RF Testing

Table of Content

INTRODUCTION

RF (Radio Frequency) testing in India is essential for wireless products that utilize the radio spectrum for communication. To ensure that these devices operate within the allocated frequency bands and meet the regulatory requirements, they must undergo RF testing. This testing ensures that the devices comply with the technical standards set by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India.

What is RF Testing?

RF testing evaluates the performance of devices that transmit or receive radio waves within the frequency spectrum. It ensures that wireless devices do not cause interference and meet safety and performance standards. RF testing covers several parameters:

Frequency Range: Ensures that the device operates within the assigned frequency band.
Power Output: Verifies that the device’s power output is within permissible limits.
Modulation and Emission: Checks the type of modulation used and ensures that emissions are within limits.
Antenna Performance: Evaluates the efficiency and gain of the antenna used in the device.

WPC Certification

To sell or operate wireless products in India, manufacturers must obtain WPC certification. This certification is mandatory for devices that use unlicensed and licensed frequency bands for communication. WPC certification is granted after successful RF testing and ensures compliance with the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP).

Products Covered Under WPC Certification

Here is a list of common wireless devices that require WPC certification along with their allocated frequency ranges:

Product Category	Frequency Range	WPC License
Bluetooth Devices	2.402 – 2.480 GHz	License Exempt
Wi-Fi Devices (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)	2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Bands	License Exempt
RFID Devices	865 – 867 MHz	License Exempt
ZigBee Devices	2.4 GHz ISM Band	License Exempt
RFID Devices	865 – 867 MHz	License Exempt
GPS Devices	1.57542 GHz (L1)	License Exempt
Wireless Microphones	36 MHz, 88-108 MHz	License Required
Walkie-Talkies	27 MHz, 433 MHz, 865-867 MHz	License Required
GSM Mobile Phones	890 – 960 MHz / 1710 – 1800 MHz	License Required
LTE/4G Mobile Phones	700 MHz, 800 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2300 MHz	License Required
NB-IoT Devices	700 MHz / 800 MHz / 1800 MHz	License Required
Satellite Communication Devices	Various Ku and Ka Bands	License Required
Drones (UAVs)	2.4 GHz / 5 GHz Bands	License Required
LoRa Devices	865 – 867 MHz	License Exempt
Wireless LAN	2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Bands	License Exempt
Cordless Phones	43 – 50 MHz, 1880 – 1900 MHz	License Exempt
FM Radio Stations	88 – 108 MHz	License Required
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)	3.3 – 3.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz	License Required
Point-to-Point Communication Devices	6 GHz / 18 GHz	License Required

Why is WPC Certification Important?

Regulatory Compliance: WPC certification ensures that wireless devices comply with Indian regulations regarding spectrum use.
Interference Prevention: It ensures that devices do not interfere with other wireless communications.
Market Authorization: Without WPC certification, products cannot be legally sold or operated in India.

RF Testing Process

The RF testing process involves testing the wireless device in an accredited lab to verify compliance with the WPC guidelines. Here’s a general outline of the testing steps:

Submission: The manufacturer submits the device to an accredited lab for testing
Frequency and Power Testing: The device is tested to ensure it operates within the assigned frequency band and that the transmission power is within the permissible limits.
Antenna Testing: The antenna performance is measured, including its radiation pattern and gain.
Emission Testing: The device’s emissions are tested to ensure they are within acceptable limits and do not cause harmful interference.

Choose Absolute Veritas for RF Testing and WPC Certification?

Absolute Veritas offers comprehensive services for RF testing and WPC Equipment Type Approval. Here’s why we are the preferred partner:

Accredited Labs: We collaborate with accredited labs in India to ensure your devices meet all WPC and international standards.
Complete RF Testing and Certification: We manage the entire process, from RF testing to obtaining WPC ETA approval, ensuring a smooth experience for manufacturers.
Expert Guidance: Our experts provide complete support to ensure your wireless devices pass the required tests and meet compliance standards.
Tailored Solutions: We offer customized RF testing solutions for various wireless products, including Bluetooth devices, drones, GSM phones, and more.

If your product fails RF testing, Absolute Veritas will guide you through the necessary improvements and help with re-testing to ensure compliance with WPC standards.

For more details, please reach out to us via email at cs@absoluteveritas.com

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is RF testing, and why is it required for wireless devices?

RF testing ensures that wireless devices comply with frequency regulations and do not cause harmful interference. It is required to obtain WPC Equipment Type Approval and legally operate wireless devices in India.

What products require WPC certification and ETA approval?

Products like Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi routers, RFID devices, GSM mobile phones, drones, and walkie-talkies require WPC certification and ETA approval

How long does it take to get WPC ETA approval?

The WPC ETA approval process typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the product and the submission of the required documents.

Do all wireless products need a WPC license?

Not all products need a license. Devices that operate within license-exempt frequency bands (e.g., Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices) only require WPC ETA approval, while other devices using licensed bands require both a license and ETA approval.

What if my product fails RF testing?