OET Clarifies Antenna Connector Requirements for Part 15 Unlicensed
Transmitters


Section 15.203 requires transmitters to be designed in such a way as to
ensure that no antenna other than that furnished by the responsible
party shall be used with the device.  A transmitter that utilizes a
permanently attached antenna, or a transmitter that uses a unique
coupling at the antenna and at any cable connector between the
transmitter and the antenna, is considered to be compliant with the
provision.   The use of a standard antenna connector is prohibited
except when professional installation is required for the transmitter.

In the past, the following non-standard connectors have been considered
acceptable for meeting the requirement in Section 15.203: MMCX, MCX, and
reverse polarity, SMA, BNC and TNC type antenna connectors.   These
types of connectors were allowed because, while not unique, they were,
nonetheless, not readily available.  Thus, modifying a Part 15
transmitter by the addition of an unauthorized antenna or external power
amplifier was preventable.

However, because these connectors have become readily available, they
are no longer considered sufficient to demonstrate compliance with
Section 15.203.   Therefore, 30 days from the date of this Public
Notice, we will no longer accept MMCX, MCX, and reverse polarity, SMA,
BNC and TNC type antenna connectors for meeting the requirements in
Section 15.203 for all Part 15 transmitters. This action is being taken
to inform applicants and manufacturers of this change in policy with
respect to the aforementioned connectors.

For further information concerning this Public Notice contact Joe
Dichoso at the FCC Laboratory, 7435 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia. MD
21046, (301) 362-3024, or e-mail: jdichoso@fcc.gov.