EMC and Regulatory Compliance

EU EMC update Spring 2013

2013-05-15T17:49:00.001-07:00

European Union as a single entity and the stars from the Flag of Europe. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

EMC directive

New directive acceptance is taking longer than expected. Legal adoption is expected around October. With allowances for editorial and administrative action, the new EMC directive can be expected to be operational by year’s end. The “Blue Guide” is undergoing an update due to the changes and to take the New Legislative Framework (NLF) into account.

Power Line Communications

EU EMC consultant indicated that prEN 50412-4 is not recommended for listing in the Official Journal of the European Union at this time, and Notified Bodies are cautioned against using this draft standard for their assessment. For history on this subject and background see An update on PLT, Power Line Telecommunications, in Europe and The last word on Power Line telecom (PLT) in the EU, EN 55022:2006 applies in full, maybe….

EMC Market surveillance campaign

On first analyses the EMC ADCO’s 2012 5^th market surveillance shows worse results than previous campaigns. Reports indicated; of the items sampled 1 out of 2 Information Technology Equipment switching power supplies fail the EMC technical requirements. The full report should be released soon, typically reports are produced in January of the following year and then posted to the Europa web site. The report on the bilateral Table PC campaign conducted by the Netherlands and Germany is also expected soon.

Next candidates on the list for EMC market surveillance are;

Power Assist Bicycles, Inverter or optimizer for solar panels, High Definition (HD) video recorder, and potentially a new LED lighting campaign to assess improvements over the 4^th market surveillance campaign.

(EMC ADCO) – is the European Administrative Co-operation Working Group http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/electrical/documents/emc/guidance/

What power should be considered “Rated Power”

When assessing product under 61000-3-2, “Harmonic Current Emissions”, what power is considered as the rated power, the one actually measured at the lab or the one mentioned on the product data plate? When EMC ADCO was asked this question, the following statement was provided;

Up to a power consumption of 75 W no limits for harmonic current emissions apply to most devices (lighting equipment excepted).

If the rated power is nearly (but below) 75 W procedure is stated in the standard EN 61000-3-2:2006 + A1:2009 + A2:2009 Clause 6.2.2:

“The value of the power found by measurement during emission tests other than the original manufacturer’s conformity assessment test, measured according to the terms of this clause, shall not be less than 90 % nor greater than 110 % of the value for power specified by the manufacturer in the test report (see 6.2.3.4). In the event that the measured value is outside of this tolerance band around the specified value, the measured power shall be used to establish the limits.”

ADCO CONCLUSION

Rated power below 75 W, measured value of rated power is within 90 to 110% of the displayed rated power of the manufacturer

Take rated power from data plate

Rated power below 75 W, rated power not stated at data plate or measured value of rated power is outside 90 to 110%

Take measured rated power from test laboratory

EMC Standards

CISPR 32 has now been published. EN55032 could become mandatory mid 2017

EN55022 and EN 55024 2010 mandatory December 2013

New FCC ID format could make searching IDs difficult

2013-04-30T10:55:00.001-07:00

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

Many new FCC draft publications released this week

2013-04-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

Preceding the spring TCB training session this week, the FCC released a number of draft publications that will have an impact on a wide range of product. Links to the drafts can be found at https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/kdb/reports/PublishedDocumentList.cfm

941225 D07 UMPC Mini Tablet Devices v01r01 DR09-41372
941225 D06 Hot Spot SAR v01r01 DR08-41372
941225 D05 SAR for LTE Devices v02r02 DR07-41372
941225 D02 Guidance for 3GPP R6 and R7 HSPA v02r02 DR06-41372
935210 D02 Signal Boosters Certification v01 DR02-41372
935210 D01 Signal Booster Definitions v01 DR01-41372
971168 D01 Power Meas License Digital Systems v02 DR02-41372
680106 D01 RF Exposure Wireless Charging Apps v02 DR02-41372
865664 D02 SAR Reporting v01r01 DR05-41372
865664 D01 SAR measurement 3 to 6 GHz v01r01 DR04-41372
662911 D01 Appendix I of D01 Multiple Transmitter Output v01 DR03-41372
662911 D01 Multiple Transmitter Output v02 DR02-41372
648474 D03 Handset Wireless Battery Chargers v01r02 DR03-41372
648474 D04 SAR Handsets Multi Xmiter and Ant v01r01 DR04-41372
616217 SAR for laptop and tablets DR03-41368
447498 D01 General RF Exposure Guidance DR03-41369
200443 D02 Millimeter Wave Testing DR01-41369

Jamming employee cell phones can cost

2013-04-10T11:05:00.001-07:00

The FCC issued several notices of apparent liability, in amounts exceeding $120,000 for illegal cell jammer use.

In the referenced Notice of Apparent Liability (NAL), anonymous complaints resulted in immediate investigation of companies employing cell jammers to block cellular communications. Upon investigation by FCC field agents, the companies were found to be using broadband cell signal jammers, illegally shipped from overseas. In one case it was noted the jammers had been installed following a "near miss" potential for an industrial accident, attributed to employee phone use on the job. The managers at the work sites confirmed that the jammers were installed to prevent employees from using cell phones while working.

The problem is noted that these jammers don't discriminate, blocking all cell traffic in and around the area including necessary emergency communications such as 9-1-1 calls.

In each of the cases, the jammers were surrendered to the FCC agents, along with any spare backup jammers. The FCC agents confirmed that the cell band interference had ceased after the jammers were removed.

In each case, the maximum forfeiture amount allowable by statute was proposed, however, the total amount was revised downward by 25%, due to the immediate voluntary surrender of the illegal jammers. It was acknowledged that the Commission has authority to confiscate illegal devices, however, the Commission recognizes the benefits of the voluntary cooperation, and would like to encourage similar conduct in the future.

Ref
http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2013/db0409/FCC-13-47A1.pdf
http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2013/db0409/FCC-13-46A1.pdf

FCC Opens More 5GHz Spectrum

2013-02-20T19:45:00.001-08:00

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

2013-02-15T18:55:00.001-08:00

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;

FCC will stop certifying products and rely solely on TCBs (including for items on exclusion list)
FCC to codify “permit-but-ask” procedures into new “pre-approval” procedure.
Rules will clarify TCB post-market surveillance requirements
Rules will specify steps that can be taken if TCB performance was found deficient.
Rules will reference latest ISO/IEC standards for accreditation and 2009 version of ANSI
Test labs will require accreditation to perform testing for certification.
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)

New single Australian compliance mark requirements

2013-01-28T17:38:00.001-08:00

March 1, 2013 is the commencement date set for the new ACMA labeling arrangements. The three marks, C-Tick, A-Tick and RCM, are to be consolidated into a single compliance mark, the RCM.

The C-Tick and A-Tick marks will be phased out over a three year period, however, new suppliers will be required to register with the new database, and apply the new RCM on March 1, 2013.

The new marking does not affect the device compliance requirements. Testing, record-keeping and evidential requirements continue as set out in the relevant labeling notices.

A new safety system, the Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS) is being introduced in some state territories and the RCM will be the only compliance mark for devices within the scope of the EESS.

Complete details provided below via a link in the reference listing.

REF:

New single compliance mark-RCM

ACMA - Compliance and Labeling Arrangements Updates announcement

Improved HD video coming to a hot-spot near you

2013-01-10T18:59:00.001-08:00

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

Radio module integration and R&TTE compliance, EMC evaluation

2012-12-04T10:11:00.001-08:00

radio module (Photo credit: ckhamken)

Building on a previous post focusing on radio module integration and the Radio and telecommunications terminal equipment (R&TTE) directive compliance, this article will focus on compliance of the combined apparatus with section 3.1(b) of the R&TTE directive, namely the essential requirements of Electromagnetic Compatibility or EMC.

As a basic primer, the R&TTE directive’s essential requirements are detailed within the directive under article 3, to paraphrase;

3.1 Essential requirements applicable to all apparatus;
a. Safety requirements of the Low Voltage Directive, with lower limits removed
b. Electromagnetic compatibility as per EMC directive
3.2 Effective use of radio spectrum
3.3 Construction, protection and accessibility requirements (with a number of specified items)

As posited in a previous post “Radio module integration and R&TTE compliance”, compliant radio modules installed in accordance with a manufacturer’s installation instruction require no further evaluation to article 3.2 of the R&TTE directive. However, an assessment, in most cases, will be necessary for article 3.1(a) and 3.1(b). The combined product will essentially form a new apparatus.

Given that the combined product should be assessed as a new apparatus, a couple questions may arise. What EU directive and standards apply? How do you make an assessment for EMC on the combined product?

When adding a radio to an apparatus, the new combined apparatus now falls within the scope of the R&TTE directive. ETSI EN 301 489-1 annex C gives guidance regarding this combined equipment EMC assessment, and it is based on the ETSI TR 102 070-1 technical report. In accordance with the guidance, for a combined apparatus where all products can operate independently of each other, an evaluation may be made by review of existing assessment of the individual apparatus, and if it is concluded that the combined configuration has been assessed and is representative of the combined apparatus, and, is used in according to its manufacturer’s instructions, it is not necessary to re-assess the apparatus. If there is insufficient information to make an evaluation, or the results of the evaluation are unclear, then an additional assessment shall be performed. Most of the time an assessment for EMC of the combined apparatus will not have been performed, or there is insufficient data to support a declaration of conformity.

Although under the scope of the R&TTE directive, the selection of applicable standards for EMC will be based on the primary function of the newly combined apparatus. The manufacturer shall declare the primary function and identify applicable standards from the EMC directive and/or R&TTE directive. The assessment should be supplemented with test levels and extended frequency ranges to cover both radio and non-radio aspects of the newly combined apparatus (i.e. a worst case representation of applicable levels and limits). See this flow chart from Compatible Electronics for a simplification of the assessment process based on the ETSI guidance.

The declaration of conformity will need to declare compliance with the R&TTE directive, and the party responsible for the completed combined apparatus is the party responsible for ensuring that the final configuration, when used properly, and in accordance with the provided instructions, fulfills ALL essential requirements of the R&TTE directive.

REF:

ETSI TR 102 070-1

ETSI EN 301 489-1 annex C

R&TTE CA TGN 01 Rev 5

GUIDELINES ON THE APPLICATION OF DIRECTIVE 2006/95/EC (par. 34)

FCC policy and procedure updates, it’s a big one

2012-10-25T12:47:00.001-07:00

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

The Knowledge Database section of the Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) web site has a significant number of new publications today. The new updates impact technical requirements such as software defined radios, RF safety and Digital Transmission Systems (DTS) measurement procedures. Other updates cover administrative issues as well as guidance and policy for Telecommunication Certification Bodies.

While the FCC continually updates these policies and procedures as needed, we tend to see the most significant changes going into the spring and fall seasons. Part of the reason for this is the TCB council holds regular training workshops in the spring and fall. The FCC is generally in attendance, and uses the opportunity to update the community on policy matters and technical issues. The training workshops become sort of a deadline for publication in this way. We also see a number of updates just following the training workshops as questions and comments begin to hit the FCC.

You can visit the OET KDB site at https://apps.fcc.gov/oetcf/kdb/index.cfm. Below is a categorized summary with excerpts of the updates for your convenience. If these issues are important to you, I suggest regular checks of the FCC KDB publications to stay current with the rules.

1. Administrative

a. Permissive Change Policy

i. 10/24/2012: D01 Permissive Change Policy v05r02 has been changed to 178919 D01 Permissive Change Policy v05r03 to allow TCBs to approve third party software upgrades as PBA. Permissive changes and RF exposure considerations has been changed to reference the published RF exposure KDB procedures.

b. Permit But Ask List

i. 10/24/2012: 388624 D02 Permit But Ask List v11 replaces 388624 D02 Permit But Ask List v10 Several changes have been made to the document to clarify the types of devices subject to the PBA review process.

c. Software Defined Radio Application Guide

i. 10/24/2012 442812 D01 SDR Apps Guide v02 has been changed to 442812 D01 SDR Apps Guide v02r01. Removed the requirement for non-SDR to file a Class II permissive change directly with the Commission.

d. TCB Exclusion List

i. 10/25/2011 628591 D01 TCB Exclusion List v12r02 replaces 628591 D01 TCB Exclusion List v12r01. Removed Access Broadband over Power Line (BPL) devices (Part 15 Subpart G);

ii. 10/24/2012 D01 TCB Exclusion List v13 replaces 628591 D01 TCB Exclusion List v12r02. Clarified requirements for devices subject to RF Exposure requirements; removed non-SDR Class II permissive change applications for certain types of devices.

e. SAR Listings on Equipment Authorization Grants

i. 10/24/2012: 690783 D01 SAR Listings on Grants v01r01 has been changed to 690783 D01 SAR Listings on Grants v01r02 to reflect changes made to RF exposure guidance.

2. Technical

a. Mobile and Portable Devices RF Exposure Procedures and Equipment Authorization Policies

i. 10/24/2012: 447498 D01 General RF Exposure Guidance v04 has been changed to 447498 D01 General RF Exposure Guidance v05. The new version (v05) is a major revision to version 04.

b. Guidance for Performing Compliance Measurements on Digital Transmission Systems (DTS) Operating Under §15.247

i. 10/04/2012: 558074 D01 DTS Meas Guidance v01 has been changed to 558074 D01 DTS Meas Guidance v02. V02 is a major change to the v01 guidance with additional measurement options.

c. Restrictions on Software Configuration for devices not approved as Software Defined Radios

i. 10/24/2012 Publication: 594280 D01 Software Configuration Control v01r01 has been changed to 594280 D01 Software Configuration Control v01r02 Removed for Non SDR the requirement to file a Class II permissive change directly with the Commission.

d. SAR Evaluation Considerations for Laptop, Notebook, Netbook and Tablet Computers

i. 10/24/2012: 16217 D04 SAR for laptop and tablets v01 replaced previous guidance:616217 D01 SAR for Laptop with Screen Ant v01r01, 616217 D02 SAR Policy Laptop with Screen Ant v01r01and 16217 D03 SAR Supp Note and Netbook Laptop v01

e. SAR Evaluation Considerations for Wireless Handsets

i. 10/24/2012: 6648474 D04 SAR Handsets Multi Xmiter and Ant v01 replaces 48474 D01 SAR Handsets Multi Xmiter and Ant v01r05 and 648474 D02 SAR Polcy Handsts Multi Xmiter Ant v01r01

f. Emissions Testing of Transmitters with Multiple Outputs in the Same Band (e.g., MIMO, Smart Antenna, etc)

i. 10/25/2011: 662911 D01 Multiple Transmitter Output v01 changed to 662911 D01 Multiple Transmitter Output v01r01 to add references to new attachment 662911 D02 in the second paragraph of the document and in the INTRODUCTION section. The referenced attachment identifies an exception to the requirement for summing emissions across outputs in certain cases involving devices that drive cross-polarized antennas and identifies the need to sum radiated emissions across polarizations in certain other cases.

g. MIMO with Cross-Polarized Antenna

i. NEW POLICY AND PROCEDURE

h. Guidelines for Compliance Testing of Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (U-NII) Devices Part 15, Subpart E

i. Too many to list, see KDB

i. SAR Evaluation Considerations for LTE Devices

i. 10/24/2012 941225 D05 SAR for LTE Devices v02 replaces 941225 D05 SAR for LTE Devices v01. Version v02 represents a major revision to version v01.

REF:

Office of Engineering and Technology Laboratory Division Knowledge Database (KDB)

R&TTE Directive List of Harmonized standards updated

2012-10-24T11:21:00.001-07:00

A new list of “Harmonised” standards has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union with reference to the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC .

Below is a table of the most recent updates, or go directly to the full Publication of titles and references of harmonised standards under the directive.

ESO (1)	Reference and title of the harmonised standard (and reference document)	Reference of superseded standard	Date of cessation of presumption of conformity of superseded standard Note 1	Article of Directive 1999/5/EC
Cenelec	EN 50360:2001/A1:2012 (new) Product standard to demonstrate the compliance of mobile phones with the basic restrictions related to human exposure to electromagnetic fields (300 MHz - 3 GHz)	Note 3	13/02/2015	Article 3(1)(a)
Cenelec	EN 60730-1:2011 (new) Automatic electrical controls for household and similar use -- Part 1: General requirements IEC 60730-1:2010 (Modified)			Article 3(1)(a) (and Article 2 2006/95/EC) + Article 3(1)(b)
Cenelec	EN 61000-3-12:2011 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) -- Part 3-12: Limits - Limits for harmonic currents produced by equipment connected to public low-voltage systems with input current > 16 A and <= 75 A per phase IEC 61000-3-12:2011	EN 61000-3-12:2005 Note 2.1	16/06/2014	Article 3(1)(b)
ETSI	EN 300 220-2 V2.4.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Short Range Devices (SRD); Radio equipment to be used in the 25 MHz to 1 000 MHz frequency range with power levels ranging up to 500 mW; Part 2: Harmonized EN covering essential requirements under article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive	EN 300 220-2 V2.3.1 Note 2.1	28/02/2014	Article 3(2)
ETSI	EN 300 328 V1.8.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Wideband transmission systems; Data transmission equipment operating in the 2,4 GHz ISM band and using wide band modulation techniques; Harmonized EN covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive	EN 300 328 V1.7.1 Note 2.1	31/12/2014	Article 3(2)
ETSI	EN 301 489-17 V2.2.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment; Part 17: Specific conditions for Broadband Data Transmission Systems	EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1 Note 2.1	31/05/2014	Article 3(1)(b)
ETSI	EN 301 489-34 V1.3.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment and services; Part 34: Specific conditions for External Power Supply (EPS) for mobile phones	EN 301 489-34 V1.1.1 Note 2.1	28/02/2014	Article 3(1)(b)
ETSI	EN 301 559-2 V1.1.2 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM);Short Range Devices (SRD); Low Power Active Medical Implants (LP-AMI) operating in the frequency range 2 483,5 MHz to 2 500 MHz;Part 2: Harmonized EN covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive			Article 3(2)
ETSI	EN 301 843-1 V1.3.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for marine radio equipment and services; Part 1: Common technical requirements	EN 301 843-1 V1.2.1 Note 2.1	31/05/2014	Article 3(1)(b)
ETSI	EN 301 893 V1.7.1 (new) Broadband Radio Access Networks (BRAN); 5 GHz high performance RLAN; Harmonized EN covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive	EN 301 893 V1.6.1 Note 2.1	31/12/2014	Article 3(2)
ETSI	EN 302 288-2 V1.6.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Short Range Devices; Road Transport and Traffic Telematics (RTTT); Short range radar equipment operating in the 24 GHz range; Part 2: Harmonized EN covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive	EN 302 288-2 V1.3.2 Note 2.1	31/12/2013	Article 3(2)
ETSI	EN 302 774 V1.2.1 (new) Broadband Wireless Access Systems (BWA) in the 3 400 MHz to 3 800 MHz frequency band;Base Stations;Harmonized EN covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive	EN 302 774 V1.1.1 Note 2.1	31/12/2013	Article 3(2)

NOTE: Date Format is the European Date Format DD/MM/YYYY (List is an excerpt for the list provided at http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/european-standards/harmonised-standards/ and only represents new items)

For links to this and lists for other directives, please visit Compatible Electronics’ European Conformity Assessment page.

EMC Directive List of Harmonized standards updated

2012-10-24T10:46:00.001-07:00

A new list of “Harmonised” standards has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union with reference to the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC .

Below is a table of the most recent updates, or go directly to the full Publication of titles and references of harmonised standards under the directive.

ESO(1)	Reference and title of the harmonised standard (and reference document)	Reference of superseded standard	Date of cessation of presumption of conformity of superseded standard Note 1
Cenelec	EN 50083-2:2012 (new) Cable networks for television signals, sound signals and interactive services -- Part 2: Electromagnetic compatibility for equipment	EN 50083-2:2006 Note 2.1	21/06/2013
Cenelec	EN 50550:2011 Power frequency overvoltage protective device for household and similar applications (POP) EN 50550:2011/AC:2012 (new)
Cenelec	EN 60730-1:2011 (new) Automatic electrical controls for household and similar use -- Part 1: General requirements IEC 60730-1:2010 (Modified)	EN 60730-1:2000 and its amendments Note 2.1	01/10/2013
Cenelec	EN 60947-3:2009/A1:2012 IEC 60947-3:2008/A1:2012 (new) Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear -- Part 3: Switches, disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and fuse-combination units	Note 3	21/03/2015
Cenelec	EN 61000-3-12:2011 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) -- Part 3-12: Limits - Limits for harmonic currents produced by equipment connected to public low-voltage systems with input current > 16 A and <= 75 A per phase IEC 61000-3-12:2011	EN 61000-3-12:2005 Note 2.1	16/06/2014
Cenelec	EN 61439-3:2012 (new) Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies -- Part 3: Distribution boards intended to be operated by ordinary persons (DBO) IEC 61439-3:2012
Cenelec	EN 61800-3:2004/A1:2012 IEC 61800-3:2004/A1:2011 (new) Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems -- Part 3: EMC requirements and specific test methods	Note 3	19/12/2014
ETSI	EN 300 386 V1.6.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Telecommunication network equipment; ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements	EN 300 386 V1.5.1 Note 2.1	30/11/2015
ETSI	EN 301 489-34 V1.3.1 (new) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment and services; Part 34: Specific conditions for External Power Supply (EPS) for mobile phones	EN 301 489-34 V1.1.1 Note 2.1	28/02/2014

For links to this and lists for other directives, please visit Compatible Electronics’ European Conformity Assessment page.

Update to Radio Equipment Rules proposed by European Commission

2012-10-19T15:31:00.001-07:00

Outside the Berlaymont building of the European Commission (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The European Commission proposed on Wednesday to update the Radio Equipment Directive. The proposal has three main goals;

To Strengthen the level of Compliance with the Directive
To Clarify the Directive
To Simplify the Directive

Market surveillance will be a big part of the primary objective to strengthen the level of compliance. The new requirements will clearly spell out the responsibilities and obligations for every market player be it the manufacturer or importer. Simplification will come in the form of reduced administrative overhead such as suppression of notification requirements of certain products. The proposal also introduces some new requirements such as control of Software, and Interoperability with accessories, and networks.

The new R&TTE directive is also to be aligned with the New Legislative Framework (NLF). The NLF negotiations were conducted at the Member States level, and without consideration for specific Directives. As a result many of the New Approach Directives have become misaligned with the NLF. In late 2011 a package of 9 other recast draft directives, “aligned” with the NLF have been submitted to the EU Council and Parliament.

· Low Voltage Directive

· EMC Directive

· ATEX Directive

· Lifts Directive

· Simple Pressure Vessels Directive

· Measuring Instruments Directive

· Non-automatic Weighing Instruments Directive

· Civil Explosives Directive

· Pyrotechnic Articles Directive

Ref:

http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-12-1109_en.htm

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/rtte/documents/legislation/review/index_en.htm

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/single-market-goods/regulatory-policies-common-rules-for-products/new-legislative-framework/

Crackdown on jammers continue with “NOJAM” and action against sellers on Craigslist

2012-10-17T15:48:00.001-07:00

No one I know (Photo credit: Mickipedia)

The FCC has a new weapon in its continued efforts to aggressively enforce the law with respect to the sale and use of illegal radio jammers. The new weapon is a dedicated jammer tip hotline, 1-855-55-NOJAM. The hotline is intended to make it easier for the general public to report offenders.

The Press Release announcing the new hotline encourages the public to call the hotline if;

you are aware of the ongoing use of a cell, GPS, or other signal jammer;
your employer operates a jammer in your workplace;
you observe a jammer in operation at your school or college;
you observe an advertisement for a jammer at a local store; or
you observe a jammer being operated on your local bus, train or other mass transit system.

In the Press Release, Michele Ellison, Chief of the Enforcement Bureau, said: “We need consumers to be our eyes and ears. Jammers do not just weed out noisy or annoying conversations and disable unwanted GPS tracking, they can prevent 9-1-1 and other emergency phone calls from getting through in a time of need.”

On the same day of the announcement, the Enforcement Bureau took action against another six individuals for advertising and selling signal jammers on the popular classified ad web site Craigslist.org. The actions come with a warning that the FCC intends to impose “Substantial Monetary Penalties” for similar violations going forward.

So how much will that $45 illegal jammer really cost? The Consumer Alert issued within an FCC Enforcement Advisory explains penalties can exceed $100,000 per violation.

More about the activities related to jammer enforcement can be found on the Commission web site, http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/jammer-enforcement.

REF:

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2012/db1015/DOC-316795A1.pdf

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2012/db1015/DOC-316796A1.pdf

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2012/db1015/DA-12-1642A1.pdf

Domestic Unlicensed Modular Radio Approval

2012-10-11T15:53:00.001-07:00

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.

Free electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) seminar in Orange County

2012-10-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

IEEE Logo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It’s not often you get something for nothing these days, remember the old phrase, “There ain't no such thing as a free lunch”, well, this one will surely interest any engineers out there responsible for product compliance or EMC, and the best part is It's free. Mark your calendar!

The Orange County IEEE EMC chapter is hosting a presentation by Mr. Kenneth Wyatt, Sr. EMC engineer with Wyatt Technical Services, LLC.

For over 20 years Mr. Wyatt has worked as a senior EMC engineer with Hewlett-Packard and Agilent Technologies. Kenneth is a senior member of the IEEE and a long time member of the EMC Society.

The presentation is titled “EMC Troubleshooting Kit, Workbench Measurements and Common Problems”. This free and valuable presentation focuses on pre-compliance measurements and techniques, an indispensible tool set for anyone responsible for product compliance.

For more information, date time and location, and to register, please see IEEE vTools Meetings.

FCC Permits certification and use of Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA)

2012-09-21T14:47:00.001-07:00

English: A TETRA radio unit as well as an older radio unit in a Swedish (Saab) police car Svenska: En RAKEL-enhet i en svensk polisbil (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The FCC announced in a report and order today that they are modifying the rules under Part 90 to permit the certification and use of Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) equipment. Among other changes, Part 90 will now contain Adjacent Channel Power (ACP) limits to enable TETRA equipment to comply.

The TETRA standard was developed by the European Technical Standards Institute (ETSI) and released in 1995; it is widely used within Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa and South America. It was designed for government agency and emergency services use.

The problem for TETRA in the United States is that TETRA equipment does not observe limits on occupied bandwidth, rather adjacent channel power and unwanted emission limits at different frequency offsets are applied. As a consequence, TETRA equipment will exceed the Part 90 occupied bandwidth limits and emission masks here in the United States. In 2011, the FCC granted TETRA a waiver based on technical information submitted by the TETRA Association asserting that the TETRA equipment provides at least as much protection from interference to other services as any other available technologies.

Thirty days from today’s publication, the TETRA technology will be permitted in the 450-470 MHZ, and 809-824/854-869 MHz band under a modified Part 90. Due to the nature of the trunked technology and it being incapable of monitoring a frequency prior to transmitting, TETRA may be employed only by licensees that are exempt from any monitoring requirements, such as operation above 512 MHz or on channels for which the licensee has exclusive use. Use is prohibited in the 700 MHz public safety spectrum as Congress has specified that Long Term Evolution (LTE) will be the required broadband technology for that segment.

REF;

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2012/db0921/FCC-12-114A1.pdf

C.F.R. Title 47, Part 90 – Private Land Mobile Radio Services

FCC cracking down on MVPD operators

2012-08-17T14:33:00.001-07:00

Zenith (Photo credit: bcostin)

FCC issues a Public Notice informing non-cable, Multichannel Video Programming Distributors (MVPD), of the rules applicable to all MVPDs, cable provider or not, with regard to notification requirements and cable leakage limits and testing. On the same day, the FCC released several citations the bureau had issued, one to a hotel operator, one to a heath care center, and another to a rehabilitation hospital. All three citations were issued out of the Los Angeles Office, western region, of the FCC enforcement Bureau and all three cover violation of exceeding signal leakage limits in the aeronautical bands.

The notice explains that, like cable system operators, non-cable MVPDs must also notify the FCC prior to the use of any aeronautical frequency bands within their systems. Additionally, non-cable MVPDs must also comply with the same requirements cable operators follow with respect to preventing and testing for signal leakage. These rules can be found in Part 76 of Title 47 C.F.R.

An MVPD is any provider that distributes multichannel video programming, traditionally for a fee, for example the cable television systems. Non-cable MVPDs are exempt from the FCC’s legal definition of a cable system, but are subject to some of the same technical rules that traditional cable systems are. Examples of non-cable MVPDs are universities, hotels, apartment complexes and other multiple-unit communities, prisons, office buildings, and other facilities with in-house systems for making multiple channels of video programming available to subscribers or consumers.

The aeronautical frequency bands range from 108 – 137 MHz and 225 – 400 MHz, which correspond to cable channels 14-16, 25-53, and 98 & 99. Notification filing with the FCC is required once a year. All MVPDs must monitor for and repair signal leaks.

Fines for violators can range up to $37,500 per violation, per day of continued violation. It costs $60 to file a frequency usage notification form with the FCC, and no fees are assessed for filing the basic signal leakage performance report.

Ref;

DA 12-1340

Citation No.: C201232900002

Citation No.: C201232900003

Citation No.: C201232900004

C.F.R. Title 47, Part 76

Class 1 Status of 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN in the EU

2012-07-20T18:47:00.001-07:00

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

FCC Rule Change Focus on Vehicle and Airport Safety

2012-07-10T15:47:00.001-07:00

English: Collision Warning with Brake Support (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

July 3, 2012, the FCC has amended Part 15 rules to enable enhanced vehicular radar technologies in the 76-77 GHz band, and to allow fixed radar applications at airports with an aim to improve safety for personnel and equipment.

The amendment includes a relaxation of limits for vehicular radar technologies, and is justified within the Report and Order, citing that maximum permissible limits for human exposure to RF electromagnetic fields had not been established at the time the rules were originally adopted (1995), and the original limits, intended to protect pedestrians in the proximity of stopped vehicles, are far more restrictive than the currently adopted RF exposure levels.

The modifications are applicable specifically to sections 15.35 and 15.253 of title 47 Part 15.

The amendment to section 15.35 eliminates the requirement that vehicular radars decrease power when the vehicle is not in motion. Furthermore this modification specifies a new relaxed emission limit for 76-77 GHz front, side, and rear illuminating vehicular radars. The FCC takes these actions in response to petitions filed by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and Era Systems Corporation (Era).

The modification of section 15.253 will allow fixed radar systems operating in the 76-77 GHz band to be installed at airport locations. These systems are used for foreign object debris (FOD) detection on runways as well as the ability to monitor aircraft and service vehicle traffic on the taxiways and other non-public ground locations.

The FCC justifies these modifications within the Report and Order claiming they “will provide more efficient use of the spectrum, and enable the automotive and aviation industries to develop enhanced safety measures for drivers and the general public”.

The 76-77 GHz band is considered Extremely High Frequency (EHF), and is within the “W band”, 75 GHz to 119 GHz. The EHF spectrum is what is commonly referred to as the millimeter wave spectrum, which is considered to begin at 30 GHz and end at 300 GHz.

The 76-77 GHz band is primarily allocated to the Radio Astronomy Service (RAS) and the Radiolocation service. Amateur and Space research (space-to-Earth) services utilize this band on a secondary basis.

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and National Academy of Sciences’ Committee on Radio Frequencies (CORF) has raised concerns about increased interference potential to radio astronomy operations if the rules are adopted. NRAO argues that vehicular radars may interfere with radio astronomy receivers over distances up to approximately 60 miles. NRAO states that “destruction of radio astronomy receivers is a serious possibility” due to the high powered vehicular radars. The Automotive industry disagrees with the claims citing that they are speculative. The FCC notes that vehicular radar has been permitted in the 76-77 GHz band since 1995, and that an increase in potential interference as a result of the rule change is negligible.

Ref:

FCC Report and Order

NPRM ET Docket No. 11-90

Era Systems Corp. 2.803, 15.201, 15.253 waiver request and FCC response

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

2012-06-14T14:34:00.001-07:00

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

FCC running out of Grantee codes

2012-06-13T18:24:00.001-07:00

(Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)

The availability of new FCC issued grantee codes is critically low, and the FCC will soon run out. Today the Commission voted to expand the code from 3, to 5 digits by amending Sections 2.925 and 2.926.

Each product certified to the FCC rules must carry an FCC ID, as an example look on the back of your electronic device for “FCC ID:xxx1234”. This identifier consists of a grantee code making up the first 3 digits, and an applicant assigned unique product code composed of from 1 to 14 additional alpha-numeric characters, dashes or hyphens.

Each entity seeking to obtain a grant of equipment authorization from the FCC, must first obtain the unique grantee code assigned by the FCC. This three digit format uses alpha numeric characters, excluding 0 and 1 in a way that would provide for over 30,000 unique combinations.

This FCC identifier system was introduced in 1979. In 1999, 440 grantee codes had been issued that year. In 2001, 635 grantee codes were issued, and in 2011 the number had increased to 1275 unique grantee codes issued per year.

Given the rate of grantee code issuance, the FCC will soon run out of unique codes. To extend this deadline, the FCC had been recycling old unused grantee codes, however this was only a temporary solution. Today the Commission approved a vote to extend the code to 5 digits. This will provide approximately 8,000,000 unique combinations.

Entities that currently have a 3 digit grantee code may keep the code, but new applicants will be assigned the new 5 digit grantee code approximately 30 - 60 days from the order’s publication in the federal register.

Ref:
Open Commission Meeting June 13, 2012

FCC Extends commenting period for some draft publications

2012-05-11T13:04:00.001-07:00

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The OET (Office of Engineering and Technologies) agreed to extend the commenting period for a number of Draft Knowledge Data Base publications, also known as KDBs, until June 30, 2012, after receiving and reviewing a number of requests for such an extension.

This extension amounts to an additional 30 day review period. The FCC commented that given the number of different KDB guidance documents, it would be useful for all parties to take more time to review and comment.

Following are the affected draft KDBs;

- General RF Exposure Guidance (447498)

- SAR Evaluation consideration for LTE Devices (941225)

- SAR Measurement, Compliance Reporting, 100 MHz to 6 GHZ (865664)

- SAR Evaluation Considerations for Handsets with Multiple Transmitters (648474)

- SAR Evaluation Considerations for Laptop, Notebook, Netbook (616217)

- TCB Exclusion List (628591)

- Permit But Ask List (388624)

- RF Exposure Evaluation Considerations for Occupational Push-to-Talk Two-Way Radios (643646)

New R&TTE and EMC Standards List Published in OJ

2012-04-11T21:12:00.001-07:00

New Harmonized standards lists have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union for the Radio and Telecommunication Terminal Equipment(R&TTE) Directive and the EMC Directive.

R&TTE Directive Standards List

EMC Directive Standards List

Wireless handset hearing aid compatibility standard adopted

2012-04-10T11:21:00.001-07:00

Hearing aid types (300dpi) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The FCC has formally adopted ANSI C63.19 2011 as an applicable technical standard for evaluating the hearing aid compatibility of wireless phones.

As specified in the Second Further Notice, the new rules permit the use of either ANSI C63.19 2007, or ANSI C63.19 2011 for the testing of new handset models. All existing grants issued under the 2007 standard, as well as any pre-2010 grants remain valid, thus, no existing handset models will require retesting or recertification for hearing aid compatibility.

A 12 month transition period has been adopted for testing of multi-band and multi-mode handsets that incorporate operations which are not covered under the 2007 ANSI Standard. The Report and Order recognizes that as the new rules become effective, some manufacturers will be in production cycles where it will be impractical to return to a testing cycle for upcoming multi-band or multi-mode handsets under the 2011 ANSI Standard. Specifically, during the transition period, and as an alternative to using the 2011 standard, manufacturers may certify handsets as hearing aid compatible if they meet all compatibility criteria under the 2007 ANSI standard for all operations covered by that standard, providing they meet the disclosure requirements set forth in the order. After the transition period, all new handsets that contain operations not covered by the 2007 version will need to comply with the 2011 ANSI standard.

The Report and Order makes it clear that evaluations performed partly under one version of the ANSI standard, and partly under another, is incompatible with existing rules, thus manufacturers must test exclusively with one of the applicable versions.

Ref;

http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2012/db0409/DA-12-550A1.pdf

http://www.emcrules.com/2011/11/hearing-aid-compatibility-for-wireless.html