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Background
Vehicle-mounted antennas used for wireless
communications normally operate at a power level of three watts or
less. These wireless antennas are typically mounted on the roof,
trunk, or rear window of a car or truck.
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Results of Studies
Studies show that, in order to be exposed to RF levels that
approach the safety limits adopted by the FCC, it would be necessary to remain
very close to a vehicle-mounted wireless antenna for a significant amount of
time. Studies have also shown that the metal body of the vehicle can effectively
shield occupants. Proper installation of a vehicle-mounted antenna to maximize
this shielding effect is a good way to minimize exposure. Some companies
recommend that antennas be installed either in the center of the roof or center
of the trunk of a vehicle. In response to concerns expressed over the commonly
used rear-window mounted wireless antennas, a minimum separation distance of 1-2
feet has been suggested as a way to minimize exposure to vehicle occupants.
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Conclusions/Recommendations
From data gathered to date,
properly-installed, vehicle-mounted, personal wireless antennas
using up to three watts of power result in maximum exposure levels
in or near the vehicle that are typically well below the FCC's
safety limits, assuming that the transmitting antenna is 6 inches
or more from vehicle occupants.
For More Information
For more information on this issue, visit the
FCC’s RF Safety Web site at
www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety. For information about other
communications issues, visit the FCC’s Consumer & Governmental
Affairs Bureau Web site at
www.fcc.gov/cgb, or contact the FCC’s
Consumer Center by e-mailing
fccinfo@fcc.gov; calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322)
voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing
1-866-418-0232; or writing to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and
Complaints Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20554.
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Federal Communications Commission
