FCC Part 15: Radio Frequency Devices

Developed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the agency responsible for regulating electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) emissions in the United States, one of the regulations covering electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is FCC Part 15: Radio frequency devices. It is a federal regulation that sets limits on the amount of radio frequency emissions that electronic devices can produce. It covers a wide range of electronic devices, from phones and other consumer electronics to certain types of commercial and industrial equipment.

FCC Part 15 is designed to prevent these devices from interfering with radio services such as television and radio, cellular services, Wi-Fi networks, aviation and marine communications, and certain emergency services communications networks.

FCC Part 15 regulations apply to all electronic devices that generate radio frequency (RF) emissions. Devices specifically designed to use radio frequencies are classified by the FCC as intentional radiators and are subject to a process called FCC certification.

Devices that do not intentionally emit radio frequencies, but may do so as a byproduct of their internal components or printed circuit board (PCB) layout, are classified as unintentional radiators.

Types of devices covered by FCC Part 15 include:

• Intentional radiators: Devices that intentionally emit RF energy (e.g. Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices)
• Unintentional radiators: Devices that emit RF energy as a byproduct of operation (e.g., computers, TV receivers)
• Faulty radiators: Devices that are not designed to emit RF but can (such as electric motors)

The operating conditions of these devices are as follows:

• Devices must not cause harmful interference to licensed services.
• The devices must accept any interference received, even if it may cause undesired operation.

FCC Part 15 is essential for managing and minimizing radio frequency (RF) interference in the electromagnetic spectrum, particularly given the widespread use of wireless and electronic devices. Without it, uncontrolled emissions could disrupt critical communications and services. Therefore, this regulation is necessary for the following reasons:

• Preventing harmful interference: Ensures that unlicensed devices (such as Wi-Fi routers, baby monitors, and microwaves) do not interfere with licensed users (such as police radios, air traffic control, or TV broadcasts).
• Spectrum management: The RF spectrum is a shared and limited resource. Part 15 helps regulate how devices use it, particularly in unlicensed frequency bands.
• Protecting public safety and critical infrastructure: Regulating emissions ensures that essential services like aviation, emergency responders, and hospitals are not disrupted by consumer electronics.
• Encouraging innovation with boundaries: Manufacturers can develop and sell wireless devices without requiring a license, as long as they comply with FCC Part 15 rules. This has fueled the growth of technologies like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and smart home devices.
• Promote reliable device operation: By controlling interference, devices can operate more reliably and predictably in increasingly crowded RF environments.
• Consumer protection: Helps ensure that products on the market are safe and do not disrupt other electronic devices in a home or business.

In short, FCC Part 15 balances the need for innovation and widespread device use with the need to maintain a functional, interference-free communications environment.

FCC Part 15 is divided into several subparts, each addressing a specific category of devices or regulatory issue related to radio frequency emissions. Here's a breakdown of the key subparts within 47 CFR Part 15:

• Subpart A - General: This section defines key terms (e.g., intentional/unintentional radiator). It sets forth general compliance responsibilities, labeling, and equipment authorization procedures.
• Subpart B - Unintentional Radiators: Covers devices that do not intentionally radiate RF energy but may radiate it as a byproduct (e.g., digital devices such as computers and televisions). Establishes emission limits and testing requirements. Applies to most consumer electronics.
• Subpart C - Intentional Radiators: Covers devices that intentionally radiate RF energy (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RF remote controls). Specifies technical standards, power limits, and frequency band usage. It includes detailed rules for various device types and bands.
• Subpart D - Unlicensed personal communications service equipment: This includes rules for devices operating in the 1920-1930 MHz band. This includes cordless telephone systems.
• Subpart E - Unlicensed national information infrastructure devices: Covers devices operating in the 5 GHz bands (e.g., many Wi-Fi routers). Specifies requirements for dynamic frequency selection and transmit power control to prevent interference with radar systems.
• Subpart F - Ultra-wideband operation: Defines rules for devices with a bandwidth of 500 MHz or greater. Includes limitations and applications such as ground-penetrating radar and short-range imaging.
• Subpart G - Broadband access over power lines: Covers broadband communications over power lines. Sets interference immunity standards for licensed services.
• Subpart H - Television band devices: Covers TV white space devices operating on unused TV broadcast channels. Rules include spectrum sensing and geographic location requirements.

The following is a detailed list of consumer and industrial devices subject to FCC Part 15 rules. All of these device types must be tested and receive FCC approval before they can be sold in the U.S.:

• Intentional radiators: Nearly all wireless devices are classified as intentional radiators. Intentional radiator Part 15 devices include:
  • Smartphones
  • Tablets
  • Other mobile phones (including non-smart phones)
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Laptops and desktop computers
  • Smart TVs.
  • Smart home devices
  • RF remote controls
  • Wi-Fi routers and other equipment
  • Wireless microphones and audio devices
  • Wireless security / alarm systems
  • Remote garage door openers
• Unintentional radiators: These devices generally have a shorter FCC testing and compliance process than intentional radiators, but they are still devices that require equipment authorization. Unintentional radiator Part 15 devices include:
  • Computer monitors and peripherals
  • Fluorescent lighting
  • Digital cameras
  • Power Tools
  • Cooking utensils
  • Electric motors
  • Microwaves
  • Other devices

Our organization, which has been supporting businesses across all sectors for years through a wide range of testing, measurement, analysis, and evaluation activities, has a strong team of employees who closely follow global developments in science and technology and are constantly improving themselves. In this context, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with FCC Part 15: Radio Frequency Devices.