RF Exposure Lab is an A2LA accredited laboratory, and is very proud of this accreditation, but what does it mean for manufacturers? In this article, we’ll discuss a bit about SAR testing, as well as why A2LA accreditation is just as important to manufacturers as it is for SAR testing laboratories. When you have a project that needs to be completed, there’s no better lab to choose than one that A2LA has accredited.

What is SAR Testing?

SAR stands for Specific Absorption Rate. This is a unit of measurement used to measure the quantity of Radio Frequency (RF) that is absorbed by the body when a person uses a wireless device within 20 cm (about 8 inches) from the body.

SAR testing refers to the amount of RF energy that is absorbed by the body from wireless devices as well as the rate at which it’s absorbed by the tissue exposed to it. When matter is exposed to radiation some of this radiation passes through, but the rest is absorbed. This is why wireless devices are required to be tested and ensure that they comply with the RF exposure limits that have been determined by the FCC and other federal governmental agencies around the world. SAR testing provides a clear and simple way for this to be measured in wireless devices and ensure that they meet the FCC’s safety guidelines.

This testing is conducted using regulated models of the human head and body that are filled with liquid to mimic the way RF is absorbed by different tissues in the body. The device is then tested in a way that simulates the different ways users would typically hold or use them. In addition to this, these devices are operated at their highest power level in all the frequency bands in which they operate while they are tested.

What is A2LA accreditation?

So how does A2LA accreditation factor into this? As a manufacturer, there are a variety of reasons why it’s important to understand what it means for a lab to be A2LA accredited and how this provides value to you. We’ll discuss the benefits of working with an A2LA accredited lab later in this article, but for now, we’ll explain what it means for a lab to be A2LA accredited and why this is important for SAR testing purposes.

A2LA is the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation and is known as being one of the largest accreditation bodies in the world. According to the A2LA website, it is also “the only independent, 501(c)3, non-profit, internationally recognized accreditation body in the United States that offers a full range of comprehensive conformity assessment accreditation services.”

A2LA has developed specific criteria and procedures that are used to determine the technical competence of the lab during the accreditation process. For a lab to be accredited, technical assessors use these criteria and procedures to evaluate the lab in all elements that may influence testing.

The criteria used for accreditation have been developed based on ISO/IEC 17025, which is an internationally recognized standard. It is also a standard used for evaluating laboratories worldwide. The criteria that are evaluated using this standard include:

• Technical competence of laboratory staff
• Validity and relevance of testing methods used by the lab.
• Proof that measurements and calibrations are based on national standards.
• Suitability, calibration, and maintenance of test equipment.
•  The testing environment.
• How test items are sampled, handled, and transported.
• Quality assurance of test and calibration data.

To ensure that labs continue to comply with A2LA accreditation standards, even after receiving accreditation, labs are regularly re-assessed to confirm that they still maintain these standards.

Benefits of A2LA Accredited SAR Testing Labs

There are many benefits to seeking out labs that are A2LA accredited for your SAR testing needs. The first of these benefits is the confidence that your products will be tested by certified experts in SAR standards. You can be assured that your SAR testing projects will be handled accurately and safely at all times.

In addition to this, products tested by A2LA accredited laboratories have a marketplace advantage due to these labs meeting international standards as well as the standards of the country where they are located. This makes it much easier for products to be sold in international markets. 

Finally, A2LA labs provide manufacturers with reduced risk when it comes to testing. Accredited labs follow the most up-to-date safety and security standards and are required to be efficient. This reduces the risk of liability on the behalf of the client and ensures them that their products will not only be properly tested but that testing will be completed in a timely manner.

Get SAR Testing From Certified Experts at RF Exposure Lab

We’re committed to providing high-quality SAR testing and technical competence, which is why our lab is A2LA accredited. This commitment to excellence is what makes our lab a world-class leader in SAR testing.

We go above and beyond to make sure our clients understand what we do and assist them in understanding what SAR testing is required for their products. Through our unique expertise and commitment to our clients, we guarantee accurate SAR testing and results.

We offer SAR testing services for a variety of wireless devices including millimeter wave devices, near field devices, and much more. If you’re looking for SAR testing help provided with speed, accuracy, expertise, and integrity, contact us to get a quote for our services.