What is the RED (Radio Equipment Directive) and what are its RF testing requirements?
Radio Equipment Directive
The RED is mandatory for any radio equipment sold in the EU, EEA (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), Switzerland (via mutual recognition), and Turkey. Non-compliant products cannot be legally placed on the market.
- Performance verification: confirm specifications against the application requirements before finalizing the design
- Environmental factors: temperature range, humidity, and vibration affect long-term reliability and parameter drift
- Cost vs. performance: evaluate whether the application demands premium components or standard commercial grades
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EURCDB?
The EURCDB (European Radio Equipment Compliance Database) is a database where manufacturers must register certain categories of radio equipment before placing them on the EU market. The registration includes: the device's description, the standards applied, the conformity assessment procedure used, and the EU Declaration of Conformity. The EURCDB requirement is being phased in for specific device categories identified by the European Commission via delegated acts. The first categories include: smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other consumer devices with specific radio capabilities.
When do I need a Notified Body?
Under RED: a Notified Body (NB) is required when: no harmonized standard exists for the device type (the manufacturer cannot self-declare). The device does not fully comply with the harmonized standards. The conformity assessment procedure chosen requires NB involvement (Module B+C). For most consumer radio devices (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, ISM-band devices): harmonized standards exist, and the manufacturer can self-declare under Module A. For novel radio technologies or non-standard frequency bands: a Notified Body type-examination may be needed.
How does it differ from FCC?
Key differences between RED and FCC: RED requires EMC immunity testing (radiated immunity, conducted immunity, ESD). FCC does not require immunity testing for most devices. RED uses ETSI harmonised standards with specific receiver performance requirements. FCC Part 15/24/27 do not typically specify receiver performance. RED requires an EU-based Authorised Representative if the manufacturer is outside the EU. FCC requires a US-based agent for correspondence. RED requires a formal EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC). FCC provides a Grant of Equipment Authorization. RF exposure: RED uses ICNIRP limits (SAR 2 W/kg / 10g). FCC uses IEEE limits (SAR 1.6 W/kg / 1g).