*Question E0A09:
Which of the following types of equipment are exempt from RF exposure evaluations?*  

*Correct Answer is  C: Hand-held transceivers sold before May 3, 2021*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

To understand why certain equipment is exempt from RF exposure evaluations, we need to consider the FCC's rules regarding RF safety and exposure limits.

### Correct Answer: C: Hand-held transceivers sold before May 3, 2021

1. **Why the correct answer is correct:**
   - The FCC has specific rules that exempt certain devices from RF exposure evaluations based on their design and usage. Hand-held transceivers sold before May 3, 2021, are exempt because they were manufactured and sold under previous regulations that did not require such evaluations. This exemption is part of a grandfathering clause that allows older equipment to remain in use without needing to meet newer standards.

### Why the other choices are incorrect:

2. **A: Transceivers with less than 7 watts of RF output**
   - While low-power devices may have reduced RF exposure, the exemption is not solely based on output power. The FCC requires evaluations for most devices unless specifically exempted by other criteria, such as the date of sale or specific usage conditions.

3. **B: Antennas that radiate only in the near field**
   - The concept of "near field" refers to the region close to an antenna where the electromagnetic field is not fully formed. However, this does not exempt an antenna from RF exposure evaluations. The FCC's concern is with the potential for human exposure to RF energy, regardless of whether it is in the near or far field.

4. **D: Dish antennas less than one meter in diameter**
   - The size of an antenna, such as a dish less than one meter in diameter, does not automatically exempt it from RF exposure evaluations. The exemption criteria are more related to the type of device and its intended use rather than just physical dimensions.

### Useful Rules of Thumb:

- **RF Exposure Evaluation:** The FCC requires RF exposure evaluations for most transmitting devices unless they fall under specific exemptions. These evaluations ensure that devices comply with safety limits for human exposure to RF energy.
- **Grandfathering Clause:** Devices sold before certain regulatory changes may be exempt from new requirements, as seen with hand-held transceivers sold before May 3, 2021.

Understanding these rules helps ensure compliance with FCC regulations and promotes safe operation of amateur radio equipment.