TX-65BBM1104 2003.11.5 10:59 AM Page 136

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 thus pro- duce 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 lab- oratory animals. However, many of the studies that showed increased tumor development used animals that had been geneti- cally 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 pos- sible 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 aver- age 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’ fol- low-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 priori- ty 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-fund- ed research is conducted through contracts to independent inves- tigators.

Page 134 - Chapter 9

Chapter 9 - Page 135

Page 70
Image 70
Audiovox CDM 8450 owner manual What are the results of the research done already?

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.