If you’re manufacturing an electronic device for sale in the United States, you will need to verify that it complies with FCC Part 15 before bringing it to market.
FCC Part 15 sets performance standards for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) for electronic devices. It applies to all devices capable of using the radio frequency (RF) spectrum, either as a deliberate feature or unintentionally as a byproduct of their design.
As an ANSI-accredited electronic devices testing lab and FCC-recognized Telecommunications Certification Body (TCB), we have helped hundreds of device manufacturers worldwide test and certify their devices for compliance with FCC Part 15 successfully.
If you’re currently designing your device, or if you have a prototype that’s ready for testing, our experienced team can provide FCC compliance consulting services to help you:
- Measure your device’s EMC performance and identify potential issues.
- Make improvements to your device’s design and board layout for better EMC.
- Successfully implement shielding and other technologies to improve your device.
- Conduct lab testing and apply for FCC Certification on your behalf.
To request a quote for testing your device and providing compliance services, or to ask our team of engineers your questions, please contact us online or call us at 866-540-5287.
What is FCC Compliance?
In the United States, electronic devices classed as radiators (devices that emit radio energy) are subject to Title 47, Part 15 of the Code of Federal Regulations, commonly referred to as FCC Pt. 15.
All electronic devices that can emit radio energy are regulated under Part 15. Devices that emit radio frequency energy intentionally are classed as intentional radiators and are subject to FCC Part 15C, while other devices are classed as unintentional radiators and regulated as part of the FCC Part 15B regulations.
In order to legally market your device in the United States, you will need to achieve equipment authorization with the FCC.
For devices classed as intentional radiators, receiving equipment authorization means testing your device in an accredited lab, verifying compliance, preparing documentation and applying for FCC certification and an FCC ID via a TCB.
For devices classed as unintentional radiators, equipment authorization can be received via a shorter self-declaration process referred to as a Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC), which is completed after lab testing of your device.
Compliance with FCC Part 15 is mandatory for all electronic devices capable of emitting radio frequency waves. The FCC regularly tests devices and fines manufacturers and distributors of non-compliant products.
Electronic Devices Subject to FCC Part 15
Almost all electronic devices marketed in the United States are subject to regulation under FCC Part 15.
Common types of devices subject to FCC Part 15 include:
- Cellular devices, such as smartphones
- Cordless home phones and communication devices
- Remote control devices that use radio frequency technology
- Wi-Fi routers, signal boosters and other networking devices
- Televisions, home entertainment systems and other AV equipment
- Computers, monitors and other computer peripherals
- Wireless microphones and audio equipment
- Home appliances and consumer electronics
- Wireless security and alarm systems
- Remote garage door openers
- Bluetooth devices
Other Compliance Marks and Regulations
In addition to FCC Part 15 in the United States, electronic devices capable of emitting RF waves are subject to numerous regulations worldwide.
Other compliance marks for electronic devices include:
- CE mark. The CE mark is required for sale in the European Economic Area. To receive this mark, your device must demonstrate compliance with relevant regulations, such as the EMC Directive, Radio Equipment Directive, and others. We specialize in CE compliance for electronic devices and can help you receive the CE mark for your device, either independently or at the same time as FCC compliance.
- ISED mark. ISED, formerly IC, is the compliance mark for Canada. If you wish to market your device in Canada, we highly recommend completing testing and compliance for the ISED mark at the same time as FCC Part 15 compliance.
- UKCA mark. The UKCA mark is the official compliance mark for the United Kingdom. At the moment, the UK still supports the CE mark, meaning your device can be marketed in the UK without completing UK-specific compliance processes.
- Other compliance marks. Our team can assist you with compliance for other countries and regions, including compliance marks for countries such as Japan, Korea and areas such as the Middle East.
If you plan to market your device in several countries, please contact us to discuss your target markets and necessary compliance marks with our team.
Our Compliance Consulting Services
As specialists in FCC testing and certification, our engineers can assist you at each stage in the product development process to help you achieve FCC equipment authorization.
This includes reviewing your design documents and components to assess for electromagnetic compatibility issues, conducting pre-compliance testing for your device, and completing the lab testing and document preparation process for FCC certification or an FCC SDoC.
We’re also happy to assist you with international compliance for the CE marking, ISED, UKCA and other international compliance regulations.
To request a quote for your device, or to ask our engineers your questions about the lab testing and compliance process, contact us online or call us at 866-540-5287.
