Wireless Charging & FCC Compliance
Wireless charging is increasingly common across consumer electronics, wearables, and automotive applications. As manufacturers develop products that transfer power without physical connections, understanding applicable Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requirements is an important part of bringing these technologies to market.
Depending on a product’s operating characteristics, power levels, and proximity to the human body, manufacturers may need to evaluate radio frequency (RF) exposure to demonstrate compliance with applicable FCC requirements.
Here’s what manufacturers should know about wireless charging compliance and how RF Exposure Lab’s specialized SAR testing services can help.
What Products May Require Wireless Charging RF Exposure Testing?
Wireless charging technology is used across a growing range of products, including:
- Wireless smartphone and tablet chargers
- Wearable device charging systems
- Wireless charging accessories for consumer electronics
- Automotive wireless charging applications
- Industrial and connected-device charging systems
Not every wireless charging product requires the same evaluation. Testing considerations depend on operating frequency, power output, charging distance, intended use, and potential exposure during normal operation.
How Does FCC Compliance Apply to Wireless Charging?
Manufacturers must determine which FCC requirements apply to their specific product configuration. Not every wireless charging system requires SAR testing; the appropriate approach depends on the device and applicable FCC requirements.
Depending on the device, RF exposure evaluations may consider:
- Operating frequency and transmitted power
- Distance between the charging system and the user
- Use as a handheld, body-worn, or near-body product
- Simultaneous operation of wireless charging and other radio transmitters
SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) testing measures the rate at which RF energy is absorbed per unit mass of body tissue. Where applicable, SAR evaluations help determine whether a device meets relevant RF exposure limits.
Relevant FCC guidance may include:
- KDB 447498: RF exposure procedures and equipment authorization guidance for mobile and portable devices.
- KDB 865664: SAR measurement guidance for devices operating between 100 MHz and 6 GHz (applies to radios and charging systems operating in this range, including any Bluetooth or Wi-Fi in a charging product).
Why Address RF Exposure Compliance Early?
Waiting until the final stages of product development to evaluate RF exposure can create unexpected challenges. Early assessment helps manufacturers identify potential compliance concerns before designs are finalized.
Without a clear testing strategy, manufacturers may encounter:
- Product launch delays
- Additional testing expenses
- Late-stage design modifications
- Repeat testing following hardware or operating changes
How Does A2LA Accreditation Support SAR Testing?
When selecting a testing laboratory, manufacturers should consider its accreditation and experience with applicable procedures.
RF Exposure Lab is accredited by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for SAR testing.
A2LA participates in international mutual recognition arrangements through organizations including the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC). These arrangements can help facilitate recognition of accredited laboratory results across participating accreditation systems.
Accreditation does not replace product certification or guarantee regulatory approval. Manufacturers must still meet the requirements applicable to each target market.
Why Work With RF Exposure Lab?
RF Exposure Lab specializes in SAR testing and RF exposure evaluation. Key benefits include:
- A2LA accredited SAR testing
- Support for manufacturers navigating RF exposure requirements in domestic and international markets
- An independent testing resource for manufacturers and partner laboratories
Get Support for Wireless Charging Compliance
As wireless charging technologies evolve, evaluating RF exposure requirements remains an important consideration for product development and market access.
RF Exposure Lab provides specialized RF exposure testing. If you’re developing a wireless charging system or evaluating RF exposure requirements for an existing product, contact RF Exposure Lab to discuss your testing needs.