SAR estimations in a classroom with wireless computers

Abstract

This research provides detailed examination of the peak spatial Specific Absorption Rate (psSAR) in different age students in a classroom with wireless computers. This is motivated by the escalating inclusion of electronic devices in educational settings and the necessity to estimate the implications of this on the overall radio-frequency exposure. Two classrooms with posable realistic human models are simulated. One filled with several 7 years old children and another with several 43 years old adult, each using a laptop. The 1 g and 10 g psSAR are calculated for the head, back and hands. The distances between students are varied and the results compared to one student alone. A small free distance between rows (10 cm) produces significant reduction in psSAR (around 13 dB). Results are less sensitives to changes in lateral distance. While the maximum simulated psSAR values are below the recommended limits, it is observed that, in some classroom arrangements, the psSAR can be substantially increased (e.g., up to 26 dB in the back) comparing to just one student with his laptop. One objective of this study is to provide guidelines for the design of safer classrooms in the context of widespread laptop usage.