FCC Standards for Electronics

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was established in 1934 to regulate communications in areas such as radio, television, and telecommunications, ensuring the safety of electronic devices. The Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) provides technical support and certification. Many communication and digital products require FCC certification before entering the U.S. market.

Which Products Require FCC Certification?

FCC certification is a detailed and formal process that requires testing by an accredited laboratory. Products that need certification include Bluetooth devices, ZigBee radios, WLAN, and most other intentional radiators. After testing, the results are formally submitted to a Telecommunications Certification Body (TCB) or directly to the FCC. The documentation for certification is more comprehensive than a Declaration of Conformity (DoC).

Products Requiring FCC Certification:

1. Lighting Products: LED lighting, LED screens, LED power supplies/drivers, ballasts, etc.

2. Household Appliances & Power Tools: Air conditioners, refrigerators, batteries, washing machines, low-power motors, and other electronic and electrical products.

3. Personal Computers & Peripherals: PCs, monitors, power adapters, mice, etc.

4. Audio & Video Products: Televisions, set-top boxes, DVD/VCD players, MP3 players, home audio systems, etc.

5. Wireless Products: Bluetooth devices, wireless remote control switches, wireless mice and keyboards, and various other wireless devices.

6. Communication Devices: Telephones, 2G/3G/4G mobile phones, walkie-talkies, etc.

7. Toys: Metal toys, plastic toys, wooden and bamboo toys, plush toys, paper toys, and electronic toys.

8. Security Products: Alarms, security systems, access control devices, monitors, and cameras.

fcc testing Standards Classification

Generally, the FCC classifies regulated products into two categories based on their usage:

- Class A: Products for commercial or industrial use.

- Class B: Products for residential use (subject to stricter regulations than Class A, with lower limits).

For most electronic and electrical products, the primary standards are fcc part 15 and fcc part 18. The most commonly applied FCC standards are:

Scope of FCC Standards

1. FCC Part 15 C/E/F – Intentional radiator device testing.

2. FCC Part 18 – Industrial, scientific, and medical equipment.

3. FCC Part 22 – Public mobile communication services.

4. FCC Part 24 – Personal communication services.

5. FCC Part 25 – Satellite communication services.

6. FCC Part 27 – Other FCC wireless communication services.

7. FCC Part 68 – Telecommunications terminal equipment.

FCC Part 15 covers intentional, unintentional, or incidental emissions from devices that do not require an individual license for use. It includes technical specifications, administrative requirements, and other market access conditions.

The primary goal of FCC regulations is to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and manage radio frequency (RF) spectrum usage, ensuring the proper functioning of telecommunications networks and electrical devices. Additionally, the FCC adjusts certification standards based on federal environmental regulations and new research findings, such as the impact of electromagnetic radiation on human health, to ensure user safety and environmental sustainability.