Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Testing

Streamline your wireless device certification with expert Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing. Access global markets faster while ensuring compliance with critical RF exposure standards. Element's advanced DASY6 technology delivers precision results for multiple regulatory frameworks through one partner, with custom test plans that balance performance and compliance requirements for every wireless technology. As one of the few labs globally offering comprehensive SAR testing services, we provide the ideal partnership for all your compliance needs.

Specific Absorption Rate SAR Testing
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What is Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Testing at Element?

Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) measures how much radio frequency energy from wireless devices is absorbed by the human body. SAR testing is essential for demonstrating compliance with global safety regulations that limit RF exposure within 20 cm of the head or body. At Element, our testing uses advanced technology to verify your wireless devices meet international safety standards regulated by frameworks such as 47 CFR Part 2.1093 (US/Canada) and Council Recommendation 1999/519/EC (EU), both protecting your customers and enabling market access.

Element testing technician holding SAR head phantom for mobile phone radiation testing and certification

What Can Element Offer You For SAR Testing?

Key tests offered

Element's SAR testing evaluates how much RF energy your devices emit and how much is absorbed by human tissue, ensuring compliance with global safety limits. Our tests provide critical data to demonstrate compliance with the SAR limit of 1.6 W/kg (US/Canada) or 2.0 W/kg (EU). We also offer related testing for Power Density (PD) evaluation and SPR-002 Nerve Stimulation.

  • Comprehensive SAR evaluation for various usage scenarios
  • Power Density (PD) assessments for high-frequency devices
  • SPR-002 Nerve Stimulation Testing
  • Device-based time-averaged RF exposure (TAS)
  • Global regulatory compliance verification

Products we test

Our facilities accommodate both common consumer electronics and specialized wireless products with unique form factors. We understand the distinct testing requirements for different device categories and provide tailored testing protocols. Products we test include:

  • Consumer and occupational handheld wireless devices
  • Tablets and smartphones including all cellular technologies (2G/3G/4G/LTE/5G)
  • EAS, metal detectors, RFID, TPMS, vehicle security systems
  • IoT including ZigBee and Bluetooth products
  • 5G NR and mmWave technology
  • Wearables, implants and body-worn devices
  • Wireless power transmission technologies (A4WP, WPC, PMA)
  • WLAN devices
  • Laptops
  • Specialized medical equipment

Methods and solutions offered

We employ internationally recognized testing methodologies aligned with global standards. Our process places your device next to anatomically correct phantoms simulating human body parts (head, torso, wrist, hand) while operating at maximum power. Precision SAR probes measure energy absorption across different tissues to calculate accurate SAR values.

We create custom test plans tailored to your specific device type, intended use cases, and target markets to optimize the certification process.

Cutting-edge equipment we use

Our laboratories feature the highly advanced DASY6 scanning system, representing the latest technology in SAR testing. This sophisticated equipment provides exceptionally accurate measurements of RF energy absorption in simulated human tissue.

We utilize anatomically correct phantoms representing various body parts to assess how your device interacts with users during normal operation. Our precision measurement technology ensures reliable data that meets the stringent requirements of regulatory bodies worldwide.

Which labs offer this service

Our expert team operates from tech hubs across the world, providing global access to our technical capabilities. Find out where your nearest Connected Technologies hub is on our Locations Page. In particular, our Surrey Hills, Su Won, San Jose and Columbia, MD labs are centers of excellence globally  

Global market access simplified

Our SAR testing facilitates your entry into markets worldwide by providing evidence of compliance with international standards. We support certifications for multiple regions including CE marking (EU), FCC (US), ISED (Canada), MIC (Japan), and RRA (Korea). Our team understands the nuanced differences between regional requirements and helps streamline your approval process across multiple jurisdictions. With our support, you can confidently pursue global distribution strategies without regulatory delays.  

Standards we test to and products we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!

Europe

  • EN62369-1:2009
  • EN 50360 (2017)
  • EN 50566 (2017)
  • EN 62209-1 (2016)
  • IEC 62209-1 (2016)
  • EN 62209-2 (2010/AMD1:2019)
  • IEC 62209-2 (2010/AMD1:2019)
  • EN 50364 (2018)
  • EN 62479:2010
  • IEC/IEEE 62209-1529 (2020)
  • IEC TR 63170: 2018

North America

  • FCC RF Exposure KDBs
  • IEC/IEEE 62209-1528 (2020)
  • IEEE Standard 1528 (2013)
  • IEC 62209-2 (2010/AMD1:2019)
  • IEC 62209-1 (2016)
  • RSS-102, Issue 5
  • Safety Code 6: Health Canada's Radiofrequency Exposure Guidelines
  • RSS-102, SPR-002
  • IEC TR 63170: 2018

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

Complex regulations

Navigating multiple international SAR standards and requirements can be overwhelming. Our team provides expert guidance through the certification maze, offering streamlined testing that satisfies multiple market requirements simultaneously, reducing your administrative burden and accelerating time to market.

Time-to-market pressures

With our expansive global and local network of SAR facilities and specialists, we enable fast turnaround times and custom test plans tailored to your specific device, expediting your compliance process without compromising accuracy, helping you meet critical market windows and stay ahead of competitors.

Balancing performance and compliance requirements

Meeting SAR limits while maintaining device functionality presents technical challenges. We provide precise data on RF energy absorption, allowing you to identify and resolve potential issues early. This proactive approach helps you optimize designs that satisfy both performance goals and safety requirements.

Future-proofing technology

Evolving standards can quickly render devices non-compliant. Our testing services contribute to developing safer technologies that exceed current requirements, potentially extending your product's compliant lifespan. This forward-thinking approach reduces the frequency of costly redesigns and minimizes disruption for your customers.

Why Choose Element

Element test engineer setting up equipment in RF testing chamber

Global SAR Testing Leaders

As one of the few labs globally offering comprehensive SAR testing, we provide unmatched expertise for all your wireless device certification needs, worldwide.

Faster Certification Process

Our advanced DASY6 systems and expert team deliver accurate SAR results with exceptional turnaround times, helping you meet critical market windows without delays.

Achieve Global Market Access

Our specialized knowledge of FCC, CE, ISED, MIC, and RRA requirements streamlines your global market entry through one trusted testing partner.

One Supplier, One Solution

Element arranges Power Density (PD) and SPR-002 Nerve Stimulation testing alongside SAR testing, reducing time and costs with complete compliance through one supplier.

Frequently asked questions

Are all wireless devices required to undergo SAR testing?

Yes, in many countries, regulatory bodies require SAR testing for wireless devices, especially those in close proximity to the body, like mobile phones. Compliance with SAR limits is a prerequisite for certification and market approval.

How can consumers access SAR information for a specific device?

SAR information is often provided by manufacturers in product documentation or on their websites. Additionally, regulatory agencies may publish SAR values as part of their certification databases. Consumers can check these sources to find SAR information for a particular device.

Does SAR testing account for different user scenarios and demographics?

SAR testing is conducted using standardized models representing a range of user scenarios. However, individual factors like age, body composition, and device usage habits can influence RF absorption. The standardized tests aim to provide a reasonable assessment for the general population.

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