Specific absorption rate (SAR) and Power density (PD)

The radio wave (RF) exposure guidelines use two units of measurement depending on the frequencies being used. Below 6 GHz, the measurement unit is known as the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR). The SAR limit for mobile devices is defined below. Above 6 GHz the measurement unit changes to Power Density (PD) and the actual limit value varies depending on operating frequency.

SAR and PD values are a measure of the rate at which a human body absorbs energy when exposed to a radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic field. The radio transmitter and receiver in your mobile device are designed to not exceed the limits adopted by international regulatory agencies. These limits were developed by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), an independent scientific organization and include a substantial safety margin designed to assure the safety of all persons, regardless of age and health.

Your mobile device meets the SAR and PD limits established by the following regulatory agencies:

Regulatory agency SAR limit
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 1.6W/kg
Industry Canada (IC) 1.6W/kg
Ministry of Communication (India) 1.6W/kg
ICNIRP * 2W/kg for head and body. 4W/kg for limb.

* ICNIRP tests are carried out in accordance with standards CENELEC EN50360 and IEC PT62209-1. The ICNIRP does tests differently than the FCC and other agencies.

SAR and PD values are measured using standard operating positions with the device transmitting at its highest certified power level in all tested frequency bands. Body-worn SAR and PD testing has been carried out at a separation distance of 5mm. To meet RF exposure guidelines during body-worn operation, the device should be positioned at least this distance away from the body.

SAR and PD values during normal use are usually much less than tested values because your mobile device automatically reduces power when full power isn't needed for a call. To further reduce your RF exposure you can limit mobile device usage or use a hands-free kit to keep the device away from your head and body. For more information see www.sar-tick.com (English only).