FCC Bans New Foreign-Made Consumer Routers, Citing "Unacceptable" National Security Risks

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2026 — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially added consumer-grade routers produced in foreign countries to its "Covered List." The move effectively bans the authorization of any new foreign-made router models for import, marketing, or sale within the United States.

The ruling follows a National Security Determination issued on March 20, 2026, by a White House-convened inter-agency body. The group concluded that routers produced abroad pose a severe threat to U.S. infrastructure and the safety of American citizens.

The "Security Gap": Why the FCC Acted

The FCC cited a growing pattern of cyberattacks that specifically exploit vulnerabilities in home and small office routers. Key findings include:

• Infrastructure Targets: Foreign-made routers were directly implicated in the Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon cyberattacks, which targeted American energy, water, and transportation systems.
• The "Attack Vector of Choice": Malicious actors are increasingly using these devices to create massive botnets and conduct "password spray" attacks against high-value targets.
• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Officials warned that reliance on foreign production introduces backdoors that could be leveraged to disrupt the U.S. economy and national defense.

What This Means for Consumers

The ruling is designed to phase out foreign hardware without disrupting current users.

• No Impact on Current Devices: This ban does not apply to routers you already own or models that received FCC approval prior to March 23, 2026.
• Continued Retail Sales: Stores can continue to sell existing inventory of previously authorized models.
• Waiver for Security Updates: In a separate move (DA 26-286), the FCC granted a limited waiver until March 1, 2027. This ensures that all routers currently in use—even those now on the "Covered List"—can still receive critical software and firmware patches to protect users from emerging threats.

The New Standard: "Conditional Approval" and On-shoring

To continue selling new models in the U.S., manufacturers must now navigate a rigorous "Conditional Approval" process managed by the Department of War (DoW) or Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

To qualify for an exemption, companies must provide:

1. Detailed On-shoring Plans: A time-bound strategy to move or expand manufacturing and assembly within the United States.
2. Quarterly Progress Reports: Ongoing updates to federal agencies on the status of their U.S. manufacturing facilities.
3. Capital Investment Proof: Documentation of financing and investment dedicated to U.S.-based production over the next 1–5 years.

Industry Impact

The scope of the ruling is broad. While China accounts for roughly 60% of the U.S. router market, the ban applies to any foreign country. This includes major hubs like Taiwan, Vietnam, and Thailand, affecting nearly every major brand, including Netgear, Amazon (Eero), Google (Nest Wifi), TP-Link, and Asus.

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 "Routers are the boxes in every home that connect us to the internet. We must ensure these critical gateways are not providing foreign actors with a built-in backdoor to American lives." — FCC Fact Sheet Summary

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Quick Reference:

• Is my current router banned? No.
• Can I still buy a router today? Yes, existing models are still legal to sell.
• Will prices go up? Analysts expect potential price increases as manufacturers shift production to the U.S.

How do I know if a new model is safe? Look for the FCC ID; moving forward, any new model authorized will have passed the new federal security and on-shoring requirements.

 

REF:

Public Notice 

FCC FAQ 

FCC Updates Covered List 

 

UK product conformity markings "new measures"

UK - Government announces a range of changes to make it simpler for business to apply new conformity markings for products placed on the market in England, Scotland and Whales.

 REF: 

Product Conformity Markings - new measures 

Electronic Device Retailers FCC Issues Warning

February 15, 2019, the Federal Communication Commission issued an enforcement advisory warning electronic device retailers, yes, those selling devices not just making them, of potential fines if devices are in violation of the applicable FCC authorization requirements. Fines could total more than $150,000 per violation.

This is of significant importance as many retailers and distributors assume that the device manufacturer shoulders the burden for regulatory compliance, and accepts that if a product manufacturer claims compliance then that is all that is required, often retailers and distributors are unaware of the authorization requirements but this advisory opens the door for retailers and distributors to face penalties if the products are not in compliance with the required FCC authorization methods found under part 15 of Title 47 Code of Federal Regulations.

Specifically, this advisory is addressing those products that fall under the "Suppliers Declaration of Conformity" or SDoC authorization rules. A non-exhaustive list of examples of the types of products covered can be found in C.F.R. 47 §15.101(a) and §18.203.

For a basic guide and to understand what the SDoC authorization encompasses, please visit https://celectronics.com/training/learning/authorization/FCC-SDoC-Guide.html

REF:
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-19-91A1.pdf

FCC Steps up enforcement

FCC fines LED light suppliers for rule violations. Fines range from $15,000 to $61,000.

In an article posted on Digital Signage Today, it’s reported that the FCC is significantly stepping up enforcement of the radio equipment rules. The article quotes Commissioner Michael O'Reilly as stating that the FCC intends to pursue vigorous enforcement and suggests substantially increasing fines on violators.

While the FCC has been relaxing the requirements, oversight and complexities of the authorization methods for products, they still take violations of the rules very seriously. It is reported that the FCC has recently targeted LED light suppliers and found multiple violations of the rules. Violations that range from improper labeling to marketing and selling without first applying proper FCC equipment authorizations.

REF:

Digital Signage Today article
https://www.digitalsignagetoday.com/blogs/how-led-suppliers-can-avoid-trouble-with-the-fcc/

FCC SDoC Authorization guide
https://celectronics.com/training/learning/authorization/FCC-SDoC-Guide.html

New U-NII requirements postponed

The FCC has waived, until December 2, 2015, the implementation of the new U-NII requirements, Specifically 15.37(h).

This allows 5.8 GHz deices to continue using the DTS rules in 15.247 for approval and certification.

(h) Effective June 2, 2015* devices using digital modulation techniques in the 5725-5850 MHz bands will no longer be certified under the provisions of §15.247. The technical requirements for obtaining certification after this date for digitally modulated devices and the digitally modulated portion of hybrid devices are found in subpart E of this part. The provisions for the frequency hopping spread spectrum portion of hybrid devices will remain in §15.247. Effective June 2, 2016 systems using digital modulation techniques in the 5725-5850 MHz band certified under the provisions of §15.247 may no longer be imported or marketed within the United States.

By this order *June 2, 2015 in the above rule part is in essence replaced with December 2, 2015

REF:

https://www.fcc.gov/document/u-nii-devices-extension-order

Title 47, Part 15.37

Valuable opportunity for Project managers and Compliance Engineers

Whenever I come across something that could benefit my community i'm compelled to share it.

A new Grassroots Movement has begun on the U.S. west coast to quote "Empower Project Managers and Compliance Engineers with knowledge and tools to guide your company and your team to achieve EMC product compliance, and fix EMC problems minimizing project cost and schedule impact!"

Beginning in September, 2015, EMCmini launches with a series of informative events. This "traveling road show" brings together industry experts and equipment manufacturers to give you the tools and information you need to stay ahead of the competition.

And now for a little "Name-dropping" ;) , some of the prominent speakers involved include;

• Ghery S. Pettit, NCE
• Mark Montrose
• Edward Nakauchi
• Shirish Shah
• Darryl Ray

Make sure to register for this event at least a week ahead! 

REF:

EMCmini.us

8 Significant FCC certification changes with dates you need to know

Mark your calendar, starting July 13th this year a number of changes are taking effect with respect to the FCC certification and approvals process for intentional and unintentional radiators. Below is a quick synopsis of the major changes along with the specified transition dates.

These changes will have a major impact on your certification planning going forward. If you have questions or need assistance with your wireless device certifications don't hesitate to contact Compatible Electronics, Inc.

1. Rules discontinuing FCC acceptance of certification applications (all certification via TCB)
2. Codified pre-grant approval procedure that TCBs will follow
3. Additional clarification on TCB’s post-market surveillance responsibilities
4. Specified steps to address TCB performance deficiencies
5. Rules referencing TCB accreditation updated to newest versions.
6. Require accreditation of all laboratories that test equipment for certification as well as DoC
7. Rules referencing measurement standards updated to newest versions.
8. OET gains greater flexibility and authority to address “minor technical issues” and ability to change approved standards to newer versions under § 0.241 Authority delegated. 

Transition Dates:

July 13th, 2015

• FCC will no longer accept applications for equipment certification (Done through TCB)
• FCC Will no longer accept applications for § 2.948 test site listings

Sept 15, 2015

• A TCB shall be accredited to ISO/IEC 17065, guide 65 is deprecated. Accrediting bodies shall meet requirements of ISO/IEC 17011

July 13th, 2016

• All § 2.948 listings remaining valid will expire. Labs may still submit test reports up to Oct. 13, 2016
• Intentional radiator measurements subject to part 15 shall be made using ANSI 63.10-2013

October 13th, 2016 (the big one to remember!)

• All Laboratories submitting test data for support of a certification application must be accredited. 

July 13th, 2018

• Radiated measurement labs for 1 – 40 GHz shall comply with C63.4-2014 (CISPR 16-1-4:2010-04) site validation in accordance with clause 5.5.1a)1)

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For questions, testing or certification needs under the new rules, please contact Compatible Electronics, Inc.


Ref;
CFR Title 47 § 2.950 Transition periods
Federal Register Vol. 80 No. 113 June 12, 2015 

FCC will no longer accept applications for equipment certification

The FCC introduced a Report and order just before the new year that among other things, effectively puts them out of the RF device certification business and permits this activity to be performed solely by private Telecommunication Certification Bodies, also known as TCBs,

The big take away is that the FCC will no longer be certifying products, however also included in this report is a new requirement that all testing be done at an “accredited” lab.

A quote from the report and order; 

41. Proposal. In the Notice, the Commission proposed to require that all laboratories that test
equipment subject to Certification or to DoC under any rule part be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025, ending
the “2.948-listing” program for unaccredited labs to test equipment to be certified under Parts 15 and 18
of the rules.

Prior to this order devices subject to certification; such as radio transmitters, could be tested at any listed lab. This listing program is less rigorous and less expensive than full certification. The listing program simply requires that the lab file information with the FCC. In contrast, the accreditation requirement ensures that the the testing laboratory is competent to perform the required work, but it also requires that the laboratory be in a country that is recognized by the FCC, such as one with an established Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the United States.

Currently, many companies rely on test data suppled by third party test labs that are not accredited or are in countries which do not have an established MRA with the United States. As an example, there are no laboratories in China that are qualified to perform testing for FCC certification or DoC, due to the fact that there is no MRA between China and the United States.

Along with this change the FCC lays out the process for a pre-grant approval procedure to be followed when a TCB is faced with certification of a device based on new technology.

The FCC also makes clear in the report the TCB’s responsibility in performing “post-market” surveillance of products it has certified.

Reference;

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2014/db1230/FCC-14-208A1.pdf

New EMC directive and LVD - NLF (New Legislative Framework) recast

European Commission (Photo credit: tiseb)

Voting has concluded and a number of CE marking directives have undergone a “recast” to align with the European Commission New Legislative Framework (NLF). Among the new directives for electrical products are the Electromagnetic compatibility EMC Directive and Electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits Low Voltage Directive.

The updated directives align them with the legislation laid down within the “NLF”. The NLF, adopted in 2008, is intended to improve market surveillance rules, require traceability within the supply chain, boost the quality of conformity assessment through stronger rules on the requirements imposed on conformity assessment bodies and testing laboratories, and stronger controls on the use of the “CE Mark” to enhance the marking credibility.

REF;

http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-14-111_en.htm – European Commission Press Release (Feb. 5th 2014)

New versions of EN 55022 and EN 55024

ce mark (Photo credit: a94540871)

Just a little over 3 weeks before the new European EMC standards for Information Technology equipment are mandatory, are your reports and testing up to date?

The date of withdrawal is set to 12/1/13, after that date, no products covered by EN 55022 or EN55024 can be placed on the European market unless they are compliant with the new standards.

Ref:
EN55022:
Link to CENELEC Project Page
EN55024:
Link to CENELEC Project Page

Power line communication standard ratified

Power to you (Photo credit: Domiriel)

On October 9th, 2013, the CENELEC Technical Board (BT) ratified FprEN 50561-1:2012

‘Power line communication apparatus used in low-voltage installations - Radio disturbance characteristics - Limits and methods of measurement – Part 1: Apparatus for in-home use’

(PR=23145)

Implementation dates:

• Date of adoption (doa) = April 9th, 2014
• Date of publication (dop) = October 9th, 2014
• Date of Withdrawal (dow) = October 9th, 2016

It has been asked of the CEN-CENELEC Management Center (CCMC) to offer the standard to the European Commission (EC) for citation in the Official Journal (OJEU) under the EMC Directive and R&TTE Directive.

Previous posts on Power line communications;

Dec. 3, 2010 - An update on PLT, Power Line Telecommunications, in Europe

July 20, 2011 - Power Line Communication Limits and methods of measurement draft Part 1

Dec 14, 2011 - The last word on Power Line telecom (PLT) in the EU, EN 55022:2006 applies in full, maybe….

Google granted FCC approval for TV bands database system

The FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) has granted operational approval for Google’s TV bands database system, to provide service to the public.

The TV bands database system is designed to protect broadcast TV stations, fixed broadcast auxiliary service (BAS) links, Multichannel video programing distributors (MVPDs), private land mobile and commercial mobile radio service, offshore radio telephone service, radio astronomy at specific sites and low power auxiliary service.

Some operators must specifically register to receive protection from TV band devices, such as, MVPD receive sites, wireless microphone users and temporary BAS links.

Google’s spectrum database can be found at http://www.google.org/spectrum/whitespace/index.html

REF:

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2013/db0628/DA-13-1472A1.pdf

New FCC ID format could make searching IDs difficult

Starting tomorrow, May 1^st, 2013, the FCC will begin issuing new grantee codes as five character codes. Existing 3 character codes will still be valid, but new codes as of tomorrow will be in the 5 character format.  An earlier post describes why the change to the 5 character system. See FCC running out of Grantee codes.

Now that grantee codes could be both 3 character and 5 character, for those who use the Equipment Authorization Database search to lookup FCC IDs, it could be difficult at first getting use to the new system. How do you know if it’s a 3 character code or a 5 character code just by looking at the ID?

Example;

FCC ID: 2AA567SAMPL

FCC ID: G777SAMPLE500

Here’s a tip.

3 or 5 character grantee code? To tell;

1. if it starts with a number, it’s a 5 character code

2. if it starts with a letter, it’s a 3 character code.

The use of 1 and 0 is excluded, to avoid confusion with the letters i and o.

I don’t know if this visual would work the same for you, but what I do is picture a telephone keypad, it kind of looks like a # symbol with the number 5 in the middle;

 

 

# = Number so 5 starts with number. Silly, but it works for me.

So for the example above; 2AA56 is the 5 character code (starts with a #) and G77 is the 3 character code (starts with a letter).

REF:

Released: 04/09/2013. OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY TO BEGIN ISSUING FIVE-CHARACTER GRANTEE CODES FOR CERTIFIED RADIOFREQUENCY EQUIPMENT. (DA No. 13-669)

http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-13-669A1.pdf

FCC Opens More 5GHz Spectrum

 

In an effort to accelerate the growth and expansion of new Wi-Fi technology, the FCC proposes to increase the available unlicensed spectrum by 35%, adding 195 MHz of additional spectrum in the 5 GHz band. This rule proposal today follows through with FCC chairman Julius Genachowski’s announcement at CES earlier this year (See Post).

The Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure band three (U-NII-3) will receive an addition 25MHz of spectrum and the rules for U-NII-3 (15.407) devices are proposed to align with those of digitally modulated devices (15.247). This will provide consistent rules across 125 MHz of spectrum. The rules propose to remove the 5.725 – 5.85 GHz band from section 15.247, and amend the U-NII band rules to maintain many of the technical rules that currently make certifying to 15.247 more attractive; however some of the more restrictive requirements of 15.407 will remain.

Summary of some of the proposed 15.247/15.407 technical changes;

• 15.247 will remove 5.725 - 5.850 GHz (devices using this band now under 15.407)
• Frequency band, 15.407 expanded from 5.825 to 5.85 GHz
• Power, 15.407 will fix limit at 1W as in 15.247 instead of lesser of 1W or 17 dBm + 10 log B
• PSD, 15.407 to use Power Spectral Density of 15.247 (possible change of measurement BW to 1 MHz)
• Emission Bandwidth, 15.407 will adopt min 6 dB bandwidth of 15.247
• Antenna Gain, 15.407 to retain 23 dBi maximum no penalty antenna gain  for point to point
• Unwanted Emissions limits of 15.407 will remain, more stringent than 15.247
• Peak to Average ratio of 13dB in 15.407 will remain, no such requirement in 15.247

The new rules are seeking comment on potential security features that will be required by manufacturers and implemented in any digitally modulated device capable of operating in the U-NII bands to prevent 3^rd parties from reprogramming devices to operate outside of the device’s certified parameters.

The proposal also notes potential “mitigation” techniques such as a database registration process combined with geo-location technology to determine whether there is a potential for interference to radar systems such as the TDWR.

There are several changes proposed to improve the reliability of “Dynamic Frequency Selection” DFS, namely lowering permitted Power Spectral Density (PSD) for lower powered devices using relaxed sensing threshold, modifying the Bin-1 radar waveform and removing the uniform channel loading requirement. The rules make clear that any device subject to DFS and that is capable of initiating a network, must have radar detection functionality and must be approved with that capability.

It is suggested that devices could operate in the new U-NII-2B band under the same technical framework specified in 15.407 for U-NII-2A and U-NII-2C opening operation up to the 475 MHz continuous band from 5.25 to 5.725 GHz. It is also noted that should the U-NII-3 band be increased to the proposed 5.85 GHz upper limit, then the same technical framework applicable to U-NII-3 could be applied to devices operating in the U-NII-4 band allowing operation across the continuous 200 MHz spectrum. The proposal seeks whether and how to integrate DFS into the new U-NII-2B and U-NII-4 bands.

It is noted that up to 12 months after adoption of any new or modified rules, devices could still be certified under the old rules. After 12 months, all new certifications for U-NII devices must be under the new rules. Up to 2 years after adoption of any new or modified rules, the FCC will permit Class II permissive changes to equipment certified prior to the 12 month transition date. At the end of the 2 year transition period, devices will not be permitted to be sold, manufactured, installed, imported or marketed in the United States unless they are certified under the new rules. It is explained that devices that are already installed or in use should be grandfathered for the life of the equipment.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is set with a 45 day comment period, and a 75 day reply comment period. The changes proposed are far too numerous for this post to cover in toto, for the technical details, a link is provided in the reference section.

REF:

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2013/db0220/FCC-13-22A1.pdf

Major FCC rule update, FCC to stop certifying products all together

Logo of the United States Federal Communications Commission, used on their website and some publications since the early 2000s. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

FCC proposes changes to product certification rules to leave certification activities exclusively to the Telecommunication Certification Bodies (TCB). FCC will require that all testing be at an accredited, approved lab. The new rules will also specify new standards for testing and recognition of TCBs and labs.

To sum up the proposed changes;

1. FCC will stop certifying products and rely solely on TCBs (including for items on exclusion list)
2. FCC to codify “permit-but-ask” procedures into new “pre-approval” procedure.
3. Rules will clarify TCB post-market surveillance requirements
4. Rules will specify steps that can be taken if TCB performance was found deficient.
5. Rules will reference latest ISO/IEC standards for accreditation and 2009 version of ANSI
6. Test labs will require accreditation to perform testing for certification.
7. A one year transition from publication date is proposed for certain aspects of the new rules

The FCC will stop issuing grants directly; rather they will rely on TCBs to perform all certifications. This will enable the FCC to focus on “enforcement” activities. The FCC will be better able to perform post-market surveillance and auditing random samples. TCBs will also be granted authority to dismiss equipment authorization applications under the same circumstances that the Commission currently dismisses and application. TCBs will not be able to deny an application. The current 30 day period that a TCB may rescind a grant remains however the term “rescind” will be changed to “set aside”.

The FCC intends to eliminate the TCB exclusion list (items that a TCB cannot approve) and codify the “permit-but-ask” procedures. The FCC will call the new system “pre-approval guidance” procedures. The new procedures will identify the types of devices or testing that would require a TCB to consult with the Commission prior to approval. The FCC intends to integrate the pre-approval guidance procedure with the current Equipment Authorization System (EAS). The new pre-approval procedure will retain the FCCs option to do a pre-grant sample test, similar to how product that requires Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) are sampled by the FCC prior to issuance of a grant.

The proposal will require that applicants send a written signed request for equipment authorization to a TCB. The proposal also requires that the applicant provide the TCB with all information required by the 731 application in writing (or digital form), including all exhibits required to process the application.

Previously the rules did not require a TCB to submit a complete copy of the certification application prior to grant; the rules will be amended to incorporate the requirement that the TCB provide the Commission with a complete copy of the application, including all required exhibits, prior to issuance of a grant or a dismissal of the application. The key here is that this will provide notice to the Commission and other TCBs concerning which applications have been dismissed.

FCC intends to clarify the rules regarding the post-market surveillance requirements of TCBs by making reference to the Knowledge database (KDB) procedure and to make clear the authority TCBs have when requesting samples from grantees. The FCC may direct a grantee to provide a sample for testing to the approving TCB if questions of compliance should arise.

FCC is seeking comment on the surveillance, specifically how to ensure that duplicates are not selected by the FCC and TCB for sampling? Should TCBs cross check one another, and if so, who bears the costs? Should grantees provide a voucher to enable the FCC to obtain a retail sample from the market?

Currently the rules provide for the revocation of TCB status, but no less corrective measures are specified. FCC proposes to modify rules to allow for lesser forms of corrective actions with warnings, communication and monitoring, also perhaps temporarily requiring that all applications from a deficient TCB go through the pre-approval procedure as sort of “probation” until confidence is regained in the TCBs abilities.

FCC proposes to modify rules to replace accreditation requirements of Guide 58 and Guide 61 with the new consolidated ISO/IEC 17011 and to replace reference to Guide 65 with ISO/IEC 17065. Consistent with 17065 the term “sub-contractor” will be replaced with “external resources”. The proposal notes that these changes will not have any significant impact because the revised guides are substantially similar to the guides currently specified in the rules.

Currently, equipment to be certificated must be tested at a lab that meets one of two criteria, the lab must have filed a description of the facilities with the Commission, or the lab has been accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 and recognized by the Commission. The FCC recognizes that accreditation is a more thorough and involved process than filing a description. The FCC notes that accreditation of a lab outside the United States is acceptable only of the lab is located in a country that has an MRA with the United States, or is accredited by an organization that is recognized by the Commission.

This is a big one, the FCC proposes to end the listing program for labs and require that all test labs performing tests for DoC or Certification be accredited, this would mean that only “Verification” testing could be performed at a non-accredited facility. The lab will still be required to compile the listing description, but only show it to the FCC or accreditation body upon request. The FCC will maintain a list of acceptable test labs, most likely similar to how it does now at https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/TestFirmSearch.cfm . It is worth noting that tests performed in countries without an MRA may no longer be acceptable for certification.

FCC proposes to require, rather than allow as an alternative, a test lab testing above 1GHz to meet the CISPR 16 validation criteria. Validation is to be confirmed no less than once every three years.

The FCC proposes acceptance of the measurement standards ANSI C63.4-2009 for unintentional radiators and C63.10-2009 for intentional radiators with the continued exception of the use of rod antenna below 30MHz, an artificial hand for holding hand held devices, and absorber clamp for radio noise power measurements as well as no relaxation of limits for transient emissions. The FCC is not proposing to incorporate CISPR 22 into the rules for measuring subject to part 15 as requested by the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI).

FCC proposes that test setup photos be included for each of the required types of tests applicable to the device for which certification is requested. The FCC also proposes that any photographs be “focused originals” without glare or dark spots, and must clearly show the test configuration used.

As for a transition period, the FCC notes that two of the changes may require some time for laboratories to meet. These are; 1) laboratories must be accredited, and 2) above 1GHz testing site validation in accordance with C63.4-2009. The FCC proposes that they will stop accepting applications for listing labs under section 2.948 as of the effective date of the final rules. The FCC proposes that any unaccredited labs that are already listed on the effective date of the rules can continue to perform testing until one year after publication, after that they must be accredited. All labs accredited or not, must comply with the site validation requirements of C63.4-2009 no later than one year after publication. Any new labs must comply with both accreditation and site validation requirements as of the date of publication of the new rules.

A link to the NPRM is provided below, while this article attempts to digest most of the document, you are encouraged to read the NPRM and follow the procedures should you wish to participate and to provide feedback to the FCC.

REF:

February 12, 2013 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)

Improved HD video coming to a hot-spot near you

las-vegas-ces (Photo credit: VentureBeat)

FCC announces efforts to support U.S. Innovation Economy and free up new spectrum to expedite ultra-high-speed, high capacity Wi-Fi. The announcement was made at the 2013 International CES this month.

Chairman Julius Genachowski expressed that the FCC will soon kick-off a government wide effort to increase speeds and alleviate Wi-Fi congestion at major hubs. Among the examples given are large conference gatherings (such as CES perhaps), airports and convention centers, and the home network, where multiple users and devices are competing for network bandwidth and time and reducing the overall performance of the wireless network in general.

The intent is to free up, and increase, by up to 35%, unlicensed spectrum and make it available for ultra-high-speed, high capacity Wi-Fi, or as it’s commonly called “Gigabit Wi-Fi”.

The largest expansion of Wi-Fi since 2003, next month should bring the first steps of this action in the form of an additional 195 MHz of spectrum in the 5 GHz band.

It shouldn’t be long after that we begin to see consumer product on the shelves that take advantage of this, the first standard that will most likely make use of this available 5GHz spectrum, IEEE 802.11ac, has been in development for some time. This standard requires at least twice the bandwidth of the preceding 802.11n standard, but provides a potential speed increase of perhaps tenfold.

REF:
FCC Press release

Domestic Unlicensed Modular Radio Approval

Transmitter (Photo credit: Thorius)

What is a modular approval, how does one qualify for one, and what are some of the advantages and disadvantages in selecting to pursue a modular radio approval. I’ve addressed these questions in summary form here, and I provide some links for further reading.

A modular approval allows the approved product to be installed in different host devices, without the need for additional testing or authorization for the transmitter for each host system. Note that the host itself may still require authorization or reauthorization depending on the host, but the transmitter would not need to be recertified for each host.

There are 4 types of modular approvals;

1. Single-Modular transmitter

2. Limited Single-Modular transmitter

3. Split-Modular transmitter

4. Limited Split-Modular transmitter

A single-modular device is a device in a single package, and a split-modular is one where the radio front end and the control elements section may be separate.

The use of the word “Limited” indicates that the device may have certain grant conditions or be reliant on a specific host configuration for compliance. Integrators are cautioned to pay close attention to these limitations.

To qualify for modular approval, the device must comply with 8 specific conditions. For a Single-modular transmitter, the device is a self contained, physically delineated component that can demonstrate compliance independent of the host.

1. Radio circuitry must be shielded

2. Modulation / data inputs must be buffered.

3. Power supply regulation on the module

4. Permanent antenna or unique connector

5. Must demonstrate compliance stand alone (outside host)

6. Labeled with its own permanently fix FCC ID, or have electronic display capability

7. Must comply with applicable rules, and with grantee provided conditions

8. Must comply with applicable RF exposure requirements

A limited modular approval may be granted when a device does not meet all 8 of the conditions, but may rely on a specific host and applicable operating conditions for compliance. For instance, the shielding, buffered I/O or power regulation may be provided by a specific host. In these cases the module would be “Limited” to the specific host providing those requirements.

The first and probably most obvious benefit to a modular approval is that the radio module would not need to be recertified for every host installation, thus saving time and money when incorporating radio functions into multiple host devices. Other advantages may include;

· Changes to the host don’t affect the radio certification (except on “Limited modular”)

· Time to market for a new host is considerably less if the product does not require certification

· Ease of managing the radio certification, one FCC ID instead of many.

· Flexibility with installation within the host (except maybe on “Limited modular”)

· If the module is the product, it’s more attractive for an integrator to use a pre-certified device.

· The radio may be “End-User” replaceable (potential upgrade or repair)

Some items that may be negative points to a modular approval;

· Radio generally more expensive due to shielding, buffered i/o and power regulation

· Depending on host/antenna placement, transmitter power may be less than non-module type

· Integrating multiple transmitters (co-location) within a single host can be problematic

Things to pay attention to when using an already approved module;

· Be aware of the type of module and grant conditions or restrictions

· The term “Modular approval” is specific, if unsure check the FCC ID and look at the grant

· Follow all installation instructions and warnings provided by the grantee

Other things to possibly consider are RF exposure and/or hearing-aid compatibility, for devices with specific antennas, or specific host/enclosure configurations. The FCC has published a “Transmitter Module Equipment Authorization Guide”, KDB 996369, and I recommend reading through the guide if considering the modular approach.

To check a prospective module’s FCC approval, have the FCC ID ready and visit;

https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/GenericSearch.cfm

Keep in mind, the first 3 characters of the FCC ID are the Grantee Code, and note that the numbers 1 or 0 will never be part of the grantee code (to avoid confusion with the letters i and o). The grant will clearly indicate “Modular Approval” or “Limited Modular Approval” (LMA) if the device is so approved. At the time of writing this article, the FCC system only searches based on the legacy system of 3 digit grantee codes, however, the FCC is moving to a 5 digit grantee code system real soon – see http://www.emcrules.com/2012/06/fcc-running-out-of-grantee-codes.html

Compliance testing and certification costs of a Single-Modular transmitter are comparative to that of a non-modular approval of the same radio in most cases, in some cases it could be less expensive due to the simplified test setup and configuration of the module. Time and cost of Limited-Modular devices can vary depending on the host.

Of course this all applies to domestic FCC certification, but what about other regions?

Canada has a very similar approach to radio modules, see RSS-Gen, section 3.2.2 for details. In Europe, there is no “Modular Approval” process as the system is based on self-certification, but a somewhat similar approach can be taken, please see my article “Radio module integration and R&TTE compliance” for dealing with radio modules under the R&TTE Directive.

Class 1 Status of 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN in the EU

Class 2 Label sample EU R&TTE. Provided by;
Compatible Electronics, Inc..

Confirmed during a Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Compliance Association (R&TTE CA) meeting held in Vienna, May 2012, the French deviation has expired for the 2.4 GHz band making it a Class 1 band.

Till this point, the 2.4 GHz band has been considered Class 2 in the EU, that is, when importing your product, it must carry the number of a notified body and a special alert symbol in addition to the CE Mark, and you must notify member nations having restrictions, of your intention to place the product on the EU market. Additionally, the product literature would carry a warning of the restriction to “Indoor use only”.

While the notification requirements for the 2.4 GHz use have been eliminated for some time, the last item preventing the 2.4 GHz WLAN from being classified officially as a Class 1 R&TTE device went away on July 1st. The French deviation in the band restricting use of 2.4 GHz WLAN devices to “Indoor use only” has expired.

From July 1, 2012, 2.4 GHz WLAN devices no longer require the alert symbol or Notified Body number, so long as harmonized standards are applied in full to the conformance assessment.

For an explanation of what the class descriptor indicates, see this excerpt from the ETSI.org web site;

“Commission Decision 2000/299/EC defines how equipment is classified according to its use of radio spectrum. It defines two equipment classes as follows:

• Class 1, which can be placed on the market and taken into service throughout the Community

• Class 2, to which some Member States apply restrictions and which is required to carry an 'alert symbol'.”

Ref;

R&TTECA

ETSI.org

http://www.art-telecom.fr/

http://www.erodocdb.dk/Docs/doc98/official/pdf/REC7003E.PDF

Multimedia Equipment, emission requirements standard EN 55032 held up due to errors.

Back of audio mixer at bull and gate London (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The CEN-CENELEC Management Centre (CCMC) was informed that a considerable number of errors were discovered during the publishing phase of the new EMC standard for multimedia equipment, CISPR 32:2012. The procedure has been endorsed by CENELEC as EN 55032:2012 (dor = 3/5/12). It has been noted that the document submitted for vote was the correct text however.

While the IEC is investigating possible options for correcting the matter, CCMC is informing of the errors and working with the IEC toward a speedy resolution to enable CENELEC members to implement corrections at the national level. The CCMC has also posted a note to the CENELEC website / database informing of this error.

The CCMC will not yet offer EN 55032:2012 to the European Commission for citing in the Official Journal. The intended listing was for the EMC and Radio and Telecommunication Terminal Equipment ( R&TTE)  Directives.

Furthermore the Technical Committee will request that the Date of Withdrawal (DOW) be extended from dor+36 months to dor+60 months.

EN 55032:2012 has a broad scope and applies to multimedia equipment (MME) having a rated r.m.s. AC or DC supply voltage not exceeding 600 V. Equipment within the scope of CISPR 13 (EN 55013) or CISPR 22 (EN 55022) is within the scope of EN 55032. Multimedia equipment intended primarily for professional use is also within the scope of EN 55032.

The term “dor” refers to the date of ratification, and is the date when the technical board notes the approval of a European Norm (EN), at which time the standard may be said to be adopted.

Ref:

CENELC Project : EN 55032:2012

CENELEC Guide 19