FCC Certification (FCC SDOC & FCC ID)

Compliance with regulatory standards is essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and marketability of electronic and electrical products. For manufacturers targeting the United States market, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification is a critical requirement. FCC certification, focusing on the two primary pathways: FCC Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) and FCC ID.

CTI Electronic & Electrical lab is the accredited lab for testing services under the FCC rules and cooperates with FCC TCBs to deliver one-stop FCC certification services here in China for local manufacturers or oversea clients around the world.

1. What is FCC Certification?

FCC certification is a mandatory requirement for electronic and electrical products in scope that are sold or distributed in the United States. The FCC regulates these products to ensure they do not cause harmful interference to other devices, communications systems, or public safety networks. The certification process involves testing products to verify compliance with FCC rules and standards.

There are two main types of FCC certification:

• FCC Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC): A self-certification process where the manufacturer or importer declares that the product complies with FCC rules.
• FCC ID: A certification issued by the FCC for products that require more rigorous testing and evaluation, typically those with intentional radiators (e.g., wireless devices).

FCC certification is not just a legal requirement; it also builds consumer trust and ensures market access in the U.S.

2. Product Categories Required for FCC Certification

FCC certification applies to a wide range of electronic and electrical products that emit RF energy. These products can be broadly categorized into the following groups:

1. Intentional Radiators: Devices that intentionally emit RF energy, such as Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, and cellular phones.
2. Unintentional Radiators: Devices that emit RF energy as a byproduct of their operation, such as computers, printers, and power supplies.
3. Incidental Radiators: Devices that generate RF energy but are not designed to use it, such as motors and mechanical switches.
4. Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) Equipment: Devices used in industrial, scientific, or medical applications, such as microwave ovens and RF heaters.

Examples of specific product categories include:

• Wireless communication devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, IoT devices)
• Home appliances (e.g., microwaves, refrigerators)
• IT and networking equipment (e.g., routers, modems, servers)
• Consumer electronics (e.g., televisions, gaming consoles)
• Lighting products (e.g., LED drivers, smart lighting systems)
• Medical devices (e.g., wireless medical monitors)
• Industrial equipment (e.g., RFID systems, wireless sensors)

3. Difference Between FCC SDoC and FCC ID Certification

The FCC offers two certification pathways, each suited to different types of products:

FCC Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC)

• Applicability: Applies to unintentional radiators and certain low-risk intentional radiators.
• Process: The manufacturer or importer is responsible for testing the product and declaring its compliance with FCC rules.
• Testing: Conducted by an accredited lab, but the manufacturer can perform some tests in-house.
• Documentation: Requires a Declaration of Conformity and a Technical File.
• Labeling: Products must bear the FCC logo and a compliance statement.

FCC ID

• Applicability: Applies to intentional radiators and higher-risk devices, such as wireless communication devices.
• Process: Requires submission of test results and documentation to the FCC or a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) for review and approval.
• Testing: Must be conducted by an accredited lab.
• Documentation: Requires a detailed application, including test reports, schematics, and user manuals.
• Labeling: Products must display the FCC ID, which is unique to each device.

Key Differences:

4. FCC Standards for Applicable Product Categories

FCC certification requires compliance with specific technical standards, depending on the product category. Below is a table summarizing the key FCC standards for common product categories:

5. How to Find FCC-Accredited Testing Labs

To find an FCC accredited lab, you can use the following resources:

• FCC Lab Search Tool: The FCC provides an online database of accredited labs. Visit the FCC Equipment Authorization Search.

6. Procedure for Obtaining FCC SDoC and FCC ID Certification

FCC SDoC Certification Process

1. Determine Applicability: Confirm that your product falls under the FCC SDoC program.
2. Conduct Testing: Perform the required tests at an accredited lab or in-house (if qualified).
3. Compile Technical File: Prepare a Technical File containing test reports, product documentation, and a Declaration of Conformity.
4. Label the Product: Affix the FCC logo and compliance statement to the product and packaging.
5. Maintain Records: Keep the Technical File and supporting documentation for at least 10 years.

FCC ID Certification Process

1. Determine Applicability: Confirm that your product requires an FCC ID.
2. Select a TCB: Choose a Telecommunication Certification Body to handle your application.
3. Conduct Testing: Perform the required tests at an accredited lab.
4. Prepare Application: Compile test reports, schematics, user manuals, and other required documents.
5. Submit Application: Submit the application to the TCB for review and approval.
6. Receive FCC ID: Once approved, the TCB will issue an FCC ID, which must be displayed on the product.
7. Maintain Records: Keep all documentation for at least 10 years.

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