When a pre-approved RF module is installed into a host device, the host device must be evaluated for RF exposure requirements. When the host device is used greater than 20 cm from the body, no testing or filing is required for the host. When the host device is used less than or equal to 20 cm from the body, SAR testing may need to be conducted on the host. There are some exclusions based on power of the transmitter and the minimum distance from the antenna to the user. When the host is used less than or equal to 20 cm from the body, you must do a C2PC/C4PC to add the host to the grants. If you are installing a pre-approved module into a host, please contact us and we can help you with the requirements.

USB modems are tested for SAR on all 5 sides of the modem with a 5 mm gap between the modem face and the flat phantom. If there are multiple antennas and technologies in the modem, all antennas and technologies must be tested to meet the SAR requirement. All PCMCIA/express cards are tested on the bottom surface with a gap of 10 mm from the phantom for the US SAR requirements.

The only exception is if the PCMCIA/express card is installed into a PDA; then the device must be SAR tested with a 5 mm gap from the phantom. The EU requires that all sides of the device be tested at a distance not to exceed 25 mm.

The US SAR and RF exposure limit and testing requirements are listed in 47 CFR 1.1310, KDB 447498, KDB 248227 and KDB 941225. The EU requirements are listed in EN 62209-2.