Electronic Hardware Certifications

Considerations for Obtaining Certifications for Electronic Hardware

Ensure that required certifications are obtained before shipping to customers. Include the potential time and cost of the certification process in your project plan.

Be careful not to rush the testing process as implementing major design changes after an early test can nullify the initial test result, leading to the need for retesting which incurs additional expenses and time.

For example, do not schedule certification testing until you have completed the majority of your manufacturing processes and resolved at least 80% of your issues.

In addition, the regulation may require that your manuals accompany the device, so be sure to have a completed manual ready before submitting for review.

Finally, it's important to note that different countries, and sometimes even different states, may have specific certification requirements. Do your research to avoid wasting time and resources on unnecessary tests and potentially missing out on the ones you need.

Common Certifications

Federal Communications Commission Certification

Is FCC certification required?

What is the reason for this requirement?

Since almost every electronic product that uses oscillating signals emits some amount of electromagnetic radiation, or radio waves, the goal is to ensure that these emissions do not interfere with communications.

Only a small number of products are exempt from FCC certification. You can determine the applicable criteria by reviewing FCC regulatory documents or by contacting an accredited testing laboratory. It is illegal to import, sell or lease equipment in the United States without FCC certification.

FCC testing is divided into two classes: Class A and Class B. Class A testing is relatively easy to pass and is designed for products intended for industrial applications. Class B, on the other hand, is for consumer products and has more stringent testing requirements.

There are two FCC certification categories: intentional radiators and non-intentional radiators, which depend on whether your product has wireless capabilities.

Intentional radiators include devices such as cell phones, wireless connections, Bluetooth devices, etc. Unintentional sources include items such as televisions, digital cameras, microwaves, etc.

Measurement of electromagnetic emissions takes place in a dedicated room equipped with a special test chamber known as an anechoic chamber. This chamber is equipped with sensors to detect electromagnetic emissions and is designed to absorb all forms of electromagnetic radiation.

You probably do not have an accredited in-house FCC lab. Renting a test chamber can cost nearly $1,000 per hour, and each test session typically lasts at least a few hours. Achieving successful emissions testing results often requires multiple sessions and multiple adjustments for most products.

What is the recommended course of action?

• Consider hiring a third-party testing company with expertise in comprehensive FCC testing if you require certification.

• European Community Marking.

Is CE Marking certification required?

• I intend to market and/or manufacture my product in Europe.

What is the reason for this requirement?

The CE marking guarantees that the product meets the safety, health and environmental standards of the EU. CE marking is mandatory for products to be sold and used in the 28 member states of the EU, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Turkey, regardless of whether they are imported from outside Europe.

Typically, this process lasts approximately one month, with expenses varying based on the nature of your product as different products are subject to distinct standards.

What is the recommended course of action?

The manufacturer is responsible for applying the CE marking after meeting all requirements and ensuring CE compliance. However, a knowledgeable third-party testing or certification body can assist you in obtaining certification or guiding you in modifying your product to meet the necessary criteria.

Certification from Underwriters Laboratories or the Canadian Standards Association

Is UL and/or CSA certification required?

What is the recommended course of action?

Even if you don't plan to proceed with UL testing, it's a good idea to have an independent UL expert review your design. In addition, going through the certification process with an expert, even if not required, can be very beneficial in identifying potential product failure points that might otherwise be overlooked.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances and Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment Regulation.

Is RoHS and/or WEEE certification required?

• I intend to sell my product in California and/or the European Union.

What is the reason for this requirement?

RoHS certification confirms that your product complies with restrictions on 10 hazardous substances, including lead, mercury and cadmium. Manufacturers of non-RoHS certified products may be subject to fines and penalties.

The WEEE regulation in the European Union operates alongside RoHS. Its purpose is to promote safe and environmentally responsible disposal of electronic products by ensuring their design facilitates recyclability.

What is the recommended course of action?

Obtaining RoHS certification is a simple and cost-effective process. Most contract manufacturers are equipped to handle the necessary requirements on your behalf.

If your contract manufacturer is unable to do this, RoHS consultants can oversee compliance and ensure that all components of your product are tested and properly documented according to RoHS guidelines. Alternatively, you can send your product to a RoHS laboratory, a process that typically takes about two weeks.

Will I need Bluetooth SIG certification?

• I want to include the Bluetooth name and logo on my product.

What is the reason for this requirement?

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) oversees the regulation and licensing of the Bluetooth technology trademark. If you intend to advertise your product as utilizing Bluetooth technology, you must register it, subject it to testing at an accredited laboratory, and pay the required fees for trademark usage.

What is the recommended course of action?

Emphasizing a device's Bluetooth capabilities in advertising is crucial for any product that uses this technology. It proves to be a valuable investment.

Conclusion

During the first round of certification testing, 50% of consumer electronics fail to meet the required standards. These tests often require significant time and financial investments, and multiple rounds of testing may be necessary for successful product certification.

For a cost-effective and time-efficient approach, it's wise to work with an accredited third party that has the expertise and resources to determine the necessary certifications for your product.

They can also advise on the design modifications required to achieve these certifications and provide access to the test lab, environment and accredited regulatory body, all in one convenient location.

Exercising due diligence and keeping oneself informed can have a profound impact. Furthermore, comprehensive planning that incorporates the possible time and costs of testing is pivotal.

Partnering with a company that understands the necessary certifications for your product and can manage the entire acquisition process is a more beneficial approach. Contact Jarltech to discover how we can assist you in obtaining your electronics hardware certifications.