Part 15 regulations, like most FCC regulations for SAR and RF compliance, can be unclear. This is especially true for manufacturers of Part 15 devices, who probably know how important it is to be compliant, but may not be entirely sure what qualifies as a Part 15 device. If you take a look at the Code of Federal Regulations, it may not be particularly insightful largely because of how dense it is. Further, when you have a SAR testing lab made up of experts on your side, you don’t need to spend your time trying to decipher the Code of Federal Regulations.

In this article, we’re discussing this section of Title 47, so continue reading to get answers to all of your Part 15 questions.

FCC Title 47 Part 15

Title 47 is part of the Code of Federal Regulations, and Part 15 is a section of Title 47. It covers electromagnetic interference and its regulations are set forth by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). 

Part 15 defines the rules for which intentional, unintentional, or incidental radiators are allowed to operate unlicensed. It also outlines regulations pertaining to the marketing of part 15 devices.

Under part 15, unlicensed electronics must prove compliance and follow SAR regulations, but they must also not interfere with other electronic devices.

If a part 15 device causes harmful interference, the operator of that device will be required to stop operating it. This device cannot be operated until the cause of the harmful interference is corrected.

Class A

According to the FCC, a class A digital device is “a digital device that is marketed for use in a commercial, industrial, or business environment, exclusive of a device that is marketed for use by the general public or is intended to be used in the home.”

So, if the device manufactured by your company is intended to be used in a commercial or industrial setting, it is a class A part device.

Class B

A class B digital device is defined as “A digital device that is marketed for use in a residential environment notwithstanding use in commercial, business, and industrial environments. Examples of such devices include, but are not limited to, personal computers, calculators, and similar electronic devices that are marketed for use by the general public.”

Class B classification is applied to devices intended for use by the general public or in the home.

Intentional Radiation

The FCC’s definition of intentional radiation in the context of Part 15 devices is “any intentional radio frequency output that’s meant to connect to other devices.” Devices such as computers, wireless routers, and similar devices use intentional radiation and are Part 15 devices.

Unintentional Radiation

Unintentional radiation is not as simple to explain as intentional radiation. This type of radiation is radiation that happens as a result of a device’s internal processes but is not meant for communication purposes. The FCC defines this as “a device that intentionally generates radio frequency energy for use within the device, or that sends radio frequency signals by conduction to associated equipment via connecting wiring, but which is not intended to emit RF energy by radiation or induction.”

Incidental Radiation

Incidental radiation is one of the three types of radiation devices can produce that places it under the umbrella of part 15. 

Just about every electronic device produces some amount of incidental radiation, although the levels vary. For example, a device may produce trace amounts of radiation that aren’t relevant to its operation or for communication purposes, but these radiation levels must still be measured and be compliant with regulations for levels of safe radiation.

Get Help Testing Your Part 15 Devices from a Trusted SAR Testing Lab 

We’re a SAR testing lab committed to providing high-quality SAR testing and technical competence, and part of this is providing you with the answers you need to better understand these regulations. It’s this commitment to excellence that makes our lab a world-class leader in SAR testing. In addition to this, as an A2LA accredited lab, we work to provide our clients with the most accurate SAR testing results.

We go above and beyond to make sure our clients understand what we do and assist them in understanding what SAR testing is required for their products. Through our unique expertise and commitment to our clients, we guarantee accurate SAR testing and results.

We offer SAR testing services for a variety of wireless devices including laptops, tablets, cell phones, wireless modems, medical products, and much more. If you’re looking for SAR testing help provided with speed, accuracy, expertise, and integrity, contact us to get a quote for our services.