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U.S. Food and Drug Administration -

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 num- ber 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 expo sure 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 agen- cies that have responsibility for different aspects of RF safety to ensure coordinated efforts at the federal level. The following agen- cies 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 agen- cies for safety questions about wireless phones.

FCC also regulates the base stations that the wireless phone net- works 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 dis- tance between the phone and the user’s head. These RF expo- sures are limited by Federal Communications Commission safety

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Audiovox CDM 8450 owner manual What is FDA’s role concerning the safety of wireless phones?

CDM 8450 specifications

The Audiovox CDM 8450 is a mobile phone that was notable during its time for offering a blend of essential features and reliability targeted primarily at users who valued straightforward functionality alongside certain modern conveniences. Launched in the early 2000s, this device had an appealing design that often attracted users looking for a compact, easy-to-use handset.

One of the key features of the Audiovox CDM 8450 was its dual-mode capability, allowing it to function on both CDMA and analog networks. This dual functionality meant that users could enjoy coverage in areas where CDMA service was not available, ensuring a wider range of connectivity options.

The phone also boasted a well-designed interface that included a vibrant color display, which was relatively advanced for its time. The display enabled users to easily navigate through menus and access various features. An intuitive keypad layout provided comfortable typing and dialing, rounded off with a compact size ideal for carrying in pockets or bags.

In terms of multimedia, the CDM 8450 supported basic SMS and picture messaging, which was becoming increasingly popular. Users were able to send and receive text messages seamlessly, enhancing communication possibilities. Although it did not offer the sophisticated multimedia capabilities seen in later smartphones, the phone's simplicity allowed it to excel in basic communication tasks.

The Audiovox CDM 8450 was powered by a robust battery that provided reliable talk and standby time, crucial for users on the go. The durability of the battery was one of the strong selling points, making it a dependable option for those who needed their phone to last throughout the day.

For connectivity, the device offered infrared capability, which allowed users to transfer small amounts of data between devices quickly. This feature was useful for sharing contacts or calendar information with others without needing physical connections.

The phone was also equipped with an array of features such as a built-in speakerphone, customizable ringtones, and an address book that could store a substantial number of contacts. The solid build quality and user-friendly features made the Audiovox CDM 8450 a popular choice among consumers looking for a capable and affordable mobile phone during its era. Overall, the Audiovox CDM 8450 represents a stepping stone in the evolution of mobile technology, laying the groundwork for more advanced devices in the future.