The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Center for Devices and Radiological Health Consumer Update on Mobile Phones

Health and Safety

Information

Additional

 

FDA has been receiving inquiries about the safety of mobile phones, including cellular phones and PCS phones. The following summarizes what is known—and what remains unknown—about whether these products can pose a hazard to health, and what can be done to minimize any potential risk. This information may be used to respond to questions.

Why the concern?

Mobile phones emit low levels of radio frequency energy (i.e., radio frequency radiation) in the microwave range while being used. They also emit very low levels of radio frequency energy (RF), considered non-significant, when in the stand-by mode. It is well known that high levels of RF can produce biological damage through heating effects (this is how your microwave oven is able to cook food). However, it is not known whether, to what extent, or through what mechanism, lower levels of RF might cause adverse health effects as well. Although some research has been done to address these questions, no clear picture of the biological effects of this type of radiation has emerged to date. Thus, the available science does not allow us to conclude that mobile phones are absolutely safe, or that they are unsafe. However, the available scientific evidence does not demonstrate any adverse health effects associated with the use of mobile phones.

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Motorola C331 manual Why the concern?, 150

C331 specifications

The Motorola C331, released in the early 2000s, is a classic mobile phone that holds a special place in the hearts of many technology enthusiasts. This device was known for its compact design and user-friendly layout, catering to the needs of the everyday mobile user during its era.

One of the standout features of the Motorola C331 is its lightweight and compact form factor. Weighing in at just 85 grams, it easily fits into a pocket or purse, making it a highly portable choice. The phone boasts a 1.5-inch monochrome LCD display, which, although modest by today’s standards, was efficient for displaying essential information such as the time, battery life, and signal strength.

The C331 was designed with simplicity in mind. It featured a straightforward keypad comprising 12 keys that allowed for easy dialing and text messaging. The intuitive interface facilitated access to basic functions without the clutter of unnecessary features. Durable construction earned it a reputation as a robust phone, capable of withstanding daily wear and tear.

Equipped with a long-lasting battery, the Motorola C331 had a standby time of up to 300 hours and talk time reaching approximately 5 hours. This impressive battery performance was a significant selling point, allowing users to stay connected for extended periods without constant recharging.

The phone supported basic connectivity options, operating on GSM networks, which were widely adopted during that time. The C331 provided the essential calling capabilities, along with SMS texting features, allowing users to communicate easily and efficiently.

Despite its lack of advanced technologies such as cameras or internet connectivity, the Motorola C331 was celebrated for what it did well: reliable performance, efficient communication, and durability. Its simplicity appealed to those who preferred a straightforward phone experience without the distractions of modern smartphones.

Overall, the Motorola C331 remains a nostalgia-inducing example of mobile phone design from a bygone era. It represents a time when phones were primarily tools for communication, emphasizing practicality over features. Its legacy continues to inspire appreciation for the foundational technologies that paved the way for today’s sophisticated mobile devices.