-WITH THE BOSS, WITH A
CLIENT, WITH THE KIDS, WITH EMERGENCY
PERSONNEL OR EVEN WITH THE POLICE. EACH YEAR,
AMERICANS MAKE BILLIONS OF CALLS FROM THEIR
WIRELESS PHONES, AND THE NUMBERS ARE RAPIDLY
GROWING.
But an important responsibility accompanies those
benefits, one that every wireless phone user must
uphold. When driving a car, driving is your first
responsibility. A wireless phone can be an invaluable
tool, but good judgment must be exercised at all times
while driving a motor vehicle whether on the phone or
not.
The basic lessons are ones we all learned as
teenagers. Driving requires alertness, caution and
courtesy. It requires a heavy dose of basic common
sense-keep your head up, keep your eyes on the road,
check your mirrors frequently and watch out for other
drivers.
It requires obeying all traffic signs and signals and
staying within the speed limit. It means using seat
belts and requiring other passengers to do the same.
But with wireless phone use, driving safely means a
little more. This brochure is a call to wireless phone
users everywhere to make safety their first priority
when behind the wheel of a car. Wireless
telecommunications is keeping us in touch, simplifying
our lives, protecting us in emergencies and providing
opportunities to help others in need. When it comes to
the use of wireless phones, safety is your most
important call.
R400.book Page 29 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
Wireless Phone “Safety Tips”
Below are safety tips to follow while driving and using
a wireless phone which should be easy to remember:
1.
Get to know your wireless phone and its features
such as speed dial and redial. Carefully read your
instruction manual and learn to take advantage of
valuable features most phones offer, including
automatic redial and memory. Also, work to
memorize the phone keypad so you can use the
speed dial function without taking your attention
off the road.
2.
When available, use a hands free device. A number
of hands free wireless phone accessories are
readily available today. Whether you choose an
installed mounted device for your wireless phone
or a speaker phone accessory, take advantage of
these devices if available to you.
3.
Position your wireless phone within easy reach.
Make sure you place your wireless phone within
easy reach and where you can grab it without
removing your eyes from the road. If you get an
incoming call at an inconvenient time, if possible,
let your voice mail answer it for you.
4.
Suspend conversations during hazardous driving
conditions or situations. Let the person you are
speaking with know you are driving; if necessary,
suspend the call in heavy traffic or hazardous
weather conditions. Rain, sleet, snow and ice can
be hazardous, but so is heavy traffic. As a driver,
your first responsibility is to pay attention to the
road.
5.
Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while
driving. If you are reading an address book or
business card, or writing a “to do” list while driving
a car, you are not watching where you are going.
It’s common sense. Don’t get caught in a
dangerous situation because you are reading or
writing and not paying attention to the road or
nearby vehicles.
R400.book Page 30 Friday, January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Health and safety information
31
6.
Dial sensibly and assess the traffic; if possible,
place calls when you are not moving or before
pulling into traffic. Try to plan your calls before you
begin your trip or attempt to coincide your calls
with times you may be stopped at a stop sign, red
light or otherwise stationary. But if you need to dial
while driving, follow this simple tip-dial only a few
numbers, check the road and your mirrors, then
continue.
7.
Do not engage in stressful or emotional
conversations that may be distracting. Stressful or
emotional conversations and driving do not mix-
they are distracting and even dangerous when you
are behind the wheel of a car. Make people you are
talking with aware you are driving and if
necessary, suspend conversations which have the
potential to divert your attention from the road.
8.
Use your wireless phone to call for help. Your
wireless phone is one of the greatest tools you can
own to protect yourself and your family in
dangerous situations-with your phone at your side,
help is only three numbers away. Dial 9-1-1 or
other local emergency number in the case of fire,
traffic accident, road hazard or medical
emergency. Remember, it is a free call on your
wireless phone!
9.
Use your wireless phone to help others in
emergencies. Your wireless phone provides you a
perfect opportunity to be a “Good Samaritan” in
your community. If you see an auto accident,
crime in progress or other serious emergency
where lives are in danger, call 9-1-1 or other local
emergency number, as you would want others to
do for you.
10.
Call roadside assistance or a special wireless non
emergency assistance number when necessary.
Certain situations you encounter while driving may
require attention, but are not urgent enough to
merit a call for emergency services. But you still
can use your wireless phone to lend a hand. If you
see a broken-down vehicle posing no serious
hazard, a broken traffic signal, a minor traffic
accident where no one appears injured or a vehicle
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you know to be stolen, call roadside assistance or
other special non-emergency wireless number.
Careless, distracted individuals and people driving
irresponsibly represent a hazard to everyone on the
road. Since 1984, the Cellular Telecommunications
Industry Association and the wireless industry have
conducted educational outreach to inform wireless
phone users of their responsibilities as safe drivers
and good citizens. As we approach a new century,
more and more of us will take advantage of the
benefits of wireless telephones.
And, as we take to the roads, we all have a
responsibility to drive safely.
“The wireless industry reminds you to use your phone
safely when driving.”
Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association
For more information, please call 1-888-901-SAFE.
For updates: http://www.wow-com.com/consumer/
issues/driving/articles.cfm?ID =85
Appendix C: Consumer Update on
Wireless Phones
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
1.
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 radio
frequency 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 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
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33
thus produce RF exposures well within the FCC’s
compliance limits.
2.
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 radio frequency 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.
3.
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 radio frequency 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;
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• 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 primary subject of the
safety questions discussed in this document.
4.
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 radio frequency energy (RF).
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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.
5.
What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to
radio frequency 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 radio frequency 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
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use measures like those described above to reduce
your RF exposure from wireless phone use.
6.
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 radio frequency 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.
7.
Do hands-free kits for wireless phones reduce risks
from exposure to RF emissions?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF
emissions from wireless phones, there is no reason to
believe that hands-free kits reduce risks. Hands-free
kits can be used with wireless phones for convenience
and comfort. These systems reduce the absorption of
RF energy in the head because the phone, which is the
source of the RF emissions, will not be placed against
the head. On the other hand, if the phone is mounted
against the waist or other part of the body during use,
then that part of the body will absorb more RF energy.
Wireless phones marketed in the U.S. are required to
meet safety requirements regardless of whether they
are used against the head or against the body. Either
configuration should result in compliance with the
safety limit.
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8.
Do wireless phone accessories that claim to shield
the head from RF radiation work?
Since there are no known risks from exposure to RF
emissions from wireless phones, there is no reason to
believe that accessories that claim to shield the head
from those emissions reduce risks. Some products
that claim to shield the user from RF absorption use
special phone cases, while others involve nothing
more than a metallic accessory attached to the phone.
Studies have shown that these products generally do
not work as advertised. Unlike “hand-free” kits, these
so-called “shields” may interfere with proper operation
of the phone. The phone may be forced to boost its
power to compensate, leading to an increase in RF
absorption. In February 2002, the Federal trade
Commission (FTC) charged two companies that sold
devices that claimed to protect wireless phone users
from radiation with making false and unsubstantiated
claims. According to FTC, these defendants lacked a
reasonable basis to substantiate their claim.
9. What about wireless phone interference with
medical equipment?
Radio frequency 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 no interference occurs when a person uses a
compatible phone and a compatible hearing aid at the
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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.
10.
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 radio frequency 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, gioma,
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.
11. 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
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39
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.
12.
Which other federal agencies have responsibilities
related to potential RF health effects?
Additional information on the safety of RF exposures
from various sources can be obtained from the
following organizations.
FCC RF Safety Program:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
http://www.epa.gov/radiation/
Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s
(OSHA):
http://www.osha-slc.gov/SLTC/
radiofrequencyradiation/index.html
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH):
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/emfpg.html
World health Organization (WHO):
http://www.who.int/peh-emf/
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection:
http://www.icnirp.de
National Radiation Protection Board (UK):
http://www.nrpb.org.uk
Updated 4/3/2002: US Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov/cellphones
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