Radiofrequency testing is an important and necessary part of manufacturing products that make use of radiofrequency energy. Without this testing, your product will not be allowed to be sold in a variety of international markets. Unfortunately, knowing what testing applies to your product and how to navigate FCC and international requirements is very complicated. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about radiofrequency testing as well as how RF Exposure Lab can help you prove compliance and get your products to market easily and quickly!

Radiofrequency (RF) Testing

Products using radiofrequency (RF) are legally required to comply with the regulations of their local markets in order to be sold. Proving compliance for each country a product is sold in can be very complex, with regulations varying from region to region. In addition to this, there are penalties for both companies and individuals when these regulations are not followed.

This makes radiofrequency testing not just important, but necessary. So what is RF testing? 

This testing assures that wireless devices comply with international regulatory requirements and it’s mandatory for any electronic product that’s able to oscillate above 9kHz. RF testing is also important in order to demonstrate that any radio and telecommunications products are efficiently using the radio spectrum and aren’t interfering with other products using this spectrum. 

RF testing should always be completed during the easiest stages of your product’s development as possible in order to avoid product redesigns or any other issues that may arise if your product fails RF testing after mass production has started. Completing testing too late could lead to product redesigns and an increased time to market, both of which are expensive.

The Objectives of Radiofrequency Testing

The main objective of radiofrequency testing is to evaluate and ensure that wireless devices function properly, safely, and efficiently within their intended frequency ranges.

Testing ensures these objectives in a variety of ways, beginning with confirming that wireless devices are compliant with regulatory limits on RF emissions. This protects users from excessive exposure to RF energy, which can pose health risks.

A large concern regarding wireless devices is how they perform. Testing verifies that devices operate effectively within their designated frequency bands, providing reliable communication and connectivity. This includes checking signal strength, coverage, and data transmission rates.

Finally, it’s crucial that wireless devices do not experience interference during operation. RF testing will assess whether the device interferes with other electronic equipment and ensure it is resistant to interference from other sources. This is crucial for maintaining the overall reliability of wireless communication in various environments.

What is RF Used For?

Radiofrequency refers to wireless electromagnetic signals used as a form of communication. In radiofrequency, “frequency” refers to the rate of oscillation of the radio waves. Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation with identified frequencies ranging from 3 kHz to 300 GHz. 

Radio waves are naturally occurring. They come from sun flares, lightning, and stars that radiate radio waves as they age. Waves of both electric and magnetic energy make up the electromagnetic radiation spectrum. These waves move together through space at the speed of light. This is known as “radiating” and is where the term “radiation” comes from. However, the radio waves used for communication are artificially created and oscillate at various chosen frequencies. 

Radio waves are emitted by both microwaves and antennas, which transmit them as a form of electromagnetic energy. The telecommunications industry especially relies on RF energy to broadcast television, radio waves, and cell phone communications. RF energy is also used for satellite communications, amateur radio, and even microwave point-to-point links. There are many non-communication uses of RF energy as well. This includes microwave ovens, industrial heating, and radar for traffic enforcement and other uses.

Get Radiofrequency Testing at RF Exposure Lab

As an A2LA accredited radiofrequency testing lab, RF Exposure Lab can walk you through the FCC’s compliance testing requirements and regulations, making the entire process easier and quicker for you. It can be confusing and time-consuming to figure out which requirements and tests apply to your product. It’s possible to be wrong about what’s required for your product, potentially leading to fines, recalls, and other repercussions. It’s best to maneuver through the maze of SAR requirements with help from experts.

RF Exposure Lab has considerable experience and expertise in RF compliance testing for global markets. Jay Moulton, Chief Engineer, was even involved in creating the testing and methodology that has been used to establish today’s FCC requirements. We also remain up-to-date on the latest regulation changes to ensure we only perform relevant tests.

We are the only standalone SAR testing lab in the United States and apart from offering testing services for client products, we also provide design suggestions for manufacturers to guarantee that they meet all RF compliance standards before completing the design process.

With help from RF Exposure Lab, you can avoid costly compliance failures and product redesigns, which will allow you to save money and get your product on the market as quickly as possible. For SAR testing provided with speed, expertise, accuracy, and integrity, contact us today.