FCC Part 15 Testing

The Federal Code of Regulation (CFR) Title 47, Part 15 covers the regulations under which an intentional or unintentional (incidental) radiator may be operated without an individual license. Most electronic products sold in the United States must comply with FCC Part 15 before they can be marketed.

Intentional Radiators

An intentional radiator is a device that intentionally generates and emits radio frequency energy by radiation or induction. Products containing WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, or other radio transmitters are intentional radiators and require FCC certification before marketing in the US. CTS performs the required testing and manages certification filing through a TCB.

Unintentional Radiators

An unintentional radiator is a device that intentionally generates radio frequency energy for use within the device, but which is not intended to emit RF energy by radiation or induction. Computers, switching power supplies, and other digital devices are unintentional radiators. These products may be authorized through certification or a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) depending on the product category.

Part 15 Subpart B

FCC Part 15 Subpart B covers unintentional radiators. It establishes emission limits for devices operating in specific frequency ranges and defines the test methods and equipment authorization procedures. CTS performs Subpart B testing to both ANSI C63.4 and CISPR 32 methods where applicable.

Authorization Process

Depending on the product type, FCC authorization is obtained through certification (for intentional radiators), Declaration of Conformity, or verification. CTS guides manufacturers through the appropriate authorization path and manages all filing and documentation requirements.