Appendix B Message from the FDA

Manufacturers of wireless phones must report the RF exposure level for each model of phone to the FCC. The FCC website (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety) gives directions for locating the FCC identification number on your phone so you can find your phone’s RF exposure level in the online listing.

8.What has FDA done to measure the radiofrequency energy coming from wireless phones?

The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) is developing a technical standard for measuring the radiofrequency energy (RF) exposure from wireless phones and other wireless handsets with the participation and leadership of FDA scientists and engineers. The standard, Recommended Practice for Determining the Spatial-Peak Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in the Human Body Due to Wireless Communications Devices: Experimental Techniques, sets forth the first consistent test methodology for measuring the rate at which RF is deposited in the heads of wireless phone users. The test method uses a tissue-simulating model of the human head. Standardized SAR test methodology is expected to greatly improve the consistency of measurements made at different laboratories on the same phone. SAR is the measurement of the amount of energy absorbed in tissue, either by the whole body or a small part of the body. It is measured in watts/kg (or milliwatts/g) of matter. This measurement is used to determine whether a wireless phone complies with safety guidelines.

9.What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radiofrequency energy from my wireless phone?

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 you are concerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives, reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless phone will reduce RF exposure.

If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every day,

you

could place more distance between your body and the source of the RF,

since the

exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless phone away from your body or use a wireless phone connected to a remote antenna.

Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless phones are harmful. But if you are concerned about the RF exposure from these products, you can use measures like those described above to reduce your RF exposure from wireless phone use.

10. What about children using wireless phones?

The scientific evidence does not show a danger to users of wireless phones, including children and teenagers. If you want to take steps to lower exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF), the measures described above would apply to children and teenagers using wireless phones. Reducing the time of wireless phone use and increasing the distance between the user and the RF source will reduce RF exposure.Some groups sponsored by other national governments have advised that children be discouraged from using wireless phones at all. For example, the government in the United Kingdom

[ 139 ]

Page 151
Image 151
Nokia 3200 manual 139, What about children using wireless phones?

3200 specifications

The Nokia 3200, released in 2003, is one of the notable entries in Nokia's lineup of mobile phones, targeting a youthful audience with its unique design and robust features. As one of the first phones to incorporate a camera in a compact format, it played an essential role in the evolution of mobile photography.

The Nokia 3200 features a distinctive, colorful design with a removable faceplate that encouraged personalization, a significant trend at the time. Its easy-to-hold shape and relatively lightweight construction make it comfortable for daily use. The phone's display is a 128 x 128 pixel monochrome screen, which may seem minimal by today’s standards, but it was suitable for basic tasks like texting and browsing contacts.

One of the standout features of the Nokia 3200 is its built-in VGA camera. With a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, users could capture moments on the go, although the image quality was limited compared to modern standards. The camera also allowed for basic editing features, enabling users to add frames and effects to their pictures.

In terms of connectivity, the Nokia 3200 supports GSM networks, making it reliable for voice calls and SMS messages. It does not support 3G or 4G, as these technologies were not yet widespread during its production. However, it featured WAP browsing capabilities, which enabled users to access limited internet services and email, a novel feature at that time.

The Nokia 3200 comes equipped with a range of built-in ringtones and supported downloadable polyphonic ringtones, which appealed to younger users looking to customize their devices. It also has a variety of pre-installed games, adding entertainment value for users beyond communication.

Battery life for the Nokia 3200 is commendable, offering up to 4.5 hours of talk time and over 300 hours on standby, ensuring that it could keep users connected throughout the day.

The phone’s memory is expandable via a Pop-Port connector, allowing users to enhance their storage capacity for images and contacts. Overall, the Nokia 3200 embodies the simple yet effective technology of the early 2000s, catering to a generation eager to embrace mobile communication and personalization in a new and innovative way. Its impact is a reminder of how far mobile technology has come and its lasting influence on the design philosophy in modern smartphones.