The simple answer to the question of why SAR testing matters is that all wireless devices using RF energy are required to prove compliance to ensure that they are safe for consumers to use. Without certification of compliance, wireless devices will not be allowed onto the market in many countries. The real reason why SAR compliance testing matters goes beyond this, though. We’ll dive into what SAR testing is and why it’s such a crucial part of ensuring consumer safety.

Why SAR Compliance Testing Matters

Completely avoiding both natural and man-made sources of radiation may not be possible, but SAR compliance testing allows RF energy emitted from wireless devices to be measured and regulated.

SAR testing’s importance can’t be fully explained without explaining what SAR and RF energy are, as well as how they affect the human body. SAR is specific absorption rate, and SAR testing determines how a wireless device exposes users to a variety of energy waves, though it mostly focuses on radio frequency (RF) energy. 

RF energy is critical to the operation of wireless devices, but products like smartphones, laptops, wearable devices, and even wireless medical devices expose users to direct contact with RF energy waves. Our bodies absorb a certain amount of these energy waves, and over time, it can cause damage if this absorption rate is unchecked. When we consider our daily reliance on wireless devices, we are almost constantly exposed to RF energy.

SAR testing is a way of ensuring that the devices we use day in and day out only use the bare minimum of RF energy needed to function properly and comply with safety regulations set by global government agencies. 

What is SAR Testing

In order to make sure that devices emitting RF energy are safe for consumer use, SAR is used to measure the quantity of RF energy absorbed by the body. Compliance testing is a simple and clear way to measure the RF exposure characteristics of wireless devices to guarantee that they meet safety guidelines.

So how is SAR testing conducted to ensure that devices comply with regulations? 

Testing is typically performed using a “phantom”, which is a dummy that represents the human body. This phantom is filled with liquid to mimic tissues and measure the absorption of RF energy.

The tested device is then placed near the phantom and operated at its highest power level in all the frequency bands in which it operates. The device will then be moved around the phantom in positions similar to how a person would actually use it.

As the device is operated, a robotic probe is used to take measurements. These are the measurements that will be submitted to governmental agencies like the FCC for compliance certification.

SAR Testing Help From RF Exposure Lab

When you need RF or SAR testing for a project, come to the experts here at RF Exposure Lab. The importance of working with an experienced, A2LA accredited testing lab can’t be overstated.

Working with an experienced testing lab as early as possible in the manufacturing process will help you successfully get through the maze of regulations and ensure that your product is compliant. We offer RF exposure testing services for a variety of wireless devices, such as

• Millimeter wave devices
• Near field charging devices
• Cell phones, laptops, and tablets
• Medical devices
• Modems

As well as many more devices! 

If you’re looking for compliance testing help that is provided with expertise, speed, accuracy, and integrity, contact us to learn more about our services or to get a quote.