www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid. On this page, you will see instructions for entering the FCC ID number. Type the FCC ID number exactly as requested (the Grantee Code is the first three characters, the Equipment Product Code is the rest of the FCC ID number). Then click on "Start Search." The "Grant of Equipment Authorization" for your telephone should appear. Read through the grant for the section on "SAR Compliance," "Certification of Compliance with FCC Rules for RF Exposure" or similar language. This section should contain the value(s) for typical or maximum SAR for your phone.

Phones and other products authorized since June 2, 2000, should have the maximum SAR levels noted directly on the "Grant of Equipment Authorization." For phones and products authorized between about mid-1998 and June 2000, detailed information on SAR levels is typically found in the exhibits associated with the grant. Once a grant is accessed, the exhibits can be viewed by clicking on "View Exhibit." Grants authorized prior to 1998 are not part of the electronic database but, rather, have been documented in the form of paper records.

The FCC database does not list phones by model number. However, consumers may find SAR information from other sources as well. Some wireless phone manufacturers make SAR information available on their own Websites. In addition, some non-government Websites provide SARs for specific models of wireless phones. However, the FCC has not reviewed these sites and makes no guarantees of their accuracy. Finally, phones certified by the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA) are required to provide SAR information to consumers in the instructional materials that come with the phones.

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.

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,

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