Activity from mobile devices uses radio wave frequencies to travel. However, as more people use more mobile devices, the frequencies these devices use become congested. This is because cellular networks for phones aren’t the only devices using these frequencies. Television broadcasts, satellites, wireless routers and modems, and countless other devices use the radio wave spectrum as well. As frequencies “fill up” due to the number of devices using them, the data they use will need more space. Millimeter wave 5G can help by reducing the strain on these frequencies.

Keep reading to learn more about millimeter wave 5G and SAR testing for these devices.

Millimeter Wave 5G

Fortunately, new opportunities for wireless communication are available in the form of millimeter wave frequencies. These frequencies have the potential for greater bandwidths and transfer rates, making wireless communication more effective. Thanks to this, wide use of millimeter wave 5G will allow for better speed and reliability for mobile device users.

Millimeter waves, which are also known as the extremely high frequency (EHF) band, are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Millimeter wave allows transmission on frequencies ranging from 10 GHz to 300 GHz. Prior to mmWave, mobile devices typically transmitted on frequencies below 6 GHz. This is used for many services on mobile and wireless networks because of their ability to enable higher data rates for Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

This frequency got its name because its wavelengths are between 1 mm and 10 mm. Radio wavelengths used by smartphones are typically several dozen centimeters.

Millimeter wave’s original use was for military and aerospace satellite and radar systems. However, as connectivity and data consumption have increased, the telecommunications industry has realized the benefits of using millimeter wave technology for mobile networks.

Currently, mmWave is used in a variety of products and services such as high-speed, point-to-point wireless local area networks (WLANs), and broadband access. It’s ideal for short-distance wireless transmission of ultra-high-definition video and communications from small, low-power IoT devices. The limited distance of mmWave also makes it ideal for communications between autonomous vehicles. 

mmWave Device Exposure Compliance

Assessing devices that use millimeter wave 5G for compliance is more challenging than assessing non-millimeter wave devices. This is due to the fact that millimeter wave has a variety of applications, such as automotive uses, multi-mode and multi-band technologies, antennas, and more. All of these different devices and applications require different testing methods. 

In some devices, the transceiver needs to be tested along with the antennas, while for other devices, only the antennas need to be tested. However, when it comes to millimeter wave 5G devices, transceivers and antennas, the package, speed, and integrity of the signal may need to be tested. This complicates SAR testing for millimeter wave devices.

In addition to this, most millimeter wave RF energy is deposited in the body’s surface. Most devices that use RF energy deposit the energy deeper into the body, which makes a significant difference in SAR compliance testing.

Millimeter Wave Device Testing at RF Exposure Lab

At RF Exposure Lab, we are always working to stay up to date on the latest developments in SAR regulations so that you don’t have to. We also go above and beyond to make sure our clients understand what we do and assist them in understanding how FCC regulations affect the testing required for your device. 

We strive to be as communicative and transparent as possible throughout the SAR testing process so you always know what’s going on with your product and are never left in the dark. We offer SAR testing services for a variety of wireless devices including cell phones, laptops and tablets, medical products, survey equipment, wireless modems, and millimeter wave 5G devices. 

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