In the absence of conclusive information about any possible risk, what can concerned individuals do?

If there is a risk from these products—and at this point we do not know that there is—it is probably very small. But if people are concerned about avoiding even potential risks, there are simple steps they can take to do so. For example, time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives. Those persons who spend long periods of time on their hand-held mobile phones could consider holding lengthy conversations on conventional phones and reserving the hand-held models for shorter conversations or for situations when other types of phones are not available.

People who must conduct extended conversations in their cars every day could switch to a type of mobile phone that places more distance between their bodies and the source of the RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For example, they could switch to:

•a mobile phone in which the antenna is located outside the vehicle

•a hand-held phone with a built-in antenna connected to a different antenna mounted on the outside of the car or built into a separate package

•a headset with a remote antenna to a mobile phone carried at the waist

Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that mobile phones are harmful. But if people are concerned about the radio frequency energy from these products, taking the simple precautions outlined above can reduce any possible risk.

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Motorola StarTAC specifications 139
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StarTAC specifications

The Motorola StarTAC, released in 1996, is widely regarded as the first truly "compact" mobile phone and a significant innovation in mobile telecommunication technology. Its clamshell design set it apart from its predecessors, allowing users to easily carry it in a pocket while protecting the keypad and screen. This design not only enhanced portability but also delivered a unique aesthetic appeal that became iconic.

One of the standout features of the StarTAC was its lightweight construction, weighing approximately 145 grams, which was remarkably light for a mobile phone at the time. The dimensions of the device made it one of the smallest mobile phones available, measuring just 3.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches. The StarTAC’s size and style contributed to its popularity among business professionals and fashion-forward individuals alike.

In terms of technology, the Motorola StarTAC operated on the first-generation (1G) analog network. This was one of the earliest mobile technologies available, offering basic voice call capabilities but lacking data transmission services. It utilized Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) to manage calls, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency without interference. The analog technology provided high-quality voice clarity, which was a significant improvement over radio communication systems.

The device featured a limited but functional monochrome LCD display, which indicated signal strength, battery life, and caller ID. Additionally, the StarTAC was equipped with a customizable ringtone feature, allowing users to choose from a variety of pre-set tones, adding a personal touch to the mobile experience.

Battery life was another highlight, with the capacity to provide up to 100 hours of standby time and around 30 to 60 minutes of talk time, which was sufficient for users of that era. The phone's battery could be swapped, ensuring that users could replace it easily as needed.

User-friendly and intuitive, the Motorola StarTAC also offered features like voice dialing and a caller ID function, which were quite innovative during its time. Its combination of style, portability, and reliable performance made the StarTAC a trendsetter that paved the way for future mobile phone designs and technologies. The StarTAC is not just a phone; it is a historical landmark in the evolution of mobile communication, demonstrating how innovation can reshape user experience and interaction.
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