What is FCC Part 22 Compliance Testing?

FCC certification is an integral component of entering the global wireless communications equipment market, serving as a regulatory "entry pass" that permits companies to legally enter North American markets. FCC Part 22 regulates Personal Communication Services (PCS) equipment; specifically setting clear RF technical standards that enable devices like cell phone terminals and wireless data devices to legally enter North American markets.

What Is FCC Part 22?

FCC Part 22 is a technical standard issued under the U.S. Telecommunications Act that was first released in 1993. It governs wireless devices operating in public communication bands--primarily 800 MHz and 1900 MHz--to ensure their RF emissions do not interfere with other systems and maintain an excellent user experience.

What sets this FCC rule apart:

Part 22 addresses equipment directly connecting to public cellular networks (e.g. AT&T and Verizon) and requires full network compatibility.

Part 15 applies to unlicensed wireless devices like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth that operate as self-contained networks without depending on carriers. Part 90 applies to private radio systems used by organizations for purposes such as emergency dispatching or industrial control.

What Products Require FCC Part 22 Testing?

Devices that require Part 22 certification typically depend upon their frequency range of operation and service offerings; typical examples are:

1.Cellular Terminal Devices (CTD): Smartphones, feature phones and data cards (eSIM devices) operating within specific networks are considered CTDs.

8.24-849 MHz (uplink)/869-894 MHz (downlink). 1850-1915 MHz (uplink)/1930-1995 MHz (downlink).

2.PCS Base Stations:

Small base stations such as microcells and femtocells that operate on the same frequencies as terminal devices.

3.Wireless Data Terminals: Includes 4G/5G customer premises equipment (CPE), mobile routers and in-vehicle modules using Wi-Fi/Bluetooth technologies;

800 MHz to 1900 MHz PCS bands as well as extended PCS bands like AWS-1 are covered.

4.Cordless Phones (Select Models):

Cordless phones supporting PCS bands and requiring operator network registration.

5.Industry-Specific Cellular Devices:

Common examples include logistics trackers, point-of-sale terminals with cell connectivity, and industrial IoT gateways using PCS or newer 5G bands.

Exceptions:

Devices used exclusively for satellite communications such as Iridium or private land mobile radio communications such as walkie-talkies not connected to public cellular networks do not typically fall under Part 22 coverage but instead fall into either of two other parts: Part 25(satellite communication)or 90 (private communication).

Core Requirements Under FCC Part 22

FCC Part 22 testing ensures devices don't cause harmful interference and are compatible with public cellular infrastructure, and can typically be divided into the following categories of examination.

1. Transmitter Characteristics (Key RF Emission Tests)

Its Tolerance, Spurious Emissions and Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio (ACLR).

2 Receiver Characteristics (Optional but Recommended).

Receiver sensitivity and performance when testing network simulation software.

3. EMC-Related Testing

These include immunity and emissions testing according to electromagnetic compatibility standards.

FCC Part 22 Certification with JJR Laboratory (China)

This FCC certification falls into the "FCC Certification" category, and includes:

1. Testing by an established lab.

2. Certification Review from a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB).

JJR Laboratory, an FCC-accredited lab based in China, offers both localized testing services and international compliance support to clients worldwide.

Step 1: Define Product Category and Test Requirements

1. Confirm frequency bands (e.g., 800 MHz, 1900 MHz and AWS-1) and device type (terminal/base station). 2. JJR Lab creates a test plan tailored specifically for FCC rules (2023 KDB revisions).

3.Identify if further testing is required for advanced features like 5G NR URLLC.

Step 2: Provide Samples and Technical Documentation

At least three pre-production units with identical final hardware must be provided as samples to assemble technical documentation for production units. Provide these three pre-production units:

1.Product Specification Sheet (Including Frequency, Power and Modulation Type ) 2.Circuit Schematics and PCB Layout

3.Supplier Declarations for RF Modules (Baseband or Front End Components ) 4.User Manual With Clear Markings For U.S. Market Only" And FCC Part 22 Compliance (

Step 3: Laboratory Testing by JJR The JJR Laboratory holds A2LA accreditation and FCC TCB approval, and conducts laboratory testing on products with A2LA compliance or FCC TCB authorization, such as:

1.Transmitter tests using spectrum analyzers and signal generators in order to verify:

1 Frequency Accuracy 2 Spurious Emissions 3 ACLR and Bandwidth Usage 2.Receiver tests conducted using communication testers to simulate carrier networks; 3.Failure Analysis and Improvement Support Services (e.g. redesign suggestions or filter tweaks).

Step 4: Submitting to TCBs and Certification Issuance

1.Upon test completion, JJR generates an FCC-compliant report with raw data and plots.

2.Manufacturers submit FCC Form 731 along with test report and technical documents to an approved Third-Party Certification Body such as TUV SUD or Intertek for certification issuance.

3.Review can typically be completed within 30 business days. 4.If approved, an fcc id (in the format: XX-YYYYY) will be assigned and listed on the [FCC official website](https://www.fcc.gov).