FCC conformity assessment done right, this is how product conformity works in the United States.
The main focus of the FCC is on high-frequency devices that emit frequencies between 9 kHz and 3000 GHz. Any device that can emit high frequency energy by radiation, conduction or otherwise is considered a high frequency device. Examples are: Digital computer and (by radiation emission) Mixer with DC motors (by arcing on brushes) TVs (through digital circuits)
Q&A
What is Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)?
Electronic systems emit both conduction fields and device radiation. Directives and regulations on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) are intended to prevent them from interfering with the electromagnetic environment.
What are the CISPR-22 standards?
The basic EMC requirements are similar in many countries. More and more nations, most of them in Europe, are accepting the international standards for EMC requirements, the so-called CISPR-22 standards.
What is FCC certification and where does it apply?
Due to the enormous market growth of computers and other digital devices, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set limits for electromagnetic interference in radio and wire communications.
For which products must FCC conformity be demonstrated?
The main focus of the FCC is on high-frequency devices that emit frequencies between 9 kHz and 3000 GHz.
What is an (un-)intended spotlight?
Intended radiators are devices that emit spark energy as part of their operation, such as smartphones. Unintended emitters are products that generate radio signals as an unintended by-product of their operation, such as a digital camera.
How does the FCC allocate digital devices?
The FCC names two classes for digital devices. Class A products are marketed for use in commercial, industrial or business environments, while Class B digital devices are marketed for use in private environments.
Which FCC class do PCs belong to?
Personal computers are considered a special category of Class B devices and are subject to stricter regulations than other digital devices.
What is the difference between the FCC and CISPR 22 regulations?
The FCC and CISPR-22(-International-EMC) regulations for radiated emissions differ significantly in the regulated frequency range for conducted emissions.
How does the FCC differ from the EMC Directive (for CE conformity)?
The EMC Directive of the European Union requires the testing of radiated immunity, conducted immunity and electrostatic discharge (ESD).
What is radiation immunity?
Radiation immunity is the ability of products to operate in the environment of high-power transmitters such as AM and FM transmitters and airport surveillance radars.
What is conducted immunity?
Conducted immunity is the ability of a product to function despite a variety of interference coming into the device via the power cord.
What is electrostatic discharge?
Electrostatic discharge occurs when static charge builds up on the human body or furniture and then discharges onto the product with which it comes into contact, causing a momentary surge of current.
Are there military EMC regulations?
EMC is particularly important for military applications, as military equipment must be immune to unwanted interference.
What does FCC compliance mean?
As part of the FCC approval process, the device is tested for its suitability before it is placed on the market. It is tested for interference with other devices and transmission in the correct radio frequency range.
What is the FCC compliance check?
The verification shall be used for digital devices as defined in Part 15 which are not intended to emit radio frequency energy wirelessly by radiation or induction.
What is the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for FCC conformity?
In this stricter procedure than the verification, an accredited laboratory must test the high-frequency energy for the product to be placed on the market.
What is FCC Compliance Certification?
The FCC certification is the strictest approval procedure in which the applicant must submit test data to the Commission. Only devices that can interfere with other devices and signals require this procedure.
How do I get FCC compliance?
FCC approval is required for electronic devices that have a frequency of over 9 kHz. The process of admission to the certification level includes the following five steps:
Step 1: Select the radio frequency
Step 2: Pre-compliance testing during development
Step 3: Apply for a free FCC registration number (FRN)
Step 4: Contact an FCC-registered verifier
Step 5: Perform compliance tests
Step 6: Certification and submission
Which activities are not regulated by the FCC? For which products does FCC compliance not have to be proven?
The FCC does not regulate the following points:
How long does FCC approval take?
The FCC certification process can be time-consuming. Therefore, the FCC has authorized several private organizations, so-called TCBs (Telecommunications Certification Body), to issue and facilitate certifications.
How does FCC compliance differ from UL compliance?
UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories. It is a private organization that has been setting standards for different product categories and testing products for more than 100 years.