From The U.S. House of Representatives Internet Law Library Code of Federal Regulations
(Text extracted July 1995, and edited for HTML links and readability [1])
TITLE 47
CHAPTER I
SUBCHAPTER A
PART 15 - RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES
SUBPART A - GENERAL
15.1 Scope of this part.
15.3 Definitions.
15.5 General conditions of operation.
15.7 Special temporary authority.
15.9 Prohibition against eavesdropping.
15.11 Cross reference.
15.13 Incidental radiators.
15.15 General technical requirements.
15.17 Susceptibility to interference.
15.19 Labelling requirements.
15.21 Information to user.
15.23 Home-built devices.
15.25 Kits.
15.27 Special accessories.
15.29 Inspection by the Commission.
15.31 Measurement standards.
15.33 Frequency range of radiated measurements.
15.35 Emission limits.
15.37 Transition provisions for compliance with the rules.
SUBPART B - UNINTENTIONAL RADIATORS
15.101 Equipment authorization of unintentional radiators.
15.103 Exempted devices.
15.105 Information to the user.
15.107 Conducted limits.
15.109 Radiated emission limits.
15.111 Antenna power conduction limits for receivers.
15.113 Power line carrier systems.
15.115 TV interface devices, including cable system terminal
devices.
15.117 TV broadcast receivers.
SUBPART C - INTENTIONAL RADIATORS
15.201 Equipment authorization requirement.
15.203 Antenna requirement.
15.205 Restricted bands of operation.
15.207 Conducted limits.
15.209 Radiated emission limits, general requirements.
15.211 Tunnel radio systems.
15.213 Cable locating equipment.
RADIATED EMISSION LIMITS, ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS
15.215 Additional provisions to the general radiated emission
limitations.
15.217 Operation in the band 160-190 kHz.
15.219 Operation in the band 510-1705 kHz.
15.221 Operation in the band 525-1705 kHz.
15.223 Operation in the band 1.705-10 MHz.
15.225 Operation within the band 13.553-13.567 MHz.
15.227 Operation within the band 26.96-27.28 MHz.
15.229 Operation within the band 40.66-40.70 MHz.
15.231 Periodic operation in the band 40.66-40.70 MHz and above 70
MHz.
15.233 Operation within the bands 46.60-46.98 MHz and 49.66-50.0
MHz.
15.235 Operation within the band 49.82-49.90 MHz.
15.237 Operation in the bands 72.0-73.0 MHz and 75.4-76.0 MHz.
15.239 Operation in the band 88-108 MHz.
15.241 Operation in the band 174-216 MHz.
15.243 Operation in the band 890-940 MHz.
15.245 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2435-2465 MHz,
5785-5815 MHz, 10500-10550 MHz, and 24075-24175 MHz.
15.247 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, and
5725-5850 MHz.
15.249 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz,
5725-5875 MHz, and 24.0-24.25 GHz.
15.251 Operation within the bands 2.9-3.26 GHz, 3.267-3.332 GHz,
3.339-3.3458 GHz, and 3.358-3.6 GHz.
Authority: Sec. 4, 302, 303, 304, and 307 of the Communications
Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. sections 154, 302[a], 303, 304, and
307.
Source: 54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 15.1 Scope of this part.
(a) This part sets out the regulations under which an
intentional, unintentional, or incidental radiator may be operated
without an individual license. It also contains the technical
specifications, administrative requirements and other conditions
relating to the marketing of Part 15 devices.
(b) The operation of an intentional or unintentional radiator
that is not in accordance with the regulations in this part must be
licensed pursuant to the provisions of section 301 of the
Communications Act of 1934, as amended, unless otherwise exempted
from the licensing requirements elsewhere in this chapter.
(c) Unless specifically exempted, the operation or marketing of
an intentional or unintentional radiator that is not in compliance
with the administrative and technical provisions in this part,
including prior Commission authorization or verification, as
appropriate, is prohibited under section 302[a] of the Communications
Act of 1934, as amended, and Subpart I of Part 2 of this chapter.
The equipment authorization and verification procedures are
detailed in Subpart J of Part 2 of this chapter.
Sec. 15.3 Definitions.
(a) Auditory assistance device. An intentional radiator used to
provide auditory assistance to a handicapped person or persons.
Such a device may be used for auricular training in an education
institution, for auditory assistance at places of public
gatherings, such as a church, theater, or auditorium, and for
auditory assistance to handicapped individuals, only, in other
locations.
(b) Biomedical telemetry device. An intentional radiator used to
transmit measurements of either human or animal biomedical
phenomena to a receiver.
(c) Cable input selector switch. A transfer switch that is
intended as a means to alternate between the reception of broadcast
signals via connection to an antenna and the reception of cable
television service.
(d) Cable locating equipment. An intentional radiator used
intermittently by trained operators to locate buried cables, lines,
pipes, and similar structures or elements. Operation entails
coupling a radio frequency signal onto the cable, pipes, etc. and
using a receiver to detect the location of that structure or
element.
(e) Cable system terminal device (CSTD). A TV interface device
that serves, as its primary function, to connect a cable system
operated under Part 76 of this chapter to a TV broadcast receiver
or other subscriber premise equipment. Any device which functions
as a CSTD in one of its operating modes must comply with the
technical requirements for such devices when operating in that
mode.
(f) Carrier current system. A system that transmits radio
frequency energy by conduction over the electric power lines. A
carrier current system can be designed such that the signals are
received by conduction directly from connection to the electric
power lines (unintentional radiator) or the signals are received
over-the-air due to radiation of the radio frequency signals from
the electric power lines (intentional radiator).
(g) CB receiver. Any receiver that operates in the Personal
Radio Services on frequencies allocated for Citizens Band (CB)
Radio Service stations, as well as any receiver provided with a
separate band specifically designed to receive the transmissions of
CB stations in the Personal Radio Services. This includes the
following: (1) A CB receiver sold as a separate unit of equipment;
(2) the receiver section of a CB transceiver; (3) a converter to be
used with any receiver for the purpose of receiving CB
transmissions; and, (4) a multiband receiver that includes a band
labelled 'CB' or '11-meter' in which such band can be separately
selected, except that an Amateur Radio Service receiver that was
manufactured prior to January 1, 1960, and which includes an
11-meter band shall not be considered to be a CB receiver.
(h) Class A digital device. A digital device that is marketed
for use in a commercial, industrial or business environment,
exclusive of a device which is marketed for use by the general
public or is intended to be used in the home.
(i) Class B digital device. A digital device that is marketed
for use in a residential environment notwithstanding use in
commercial, business and industrial environments. Examples of such
devices include, but are not limited to, personal computers,
calculators, and similar electronic devices that are marketed for
use by the general public.
Note: The responsible party may also qualify a device intended
to be marketed in a commercial, business or industrial environment
as a Class B device, and in fact is encouraged to do so, provided
the device complies with the technical specifications for a Class B
digital device. In the event that a particular type of device has
been found to repeatedly cause harmful interference to radio
communications, the Commission may classify such a digital device
as a Class B digital device, regardless of its intended use.
(j) Cordless telephone system. A system consisting of two
transceivers, one a base station that connects to the public
switched telephone network and the other a mobile handset unit that
communicates directly with the base station. Transmissions from
the mobile unit are received by the base station and then placed on
the public switched telephone network. Information received from
the switched telephone network is transmitted by the base station
to the mobile unit.
Note: The Domestic Public Cellular Radio Telecommunications
Service is considered to be part of the switched telephone
network. In addition, intercom and paging operations are permitted
provided these are not intended to be the primary modes of
operation.
(k) Digital device. (Previously defined as a computing device).
An unintentional radiator (device or system) that generates and
uses timing signals or pulses at a rate in excess of 9,000 pulses
(cycles) per second and uses digital techniques; inclusive of
telephone equipment that uses digital techniques or any device or
system that generates and uses radio frequency energy for the
purpose of performing data processing functions, such as electronic
computations, operations, transformations, recording, filing,
sorting, storage, retrieval, or transfer. A radio frequency device
that is specifically subject to an emanation requirement in any
other FCC Rule part or an intentional radiator subject to Subpart C
of this part that contains a digital device is not subject to the
standards for digital devices, provided the digital device is used
only to enable operation of the radio frequency device and the
digital device does not control additional functions or
capabilities.
Note: Computer terminals and peripherals that are intended to be
connected to a computer are digital devices.
(l) Field disturbance sensor. A device that establishes a radio
frequency field in its vicinity and detects changes in that field
resulting from the movement of persons or objects within its range.
(m) Harmful interference. Any emission, radiation or induction
that endangers the functioning of a radio navigation service or of
other safety services or seriously degrades, obstructs or
repeatedly interrupts a radiocommunications service operating in
accordance with this chapter.
(n) Incidental radiator. A device that generates radio frequency
energy during the course of its operation although the device is
not intentionally designed to generate or emit radio frequency
energy. Examples of incidental radiators are dc motors, mechanical
light switches, etc.
(o) Intentional radiator. A device that intentionally generates
and emits radio frequency energy by radiation or induction.
(p) Kit. Any number of electronic parts, usually provided with a
schematic diagram or printed circuit board, which, when assembled
in accordance with instructions, results in a device subject to the
regulations in this part, even if additional parts of any type are
required to complete assembly.
(q) Perimeter protection system. A field disturbance sensor that
employs RF transmission lines as the radiating source. These RF
transmission lines are installed in such a manner that allows the
system to detect movement within the protected area.
(r) Peripheral device. An input/output unit of a system that
feeds data into and/or receives data from the central processing
unit of a digital device. Peripherals to a digital device include
any device that is connected external to the digital device, any
device internal to the digital device that connects the digital
device to an external device by wire or cable, and any circuit
board or card designed for interchangeable mounting, internally or
externally, that increases the operating or processing speed of a
digital device, e.g., 'turbo cards' and 'enhancement boards'.
Examples of peripheral devices include terminals, printers,
external floppy disk drives and other data storage devices, video
monitors, keyboards, control cards, interface boards, external
memory expansion cards and other input/output devices that may or
may not contain digital circuitry. However, an internal device
that contains the central processing unit of a digital device is
not a peripheral even though such a device may connect to an
external keyboard or other components.
(s) Personal computer. An electronic computer that is marketed
for use in the home, notwithstanding business applications. Such
computers are considered Class B digital devices. Computers which
use a standard TV receiver as a display device or meet all of the
following conditions are considered examples of personal computers:
(1) Marketed through a retail outlet or direct mail order
catalog.
(2) Notices of sale or advertisements are distributed or directed
to the general public or hobbyist users rather than restricted to
commercial users.
(3) Operates on a battery or 120 volt electrical supply.
If the responsible party can demonstrate that because of price or
performance the computer is not suitable for residential or
hobbyist use, it may request that the computer be considered to
fall outside of the scope of this definition for personal
computers.
(t) Power line carrier systems. An unintentional radiator
employed as a carrier current system used by an electric power
utility entity on transmission lines for protective relaying,
telemetry, etc. for general supervision of the power system. The
system operates by the transmission of radio frequency energy by
conduction over the electric power transmission lines of the
system. The system does not include those electric lines which
connect the distribution substation to the customer or house
wiring.
(u) Radio frequency (RF) energy. Electromagnetic energy at any
frequency in the radio spectrum between 9 kHz and 3,000,000 MHz.
(v) Scanning receiver. For the purpose of this part, this is a
receiver that automatically switches among four or more frequencies
in the range of 30 to 960 MHz and which is capable of stopping at
and receiving a radio signal detected on a frequency. Receivers
designed solely for the reception of the broadcast signals under
Part 73 of this chapter or for operation as part of a licensed
station are not included in this definition.
(w) Television (TV) broadcast receiver. A device designed to
receive television pictures that are broadcast simultaneously with
sound on the television channels authorized under Part 73 of this
chapter.
(x) Transfer switch. A device used to alternate between the
reception of over-the-air radio frequency signals via connection to
an antenna and the reception of radio frequency signals received by
any other method, such as from a TV interface device.
(y) TV interface device. An unintentional radiator that produces
or translates in frequency a radio frequency carrier modulated by a
video signal derived from an external or internal signal source,
and which feeds the modulated radio frequency energy by conduction
to the antenna terminals or other non-baseband input connections of
a television broadcast receiver. A TV interface device may include
a stand-alone RF modulator, or a composite device consisting of an
RF modulator, video source and other components devices. Examples
of TV interface devices are video cassette recorders and terminal
devices attached to a cable system or used with a Master Antenna
(including those used for central distribution video devices in
apartment or office buildings).
(z) Unintentional radiator. A device that intentionally
generates radio frequency energy for use within the device, or that
sends radio frequency signals by conduction to associated equipment
via connecting wiring, but which is not intended to emit RF energy
by radiation or induction.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 18340, May 2,
1990)
Sec. 15.5 General conditions of operation.
(a) Persons operating intentional or unintentional radiators
shall not be deemed to have any vested or recognizable right to
continued use of any given frequency by virtue of prior
registration or certification of equipment, or, for power line
carrier systems, on the basis of prior notification of use pursuant
to Sec. 90.63(g) of this chapter.
(b) Operation of an intentional, unintentional, or incidental
radiator is subject to the conditions that no harmful interference
is caused and that interference must be accepted that may be caused
by the operation of an authorized radio station, by another
intentional or unintentional radiator, by industrial, scientific
and medical (ISM) equipment, or by an incidental radiator.
(c) The operator of a radio frequency device shall be required to
cease operating the device upon notification by a Commission
representative that the device is causing harmful interference.
Operation shall not resume until the condition causing the harmful
interference has been corrected.
(d) Intentional radiators that produce Class B emissions (damped
wave) are prohibited.
Sec. 15.7 Special temporary authority.
(a) The Commission will, in exceptional situations, consider an
individual application for a special temporary authorization to
operate an incidental, intentional or unintentional radiation
device not conforming to the provisions of this part, where it can
be shown that the proposed operation would be in the public
interest, that it is for a unique type of station or for a type of
operation which is incapable of being established as a regular
service, and that the proposed operation can not feasibly be
conducted under this part.
(b) No authorization is required in order to perform testing of
equipment for determining compliance with these regulations.
Except as provided in Subpart I of Part 2 of this chapter, this
provision does not permit the providing of equipment to potential
users in order to determine customer acceptance of the product or
marketing strategy, nor does this provision permit any type of
operation other than a determination of compliance with the
regulations. During this testing, the provisions of Sec. [1]5.5 and
15.205 apply.
Sec. 15.9 Prohibition against eavesdropping.
Except for the operations of law enforcement officers conducted
under lawful authority, no person shall use, either directly or
indirectly, a device operated pursuant to the provisions of this
part for the purpose of overhearing or recording the private
conversations of others unless such use is authorized by all of the
parties engaging in the conversation.
Sec. 15.11 Cross reference.
The provisions of Subparts A, H, I, J and K of Part 2 apply to
intentional and unintentional radiators, in addition to the
provisions of this part. Also, a cable system terminal device and
a cable input selector switch shall be subject to the relevant
provisions of Part 76 of this chapter.
Sec. 15.13 Incidental
Manufacturers of these devices shall employ good engineering
practices to minimize the risk of harmful interference.
Sec. 15.15 General technical requirements.
(a) An intentional or unintentional radiator shall be constructed
in accordance with good engineering design and manufacturing
practice. Emanations from the device shall be suppressed as much
as practicable, but in no case shall the emanations exceed the
levels specified in these rules.
(b) An intentional or unintentional radiator must be constructed
such that the adjustments of any control that is readily accessible
by or intended to be accessible to the user will not cause
operation of the device in violation of the regulations.
(c) Parties responsible for equipment compliance should note that
the limits specified in this part will not prevent harmful
interference under all circumstances. Since the operators of Part
15 devices are required to cease operation should harmful
interference occur to authorized users of the radio frequency
spectrum, the parties responsible for equipment compliance are
encouraged to employ the minimum field strength necessary for
communications, to provide greater attenuation of unwanted
emissions than required by these regulations, and to advise the
user as to how to resolve harmful interference problems (for
example, see Sec. 15.105(b)).
Sec. 15.17 Susceptibility to interference.
(a) Parties responsible for equipment compliance are advised to
consider the proximity and the high power of non-Government
licensed radio stations, such as broadcast, amateur and land mobile
stations, and of U.S. Government radio stations when choosing
operating frequencies during the design of their equipment so as to
reduce the susceptibility for receiving harmful interference.
Information on non-Government use of the spectrum can be obtained
by consulting the Table of Frequency Allocations in Sec. 2.106 of
this chapter. [Sec. 2.106 missing from CFR server??]
(b) Information on U.S. Government operations can be obtained by
contacting: Director, Spectrum Plans and Policy, National
Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of
Commerce, Room 4096, Washington, DC 20230.
Sec. 15.19 Labelling requirements.
(a) In addition to the requirements in Part 2 of this chapter, a
device subject to certification, notification, or verification
shall be labelled as follows:
(1) Receivers associated with the operation of a licensed radio
service, e.g., FM broadcast under Part 73 of this chapter, land
mobile operation under Part 90, etc., shall bear the following
statement in a conspicuous location on the device:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful
interference.
(2) A stand-alone cable input selector switch, shall bear the
following statement in a conspicuous location on the device:
This device is verified to comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules
for use with cable television service.
(3) All other devices shall bear the following statement in a
conspicuous location on the device:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
(b) Where a device is constructed in two or more sections
connected by wires and marketed together, the statement specified
in this section is required to be affixed only to the main control
unit.
(c) When the device is so small or for such use that it is not
practicable to place the statement specified in this section on it,
the information required by these paragraphs shall be placed in a
prominent location in the instruction manual or pamphlet supplied
to the user or, alternatively, shall be placed on the container in
which the device is marketed. However, the FCC identifier or the
unique identifier, as appropriate, must be displayed on the device.
Sec. 15.21 Information to user.
The users manual or instruction manual for an intentional or
unintentional radiator shall caution the user that changes or
modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
Sec. 15.23 Home-built devices.
(a) Equipment authorization is not required for devices that are
not marketed, are not constructed from a kit, and are built in
quantities of five or less for personal use.
(b) It is recognized that the individual builder of home-built
equipment may not possess the means to perform the measurements for
determining compliance with the regulations. In this case, the
builder is expected to employ good engineering practices to meet
the specified technical standards to the greatest extent
practicable. The provisions of Sec. 15.5 apply to this equipment.
Sec. 15.25 Kits.
A TV interface device, including a cable system terminal device,
which is marketed as a kit shall comply with the following
requirements:
(a) All parts necessary for the assembled device to comply with
the technical requirements of this part must be supplied with the
kit. No mechanism for adjustment that can cause operation in
violation of the requirements of this part shall be made accessible
to the builder.
(b) At least two units of the kit shall be assembled in exact
accordance with the instructions supplied with the product to be
marketed. If all components required to fully complete the kit
(other than those specified in paragraph (a) of this section which
are needed for compliance with the technical provisions and must be
included with the kit) are not normally furnished with the kit,
assembly shall be made using the recommended components. The
assembled units shall be certified or notified, as appropriate,
pursuant to the requirements of this part.
(1) The measurement data required for a TV interface device
subject to certification shall be obtained for each of the two
units and submitted with an application for certification pursuant
to Subpart J of Part 2 of this chapter.
(2) The measurement data required for a TV interface device
subject to notification shall be obtained for the units tested and
retained on file pursuant to the provisions of Subpart J of Part 2
of this chapter.
(c) A copy of the exact instructions that will be provided for
assembly of the device shall be submitted with an application for
certification or notification. Those parts which are not normally
furnished shall be detailed in the application for equipment
authorization.
(d) In lieu of the label required by Sec. 15.19, the following
label, along with the label bearing the FCC identifier and other
information specified in Sec. [2].925 and 2.926, shall be included in
the kit with instructions to the builder that it shall be attached
to the completed kit:
(NAME OF GRANTEE)
(FCC IDENTIFIER)
This device can be expected to comply with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules provided it is assembled in exact accordance with the
instructions provided with this kit. Operation is subject to the
following conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
(e) For the purpose of this section, circuit boards used as
repair parts for the replacement of electrically identical
defective circuit boards are not considered to be kits.
Sec. 15.27 Special accessories.
(a) Equipment marketed to a consumer must be capable of complying
with the necessary regulations in the configuration in which the
equipment is marketed. Where special accessories, such as shielded
cables and/or special connectors, are required to enable an
unintentional or intentional radiator to comply with the emission
limits in this part, the equipment must be marketed with, i.e.,
shipped and sold with, those special accessories. However, in lieu
of shipping or packaging the special accessories with the
unintentional or intentional radiator, the responsible party may
employ other methods of ensuring that the special accessories are
provided to the consumer, without additional charge, at the time of
purchase. Information detailing any alternative method used to
supply the special accessories shall be included in the application
for a grant of equipment authorization or retained in the
verification records, as appropriate. The party responsible for
the equipment, as detailed in Sec. 2.909 of this chapter, shall
ensure that these special accessories are provided with the
equipment. The instruction manual for such devices shall include
appropriate instructions on the first page of the text concerned
with the installation of the device that these special accessories
must be used with the device. It is the responsibility of the user
to use the needed special accessories supplied with the equipment.
(b) If a device requiring special accessories is installed by or
under the supervision of the party marketing the device, it is the
responsibility of that party to install the equipment using the
special accessories. For equipment requiring professional
installation, it is not necessary for the responsible party to
market the special accessories with the equipment. However, the
need to use the special accessories must be detailed in the
instruction manual, and it is the responsibility of the installer
to provide and to install the required accessories.
(c) Accessory items that can be readily obtained from multiple
retail outlets are not considered to be special accessories and are
not required to be marketed with the equipment. The manual
included with the equipment must specify what additional components
or accessories are required to be used in order to ensure
compliance with this part, and it is the responsibility of the user
to provide and use those components and accessories.
(d) The resulting system, including any accessories or components
marketed with the equipment, must comply with the regulations.
Sec. 15.29 Inspection by the Commission.
(a) Any equipment or device subject to the provisions of this
part, together with any certificate, notice of registration or any
technical data required to be kept on file by the operator,
supplier or party responsible for compliance of the device shall be
made available for inspection by a Commission representative upon
reasonable request.
(b) The owner or operator of a radio frequency device subject to
this part shall promptly furnish to the Commission or its
representative such information as may be requested concerning the
operation of the radio frequency device.
(c) The party responsible for the compliance of any device
subject to this part shall promptly furnish to the Commission or
its representatives such information as may be requested concerning
the operation of the device, including a copy of any measurements
made for obtaining an equipment authorization or demonstrating
compliance with the regulations.
(d) The Commission, from time to time, may request the party
responsible for compliance, including an importer, to submit to the
FCC Laboratory in Columbia, Maryland, various equipment to
determine that the equipment continues to comply with the
applicable standards. Shipping costs to the Commission's
Laboratory and return shall be borne by the responsible party.
Testing by the Commission will be performed using the measurement
procedure(s) that was in effect at the time the equipment was
authorized or verified.
Sec. 15.31 Measurement standards.
(a) The following measurement procedures are used by the
Commission to determine compliance with the technical
requirements. Copies of these procedures are available from the
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal
Road, Springfield, VA 22161 or from the Commission's current
duplicating contractor whose name and address are available from
the Commission's Consumer Assistance Office.
(1) FCC/OET MP-1: FCC Methods of Measurements for Determining
Compliance of Radio Control and Security Alarm Devices and
Associated Receivers.
(2) FCC/OET MP-2: Measurement of UHF Noise Figures of TV Receivers.
(3) FCC/OET MP-3: FCC Methods of Measurements of Output Signal
Level, Output Terminal Conducted Spurious Emissions, Transfer
Switch Characteristics, and Radio Noise Emissions from TV
Interface Devices.
(4) FCC/OET MP-4: FCC Procedure for Measuring RF Emissions from
Computing Devices.
(5) FCC/OET MP-9: FCC Procedure for Measuring Cable Television
Switch Isolation.
(b) All parties making compliance measurements on equipment
subject to the requirements of this part are urged to use these
measurement procedures. Any party using other procedures should
ensure that such other procedures can be relied on to produce
measurement results compatible with the FCC measurement
procedures. The description of the measurement procedure used in
testing the equipment for compliance and a list of the test
equipment actually employed shall be made part of an application
for certification or included with the data required to be retained
by the party responsible for devices subject to notification or
verification.
(c) For swept frequency equipment, measurements shall be made
with the frequency sweep stopped at those frequencies chosen for
the measurements to be reported.
(d) Field strength measurements shall be made, to the extent
possible, on an open field site. Test sites other than open field
sites may be employed if they are properly calibrated so that the
measurement results correspond to what would be obtained from an
open field site. In the case of equipment for which measurements
can be performed only at the installation site, such as perimeter
protection systems, carrier current systems, and systems employing
a 'leaky' coaxial cable as an antenna, measurements for
verification or for obtaining a grant of equipment authorizaton
shall be performed at a minimum of three installations that can be
demonstrated to be representative of typical installation sites.
(e) For intentional radiators, measurements of the variation of
the input power or the radiated signal level of the fundamental
frequency component of the emission, as appropriate, shall be
performed with the supply voltage varied between 85% and 115% of
the nominal rated supply voltage. For battery operated equipment,
the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery.
(f) To the extent practicable, the device under test shall be
measured at the distance specified in the appropriate rule
section. The distance specified corresponds to the horizontal
distance between the measurement antenna and the closest point of
the equipment under test, support equipment or interconnecting
cables as determined by the boundary defined by an imaginary
straight line periphery describing a simple geometric configuration
enclosing the system containing the equipment under test. The
equipment under test, support equipment and any interconnecting
cables shall be included within this boundary.
(1) At frequencies equal to or above 30 MHz, measurements may be
performed at a distance closer than that specified provided this
does not result in measurements taken in the near field. When
performing measurements at a closer distance than specified, the
results shall be extrapolated to the specified distance using an
inverse linear distance extrapolation factor (20 dB/decade).
Measurement at a distance greater than specified is not permitted
unless the responsible party can demonstrate the measurements at
the specified distance are impractical because of the size of the
equipment, the location of the equipment, or other factors, or
unless the responsible party can demonstrate that such a
measurement would take place in the near field, as could occur when
performing measurements on some large digital devices and perimeter
protection systems. Measurements shall not be performed at a
distance greater than 30 meters unless it can be demonstrated that
measurement at a distance of 30 meters or less is impracticable
and, further, that the signal level needed to be determined at the
distance employed can be detected by the measuring equipment. When
performing measurements at a distance greater than that specified,
the results shall be interpolated to the specified distance using
an inverse linear distance interpolation factor (20 dB/decade).
(2) At frequencies below 30 MHz, measurements may be performed at
a distance closer than that specified in the regulations; however,
an attempt should be made to avoid making measurements in the near
field. Pending the development of an appropriate measurement
procedure for measurements performed below 30 MHz, when performing
measurements at a closer distance than specified, the results shall
be extrapolated to the specified distance by either making
measurements at a minimum of two distances on at least one radial
to determine the proper extrapolation factor or by using the square
of an inverse linear distance extrapolation factor (40 dB/decade).
(3) The applicant for a grant of certification shall specify the
interpolation or extrapolation method used in the application filed
with the Commission. For equipment subject to notification or
verification, this information shall be retained with the
measurement data.
(4) When measurement distances of 30 meters or less are specified
in the regulations, the Commission will test the equipment at the
distance specified unless measurement at that distance results in
measurements being performed in the near field. When measurement
distances of greater than 30 meters are specified in the
regulations, the Commission will test the equipment at a closer
distance, usually 30 meters, extrapolating the measured field
strength to the specified distance using the methods shown in this
section.
(5) Measurements shall be performed at a sufficient number of
radials around the equipment under test to determine the radial at
which the field strength values of the radiated emissions are
maximized. The maximum field strength at the frequency being
measured shall be reported in an application for certification.
(g) Equipment under test shall be adjusted, using those controls
that are readily accessible to or are intended to be accessible to
the consumer, in such a manner as to maximize the level of the
emissions. For those devices to which wire leads may be attached
by the consumer, tests shall be performed with wire leads
attached. The wire leads shall be of the length to be used with
the equipment if that length is known. Otherwise, wire leads one
meter in length shall be attached to the equipment. Longer wire
leads may be employed if necessary to interconnect to associated
peripherals.
(h) For a composite system that incorporates devices contained
either in a single enclosure or in separate enclosures connected by
wire or cable, testing for compliance with the standards in this
Part shall be performed with all of the devices in the system
functioning. If an intentional radiator incorporates more than one
antenna or other radiating source and these radiating sources are
designed to emit at the same time, measurements of conducted and
radiated emissions shall be performed with all radiating sources
that are to be employed emitting.
(i) If the device under test provides for the connection of
external accessories, including external electrical input signals,
the device shall be tested with the accessories attached. The
device under test shall be fully exercised with these external
accessories. The emission tests shall be performed with the device
and accessories configured in a manner that tends to produce
maximized emissions within the range of variations that can be
expected under normal operating conditions. In the case of
multiple accessory external ports, an external accessory shall be
connected to one of each type of port. Only one test using
peripherals or external accessories that are representative of the
devices that will be employed with the equipment under test is
required. All possible equipment combinations do not need to be
tested. The accessories or peripherals connected to the device
being tested shall be unmodified, commercially available equipment.
(j) If the equipment under test consists of a central control
unit and an external or internal accessory(ies) (peripheral) and
the party verifying the equipment or applying for a grant of
equipment authorization manufactures or assembles the central
control unit and at least one of the accessory devices that can be
used with that control unit, testing of the control unit and/or the
accessory(ies) must be performed using the devices manufactured or
assembled by that party, in addition to any other needed devices
which the party does not manufacture or assemble. If the party
verifying the equipment or applying for a grant of equipment
authorization does not manufacture or assemble the central control
unit and at least one of the accessory devices that can be used
with that control unit or the party can demonstrate that the
central control unit or accessory(ies) normally would be marketed
or used with equipment from a different entity, testing of the
central control unit and/or the accessory(ies) must be performed
using the specific combination of equipment which is intended to be
marketed or used together. Only one test using peripherals or
accessories that are representatve of the devices that will be
employed with the equipment under test is required. All possible
equipment combinations are not required to be tested. The
accessories or peripherals connected to the device being tested
shall be unmodified, commercially available equipment.
(k) A composite system is a system that incorporates different
devices contained either in a single enclosure or in separate
enclosures connected by wire or cable. If the individual devices
in a composite system are subject to different technical standards,
each such device must comply with its specific standards. In no
event may the measured emissions of the composite system exceed the
highest level permitted for an individual component. For digital
devices which consist of a combination of Class A and Class B
devices, the total combination of which results in a Class A
digital device, it is only necessary to demonstrate that the
equipment combination complies with the limits for a Class A
device. This equipment combination may not be employed for
obtaining a grant of equipment authorization or verifying a Class B
digital device. However, if the digital device combination
consists of a Class B central control unit, e.g., a personal
computer, and a Class A internal peripheral(s), it must be
demonstrated that the Class B central control unit continues to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital device with the Class
A internal peripheral(s) installed but not active.
(l) Measurements of radio frequency emissions conducted to the
public utility power lines shall be performed using a 50 ohm/50 uH
line-impedance stabilization network (LISN).
Note: Receivers tested under the transition provisions contained
in Sec. 15.37 may be tested with a 50 ohm/5 mu H LISN.
(m) Measurements on intentional radiators or receivers, other
than TV broadcast receivers, shall be performed and, if required,
reported for each band in which the device can be operated with the
device operating at the number of frequencies in each band
specified in the following table:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency range over Number of frequencies Location in the range
which device of operation
operates
---------------------------------------------------------------------
1 MHz or less 1 Middle.
1 to 10 MHz 2 1 near top and 1
near bottom.
More than 10 MHz 3 1 near top, 1 near
middle and 1 near
bottom.
-------------------------------
(n) Measurements on TV broadcast receivers shall be performed
with the receiver tuned to each VHF frequency and also shall
include the following oscillator frequencies: 520, 550, 600, 650,
700, 750, 800, 850, 900 and 931 MHz. If measurements cannot be made
on one or more of the latter UHF frequencies because of the
presence of signals from licensed radio stations or for other
reasons to be detailed in the measurement report, measurements
shall be made with the receiver oscillator at a nearby frequency.
If the receiver is not capable of receiving channels above 806 MHz,
the measurements employing the oscillator frequencies 900 and 931
MHz may be omitted.
(o) The amplitude of spurious emissions from intentional
radiators and emissions from unintentional radiators which are
attenuated more than 20 dB below the permissible value need not be
reported unless specifically required elsewhere in this part.
Sec. 15.33 Frequency range of radiated measurements.
(a) For an intentional radiator, the spectrum shall be
investigated from the lowest radio frequency signal generated in
the device, without going below 9 kHz, up to at least the tenth
harmonic of the highest fundamental frequency or to 40 GHz,
whichever is lower. If the intentional radiator contains a digital
device, regardless of whether this digital device controls the
functions of the intentional radiator or the digital device is used
for additional control or function purposes other than to enable
the operation of the intentional radiator, the frequency range
shall be investigated up to the higher of the tenth harmonic of the
highest fundamental frequency designed to be emitted by the
intentional radiator or the upper frequency of the measurement
range applicable to the digital device, as shown in paragraph
(b)(1) of this section.
(b) For unintentional radiators:
(1) Except as otherwise indicated in paragraphs (b)(2) or (b)(3)
of this section, for an unintentional radiator, including a digital
device, the spectrum shall be investigated from the lowest radio
frequency signal generated or used in the device, without going
below the lowest frequency for which a radiated emission limit is
specified, up to the frequency shown in the following table:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Highest frequency generated or Upper frequency of measurement
used in the device or on which range (MHz)
the device operates or tunes (MHz
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Below 1.705 30.
1.705-108 1000.
108-500 2000.
500-1000 5000.
Above 1000 5th harmonic of the highest
frequency or 40 GHz, whichever
is lower.
-------------------------------
(2) A unintentional radiator, excluding a digital device, in
which the highest frequency generated in the device, the highest
frequency used in the device and the highest frequency on which the
device operates or tunes are less than 30 MHz and which, in
accordance with Sec. 15.109, is required to comply with standards
on the level of radiated emissions within the frequency range 9 kHz
to 30 MHz, such as a CB receiver or a device designed to conduct
its radio frequency emissions via connecting wires or cables, e.g.,
a carrier current system not intended to radiate, shall be
investigated from the lowest radio frequency generated or used in
the device, without going below 9 kHz (25 MHz for CB receivers), up
to the frequency shown in the following table. If the
unintentional radiator contains a digital device, the upper
frequency to be investigated shall be that shown in the table below
or in the table in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, as based on
both the highest frequency generated and the highest frequency used
in the digital device, whichever range is higher.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Highest frequency generated or Upper frequency of measurement
used in the device or on which range (MHz)
the device operates or tunes (MHz
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Below 1.705 30
1.705-10 400
10-30 500
-------------------------------
(3) Except for a CB receiver, a receiver employing
superheterodyne techniques shall be investigated from 30 MHz up to
at least the second harmonic of the highest local oscillator
frequency generated in the device. If such receiver is controlled
by a digital device, the frequency range shall be investigated up
to the higher of the second harmonic of the highest local
oscillator frequency generated in the device or the upper frequency
of the measurement range specified for the digital device in
paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
(c) The above specified frequency ranges of measurements apply to
the measurement of radiated emissions and, in the case of
receivers, the measurement to demonstrate compliance with the
antenna conduction limits specified in Sec. 15.111. The frequency
range of measurements for AC power line conducted limits is
specified in Sec. [1]5.107 and 15.207 and applies to all equipment
subject to those regulations. In some cases, depending on the
frequency(ies) generated and used by the equipment, only signals
conducted onto the AC power lines are required to be measured.
(d) Particular attention should be paid to harmonics and
subharmonics of the fundamental frequency as well as to those
frequencies removed from the fundamental by multiples of the
oscillator frequency. Radiation at the frequencies of multiplier
states should also be checked.
Sec. 15.35 Emission limits.
The conducted and radiated emission limits shown in this part are
based on the following, unless otherwise specified elsewhere in
this part:
(a) On any frequency or frequencies below or equal to 1000 MHz,
the limits shown are based on measuring equipment employing a CISPR
quasi-peak detector function and related measurement bandwidths,
unless otherwise specified. The specifications for the measuring
instrument using the CISPR quasi-peak detector can be found in
Publication 16 of the International Special Committee on Radio
Interference (CISPR) of the International Electrotechnical
Commission. As an alternative to CISPR quasi-peak measurements, the
responsible party, at its option, may demonstrate compliance with
the emission limits using measuring equipment employing a peak
detector function, properly adjusted for such factors as pulse
desensitization, as long as the same bandwidths as indicated for
CISPR quasi-peak measurements are employed.
Note: For pulse modulated devices with a pulse-repetition
frequency of 20 Hz or less and for which CISPR quasi-peak
measurements are specified, compliance with the regulations shall
be demonstrated using measuring equipment employing a peak detector
function, properly adjusted for such factors as pulse
desensitization, using the same measurement bandwidths that are
indicated for CISPR quasi-peak measurements.
(b) On any frequency or frequencies above 1000 MHz, the radiated
limits shown are based on the use of measurement instrumentation
employing an average detector function. When average radiated
emission measurements are specified in the regulations, including
emission measurements below 1000 MHz, there is also a limit on the
radio frequency emissions, as measured using instrumentation with a
peak detector function, corresponding to 20 dB above the maximum
permitted average limit for the frequency being investigated.
Measurements of AC power line conducted emissions are performed
using a CISPR quasi-peak detector, even for devices for which
average radiated emission measurements are specified.
(c) When the radiated emission limits are expressed in terms of
the average value of the emission, and pulsed operation is
employed, the measured field strength shall be determined by
averaging over one complete pulse train, including blanking
intervals, as long as the pulse train does not exceed 0.1 seconds.
As an alternative (provided the transmitter operates for longer
than 0.1 seconds) or in those cases where the pulse train exceeds
0.1 seconds, the measured field strength shall be determined from
the average absolute voltage during a 0.1 second interval during
which the field strength is at its maximum value. The exact method
of calculating the average field strength shall be submitted with
any application for certification or shall be retained in the
measurement data file for equipment subject to notification or
verification.
Sec. 15.37 Transition provisions for compliance with the rules.
Equipment may be authorized, manufactured and imported under the
rules in effect prior to June 23, 1989, in accordance with the
following schedules:
(a) For all intentional and unintentional radiators, except for
receivers: Radio frequency equipment verified by the responsible
party or for which an application for a grant of equipment
authorization is submitted to the Commission on or after June 23,
1992, shall comply with the regulations specified in this part.
Radio frequency equipment that is manufactured or imported on or
after June 23, 1994, shall comply with the regulations specified in
this part.
(b) For receivers: Receivers subject to the regulations in this
part that are manufactured or imported on or after June 23, 1999,
shall comply with the regulations specified in this part. However,
if a receiver is associated with a transmitter that could not have
been authorized under the regulations in effect prior to June 23,
1989, e.g., a transmitter operating under the provisions of
Sec. [1]5.209 or 15.249 (below 960 MHz), the transition provisions in
this section do not apply. Such receivers must comply with the
regulations in this part.
(c) There are no restrictions on the operation or marketing of
equipment complying with the regulations in effect prior to June
23, 1989.
(d) Prior to May 25, 1991, person shall import, market or operate
intentional radiators within the band 902-905 MHz under the
provisions of Sec. 15.249. Until that date, the Commission will not
issue a grant of equipment authorization for equipment operating
under Sec. 15.249 if the equipment is designed to permit operation
within the band 902-905 MHz.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989; 55 FR
25095, June 20, 1990)
SUBPART B - UNINTENTIONAL RADIATORS
Sec. 15.101 Equipment authorization of unintentional radiators.
(a) Except as otherwise exempted in Sec. [1]5.23, 15.103, and 15.113,
unintentional radiators shall be authorized by the Commission or
verified prior to the initiation of marketing, as follows:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of device Equipment authorization required
(FOOTNOTE 1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
TV broadcast receiver Verification.
FM broadcast receiver Do.
CB receiver Certification.
Superregenerative receiver Do.
Scanning receiver Do.
All other receivers subject to Notification.
Part 15
TV interface device Certification.
Cable system terminal device Notification.
Stand-alone cable input selector Verification.
switch
Class B personal computers & Certification.
peripherals
Other Class B digital devices & Verification.
peripherals
Class A digital devices & Do.
peripherals
External switching power supplies Do.
All other devices Do.
-------------------------------
(FOOTNOTE 1) See additional provisions in this section and in
Sec. 15.103 of this part.
(b) Only those receivers that operate (tune) within the frequency
range of 30-960 MHz and CB receivers are subject to the
authorizations shown in paragraph (a) of this section. However,
receivers indicated as being subject to notification that are
contained within a transceiver, the transmitter portion of which is
subject to type acceptance, certification or notification, shall be
authorized under the verification procedure. Receivers operating
above 960 MHz or below 30 MHz, except for CB receivers, are exempt
from complying with the technical provisions of this part but are
subject to Sec. 15.5.
(c) Personal computer mother boards (the circuit board performing
the central processing) that are marketed assembled with an
enclosure and a power supply must be certificated with that
enclosure and power supply.
(d) Peripheral devices, as defined in Sec. 15.3(r), shall be
certified or verified, as appropriate, prior to marketing.
However, if a peripheral always will be marketed with a specific
personal computer, it is not necessary to obtain a separate grant
of certification for that peripheral, provided the specific
combination of personal computer and peripheral has received a
grant of certification.
(e) Subassemblies to digital devices are not subject to the
technical standards in this part unless they are marketed as part
of a system in which case the resulting system must comply with the
applicable regulations. Subassemblies include: Those devices that
are enclosed solely within the enclosure housing the digital device
and are not included in the definition of peripherals in Sec.
15.3(r), such as internal disc drives and memory expansion units;
digital devices marketed to another manufacturer to be incorporated
into a final product; circuit boards containing the central
processing unit that are marketed without an enclosure or power
supply; and, switching power supplies that are separately marketed
and are solely for use internal to a digital device.
(f) The procedures for obtaining a grant of certification or
notification and for verification are contained in Subpart J of
Part 2 of this chapter.
Sec. 15.103 Exempted devices.
The following devices are subject only to the general conditions
of operation in Sec.[1]5.5 and 15.29 and are exempt from the specific
technical standards and other requirements contained in this part.
The operator of the exempted device shall be required to stop
operating the device upon a finding by the Commission or its
representative that the device is causing harmful interference.
Operation shall not resume until the condition causing the harmful
interference has been corrected. Although not mandatory, it is
strongly recommended that the manufacturer of an exempted device
endeavor to have the device meet the specific technical standards
in this part.
(a) A digital device utilized exclusively in any transportation
vehicle including motor vehicles and aircraft.
(b) A digital device used exclusively as an electronic control or
power system utilized by a public utility or in an industrial
plant. The term public utility includes equipment only to the
extent that it is in a dedicated building or large room owned or
leased by the utility and does not extend to equipment installed in
a subscriber's facility.
(c) A digital device used exclusively as industrial, commercial,
or medical test equipment.
(d) A digital device utilized exclusively in an appliance, e.g.,
microwave oven, dishwasher, clothes dryer, air conditioner (central
or window), etc.
(e) Specialized medical digital devices (generally used at the
direction of or under the supervision of a licensed health care
practitioner) whether used in a patient's home or a health care
facility. Non-specialized medical devices, i.e., devices marketed
through retail channels for use by the general public, are not
exempted. This exemption also does not apply to digital devices
used for record keeping or any purpose not directly connected with
medical treatment.
(f) Digital devices that have a power consumption not exceeding 6
nW.
(g) Joystick controllers or similar devices, such as a mouse,
used with digital devices but which contain only non-digital
circuitry or a simple circuit to convert the signal to the format
required (e.g., an integrated circuit for analog to digital
conversion) are viewed as passive add-on devices, not themselves
directly subject to the technical standards or the equipment
authorization requirements.
(h) Digital devices in which both the highest frequency generated
and the highest frequency used are less than 1.705 MHz and which do
not operate from the AC power lines or contain provisions for
operation while connected to the AC power lines. Digital devices
that include, or make provision for the use of, battery
eliminators, AC adaptors or battery chargers which permit operation
while charging or that connect to the AC power lines indirectly,
obtaining their power through another device which is connected to
the AC power lines, do not fall under this exemption.
(i) Responsible parties should note that equipment containing
more than one device is not exempt from the technical standards in
this part unless all of the devices in the equipment meet the
criteria for exemption. If only one of the included devices
qualifies for exemption, the remainder of the equipment must comply
with any applicable regulations. If a device performs more than
one function and all of those functions do not meet the criteria
for exemption, the device does not qualify for inclusion under the
exemptions.
Sec. 15.105 Information to the user.
(a) For a Class A digital device or peripheral, the instructions
furnished the user shall include the following or similar
statement, placed in a prominent location in the text of the
manual:
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in
which case the user will be required to correct the interference at
his own expense.
(b) For a Class B digital device or peripheral, the instructions
furnished the user shall include the following or similar
statement, placed in a prominent location in the text of the
manual:
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.
(c) The provisions of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section do
not apply to digital devices exempted from the technical standards
under the provisions of Sec. 15.103.
(d) For systems incorporating several digital devices, the
statement shown in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section needs to be
contained only in the instruction manual for the main control unit.
Sec. 15.107 Conducted limits.
(a) Except for Class A digital devices, for equipment that is
designed to be connected to the public utility (AC) power line, the
radio frequency voltage that is conducted back onto the AC power
line on any frequency or frequencies within the band 450 kHz to 30
MHz shall not exceed 250 microvolts. Compliance with this
provision shall be based on the measurement of the radio frequency
voltage between each power line and ground at the power terminals.
(b) For a Class A digital device that is designed to be connected
to the public utility (AC) power line, the radio frequency voltage
that is conducted back onto the AC power line on any frequency or
frequencies within the band 450 kHz to 30 MHz shall not exceed the
limits in the following table. Compliance with this provision
shall be based on the measurement of the radio frequency voltage
between each power line and ground at the power terminals. The
lower limit applies at the band edges.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency of emission (MHz) Conducted limit (microvolts)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
0.45 to 1.705 1000
1.705 to 30.0 3000
-------------------------------
(c) For carrier current systems used as unintentional radiators
whose emissions are contained within the frequency range 450 kHz to
30 MHz, the provisions of this section shall not apply. Such
systems are subject to radiated emission limits as provided in Sec.
15.109(e).
(d) Measurements to demonstrate compliance with the conducted
limits are not required for devices which only employ battery power
for operation and which do not operate from the AC power lines or
contain provisions for operation while connected to the AC power
lines. Devices that include, or make provision for, the use of
battery chargers which permit operating while charging, AC adaptors
or battery eliminators or that connect to the AC power lines
indirectly, obtaining their power through another device which is
connected to the AC power lines, shall be tested to demonstrate
compliance with the conducted limits.
Sec. 15.109 Radiated emission limits.
(a) Except for Class A digital devices, the field strength of
radiated emissions from unintentional radiators at a distance of 3
meters shall not exceed the following values:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency of emission (MHz) Field strength (microvolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
30-88 100
88-216 150
216-960 200
Above 960 500
-------------------------------
(b) The field strength of radiated emissions from a Class A
digital device, as determined at a distance of 10 meters, shall not
exceed the following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency of emission (MHz) Field strength (microvolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
30-88 90
88-216 150
216-960 210
Above 960 300
-------------------------------
(c) In the emission tables above, the tighter limit applies at
the band edges. Sections 15.33 and 15.35 which specify the
frequency range over which radiated emissions are to be measured
and the detector functions and other measurement standards apply.
(d) For CB receivers, the field strength of radiated emissions
within the frequency range of 25-30 MHz shall not exceed 40
microvolts/meter at a distance of 3 meters. The field strength of
radiated emissions above 30 MHz from such devices shall comply with
the limits in paragraph (a) of this section.
(e) Carrier current systems used as unintentional radiators or
other unintentional radiators that are designed to conduct their
radio frequency emissions via connecting wires or cables and that
operate in the frequency range of 9 kHz to 30 MHz, including
devices that deliver the radio frequency energy to transducers,
such as ultrasonic devices not covered under Part 18 of this
chapter, shall comply with the radiated emission limits for
intentional radiators provided in Sec. 15.209 for the frequency
range of 9 kHz to 30 MHz. At frequencies above 30 MHz, the
provisions of paragraph (a) of this section apply.
(f) For a receiver which employs terminals for the connection of
an external receiving antenna, the receiver shall be tested to
demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this section with an
antenna connected to the antenna terminals unless the antenna
conducted power is measured as specified in Sec. 15.111(a). If a
permanently attached receiving antenna is used, the receiver shall
be tested to demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this
section.
Sec. 15.111 Antenna power conduction limits for receivers.
(a) In addition to the radiated emission limits, receivers that
operate (tune) in the frequency range 30 to 960 MHz and CB
receivers that provide terminals for the connection of an external
receiving antenna may be tested to demonstrate compliance with the
provisions of Sec. 15.109 with the antenna terminals shielded and
terminated with a resistive termination equal to the impedance
specified for the antenna, provided these receivers also comply
with the following: With the receiver antenna terminal connected to
a resistive termination equal to the impedance specified or
employed for the antenna, the power at the antenna terminal at any
frequency within the range of measurements specified in Sec. 15.33
shall not exceed 2.0 nanowatts.
(b) CB receivers and receivers that operate (tune) in the
frequency range 30 to 960 MHz that are provided only with a
permanently attached antenna shall comply with the radiated
emission limitations in this part, as measured with the antenna
attached.
Sec. 15.113 Power line carrier systems.
Power line carrier systems, as defined in Sec. 15.3(t), are
subject only to the following requirements:
(a) A power utility operating a power line carrier system shall
submit the details of all existing systems plus any proposed new
systems or changes to existing systems to an industry-operated
entity as set forth in Sec. Sec. 90.63(g) of this chapter. No
notification to the FCC is required.
(b) The operating parameters of a power line carrier system
(particularly the frequency) shall be selected to achieve the
highest practical degree of compatibility with authorized or
licensed users of the radio spectrum. The signals from this
operation shall be contained within the frequency band 9 kHz to 490
kHz. A power line carrier system shall operate on an unprotected,
non-interference basis in accordance with Sec. 15.5 of this part.
If harmful interference occurs, the electric power utility shall
discontinue use or adjust its power line carrier operation, as
required, to remedy the interference. Particular attention should
be paid to the possibility of interference to Loran C operations at
100 kHz.
(c) Power line carrier system apparatus shall be operated with
the minimum power possible to accomplish the desired purpose. No
equipment authorization is required.
(d) The best engineering principles shall be used in the
generation of radio frequency currents by power line carrier
systems to guard against harmful interference to authorized radio
users, particularly on the fundamental and harmonic frequencies.
(e) Power line carrier system apparatus shall conform to such
engineering standards as may be promulgated by the Commission. In
addition, such systems should adhere to industry approved standards
designed to enhance the use of power line carrier systems.
(f) The provisions of this Section apply only to systems operated
by a power utility for general supervision of the power system and
do not permit operation on electric lines which connect the
distribution substation to the customer or house wiring. Such
operation can be conducted under the other provisions of this part.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989)
Sec. 15.115 TV interface devices, including cable system terminal
(a) Measurements of the radiated emissions of a TV interface
device shall be conducted with the output terminal(s) of the device
terminated by a resistance equal to the rated output impedance.
The emanations of a TV interface device incorporating an
intentional radiator shall not exceed the limits in Sec. 15.109 or
Subpart C of this part, whichever is higher for each frequency.
Where it is possible to determine which portion of the device is
contributing a particular radio frequency emission, the emissions
from the TV interface device portion shall comply with the emission
limits in Sec. 15.109, and the emissions from the intentional
radiator shall comply with Subpart C of this part.
(b) Output signal limits:
(1) At any RF output terminal, the maximum measured RMS voltage,
in microvolts, corresponding to the peak envelope power of the
modulated signal during maximum amplitude peaks across a resistance
(R in ohms) matching the rated output impedance of the TV interface
device, shall not exceed the following:
(i) For a cable system terminal device or a TV interface device
used with a master antenna, 692.8 times the square root of (R) for
the video signal and 155 times the square root of (R) for the audio
signal.
(ii) For all other TV interface devices, 346.4 times the square
root of (R) for the video signal and 77.5 times the square root of
(R) for the audio signal.
(2) At any RF output terminal, the maximum measured RMS voltage,
in microvolts, corresponding to the peak envelope power of the
modulated signal during maximum amplitude peaks across a resistance
(R in ohms) matching the rated output impedance of the TV interface
device, of any emission appearing on frequencies removed by more
than 4.6 MHz below or 7.4 MHz above the video carrier frequency on
which the TV interface device is operated shall not exceed the
following:
(i) For a cable system terminal device or a TV interface device
used with a master antenna, 692.8 times the square root of (R).
(ii) For all other TV interface devices, 10.95 times the square
root of (R).
(3) The term 'master antenna' used in this paragraph refers to TV
interface devices employed for central distribution within large
buildings such as apartments, hospitals, office buildings, etc.
Note: Cable-ready video cassette recorders continue to be subject
to the provisions for general TV interface devices pending further
action by the Commission.
(c) A TV interface device shall be equipped with a transfer
switch for connecting the antenna terminals of a receiver
selectively either to the receiving antenna or to the radio
frequency output of the TV interface device, subject to the
following:
(1) When measured in any of its set positions, transfer switches
shall comply with the following requirements:
(i) For a cable system terminal device or a TV interface device
equipped for use with a cable system or a master antenna, as
defined in paragraph (b)(3) of this section, the isolation between
the antenna and cable input terminals shall be at least 80 dB from
54 to 216 MHz and at least 60 dB from 216 to 550 MHz. The 80 dB
limit applies at 216 MHz. In the case of a transfer switch
requiring a power source, the required isolation shall be
maintained in the event the device is not connected to a power
source or power is interrupted.
(ii) For all other TV interface devices, the maximum voltage,
corresponding to the peak envelope power of the modulated video
signal during maximum amplitude peaks, in microvolts, appearing at
the receiving antenna input terminals when terminated with a
resistance (R in ohms) matching the rated impedance of the antenna
input of the switch, shall not exceed 0.346 times the square root
of (R).
(iii) Measurement to determine compliance with the transfer
switch limits shall be made using a connecting cable, where
required, between the TV interface device and the transfer switch
of the type and length:
(A) Provided with the TV interface device,
(B) Recommended in the instruction manual, or
(C) Normally employed by the consumer.
(2) A TV interface device shall be designed and constructed, to
the extent practicable, so as to preclude the possibility that the
consumer may inadvertently attach the output of the device to the
receiving antenna, if any, without first going through the transfer
switch.
(3) A transfer switch is not required for a TV interface device
that, when connected, results in the user no longer having any need
to receive standard over-the-air broadcast signals via a separate
antenna. A transfer switch is not required to be marketed with a
cable system terminal device unless that device provides for the
connection of an external antenna. A transfer switch is not
required for a device that is intended to be used as an accessory
to an authorized TV interface device.
(4) An actual transfer switch is not required for a TV interface
device, including a cable system terminal device, that has an
antenna input terminal(s); provided, the circuitry following the
antenna input terminal(s) has sufficient bandwidth to allow the
reception of all TV broadcast channels authorized under Part 73 of
this chapter and: For a cable system terminal device that can
alternate between the reception of cable television service and an
antenna, compliance with the isolation requirement specified in
paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section can be demonstrated; and, for
all other TV interface devices, the maximum voltage appearing at
the antenna terminal(s) does not exceed the limit in paragraph
(c)(1)(ii) of this section.
(5) If a transfer switch is not required, the following label
shall be used in addition to the label shown in Sec. 15.19(a):
This device is intended to be attached to a receiver that is not
used to receive over-the-air broadcast signals. Connection of this
device in any other fashion may cause harmful interference to radio
communications and is in violation of the FCC Rules, Part 15.
(d) A TV interface device, including a cable system terminal
device, shall incorporate circuitry to automatically prevent
emanations from the device from exceeding the technical
specifications in this part. These circuits shall be adequate to
accomplish their functions when the TV interface device is
presented, if applicable, with video input signal levels in the
range of one to five volts; this requirement is not applicable to a
TV interface device that uses a built-in signal source and has no
provisions for the connection of an external signal source. For
devices that contain provisions for an external signal source but
do not contain provisions for the input of an external baseband
signal, e.g., some cable system terminal devices, compliance with
the provisions of this paragraph shall be demonstrated with a radio
frequency input signal of 0 to 25 dBmV.
(e) For cable system terminal devices and TV interface devices
used with a master antenna, as defined in paragraph (b)(3) of this
section, the holder of the grant of authorization shall specify in
the instruction manual or pamphlet, if a manual is not provided,
the types of wires or coaxial cables necessary to ensure that the
unit complies with the requirements of this part. The holder of
the grant of authorization must comply with the provisions of Sec.
15.27. For all other TV interface devices, the wires or coaxial
cables used to couple the output signals to the TV receiver shall
be provided by the responsible party.
(f) A TV interface device which is submitted to the Commission as
a composite device in a single enclosure containing a RF modulator,
video source and other component devices shall be submitted on a
single application (FCC Form 731) and shall be authorized as a
single device.
(g) An external device or accessory that is intended to be
attached to a TV interface device shall comply with the technical
and administrative requirements set out in the rules under which it
operates. For example, a personal computer must be certificated to
show compliance with the regulations for digital devices.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989)
Sec. 15.117 TV broadcast receivers.
(a) All TV broadcast receivers shipped in interstate commerce or
imported from any foreign country into the United States, for sale
or resale to the public, shall comply with the provisions of this
section. The reference in this section to TV broadcast receivers
also includes devices, such as TV interface devices, that
incorporate the tuner portion of a TV broadcast receiver and that
are equipped with an antenna or antenna terminals that can be used
for the off-the-air reception of TV broadcast signals, as
authorized under Part 73 of this chapter.
(b) TV broadcast receivers shall be capable of adequately
receiving all channels allocated by the Commission to the
television broadcast service.
(c) On a given receiver, use of the UHF and VHF tuning systems
shall provide approximately the same degree of tuning accuracy with
approximately the same expenditure of time and effort: Provided,
however, That this requirement will be considered to be met if the
need for routine fine tuning is eliminated on UHF channels.
(1) Basic tuning mechanism. If a TV broadcast receiver is
equipped to provide for repeated access to VHF television channels
at discrete tuning positions, that receiver shall be equipped to
provide for repeated access to a minimum of six UHF television
channels at discrete tuning positions. Unless a discrete tuning
position is provided for each channel allocated to UHF television,
each position shall be readily adjustable to a particular UHF
channel by the user without the use of tools. If 12 or fewer
discrete tuning positions are provided, each position shall be
adjustable to receive any channel allocated to UHF television.
Note: The combination of detented rotary switch and pushbutton
controls is acceptable, provided UHF channels, after their initial
selection, can be accurately tuned with an expenditure of time and
effort approximately the same as that used in accurately tuning VHF
channels. A UHF tuning system comprising five pushbuttons and a
separate manual tuning knob is considered to provide repeated
access to six channels at discrete tuning positions. A one-knob
(VHF/UHF) tuning system providing repeated access to 11 or more
discrete tuning positions is also acceptable, provided each of the
tuning positions is readily adjustable, without the use of tools,
to receive any UHF channel.
(2) Tuning controls and channel readout. UHF tuning controls and
channel readout on a given receiver shall be comparable in size,
location, accessibility and legibility to VHF controls and readout
on that receiver.
Note: Differences between UHF and VHF channel readout that follow
directly from the larger number of UHF television channels
available are acceptable if it is clear that a good faith effort to
comply with the provisions of this section has been made.
(d) If equipment and controls that tend to simplify, expedite or
perfect the reception of television signals (e.g., AFC, visual
aids, remote control, or signal seeking capability referred to
generally as tuning aids) are incorporated into the VHF portion of
a TV broadcast receiver, tuning aids of the same type and
comparable capability and quality shall be provided for the UHF
portion of that receiver.
(e) If a television receiver has an antenna affixed to the VHF
antenna terminals, it must have an antenna designed for and capable
of receiving all UHF television channels affixed to the UHF antenna
terminals. If a VHF antenna is provided with but not affixed to a
receiver, a UHF antenna shall be provided with the receiver.
(f) The picture sensitivity of a TV broadcast receiver averaged
for all channels between 14 and 69 inclusive shall not be more than
8dB larger than the peak picture sensitivity of that receiver
averaged for all channels between 2 and 13 inclusive.
(g) The noise figure for any television channel 14 to 69
inclusive shall not exceed 14 dB. A TV receiver model is
considered to comply with this noise figure if the maximum noise
figure for channels 14-69 inclusive of 97.5% of all receivers
within that model does not exceed 14 dB.
(1) The responsible party shall measure the noise figure of a
number of UHF channels of the test sample to give reasonable
assurance that the UHF noise figure for each channel complies with
the above limit.
(2) The responsible party shall insert in his files a statement
explaining the basis on which it will rely to ensure that at least
97.5% of all production units of the test sample that are
manufactured have a noise figure of no greater than 14 dB.
(3) Within one year after a specific TV receiver model has been
verified for compliance, the responsible party shall file a report
with the Commission giving the actual UHF noise figure performance
of units of that model actually measured during that year. The
report, as an alternative, may be filed by the party responsible
for the marketing of that model TV broadcast receiver within this
country.
(4) In the case of a TV tuner built-in as part of a video tape
recorder that uses a power splitter between the antenna terminals
of the video tape recorder and the input terminals of the TV tuner
or a TV broadcast receiver that uses a power splitter between the
antenna terminals of two or more UHF tuners contained within that
receiver, 4 dB may be subtracted from the noise figure measured at
the antenna terminals of the video tape recorder or TV broadcast
receiver for determining compliance of the UHF tuner(s) with the 14
dB noise figure limit.
(h) For a TV broadcast receiver equipped with a cable input
selector switch, the selector switch shall provide in any of its
set positions isolation between the antenna and cable input
terminals of at least 80 dB from 54 to 216 MHz, and of at least 60
dB from 216 to 550 MHz. At MHz, the 80 dB isolation standard
applies. In the case of a selector switch requiring a power
source, the required isolation shall be maintained in the event the
device is not connected to a power source or power is interrupted.
A physical cable input selector switch is not required for a TV
broadcast receiver that can alternate between the reception of
cable television service and an antenna, provided compliance with
the isolation requirement specified in this paragraph can be
demonstrated and the circuitry following the antenna input
terminal(s) has sufficient bandwidth to allow the reception of all
TV broadcast channels authorized under this chapter.
SUBPART C - INTENTIONAL RADIATORS
Sec. 15.201 Equipment authorization requirement.
(a) Intentional radiators operated as carrier current systems and
devices operated under the provisions of Sec. [1}5.211, 15.213 and
15.221 shall be verified pursuant to the procedures in Subpart J of
Part 2 of this chapter prior to marketing.
(b) Except as otherwise exempted in paragraph (c) of this section
and in Sec. 15.23 of this part, all intentional radiators operating
under the provisions of this part shall be certificated by the
Commission pursuant to the procedures in Subpart J of Part 2 of
this chapter prior to marketing.
(c) For devices such as perimeter protection systems which, in
accordance with Sec. 15.31(d), are required to be measured at the
installation site, each application for certification must be
accompanied by a statement indicating that the system has been
tested at three installations and found to comply at each
installation. Until such time as certification is granted, a given
installation of a system that was measured for the submission for
certification will be considered to be in compliance with the
provisions of this chapter, including the marketing regulations in
Subpart I of Part 2 of this chapter, if tests at that installation
show the system to be in compliance with the relevant technical
requirements. Similarly, where measurements must be performed on
site for equipment subject to verification, a given installation
that has been verified to demonstrate compliance with the
applicable standards will be considered to be in compliance with
the provisions of this chapter, including the marketing regulations
in Subpart I of Part 2 of this chapter.
(d) For perimeter protection systems operating in the frequency
bands allocated to television broadcast stations operating under
Part 73 of this chapter, the holder of the grant of certification
must test each installation prior to initiation of normal operation
to verify compliance with the technical standards and must maintain
a list of all installations and records of measurements. For
perimeter protection systems operating outside of the frequency
bands allocated to television broadcast stations, upon receipt of a
grant of certification, further testing of the same or similar type
of system or installation is not required.
Sec. 15.203 Antenna requirement.
An intentional radiator shall be designed to ensure that no
antenna other than that furnished by the responsible party shall be
used with the device. The use of a permanently attached antenna or
of an antenna that uses a unique coupling to the intentional
radiator shall be considered sufficient to comply with the
provisions of this section. The manufacturer may design the unit
so that a broken antenna can be replaced by the user, but the use
of a standard antenna jack or electrical connector is prohibited.
This requirement does not apply to carrier current devices or to
devices operated under the provisions of Sec. [1]5.211, 15.213, 15.217,
15.219, or 15.221. Further, this requirement does not apply to
intentional radiators that must be professionally installed, such
as perimeter protection systems and some field disturbance sensors,
or to other intentional radiators which, in accordance with Sec.
15.31(d), must be measured at the installation site. However, the
installer shall be responsible for ensuring that the proper antenna
is employed so that the limits in this part are not exceeded.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 28762, July 13,
1990)
Sec. 15.205 Restricted bands of operation.
(A) Except as shown in paragraph (d) of this section, only
spurious emissions are permitted in any of the frequency bands
listed below:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
MHz :MHz :MHz :GHz
---------------------------------------------------------------------
0.090-0.110 :162.0125-167.17:2310-2390 :9.3-9.5.
0.49-0.51 :167.72-173.2 :2438.5-2500 :10.6-12.7.
2.1735-2.1905 :240-285 :2655-2900 :13.25-13.4.
8.362-8.366 :322-335.4 :3260-3267 :14.47-14.5
13.36-13.41 :399.9-410 :3332-3339 :15.35-16.2.
25.5-25.67 :608-614 :3345.8-3358 :17.7-21.4.
37.5-38.25 :960-1240 :3600-4400 :22.01-23.12.
73-75.4 :1300-1427 :4500-5250 :23.6-24.0.
108-121.94 :1435-1626.5 :5350-5460 :31.2-31.8.
123-138 :1660-1710 :7250-7750 :36.43-36.5.
149.9-150.05 :1718.8-1722.2 :8025-8500 :Above 38.6.
156.7-156.9 :2200-2300 :9000-9200 :
-------------------------------
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, the
field strength of emissions appearing within these frequency bands
shall not exceed the limits shown in Sec. 15.209. At frequencies
equal to or less than 1000 MHz, compliance with the limits in Sec.
15.209 shall be demonstrated using measurement instrumentation
employing a CISPR quasi-peak detector. Above 1000 MHz, compliance
with the emission limits in Sec. 15.209 shall be demonstrated based
on the average value of the measured emissions. The provisions in
Sec. 15.35 apply to these measurements.
(c) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section,
regardless of the field strength limits specified elsewhere in this
subpart, the provisions of this section apply to emissions from any
intentional radiator.
(d) The following devices are exempt from the requirements of
this section:
(1) Swept frequency field disturbance sensors operating between
1.705 and 37 MHz provided their emissions only sweep through the
bands listed in paragraph (a) of this section, the sweep is never
stopped with the fundamental emission within the bands listed in
paragraph (a) of this section, and the fundamental emission is
outside of the bands listed in paragraph (a) of this section more
than 99% of the time the device is actively transmitting, without
compensation for duty cycle.
(2) Transmitters used to detect buried electronic markers at
101.4 kHz which are employed by telephone companies.
(3) Cable locating equipment operated pursuant to Sec. 15.213.
Sec. 15.207 Conducted limits.
(a) For an intentional radiator which is designed to be connected
to the public utility (AC) power line, the radio frequency voltage
that is conducted back onto the AC power line on any frequency or
frequencies within the band 450 kHz to 30 MHz shall not exceed 250
microvolts. Compliance with this provision shall be based on the
measurement of the radio frequency voltage between each power line
and ground at the power terminals.
(b) The limit in paragraph (a) of this section shall not apply to
intentional radiators operated as carrier current systems in the
frequency range of 450 kHz to 30 mHz. Such systems are subject to
radiated emission limits as provided in Sec. [1]5.205 and 15.209.
(c) Measurements to demonstrate compliance with the conducted
limits are not required for devices which only employ battery power
for operation and which do not operate from the AC power lines or
contain provisions for operation while connected to the AC power
lines. Devices that include, or make provision for, the use of
battery chargers which permit operating while charging, AC adaptors
or battery eliminators or that connect to the AC power lines
indirectly, obtaining their power through another device which is
connected to the AC power lines, shall be tested to demonstrate
compliance with the conducted limits.
Sec. 15.209 Radiated emission limits; general requirements.
(a) Except as provided elsewhere in this subpart, the emissions
from an intentional radiator shall not exceed the field strength
levels specified in the following table:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency (MHz) Field strength Measurement distance
(microvolts/meter) (meters)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
0.009-0.490 2400/F(kHz) 300
0.490-1.705 24000/F(kHz) 30
1.705-30.0 30 30
30-88 100** 3
88-216 150** 3
216-960 200** 3
Above 960 500 3
-------------------------------
**Except as provided in paragraph (g), fundamental emissions from
intentional radiators operating under this Section shall not be
located in the frequency bands 54-72 MHz, 76-88 MHz, 174-216 MHz or
470-806 MHz. However, operation within these frequency bands is
permItted under other sections of this part, e.g., Sec. [1]5.231 and
15.241.
(b) In the emission table above, the tighter limit applies at the
band edges.
(c) The level of any unwanted emissions from an intentional
radiator operating under these general provisions shall not exceed
the level of the fundamental emission. For intentional radiators
which operate under the provisions of other sections within this
part and which are required to reduce their unwanted emissions to
the limits specified in this table, the limits in this table are
based on the frequency of the unwanted emission and not the
fundamental frequency. However, the level of any unwanted
emissions shall not exceed the level of the fundamental frequency.
(d) The emission limits shown in the above table are based on
measurements employing a CISPR quasi-peak detector except for the
frequency bands 9-90 kHz, 110-490 kHz and above 1000 MHz. Radiated
emission limits in these three bands are based on measurements
employing an average detector.
(e) The provisions in Sec. [1]5.31, 15.33, and 15.35 for measuring
emissions at distances other than the distances specified in the
above table, determining the frequency range over which radiated
emissions are to be measured, and limiting peak emissions apply to
all devices operated under this part.
(f) In accordance with Sec. 15.33(a), in some cases the emissions
from an intentional radiator must be measured to beyond the tenth
harmonic of the highest fundamental frequency designed to be
emitted by the intentional radiator because of the incorporation of
a digital device. If measurements above the tenth harmonic are so
required, the radiated emissions above the tenth harmonic shall
comply with the general radiated emission limits applicable to the
incorporated digital device, as shown in Sec. 15.109 and as based
on the frequency of the emission being measured, or, except for
emissions contained in the restricted frequency bands shown in Sec.
15.205, the limit on spurious emissions specified for the
intentional radiator, whichever is the higher limit. Emissions
which must be measured above the tenth harmonic of the highest
fundamental frequency designed to be emitted by the intentional
radiator and which fall within the restricted bands shall comply
with the general radiated emission limits in Sec. 15.109 that are
applicable to the incorporated digital device.
(g) Operation in the frequency bands allocated to TV broadcast
stations:
(1) Perimeter protection systems operating under the provisions
of this section in the frequency bands allocated to TV broadcast
stations, as shown in part 73 of this Chapter, shall contain their
fundamental emissions within the frequency bands 54-72 MHz and
76-88 MHz. Further, the use of such perimeter protection systems is
limited to industrial, business and commercial applications.
(2) Biomedical telemetry devices operating under the provisions
of this section in the frequency bands allocated to TV broadcast
stations, as shown in part 73 of this Chapter, shall contain their
fundamental emissions within the frequency band 512-566 MHz.
Further, the marketing and the use of biomedical telemetry devices
operating under this paragraph shall be limited to hospitals.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989; 55 FR
18340, May 2, 1990)
Sec. 15.211 Tunnel radio systems.
An intentional radiator utilized as part of a tunnel radio system
may operate on any frequency provided it meets all of the following
conditions:
(a) Operation of a tunnel radio system (intentional radiator and
all connecting wires) shall be contained solely within a tunnel,
mine or other structure that provides attenuation to the radiated
signal due to the presence of naturally surrounding earth and/or
water.
(b) Any intentional or unintentional radiator external to the
tunnel, mine or other structure, as described in paragraph (a) of
this section, shall be subject to the other applicable regulations
contained within this part.
(c) The total electromagnetic field from a tunnel radio system on
any frequency or frequencies appearing outside of the tunnel, mine
or other structure described in paragraph (a) of this section,
shall not exceed the limits shown in Sec. 15.209 when measured at
the specified distance from the surrounding structure, including
openings. Particular attention shall be paid to the emissions from
any opening in the structure to the outside environment. When
measurements are made from the openings, the distances shown in
Sec. 15.209 refer to the distance from the plane of reference which
fits the entire perimeter of each above ground opening.
(d) The conducted limits in Sec. 15.207 apply to the
radiofrequency voltage on the public utility power lines outside of
the tunnel.
Sec. 15.213 Cable locating equipment.
An intentional radiator used as cable locating equipment, as
defined in Sec. 15.3(d), may be operated on any frequency within
the band 9-490 kHz, subject to the following limits: Within the
frequency band 9 kHz, up to, but not including, 45 kHz, the peak
output power from the cable locating equipment shall not exceed 10
watts; and, within the frequency band 45 kHz to 490 kHz, the peak
output power from the cable locating equipment shall not exceed one
watt. If provisions are made for connection of the cable locating
equipment to the AC power lines, the conducted limits in Sec.
15.207 also apply to this equipment.
RADIATED EMISSION LIMITS, ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 15.215 Additional provisions to the general radiated emission
limitations.
(a) The regulations in Sec. [1]5.217 through 15.251 provide
alternatives to the general radiated emission limits for
intentional radiators operating in specified frequency bands.
Unless otherwise stated, there are no restrictions as to the types
of operation permitted under these sections.
(b) In most cases, unwanted emissions outside of the frequency
bands shown in these alternative provisions must be attenuated to
the emission limits shown in Sec. 15.209. In no case shall the
level of the unwanted emissions from an intentional radiator
operating under these additional provisions exceed the field
strength of the fundamental emission.
(c) For those bands of frequencies where alternative radiated
emission limitations apply and for which a frequency stability is
not specified, it is recommended that the fundamental frequency be
kept within at least the central 80% of the permitted band in order
to minimize the possibility of out-of-band operation.
(d) Where the following sections specify limits on the bandwidth
of the emissions, the bandwidth limits include the effects of
frequency sweeping, frequency hopping, and other modulation
techniques which may be employed.
Sec. 15.217 Operation in the band 160-190 kHz.
(a) The total input power to the final radio frequency stage
(exclusive of filament or heater power) shall not exceed one watt.
(b) The total length of the transmission line, antenna, and
ground lead (if used) shall not exceed 15 meters.
(c) All emissions below 160 kHz or above 190 kHz shall be
attenuated at least 20 dB below the level of the unmodulated
carrier. Determination of compliance with the 20 dB attenuation
specification may be based on measurements at the intentional
radiator's antenna output terminal unless the intentional radiator
uses a permanently attached antenna, in which case compliance shall
be demonstrated by measuring the radiated emissions.
Sec. 15.219 Operation in the band 510-1705 kHz.
(a) The total input power to the final radio frequency stage
(exclusive of filament or heater power) shall not exceed 100
milliwatts.
(b) The total length of the transmission line, antenna and ground
lead (if used) shall not exceed 3 meters.
(c) All emissions below 510 kHz or above 1705 kHz shall be
attenuated at least 20 dB below the level of the unmodulated
carrier. Determination of compliance with the 20 dB attenuation
specification may be based on measurements at the intentional
radiator's antenna output terminal unless the intentional radiator
uses a permanently attached antenna, in which case compliance shall
be deomonstrated by measuring the radiated emissions.
Sec. 15.221 Operation in the band 525-1705 kHz.
(a) The provisions of this section are restricted to the
operation of an AM broadcast station on a college or university
campus or on the campus of any other educational institution.
Operation is restricted to the ground of the campus. For the band
535-1705 kHz, the frequency of operation shall be chosen such that
operation is not within the protected field strength contours of
licensed AM stations.
(b) On the campus, the field strength of emissions appearing
outside of this frequency band shall not exceed the general
radiated emission limits shown in Sec. 15.209 as measured from the
radiating source. There is no limit on the field strength of
emissions appearing within this frequency band, except that the
provisions of Sec. 15.5 continue to apply.
(c) At the perimeter of the campus, the field strength of any
emissions, including those within the frequency band 525-1705 kHz,
shall not exceed the general radiated emission limits in Sec.
15.209.
(d) The conducted limits specified in Sec. 15.207 apply to the
radio frequency voltatge on the public utility power lines outside
of the campus. Due to the large number of radio frequency devices
which may be used on the campus, contributing to the conducted
emissions, as an alternative to measuring conducted emissions on
the AC power lines outside of the campus, it is acceptable to
demonstrate compliance with this provision by measuring each
individual intentional radiator employed in the system at the point
where it connects to the AC power lines. As provided in Sec.
15.207(b), if only a carrier current system is employed, the AC
power line conducted limits do not apply. However, the radiated
emission limits provided in this section apply to carrier current
systems.
(e) A grant of equipment authorization is not required for a
campus radio system. In lieu thereof, a campus radio system shall
be verified for compliance with the regulations in accordance with
Subpart J of Part 2 of this chapter. This data shall be kept on
file at the location of the studio, office or control room
associated with the transmitting equipment. In some cases, this
may correspond to the location of the transmitting equipment.
Sec. 15.223 Operation in the band 1.705-10 MHz.
(a) The field strength of any emission within the band 1.705-10.0
MHz shall not exceed 100 microvolts/meter at a distance of 30
meters. However, if the bandwidth of the emission is less than 10%
of the center frequency, the field strength shall not exceed 15
microvolts/meter or (the bandwidth of the device in kHz) divided by
(the center frequency of the device in MHz) microvolts/meter at a
distance of 30 meters, whichever is the higher level. For the
purposes of this section, bandwidth is determined at the points 6
dB down from the modulated carrier. The emission limits in this
paragraph are based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35(b) for limiting
peak emissions apply.
(b) The field strength of emissions outside of the band
1.705-10.0 MHz shall not exceed the general radiated emission
limits in Sec. 15.209.
Sec. 15.225 Operation within the band 13.553-13.567 MHz.
(a) The field strength of any emissions within this band shall
not exceed 10,000 microvolts/meter at 30 meters.
(b) The field strength of any emissions appearing outside of this
band shall not exceed the general radiated emission limits shown in
Sec. 15.209.
(c) The frequency tolerance of the carrier signal shall be
maintained within () 0.01% of the operating frequency over a
temperature variation of -20 degrees to +50 degrees C at normal
supply voltage, and for a variation in the primary supply voltage
from 85% to 115% of the rated supply voltage at a temperature of 20
degrees C. For battery operated equipment, the equipment tests
shall be performed using a new battery.
Sec. 15.227 Operation within the band 26.96-27.28 MHz.
(a) The field strength of any emission within this band shall not
exceed 10,000 microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The emission limit in
this paragraph is based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak
emissions apply.
(b) The field strength of any emissions which appear outside of
this band shall not exceed the general radiated emission limits in
Sec. 15.209.
Sec. 15.229 Operation within the band 40.66-40.70 MHz.
(a) Unless operating pursuant to the provisions in Sec. 15.231,
the field strength of any emissions within this band shall not
exceed 1,000 microvolts/meter at 3 meters.
(b) As an alternative to the limit in paragraph (a) of this
section, perimeter protection systems may demonstrate compliance
with the following: the field strength of any emissions within this
band shall not exceed 500 microvolts/meter at 3 meters, as
determined using measurement instrumentations employing an average
detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak emissions
apply where compliance of these devices is demonstrated under this
alternative emission limit.
(c) The field strength of any emissions appearing outside of this
band shall not exceed the general radiated emission limits in Sec.
15.209.
(d) The frequency tolerance of the carrier signal shall be
maintained within () 0.01% of the operating frequency over a
temperature variation of -20 degrees to +50 degrees C at normal
supply voltage, and for a variation in the primary supply voltage
from 85% to 115% of the rated supply voltage at a temperature of 20
degrees C. For battery operated equipment, the equipment tests
shall be performed using a new battery.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 33910, Aug. 20,
1990)
Sec. 15.231 Periodic operation in the band 40.66-40.70 MHz and
above 70 MHz.
(a) The provisions of this section are restricted to periodic
operation within the band 40.66-40.70 MHz and above 70 MHz. Except
as shown in paragraph (e) of this section, the intentional radiator
is restricted to the transmission of a control signal such as those
used with alarm systems, door openers, remote switches, etc. Radio
control of toys is not permitted. Continuous transmissions, such
as voice or video, and data transmissions are not permitted. The
prohibition against data transmissions does not preclude the use of
recognition codes. Those codes are used to identify the sensor
that is activated or to identify the particular component as being
part of the system. The following conditions shall be met to
comply with the provisions for this periodic operation:
(1) A manually operated transmitter shall employ a switch that
will automatically deactivate the transmitter within not more than
5 seconds of being released.
(2) A transmitter activated automatically shall cease
transmission within 5 seconds after activation.
(3) Periodic transmissions at regular predetermined intervals are
not permitted. However, polling or supervision transmissions to
determine system integrity of transmitters used in security or
safety applications are allowed if the periodic rate of
transmission does not exceed one transmission of not more than one
second duration per hour for each transmitter.
(4) Intentional radiators which are employed for radio control
purposes during emergencies involving fire, security, and safety of
life, when activated to signal an alarm, may operate during the
pendency of the alarm condition
(b) In addition to the provisions of Sec. 15.205, the field
strength of emissions from intentional radiators operated under
this section shall not exceed the following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Fundamental frequency Field strength of Field strength of
(MHz) fundamental spurious emissions
(microvolts/meter) (microvolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
40.66-40.70 2,250 225
70-130 1,250 125
130-174 (FOOTNOTE 1) ,250 (FOOTNOTE 1) 25 to
to 3,750 375
174-260 3,750 375
260-470 (FOOTNOTE 1) ,750 (FOOTNOTE 1) 75 to
to 12,500 1,250
Above 470 12,500 1,250
-------------------------------
(FOOTNOTE 1) Linear interpolations.
(1) The above field strength limits are specified at a distance
of 3 meters. The tighter limits apply at the band edges.
(2) Intentional radiators operating under the provisions of this
Section shall demonstrate compliance with the limits on the field
strength of emissions, as shown in the above table, based on the
average value of the measured emissions. As an alternative,
compliance with the limits in the above table may be based on the
use of measurement instrumentation with a CISPR quasi-peak
detector. The specific method of measurement employed shall be
specified in the application for equipment authorization. If
average emission measurements are employed, the provisions in Sec.
15.35 for averaging pulsed emissions and for limiting peak
emissions apply. Further, compliance with the provisions of Sec.
15.205 shall be demonstrated using the measurement instrumentation
specified in that section.
(3) The limits on the field strength of the spurious emissions in
the above table are based on the fundamental frequency of the
intentional radiator. Spurious emissions shall be attenuated to
the average (or, alternatively, CISPR quasi-peak) limits shown in
this table or to the general limits shown in Sec. 15.209, whichever
limit permits a higher field strength.
(c) The bandwidth of the emission shall be no wider than 0.25% of
the center frequency for devices operating above 70 MHz and below
900 MHz. For devices operating above 900 MHz, the emission shall be
no wider than 0.5% of the center frequency. Bandwidth is
determined at the points 20 dB down from the modulated carrier.
(d) For devices operating within the frequency band 40.66-40.70
MHz, the bandwidth of the emission shall be confined within the
band edges and the frequency tolerance of the carrier shall be ()
0.01%. This frequency tolerance shall be maintained for a
temperature variation of -20 degrees to +50 degrees C at normal
supply voltage, and for a variation in the primary supply voltage
from 85% to 115% of the rated supply voltage at a temperature of 20
degrees C. For battery operated equipment, the equipment tests
shall be performed using a new battery.
(e) Intentional radiators may operate at a periodic rate
exceeding that specified in paragraph (a) of this section and may
be employed for any type of operation, including operation
prohibited in paragraph (a) of this section, provided the
intentional radiator complies with the provisions of paragraphs (b)
through (d) of this section, except the field strength table in
paragraph (b) of this section is replaced by the following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Fundamental frequency Field strength of Field strength of
(MHz) fundamental spurious emission
(microvolts/meter) (microvolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
40.66-40.70 1,000 100
70-130 500 50
130-174 500 to 1,500 50 to 150 (FOOTNOTE
(FOOTNOTE 1) 1)
174-260 1,500 150
260-470 1,500 to 5,000 150 to 500 (FOOTNOTE
(FOOTNOTE 1) 1)
Above 470 5,000 500
-------------------------------
(FOOTNOTE 1) Linear interpolations.
In addition, devices operated under the provisions of this
paragraph shall be provided with a means for automatically limiting
operation so that the duration of each transmission shall not be
greater than one second and the silent period between transmissions
shall be at least 30 times the duration of the transmission but in
no case less than 10 seconds.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32340, Aug. 7, 1989)
Sec. 15.233 Operation within the bands 46.60-46.98 MHz and
49.66-50.0 MHz.
(a) The provisions shown in this section are restricted to
cordless telephones.
(b) An intentional radiator used as part of a cordless telephone
system shall operate on any frequency within 10 kHz of one or more
of the following frequency pairs:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Channel Base transmitter Handset transmitter
(MHz) (MHz)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
1 46.610 49.670
2 46.630 49.845
3 46.670 49.860
4 46.710 49.770
5 46.730 49.875
6 46.770 49.830
7 46.830 49.890
8 46.870 49.930
9 46.930 49.990
10 46.970 49.970
-------------------------------
(c) The field strength of the fundamental emission shall not
exceed 10,000 microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The emission limit in
this paragraph is based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak
emissions apply.
(d) The fundamental emission shall be confined within a 20 kHz
band centered on the frequencies listed in paragraph (b) of this
section, as adjusted by the frequency tolerance of the transmitter
at the time testing is performed. Modulation products outside of
this 20 kHz band shall be attenuated at least 26 dB below the level
of the unmodulated carrier or to the general limits in Sec. 15.209,
whichever permits the higher emission levels. Emissions on any
frequency more than 10 kHz removed from this 20 kHz band shall
consist solely of unwanted emissions and shall not exceed the
general radiated emission limits in Sec. 15.209. Tests to determine
compliance with these requirements shall be performed using an
appropriate input signal as prescribed in Sec. 2.989 of this
chapter.
(e) All emissions exceeding 20 microvolts/meter at 3 meters are
to be reported in the application for certification.
(f) If the device provides for the connection of external
accessories, including external electrical input signals, the
device must be tested with the accessories attached. The emission
tests shall be performed with the device and accessories configured
in a manner which tends to produce the maximum level of emissions
within the range of variations that can be expected under normal
operating conditions.
(g) The frequency tolerance of the carrier signal shall be
maintained within () 0.01% of the operating frequency. The
tolerance shall be maintained for a temperature variation of -20
degrees C to +50 degrees C at normal supply voltage, and for
variation in the primary voltage from 85% to 115% of the rated
supply voltage at a temperature of 20 degrees C. For battery
operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a
new battery.
(h) For equipment authorization, a single application form, FCC
Form 731, may be filed for a cordless telephone system, provided
the application clearly identifies and provides data for all parts
of the system to show compliance with the applicable technical
requirements. When a single application form is submitted, both
the base station and the portable handset must carry the same FCC
identifier. The application shall include a fee for certification
of each type of transmitter and notification or certification, if
appropriate, for each type of receiver included in the system.
(i) A cordless telephone which is intended to be connected to the
public telephone network shall also comply with the applicable
regulations in Part 68 of this chapter. A separate application for
registration under Part 68 is required.
(j) The label required under Subpart A shall also contain the
following statement: 'Privacy of communications may not be ensured
when using this phone.'
(k) The box or other package in which the individual cordless
telephone is to be marketed shall carry a statement in a prominent
location, visible to the buyer before purchase, which reads as
follows:
Notice: The base units of some cordless telephones may respond to
other nearby units or to radio noise resulting in telephone calls
being dialed through this unit without your knowledge and possibly
calls being misbilled. In order to protect against such
occurrences, this cordless telephone is provided with the following
features: (to be completed by the responsible party).
An application for certification of a cordless telephone shall
specify the complete text of the statement that will be carried on
the package and indicate where, specifically, it will be located on
the carton.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32340, Aug. 7, 1989)
Sec. 15.235 Operation within the band 49.82-49.90 MHz.
(a) The field strength of any emission within this band shall not
exceed 10,000 microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The emission limit in
this paragraph is based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak
emissions apply.
(b) The field strength of any emissions appearing between the
band edges and up to 10 kHz above and below the band edges shall be
attenuated at least 26 dB below the level of the unmodulated
carrier or to the general limits in Sec. 15.209, whichever permits
the higher emission levels. The field strength of any emissions
removed by more than 10 kHz from the band edges shall not exceed
the general radiated emission limits in Sec. 15.209. All signals
exceeding 20 microvolts/meter at 3 meters shall be reported in the
application for certification.
(c) For a home-built intentional radiator, as defined in Sec.
15.23(a), operating within the band 49.82-49.90 MHz, the following
standards may be employed:
(1) The RF carrier and modulation products shall be maintained
within the band 49.82-49.90 MHz.
(2) The total input power to the device measured at the battery
or the power line terminals shall not exceed 100 milliwatts under
any condition of modulation.
(3) The antenna shall be a single element, one meter or less in
length, permanently mounted on the enclosure containing the device.
(4) Emissions outside of this band shall be attenuated at least
20 dB below the level of the unmodulated carrier.
(5) The regulations contained in Sec. 15.23 of this part apply to
intentional radiators constructed under the provisions of this
paragraph.
(d) Cordless telephones are not permitted to operate under the
provisions of this section.
Sec. 15.237 Operation in the bands 72.0-73.0 MHz and 75.4-76.0 MHz.
(a) The intentional radiator shall be restricted to use as an
auditory assistance device.
(b) Emissions from the intentional radiator shall be confined
within a band 200 kHz wide centered on the operating frequency.
The 200 kHz band shall lie wholly within the above specified
frequency ranges.
(c) The field strength of any emissions within the permitted 200
kHz band shall not exceed 80 millivolts/meter at 3 meters. The
field strength of any emissions radiated on any frequency outside
of the specified 200 kHz band shall not exceed 1500
microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The emission limits in this
paragraph are based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak
emissions apply.
Sec. 15.239 Operation in the band 88-108 MHz.
(a) Emissions from the intentional radiator shall be confined
within a band 200 kHz wide centered on the operating frequency.
The 200 kHz band shall lie wholly within the frequency range of
88-108 MHz.
(b) The field strength of any emissions within the permitted 200
kHz band shall not exceed 250 microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The
emission limit in this paragraph is based on measurement
instrumentation employing an average detector. The provisions in
Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak emissions apply.
(c) The field strength of any emissions radiated on any frequency
outside of the specified 200 kHz band shall not exceed the general
radiated emission limits in Sec. 15.209.
(d) A custom built telemetry intentional radiator operating in
the frequency band 88-108 MHz and used for experimentation by an
educational institute need not be certified provided the device
complies with the standards in this Part and the educational
institution notifies the Engineer in Charge of the local FCC
office, in writing, in advance of operation, providing the
following information:
(1) The dates and places where the device will be operated;
(2) The purpose for which the device will be used;
(3) A description of the device, including the operating
frequency, RF power output, and antenna; and,
(4) A statement that the device complies with the technical
provisions of this part.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32340, Aug. 7, 1989)
Sec. 15.241 Operation in the band 174-216 MHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is restricted
to biomedical telemetry devices.
(b) Emissions from the device shall be confined within a 200 kHz
band which shall lie wholly within the frequency range of 174-216
MHz.
(c) The field strength of any emissions radiated within the
specified 200 kHz band shall not exceed 1500 microvolts/meter at 3
meters. The field strength of emissions radiated on any frequency
outside of the specified 200 kHz band shall not exceed 150
microvolts/meter at 3 meters. The emission limits in this
paragraph are based on measurement instrumentation employing an
average detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak
emissions apply.
Sec. 15.243 Operation in the band 890-940 MHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is restricted
to devices that use radio frequency energy to measure the
characteristics of a material. Devices operated pursuant to the
provisions of this section shall not be used for voice
communications or the transmission of any other type of message.
(b) The field strength of any emissions radiated within the
specified frequency band shall not exceed 500 microvolts/meter at
30 meters. The emission limit in this paragraph is based on
measurement instrumentation employing an average detector. The
provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak emissions apply.
(c) The field strength of emissions radiated on any frequency
outside of the specified band shall not exceed the general radiated
emission limits in Sec. 15.209.
(d) The device shall be self-contained with no external or
readily accessible controls which may be adjusted to permit
operation in a manner inconsistent with the provisions in this
section. Any antenna that may be used with the device shall be
permanently attached thereto and shall not be readily modifiable by
the user.
Sec. 15.245 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2435-2465 MHz,
5785-5815 MHz, 10500-10550 MHz, and 24075-24175 MHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
intentional radiators used as field disturbance sensors, excluding
perimeter protection systems.
(b) The field strength of emissions from intentional radiators
operated within these frequency bands shall comply with the
following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Fundamental frequency Field strength of Field strength of
(MHz) fundamental harmonics
(millivolts/meter) (millivolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
902-928 500 1.6
2435-2465 500 1.6
5785-5815 500 1.6
10500-10550 2500 25.0
24075-24175 2500 25.0
-------------------------------
(1) Field strength limits are specified at a distance of 3
meters.
(2) Emissions radiated outside of the specified frequency bands,
except for harmonics, shall be attenuated by at least 50 dB below
the level of the fundamental or to the general radiated emission
limits in Sec. 15.209, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(3) The emission limits shown in the above table are based on
measurement instrumentation employing an average detector. The
provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak emissions apply.
Sec. 15.247 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5
MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
frequency hopping and direct sequence spread spectrum intentional
radiators that comply with the following provisions:
(1) Frequency hopping systems shall have hopping channel carrier
frequencies separated by a minimum of 25 kHz or the 20 dB bandwidth
of the hopping channel, whichever is greater. The system shall hop
to channel frequencies that are selected at the system hopping rate
from a pseudorandomly ordered list of hopping frequencies. Each
frequency must be used equally on the average by each transmitter.
The system receivers shall have input bandwidths that match the
hopping channel bandwidths of their corresponding transmitters and
shall shift frequencies in synchronization with the transmitted
signals.
(i) Frequency hopping systems operating in the 902-928 MHz band
shall use at least 50 hopping frequencies. The maximum allowed 20
dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 500 kHz. The average time
of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds
within a 20 second period.
(ii) Frequency hopping systems operating in the 2400-2483.5 MHz
and 5725-5850 MHz bands shall use at least 75 hopping frequencies.
The maximum 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 1 MHz. The
average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater
than 0.4 seconds within a 30 second period.
(2) For direct sequence systems, the minimum 6 dB bandwidth shall
be at least 500 kHz.
(b) The maximum peak output power of the transmitter shall not
exceed 1 Watt. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater
than 6 dBi are used, the power shall be reduced by the amount in dB
that the directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(c) If any 100 kHz bandwidth outside these frequency bands, the
radio frequency power that is produced by the modulation products
of the spreading sequence, the information sequence and the carrier
frequency shall be either at least 20 dB below that in any 100 kHz
bandwidth within the band that contains the highest level of the
desired power or shall not exceed the general levels specified in
Sec. 15.209(a), whichever results in the lesser attenuation. All
other emissions outside these bands shall not exceed the general
radiated emission limits specified in Sec. 15.209(a).
(d) For direct sequence systems, the transmitted power density
averaged over any 1 second interval shall not be greater than 8 dBm
in any 3 kHz bandwidth within these bands.
(e) The processing gain of a direct sequence system shall be at
least 10 dB. The processing gain shall be determined from the
ratio in dB of the signal to noise ratio with the system spreading
code turned off to the signal to noise ratio with the system
spreading code turned on, as measured at the demodulated output of
the receiver.
(f) Hybrid systems that employ a combination of both direct
sequence and frequency hopping modulation techniques shall achieve
a processing gain of at least 17 dB from the combined techniques.
The frequency hopping operation of the hybrid system, with the
direct sequence operation turned off, shall have an average time of
occupancy on any frequency not to exceed 0.4 seconds within a time
period in seconds equal to the number of hopping frequencies
employed multiplied by 0.4. The direct sequence operation of the
hybrid system, with the frequency hopping operation turned off,
shall comply with the power density requirements of paragraph (d)
of this section.
Note: Spread spectrum systems are sharing these bands on a
noninterference basis with systems supporting critical Government
requirements that have been allocated the usage of these bands,
secondary only to ISM equipment operated under the provisions of
Part 18 of this chapter. Many of these Government systems are
airborne radiolocation systems that emit a high EIRP which can
cause interference to other users. Also, investigations of the
effect of spread spectrum interference to U. S. Government
operations in the 902-928 MHz band may require a future decrease in
the power limits allowed for spread spectrum operation.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 28762, Jul. 13,
1990)
Sec. 15.249 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5
MHz, 5725-5875 MHZ, and 24.0-24.25 GHz
(a) The field strength of emissions from intentional radiators
operated within these frequency bands shall comply with the
following:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Fundamental frequency Field strength of Field strength of
fundamental harmonics
(millivolts/meter) (microvolts/meter)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
902-928 MHz 50 500
2400-2483.5 MHz 50 500
5725-5875 MHz 50 500
24.0-24.25 GHz 250 2500
-------------------------------
(b) Field strength limits are specified at a distance of 3
meters.
(c) Emissions radiated outside of the specified frequency bands,
except for harmonics, shall be attenuated by at least 50 dB below
the level of the fundamental or to the general radiated emission
limits in Sec. 15.209, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(d) As shown in Sec. 15.35(b), for frequencies above 1000 MHz,
the above field strength limits are based on average limits.
However, the peak field strength of any emission shall not exceed
the maximum permitted average limits specified above by more than
20 dB under any condition of modulation.
(e) Parties considering the manufacture, importation, marketing
or operation of equipment under this section should also note the
requirement in Sec. 15.37(d).
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 25095, June 20,
1990)
Sec. 15.251 Operation within the bands 2.9-3.26 GHz, 3.267-3.332
GHz, 3.339-3.3458 GHz, and 3.358-3.6 GHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
automatic vehicle identification systems (AVIS) which use swept
frequency techniques for the purpose of automatically identifying
transportation vehicles.
(b) The field strength anywhere within the frequency range swept
by the signal shall not exceed 3000 microvolts/meter/MHz at 3
meters in any direction. Further, an AVIS, when in its operating
position, shall not produce a field strength greater than 400
microvolts/meter/MHz at 3 meters in any direction within () 10
degrees of the horizontal plane. In addition to the provisions of
Sec. 15.205, the field strength of radiated emissions outside the
frequency range swept by the signal shall be limited to a maximum
of 100 microvolts/meter/MHz at 3 meters, measured from 30 MHz to 20
GHz for the complete system. The emission limits in this paragraph
are based on measurement instrumentation employing an average
detector. The provisions in Sec. 15.35 for limiting peak emissions
apply.
(c) The minimum sweep repetition rate of the signal shall not be
lower than 4000 sweeps per second, and the maximum sweep repetition
rate of the signal shall not exceed 50,000 sweeps per second.
(d) An AVIS shall employ a horn antenna or other comparable
directional antenna for signal emission.
(e) Provision shall be made so that signal emission from the AVIS
shall occur only when the vehicle to be identified is within the
radiated field of the system.
(f) In addition to the labelling requirements in Sec. 15.19(a),
the label attached to the AVIS transmitter shall contain a third
statement regarding operational conditions, as follows:
* * * and, (3) during use this device (the antenna) may not be
pointed within () ** degrees of the horizontal plane.
The double asterisks in condition three (**) shall be replaced by
the responsible party with the angular pointing restriction
necessary to meet the horizontal emission limit specified in
paragraph (b).
(g) In addition to the information required in Subpart J of Part
2, the application for certification shall contain:
(1) Measurements of field strength per MHz along with the
intermediate frequency of the spectrum analyzer or equivalent
measuring receiver;
(2) The angular separation between the direction at which maximum
field strength occurs and the direction at which the field strength
is reduced to 400 microvolts/meter/MHz at 3 meters;
(3) A photograph of the spectrum analyzer display showing the
entire swept frequency signal and a calibrated scale for the
vertical and horizontal axes; the spectrum analyzer settings that
were used shall be labelled on the photograph; and,
(4) The results of the frequency search for spurious and sideband
emissions from 30 MHz to 20 GHz, exclusive of the swept frequency
band, with the measuring instrument as close as possible to the
unit under test.
(54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32340, Aug. 7, 1989)
[1] Internet Law Library: "This server is experimental, to demonstrate the potential for making the CFR available to the public at no charge. If you are using it for legal research, we urge you to verify your results with the printed Code of Federal Regulations available through the U.S. Government Printing Office."
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