[Title 47 CFR 15]
[Code of Federal Regulations (annual edition) - October 1, 2004 Edition]
[Title 47 - TELECOMMUNICATION]
[Chapter I - FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION]
[Subchapter A - GENERAL]
[Part 15 - RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office]
47TELECOMMUNICATION12004-10-012004-10-01falseRADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES15PART 15TELECOMMUNICATIONFEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONGENERAL
PART 15_RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES--Table of Contents
Subpart A_General
Sec.
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.
15.32 Test procedures for CPU boards and computer power supplies.
15.33 Frequency range of radiated measurements.
15.35 Measurement detector functions and bandwidths.
15.37 Transition provisions for compliance with the rules.
15.38 Incorporation by reference.
Subpart B_Unintentional Radiators
15.101 Equipment authorization of unintentional radiators.
15.102 CPU boards and power supplies used in personal computers.
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.
15.118 Cable ready consumer electronics equipment.
15.119 Closed caption decoder requirements for analog television
receivers.
15.120 Program blocking technology requirements for television
receivers.
15.121 Scanning receivers and frequency converters used with scanning
receivers.
15.122 Closed caption decoder requirements for digital television
receivers and converter boxes.
15.123 Labeling of digital cable ready products.
Subpart C_Intentional Radiators
15.201 Equipment authorization requirement.
15.203 Antenna requirement.
15.204 External radio frequency power amplifiers and antenna
modifications.
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.
15.214 Cordless telephones.
[[Page 751]]
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 13.110-14.010 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 43.71-44.49 MHz, 46.60-46.98 MHz,
48.75-49.51 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, 74.6-74.8 MHz and 75.2-76.0
MHz.
15.239 Operation in the band 88-108 MHz.
15.240 Operation in the band 433.5-434.5 MHz.
15.241 Operation in the band 174-216 MHz.
15.242 Operation in the bands 174-216 MHz and 470-668 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.
15.253 Operation within the bands 46.7-46.9 GHz and 76.0-77.0 GHz.
15.255 Operation within the band 57-64 GHz.
15.257 Operation within the band 92-95 GHz.
Subpart D_Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices
15.301 Scope.
15.303 Definitions.
15.305 Equipment authorization requirement.
15.307 Coordination with fixed microwave service.
15.309 Cross reference.
15.311 Labelling requirements.
15.313 Measurement procedures.
15.315 Conducted limits.
15.317 Antenna requirement.
15.319 General technical requirements.
15.321 Specific requirements for asynchonous devices operating in the
1910-1920 MHz and 2390-2400 MHz bands.
15.323 Specific requirements for isochronous devices operating in the
1920-1930 MHz sub-band.
Subpart E_Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure Devices
15.401 Scope.
15.403 Definitions.
15.405 Cross reference.
15.407 General technical requirements.
Subpart F_Ultra-Wideband Operation
15.501 Scope.
15.503 Definitions.
15.505 Cross reference.
15.507 Marketing of UWB equipment.
15.509 Technical requirements for ground penetrating radars and wall
imaging systems.
15.510 Technical requirements for through D-wall imaging systems.
15.511 Technical requirements for surveillance systems.
15.513 Technical requirements for medical imaging systems.
15.515 Technical requirements for vehicular radar systems.
15.517 Technical requirements for indoor UWB systems.
15.519 Technical requirements for hand held UWB systems.
15.521 Technical requirements applicable to all UWB devices.
15.523 Measurement procedures.
15.525 Coordination requirements.
Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, 304, 307, 336, and 544a.
Source: 54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, unless otherwise noted.
Subpart A_General
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
[[Page 752]]
part, including prior Commission authorization or verification, as
appropriate, is prohibited under section 302 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, or part of 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
[[Page 753]]
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 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, interface boards, external memory
expansion cards, and other input/output devices that may or may not
contain digital circuitry. This definition does not include CPU boards,
as defined in paragraph (bb) of this section, even though a CPU board
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
[[Page 754]]
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 two or more frequencies in
the range of 30 to 960 MHz and that 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, for the reception of NOAA broadcast weather band signals, or
for operation as part of a licensed service 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.
(aa) Cable ready consumer electronics equipment. Consumer
electronics TV receiving devices, including TV receivers, videocassette
recorders and similar devices, that incorporate a tuner capable of
receiving television signals and an input terminal intended for
receiving cable television service, and are marketed as ``cable ready''
or ``cable compatible.'' Such equipment shall comply with the technical
standards specified in Sec. 15.118 and the provisions of Sec.
15.19(d).
(bb) CPU board. A circuit board that contains a microprocessor, or
frequency determining circuitry for the microprocessor, the primary
function of which is to execute user-provided programming, but not
including:
(1) A circuit board that contains only a microprocessor intended to
operate
[[Page 755]]
under the primary control or instruction of a microprocessor external to
such a circuit board; or
(2) A circuit board that is a dedicated controller for a storage or
input/output device.
(cc) External radio frequency power amplifier. A device which is not
an integral part of an intentional radiator as manufactured and which,
when used in conjunction with an intentional radiator as a signal
source, is capable of amplifying that signal.
(dd) Test equipment is defined as equipment that is intended
primarily for purposes of performing measurements or scientific
investigations. Such equipment includes, but is not limited to, field
strength meters, spectrum analyzers, and modulation monitors.
(ee) Radar detector. A receiver designed to signal the presence of
radio signals used for determining the speed of motor vehicles. This
definition does not encompass the receiver incorporated within a radar
transceiver certified under the Commission's rules.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 18340, May 2, 1990; 57
FR 33448, July 29, 1992; 59 FR 25340, May 16, 1994; 61 FR 31048, June
19, 1996; 62 FR 26242, May 13, 1997; 64 FR 22561, Apr. 27, 1999; 65 FR
64391, Oct. 27, 2000; 66 FR 32582, June 15, 2001; 67 FR 48993, July 29,
2002]
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. Sec. 15.5 and 15.205 apply.
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54034, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.7 was
removed, effective Oct. 7, 2004.
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.
[[Page 756]]
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 radiators.
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, land mobile, and non-
geostationary mobile satellite feeder link earth stations, and of U.S.
Government radio stations, which could include high-powered radar
systems, 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.
(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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 62 FR 4655, Jan. 31, 1997; 63
FR 40835, July 31, 1998]
Sec. 15.19 Labelling requirements.
(a) In addition to the requirements in part 2 of this chapter, a
device subject to certification, 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.
[[Page 757]]
(4) Where a device is constructed in two or more sections connected
by wires and marketed together, the statement specified under paragraph
(a) of this section is required to be affixed only to the main control
unit.
(5) When the device is so small or for such use that it is not
practicable to place the statement specified under paragraph (a) of this
section on it, the information required by this paragraph 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.
(b) Products subject to authorization under a Declaration of
Conformity shall be labelled as follows:
(1) The label shall be located in a conspicuous location on the
device and shall contain the unique identification described in Sec.
2.1074 of this chapter and the following logo:
(i) If the product is authorized based on testing of the product or
system; or
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR09DE03.000
(ii) If a personal computer is authorized based on assembly using
separately authorized components, in accordance with Sec. 15.101(c)(2)
or (c)(3), and the resulting product is not separately tested:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR09DE03.001
(2) Label text and information should be in a size of type large
enough to be readily legible, consistent with the dimensions of the
equipment and the label. However, the type size for the text is not
required to be larger than eight point.
(3) When the device is so small or for such use that it is not
practicable to place the statement specified under paragraph (b)(1) of
this section on it, such as for a CPU board or a plug-in circuit board
peripheral device, the text associated with the logo may be placed in a
prominent location in the instruction manual or pamphlet supplied to the
user. However, the unique identification (trade name and model number)
and the logo must be displayed on the device.
(4) The label shall not be a stick-on, paper label. The label on
these products shall be permanently affixed to the product and shall be
readily visible to the purchaser at the time of purchase, as described
in Sec. 2.925(d) of this chapter. ``Permanently affixed'' means that
the label is etched, engraved,
[[Page 758]]
stamped, silkscreened, indelibly printed, or otherwise permanently
marked on a permanently attached part of the equipment or on a nameplate
of metal, plastic, or other material fastened to the equipment by
welding, riveting, or a permanent adhesive. The label must be designed
to last the expected lifetime of the equipment in the environment in
which the equipment may be operated and must not be readily detachable.
(c) [Reserved]
(d) Consumer electronics TV receiving devices, including TV
receivers, videocassette recorders, and similar devices, that
incorporate features intended to be used with cable television service,
but do not fully comply with the technical standards for cable ready
equipment set forth in Sec. 15.118, shall not be marketed with
terminology that describes the device as ``cable ready'' or ``cable
compatible,'' or that otherwise conveys the impression that the device
is fully compatible with cable service. Factual statements about the
various features of a device that are intended for use with cable
service or the quality of such features are acceptable so long as such
statements do not imply that the device is fully compatible with cable
service. Statements relating to product features are generally
acceptable where they are limited to one or more specific features of a
device, rather than the device as a whole. This requirement applies to
consumer TV receivers, videocassette recorders and similar devices
manufactured or imported for sale in this country on or after October
31, 1994.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 59 FR 25341, May 16, 1994; 61
FR 18509, Apr. 26, 1996; 61 FR 31048, June 19, 1996; 62 FR 41881, Aug.
4, 1997; 63 FR 36602, July 7, 1998; 65 FR 64391, Oct. 27, 2000; 68 FR
66732, Nov. 28, 2003; 68 FR 68545, Dec. 9, 2003]
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. In
cases where the manual is provided only in a form other than paper, such
as on a computer disk or over the Internet, the information required by
this section may be included in the manual in that alternative form,
provided the user can reasonably be expected to have the capability to
access information in that form.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 68 FR 68545, Dec. 9, 2003]
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 authorized under the Declaration of Conformity procedure, as
appropriate, pursuant to the requirements of this part.
[[Page 759]]
(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 Declaration of Conformity 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. 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. 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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989,as amended at 63 FR 36602, July 7, 1998]
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. In cases where
the manual is provided only in a form other than paper, such as on a
computer disk or over the Internet, the information required by this
section may be included in the manual in that alternative form, provided
the user can reasonably be expected to have the capability to access
information in that form.
(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
[[Page 760]]
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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 68 FR 68545, Dec. 9, 2003]
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 in this part.
Except where noted, copies of these procedures are available from the
Commission's current duplicating contractor whose name and address are
available from the Commission's Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322).
(1) FCC/OET MP-2: Measurement of UHF Noise Figures of TV Receivers.
(2) Unlicensed Personal Communication Service (UPCS) devices are to
be measured for compliance using ANSI C63.17-1998: ``Methods of
Measurement of the Electromagnetic and Operational Compatibility of
Unlicensed Personal Communications Services (UPCS) Devices'',
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38). This incorporation by
reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(3) Other intentional and unintentional radiators are to be measured
for compliance using the following procedure excluding sections 4.1,
5.2, 5.7, 9 and 14: ANSI C63.4-2001: ``Methods of Measurement of Radio-
Noise Emissions from Low-Voltage Electrical and Electronic Equipment in
the Range of 9 kHz to 40 GHz'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec.
15.38). This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of
the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part
51.
Note to Paragraph (a)(3):
Digital devices tested to show compliance with the provisions of
Sec. Sec. 15.107(e) and 15.109(g) must be tested following the ANSI
C63.4 procedure described in paragraph (a)(3) of this section.
(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
[[Page 761]]
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 authorized
pursuant to a Declaration of Conformity or devices subject to
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 at or above 30 MHz, measurements may be performed
at a distance other than what is specified provided: measurements are
not made in the near field except where it can be shown that near field
measurements are appropriate due to the characteristics of the device;
and it can be demonstrated that the signal levels needed to be measured
at the distance employed can be detected by the measurement equipment.
Measurements shall not be performed at a distance greater than 30 meters
unless it can be further demonstrated that measurements at a distance of
30 meters or less are impractical. When performing measurements at a
distance other than that specified, the results shall be extrapolated to
the specified distance using an extrapolation factor of 20 dB/decade
(inverse linear-distance for field strength measurements; inverse-
linear-distance-squared for power density measurements).
(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
extrapolation method used in the application filed with the Commission.
For equipment subject to Declaration of Conformity 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
[[Page 762]]
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. A
device which incorporates a carrier current system shall be tested as if
the carrier current system were incorporated in a separate device; that
is, the device shall be tested for compliance with whatever rules would
apply to the device were the carrier current system not incorporated,
and the carrier current system shall be tested for compliance with the
rules applicable to carrier current systems.
(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
[[Page 763]]
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 which device Number of Location in the range
operates frequencies of operation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
(p) In those cases where the provisions in this section conflict
with the measurement procedures in paragraph (a) of this section and the
procedures were implemented after June 23, 1989, the provisions
contained in the measurement procedures shall take precedence.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 56 FR 13083, Mar. 29, 1991;
57 FR 24990, June 12, 1992; 57 FR 33448, July 29, 1992; 58 FR 37430,
July 12, 1993; 58 FR 51249, Oct. 1, 1993; 61 FR 14502, Apr. 2, 1996; 62
FR 41881, Aug. 4, 1997; 62 FR 45333, Aug. 27, 1997; 63 FR 36602, July 7,
1998; 63 FR 42278, Aug. 7, 1998; 65 FR 58466, Sept. 29, 2000; 68 FR
68545, Dec. 9, 2003]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54034, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.31 was
amended by revising paragraph (a)(3), effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the
convenience of the user, the revised text is set forth as follows:
[[Page 764]]
Sec. 15.31 Measurement standards.
(a) * * *
* * * * *
(3) Other intentional and unintentional radiators are to be measured
for compliance using the following procedure excluding sections 4.1.5.2,
5.7, 9 and 14: ANSI C63.4-2003: ``Methods of Measurement of Radio-Noise
Emissions from Low-Voltage Electrical and Electronic Equipment in the
Range of 9 kHz to 40 GHz'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the
Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
* * * * *
Sec. 15.32 Test procedures for CPU boards and computer power supplies.
Power supplies and CPU boards used with personal computers and for
which separate authorizations are required to be obtained shall be
tested as follows:
(a) CPU boards shall be tested as follows:
(1) Testing for radiated emissions shall be performed with the CPU
board installed in a typical enclosure but with the enclosure's cover
removed so that the internal circuitry is exposed at the top and on at
least two sides. Additional components, including a power supply,
peripheral devices, and subassemblies, shall be added, as needed, to
result in a complete personal computer system. If the oscillator and the
microprocessor circuits are contained on separate circuit boards, both
boards, typical of the combination that would normally be employed, must
be used in the test. Testing shall be in accordance with the procedures
specified in Sec. 15.31.
(i) Under these test conditions, the system under test shall not
exceed the radiated emission limits specified in Sec. 15.109 by more
than 6 dB. Emissions greater than 6 dB that can be identified and
documented to originate from a component(s) other than the CPU board
being tested, may be dismissed.
(ii) Unless the test in paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section
demonstrates compliance with the limits in Sec. 15.109, a second test
shall be performed using the same configuration described above but with
the cover installed on the enclosure. Testing shall be in accordance
with the procedures specified in Sec. 15.31. Under these test
conditions, the system under test shall not exceed the radiated emission
limits specified in Sec. 15.109.
(2) In lieu of the procedure in (a)(1) of this section, CPU boards
may be tested to demonstrate compliance with the limits in Sec. 15.109
using a specified enclosure with the cover installed. Testing for
radiated emissions shall be performed with the CPU board installed in a
typical system configuration. Additional components, including a power
supply, peripheral devices, and subassemblies, shall be added, as
needed, to result in a complete personal computer system. If the
oscillator and the microprocessor circuits are contained on separate
circuit boards, both boards, typical of the combination that would
normally be employed, must be used in the test. Testing shall be in
accordance with the procedures specified in Sec. 15.31. Under this
procedure, CPU boards that comply with the limits in Sec. 15.109 must
be marketed together with the specific enclosure used for the test.
(3) The test demonstrating compliance with the AC power line
conducted limits specified in Sec. 15.107 shall be performed in
accordance with the procedures specified in Sec. 15.31 using a
enclosure, peripherals, power supply and subassemblies that are typical
of the type with which the CPU board under test would normally be
employed.
(b) The power supply shall be tested installed in an enclosure that
is typical of the type within which it would normally be installed.
Additional components, including peripheral devices, a CPU board, and
subassemblies, shall be added, as needed, to result in a complete
personal computer system. Testing shall be in accordance with the
procedures specified in Sec. 15.31 and must demonstrate compliance with
all of the standards contained in this part.
[61 FR 31048, June 19, 1996, as amended at 62 FR 41881, Aug. 4, 1997]
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
[[Page 765]]
below 9 kHz, up to at least the frequency shown in this paragraph:
(1) If the intentional radiator operates below 10 GHz: to the tenth
harmonic of the highest fundamental frequency or to 40 GHz, whichever is
lower.
(2) If the intentional radiator operates at or above 10 GHz and
below 30 GHz: to the fifth harmonic of the highest fundamental frequency
or to 100 GHz, whichever is lower.
(3) If the intentional radiator operates at or above 30 GHz: to the
fifth harmonic of the highest fundamental frequency or to 200 GHz,
whichever is lower, unless specified otherwise elsewhere in the rules.
(4) 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 range specified in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this section
or the range applicable to the digital device, as shown in paragraph
(b)(1) of this section, whichever is the higher frequency range of
investigation.
(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 used in the
device or on which the device operates or Upper frequency of
tunes (MHz) measurement range (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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Upper
frequency
Highest frequency generated or used in the device or on of
which the device operates or tunes (MHz) measurement
range (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. Sec. 15.107 and 15.207
and applies to all
[[Page 766]]
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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 61 FR 14502, Apr. 2, 1996; 63
FR 42278, Aug. 7, 1998]
Sec. 15.35 Measurement detector functions and bandwidths.
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) Unless otherwise stated, on any frequency or frequencies above
1000 MHz the radiated limits shown are based upon the use of measurement
instrumentation employing an average detector function. When average
radiated emission measurements are specified in this part, including
emission measurements below 1000 MHz, there also is 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 unless a different
peak emission limit is otherwise specified in the rules, e.g., see
Sec. Sec. 15.255, 15.509 and 15.511. Unless otherwise specified,
measurements above 1000 MHz shall be performed using a minimum
resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz. 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) Unless otherwise specified, e.g. Sec. 15.255(b), when the
radiated emission limits are expressed in terms of the average value of
the emission, and pulsed operation is employed, the measurement 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 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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 56 FR 13083, Mar. 29, 1991;
61 FR 14502, Apr. 2, 1996; 63 FR 42279, Aug. 7, 1998; 67 FR 34855, May
16, 2002]
Sec. 15.37 Transition provisions for compliance with the rules.
Equipment may be authorized, manufactured and imported under the
rules
[[Page 767]]
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. 15.209 or Sec.
15.249 (below 960 MHz), the transition provisions in this section do not
apply. Such receivers must comply with the regulations in this part. In
addition, receivers are subject to the provisions in paragraph (f) of
this section.
(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.
(e) For cordless telephones: The manufacture and importation of
cordless telephones not complying with Sec. 15.214(d) of this part
shall cease on or before September 11, 1991. These provisions will not
apply to cordless telephones which are repaired or refurbished, or re-
imported after repair or refurbishment. Applications for a grant of
equipment authorization of cordless telephones not complying with Sec.
15.214(d) of this part will not be accepted by the Commission after May
10, 1991. Cordless telephones that have previously received equipment
authorization and that, without modification, already comply with the
requirements of Sec. 15.214(d) of this part, need not be reauthorized.
(f) The manufacture or importation of scanning receivers, and
frequency converters designed or marketed for use with scanning
receivers, that do not comply with the provisions of Sec. 15.121(a)(1)
shall cease on or before April 26, 1994. Effective April 26, 1993, the
Commission will not grant equipment authorization for receivers that do
not comply with the provisions of Sec. 15.121(a)(1). These rules do not
prohibit the sale or use of authorized receivers manufactured in the
United States, or imported into the United States, prior to April 26,
1994.
(g) For CPU boards and power supplies designed to be used with
personal computers: The manufacture and importation of these products
shall cease on or before June 19, 1997 unless these products have been
authorized under a Declaration of Conformity or a grant of
certification, demonstrating compliance with all of the provisions in
this part. Limited provisions, as detailed in Sec. 15.101(d), are
provided to permit the importation and manufacture of these products
subsequent to this date where the CPU boards and/or power supplies are
marketed only to personal computer equipment manufacturers.
(h) The manufacture or importation of scanning receivers, and
frequency converters designed or marketed for use with scanning
receivers, that do not comply with the provisions of Sec. 15.121 shall
cease on or before October 25, 1999. Effective July 26, 1999 the
Commission will not grant equipment authorization for receivers that do
not comply with the provisions of Sec. 15.121. This paragraph does not
prohibit the sale or use of authorized receivers manufactured in the
United States, or imported into the United States, prior to October 25,
1999.
(i) Effective October 16, 2002, an equipment approval may no longer
be obtained for medical telemetry equipment operating under the
provisions of Sec. 15.241 or Sec. 15.242. The requirements for
obtaining an approval for medical telemetry equipment after this date
are
[[Page 768]]
found in Subpart H of Part 95 of this chapter.
(j) All radio frequency devices that are authorized under the
certification, verification or declaration of conformity procedures on
or after July 12, 2004 shall comply with the conducted limits specified
in Sec. 15.107 or Sec. 15.207 as appropriate. All radio frequency
devices that are manufactured or imported on or after July 11, 2005
shall comply with the conducted limits specified in Sec. 15.107 or
Sec. 15.207, as appropriate. Equipment authorized, imported or
manufactured prior to these dates shall comply with the conducted limits
specified in Sec. 15.107 or Sec. 15.207, as appropriate, or with the
conducted limits that were in effect immediately prior to September 9,
2002.
(k) Radar detectors manufactured or imported after August 28, 2002
and marketed after September 27, 2002 shall comply with the regulations
specified in this part. Radar detectors manufactured or imported prior
to January 27, 2003 may be labeled with the information required by
Sec. Sec. 2.925 and 15.19(a) of this chapter on the individual
equipment carton rather than on the device, and are exempt from
complying with the requirements of Sec. 15.21.
(l) U-NII equipment operating in the 5.25-5.35 GHz band for which
applications for certification are filed on or after January 20, 2005
shall comply with the DFS and TPC requirements specified in Sec.
15.407. U-NII equipment operating in the 5.25-5.35 GHz band that are
imported or marketed January 20, 2006 shall comply with the DFS and TPC
requirements in Sec. 15.407.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989; 55 FR 25095,
June 20, 1990; 56 FR 3785, Jan. 31, 1991; 58 FR 25575, Apr. 27, 1993; 61
FR 31049, June 19, 1996; 64 FR 22561, Apr. 27, 1999; 65 FR 44008, July
17, 2000; 67 FR 45670, July 10, 2002; 67 FR 48993, July 29, 2002; 69 FR
2686, Jan. 20, 2004]
Sec. 15.38 Incorporation by reference.
(a) The materials listed in this section are incorporated by
reference in this part. These incorporations by reference were approved
by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. These materials are incorporated as they exist
on the date of the approval, and notice of any change in these materials
will be published in the Federal Register. The materials are available
for purchase at the corresponding addresses as noted, and all are
available for inspection at the Federal Communications Commission, 445
12th. St., SW., Reference Information Center, Room CY-A257, Washington,
DC 20554, and at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA,
call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal--register/
code--of--federal--regulations/ibr--locations.html..
(b) The following materials are available for purchase from at least
one of the following addresses: Global Engineering Documents, 15
Inverness Way East, Englewood, CO 80112 or at http://global.ihs.com; or
American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, 4th Floor,
New York, NY 10036 or at http://webstore.ansi.org/ansidocstore/
default.asp; or Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers at http://
www.scte.org/standards/index.cfm.
(1) SCTE 28 2003 (formerly DVS 295): ``Host-POD Interface
Standard,'' 2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.123.
(2) SCTE 41 2003 (formerly DVS 301): ``POD Copy Protection System,''
2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.123.
(3) ANSI/SCTE 54 2003 (formerly DVS 241): ``Digital Video Service
Multiplex and Transport System Standard for Cable Television,'' 2003,
IBR approved for Sec. 15.123.
(4) ANSI/SCTE 65 2002 (formerly DVS 234): ``Service Information
Delivered Out-of-Band for Digital Cable Television,'' 2002, IBR approved
for Sec. 15.123.
(5) SCTE 40 2003 (formerly DVS 313): ``Digital Cable Network
Interface Standard,'' 2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.123.
(6) ANSI C63.4--2001: ``Methods of Measurement of Radio-Noise
Emissions from Low-Voltage Electrical and Electronic Equipment in the
Range of 9 kHz to 40 GHz'', 2001, IBR approved for Sec. 15.31, except
for sections 4.1, 5.2, 5.7, 9 and 14.
(7) EIA IS-132: ``Cable Television Channel Identification Plan,''
1994, IBR approved for Sec. 15.118.
[[Page 769]]
(8) EIA-608: ``Recommended Practice for Line 21 Data Service,''
1994, IBR approved for Sec. 15.120.
(9) EIA-744: ``Transport of Content Advisory Information Using
Extended Data Service (XDS),'' 1997, IBR approved for Sec. 15.120.
(10) EIA-708-B: ``Digital Television (DTV) Closed Captioning,''
1999, IBR approved for Sec. 15.122.
(11) Third Edition of the International Special Committee on Radio
Interference (CISPR), Pub. 22, ``Information Technology Equipment--Radio
Disturbance Characteristics--Limits and Methods of Measurement,'' 1997,
IBR approved for Sec. 15.109.
(12) ANSI C63.17-1998: ``Methods of Measurement of the
Electromagnetic and Operational Compatibility of Unlicensed Personal
Communications Services (UPCS) Devices'', 1998, IBR approved for Sec.
15.31.
(c) The following materials are freely available from at least one
of the following addresses: Consumer Electronics Association, 2500
Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201 or at http://www.ce.org/publicpolicy:
Uni-Dir-PICS-I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional Receiving Device: Conformance
Checklist: PICS Proforma,'' 2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.123.
[68 FR 66732, Nov. 28, 2003, as amended at 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003; 69
FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54034, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.38 was
amended by revising paragraph (b)(6), effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the
convenience of the user, the revised text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.38 Incorporation by reference.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(6) ANSI C63.4-2003: ``Methods of Measurement of Radio-Noise
Emissions from Low-Voltage Electrical and Electronic Equipment in the
Range of 9 kHz to 40 GHz,'' 2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.31, except
for sections 4.1, 5.2, 5.7, 9 and 14.
* * * * *
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 57861, Sept. 28, 2004, Sec. 15.38 was
amended by revising paragraph (b)(7), effective Oct. 28, 2004. For the
convenience of the user, the revised text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.38 Incorporation by reference.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(7) CEA-542-B: ``CEA Standard: Cable Television Channel
Identification Plan,'' July 2003, IBR approved for Sec. 15.118.
* * * * *
Subpart B_Unintentional Radiators
Sec. 15.101 Equipment authorization of unintentional radiators.
(a) Except as otherwise exempted in Sec. Sec. 15.23, 15.103, and
15.113, unintentional radiators shall be authorized prior to the
initiation of marketing, as follows:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type of device Equipment authorization required
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TV broadcast receiver.................. Verification.
FM broadcast receiver.................. Verification.
CB receiver............................ Declaration of Conformity or Certification.
Superregenerative receiver............. Declaration of Conformity or Certification.
Scanning receiver...................... Certification.
Radar detector......................... Certification.
All other receivers subject to part 15. Declaration of Conformity or Certification.
TV interface device.................... Declaration of Conformity or Certification.
Cable system terminal device........... Declaration of Conformity.
Stand-alone cable input selector switch Verification.
Class B personal computers and Declaration of Conformity or Certification.\1\
peripherals.
CPU boards and internal power supplies Declaration of Conformity or Certification.\1\
used with Class B personal computers.
Class B personal computers assembled Declaration of Conformity.
using authorized CPU boards or power
supplies.
Class B external switching power Verification.
supplies.
Other Class B digital devices and Verification.
peripherals.
Class A digital devices, peripherals Verification.
and external switching power supplies.
All other devices...................... Verification.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note to table: Where the above table indicates more than one category of authorization for a device, the party
responsible for compliance has the option to select the type of authorization.
[[Page 770]]
\1\ Applications for this equipment will no longer be accepted by the Commission once domestic Telecommunication
Certification Bodies are available to certificate the equipment. See Sec. 2.960 of this chapter.
(b) Only those receivers that operate (tune) within the frequency
range of 30-960 MHz, CB receivers and radar detectors are subject to the
authorizations shown in paragraph (a) of this section. However,
receivers indicated as being subject to Declaration of Conformity that
are contained within a transceiver, the transmitter portion of which is
subject to certification, shall be authorized under the verification
procedure. Receivers operating above 960 MHz or below 30 MHz, except for
radar detectors and CB receivers, are exempt from complying with the
technical provisions of this part but are subject to Sec. 15.5.
(c) Personal computers shall be authorized in accordance with one of
the following methods:
(1) The specific combination of CPU board, power supply and
enclosure is tested together and authorized under a Declaration of
Conformity or a grant of certification;
(2) The personal computer is authorized under a Declaration of
Conformity or a grant of certification, and the CPU board or power
supply in that computer is replaced with a CPU board or power supply
that has been separately authorized under a Declaration of Conformity or
a grant of certification; or
(3) The CPU board and power supply used in the assembly of a
personal computer have been separately authorized under a Declaration of
Conformity or a grant of certification; and
(4) Personal computers assembled using either of the methods
specified in paragraphs (c)(2) or (c)(3) of this section must, by
themselves, also be authorized under a Declaration of Conformity if they
are marketed. However, additional testing is not required for this
Declaration of Conformity, provided the procedures in Sec. 15.102(b)
are followed.
(d) Peripheral devices, as defined in Sec. 15.3(r), shall be
authorized under a Declaration of Conformity, or a grant of
certification, or verified, as appropriate, prior to marketing.
Regardless of the provisions of paragraphs (a) or (c) of this section,
if a CPU board, power supply, or peripheral device will always be
marketed with a specific personal computer, it is not necessary to
obtain a separate authorization for that product provided the specific
combination of personal computer, peripheral device, CPU board and power
supply has been authorized under a Declaration of Conformity or a grant
of certification as a personal computer.
(1) No authorization is required for a peripheral device or a
subassembly that is sold to an equipment manufacturer for further
fabrication; that manufacturer is responsible for obtaining the
necessary authorization prior to further marketing to a vendor or to a
user.
(2) Power supplies and CPU boards that have not been separately
authorized and are designed for use with personal computers may be
imported and marketed only to a personal computer equipment manufacturer
that has indicated, in writing, to the seller or importer that they will
obtain a Declaration of Conformity or a grant of certification for the
personal computer employing these components.
(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:
(1) Devices that are enclosed solely within the enclosure housing
the digital device, except for: power supplies used in personal
computers; devices included under the definition of a peripheral device
in Sec. 15.3(r); and personal computer CPU boards, as defined in Sec.
15.3(bb);
(2) CPU boards, as defined in Sec. 15.3(bb), other than those used
in personal computers, that are marketed without an enclosure or power
supply; and
(3) Switching power supplies that are separately marketed and are
solely for use internal to a device other than a personal computer.
(f) The procedures for obtaining a grant of certification or
notification and for verification and a Declaration
[[Page 771]]
of Conformity are contained in subpart J of part 2 of this chapter.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 61 FR 31050, June 19, 1996;
63 FR 36602, July 7, 1998; 64 FR 4997, Feb. 2, 1999; 67 FR 48993, July
29, 2002]
Sec. 15.102 CPU boards and power supplies used in personal computers.
(a) Authorized CPU boards and power supplies that are sold as
separate components shall be supplied with complete installation
instructions. These instructions shall specify all of the installation
procedures that must be followed to ensure compliance with the
standards, including, if necessary, the type of enclosure, e.g., a metal
enclosure, proper grounding techniques, the use of shielded cables, the
addition of any needed components, and any necessary modifications to
additional components.
(1) Any additional parts needed to ensure compliance with the
standards, except for the enclosure, are considered to be special
accessories and, in accordance with Sec. 15.27, must be marketed with
the CPU board or power supply.
(2) Any modifications that must be made to a personal computer,
peripheral device, CPU board or power supply during installation of a
CPU board or power supply must be simple enough that they can be
performed by the average consumer. Parts requiring soldering,
disassembly of circuitry or other similar modifications are not
permitted.
(b) Assemblers of personal computer systems employing modular CPU
boards and/or power supplies are not required to test the resulting
system provided the following conditions are met:
(1) Each device used in the system has been authorized as required
under this part (according to Sec. 15.101(e), some subassemblies used
in a personal computer system may not require an authorization);
(2) The original label and identification on each piece of equipment
remain unchanged;
(3) Each responsible party's instructions to ensure compliance
(including, if necessary, the use of shielded cables or other
accessories or modifications) are followed when the system is assembled;
(4) If the system is marketed, the resulting equipment combination
is authorized under a Declaration of Conformity pursuant to Sec.
15.101(c)(4) and a compliance information statement, as described in
Sec. 2.1077(b), is supplied with the system. Marketed systems shall
also comply with the labelling requirements in Sec. 15.19 and must be
supplied with the information required under Sec. Sec. 15.21, 15.27 and
15.105; and
(5) The assembler of a personal computer system may be required to
test the system and/or make necessary modifications if a system is found
to cause harmful interference or to be noncompliant with the appropriate
standards in the configuration in which it is marketed (see Sec. Sec.
2.909, 15.1, 15.27(d) and 15.101(e)).
[61 FR 31050, June 19, 1996]
Sec. 15.103 Exempted devices.
The following devices are subject only to the general conditions of
operation in Sec. Sec. 15.5 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.
[[Page 772]]
(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
[[Page 773]]
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.
(e) In cases where the manual is provided only in a form other than
paper, such as on a computer disk or over the Internet, the information
required by this section may be included in the manual in that
alternative form, provided the user can reasonably be expected to have
the capability to access information in that form.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003]
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 150 kHz to 30 MHz shall not
exceed the limits in the following table, as measured using a 50 [mu]H/
50 ohms line impedance stabilization network (LISN). Compliance with the
provisions of this paragraph shall be based on the measurement of the
radio frequency voltage between each power line and ground at the power
terminal. The lower limit applies at the band edges.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Conducted limit (dB[mu]V)
Frequency of emission (MHz) ----------------------------------------
Quasi-peak Average
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.15-0.5....................... 66 to 56*.......... 56 to 46*
0.5-5.......................... 56................. 46
5-30........................... 60................. 50
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Decreases with the logarithm of the frequency.
(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 150 kHz to 30 MHz shall not exceed the limits in the
following table, as measured using a 50 [mu]H/50 ohms LISN. Compliance
with the provisions of this paragraph shall be based on the measurement
of the radio frequency voltage between each power line and ground at the
power terminal. The lower limit applies at the boundary between the
frequency ranges.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Conducted limit (dB[mu]V)
Frequency of emission (MHz) ----------------------------------------
Quasi-peak Average
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.15-0.5....................... 79................. 66
0.5-30......................... 73................. 60
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) The limits shown in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section shall
not apply to carrier current systems operating as unintentional
radiators on frequencies below 30 MHz. In lieu thereof, these carrier
current systems shall be subject to the following standards:
(1) For carrier current systems containing their fundamental
emission within the frequency band 535-1705 kHz and intended to be
received using a standard AM broadcast receiver: no limit on conducted
emissions.
(2) For all other carrier current systems: 1000 [mu]V within the
frequency band 535-1705 kHz, as measured using a 50 [mu]H/50 ohms LISN.
(3) Carrier current systems operating below 30 MHz are also subject
to the radiated emission limits 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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 57 FR 33448, July 29, 1992;
58 FR 51249, Oct. 1, 1993; 66 FR 19098, Apr. 13, 2001; 67 FR 45670, July
10, 2002]
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:
[[Page 774]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field
strength
Frequency of emission (MHz) (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:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field
strength
Frequency of emission (MHz) (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. As an alternative,
carrier current systems used as unintentional radiators and operating in
the frequency range of 525 kHz to 1705 kHz may comply with the radiated
emission limits provided in Sec. 15.221(a). At frequencies above 30
MHz, the limits in paragraph (a), (b), or (g) of this section, as
appropriate, 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.
(g) As an alternative to the radiated emission limits shown in
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, digital devices may be shown to
comply with the standards contained in Third Edition of the
International Special Committee on Radio Interference (CISPR), Pub. 22,
``Information Technology Equipment--Radio Disturbance Characteristics--
Limits and Methods of Measurement'' (incorporated by reference, see
Sec. 15.38). In addition:
(1) The test procedure and other requirements specified in this part
shall continue to apply to digital devices.
(2) If, in accordance with Sec. 15.33 of this part, measurements
must be performed above 1000 MHz, compliance above 1000 MHz shall be
demonstrated with the emission limit in paragraph (a) or (b) of this
section, as appropriate. Measurements above 1000 MHz may be performed at
the distance specified in the CISPR 22 publications for measurements
below 1000 MHz provided the limits in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this
section are extrapolated to the new measurement distance using an
inverse linear distance extrapolation factor (20 dB/decade), e.g., the
radiated limit above 1000 MHz for a Class B digital device is 150 uV/m,
as measured at a distance of 10 meters.
(3) The measurement distances shown in CISPR Pub. 22, including
measurements made in accordance with this paragraph above 1000 MHz, are
considered, for the purpose of Sec. 15.31(f)(4) of this part, to be the
measurement distances specified in this part.
(4) If the radiated emissions are measured to demonstrate compliance
with the alternative standards in this paragraph, compliance must also
be demonstrated with the conducted limits shown in Sec. 15.107(e).
[[Page 775]]
(h) Radar detectors shall comply with the emission limits in
paragraph (a) of this section over the frequency range of 11.7-12.2 GHz.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 56 FR 373, Jan. 4, 1991; 58
FR 51249, Oct. 1, 1993; 66 FR 19098, Apr. 13, 2001; 67 FR 48993, July
29, 2002; 69 FR 2849, Jan. 21, 2004]
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. 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 devices.
(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
[[Page 776]]
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 section refers to TV
interface devices employed for central distribution of television or
other video signals within a building. Such TV interface devices must be
designed to:
(i) Distribute multiple television signals at the same time;
(ii) Distribute such signals by cable to outlets or TV receivers in
multiple rooms in the building in which the TV interface devices are
installed; and,
(iii) Distribute all over-the-air or cable signals.
Note: Cable-ready video cassette recorders continue to be subject to
the provisions for general TV interface devices.
(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 MHz to 216 MHz, at
least 60 dB from 216 MHz to 550 MHz and at least 55 dB from 550 MHz to
806 MHz. The 80 dB standard applies at 216 MHz and the 60 dB standard
applies at 550 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. The
provisions of this paragraph regarding frequencies in the range 550 MHz
to 806 MHz are applicable as of June 30, 1997.
(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
[[Page 777]]
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.
(h) Stand-alone switches used to alternate between cable service and
an antenna shall provide isolation between the antenna and cable input
terminals that is at least 80 dB from 54 MHz to 216 MHz, at least 60 dB
from 216 MHz to 550 MHz and at least 55 dB from 550 MHz to 806 MHz.The
80 dB standard applies at 216 MHz and the 60 dB standard applies at 550
MHz. In the case of stand-alone switches requiring a power source, the
required isolation shall be
[[Page 778]]
maintained in the event the device is not connected to a power source or
power is interrupted. The provisions of this paragraph are applicable as
of June 30, 1997.
(i) Switches and other devices intended to be used to by-pass the
processing circuitry of a cable system terminal device, whether internal
to such a terminal device or a stand-alone unit, shall not attenuate the
input signal more than 6 dB from 54 MHz to 550 MHz, or more than 8 dB
from 550 MHz to 804 MHz. The 6 dB standard applies at 550 MHz. The
provisions of this paragraph are applicable June 30, 1997.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 57 FR 33448, July 29, 1992;
59 FR 25341, May 16, 1994; 61 FR 18509, Apr. 26, 1996]
Sec. 15.117 TV broadcast receivers.
(a) All TV broadcast receivers shipped in interstate commerce or
imported into the United States, for sale or resale to the public, shall
comply with the provisions of this section, except that paragraphs (f)
and (g) of this section shall not apply to the features of such sets
that provide for reception of digital television signals. The reference
in this section to TV broadcast receivers also includes devices, such as
TV interface devices and set-top devices that are intended to provide
audio-video signals to a video monitor, 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 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
[[Page 779]]
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) [Reserved]
(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) Digital television reception capability. TV broadcast receivers
are required only to provide useable picture and sound commensurate with
their video and audio capabilities when receiving digital television
signals.
(i) Digital television reception capability implementation schedule.
(1) Responsible parties, as defined in Sec. 2.909 of this chapter, are
required to equip new TV broadcast receivers that are shipped in
interstate commerce or imported from any foreign country into the United
States and for which they are responsible to comply with the provisions
of this section in accordance with the following schedule:
--Receivers with screen sizes 36[min] and above--50% of all of a
responsible party's units must include DTV tuners effective July 1,
2004; 100% of such units must include DTV tuners effective July 1,
2005
--Receivers with screen sizes 25[min] to 36[min]--50% of all of a
responsible party's units must include DTV tuners effective July 1,
2005; 100% of such units must include DTV tuners effective July 1,
2006
--Receivers with screen sizes 13[min] to 24[min]--100% of all such units
must include DTV tuners effective July 1, 2007
--Other devices (videocassette recorders (VCRs), digital video disk and
digital versatile disk (DVD) players/recorders, etc.) that receive
television signals--100% of all such units must include DTV tuners
effective July 1, 2007.
(2) For purposes of this implementation schedule, screen sizes are
to be measured diagonally across the picture viewing area. The
requirement for equipping new TV broadcast receivers with DTV reception
capability does not apply to units with integrated tuners/displays that
have screen sizes measuring less than 7.8 inches vertically, i.e., the
vertical measurement of a screen in the 4:3 aspect ratio that measures
13[min] diagonally across the picture viewing area.
(3) Responsible parties may include combinations of DTV monitors and
set-top DTV tuners in meeting the required percentages of units with a
DTV tuner if such combinations are marketed together with a single
price.
(j) 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 MHz to 216 MHz, at least 60 dB from 216 MHz to 550 MHz and at
least 55 dB from 550 MHz to 806 MHz. The 80 dB standard applies at 216
MHz and the 60 dB standard applies at 550 MHz. In the case of a selector
switch requiring a power source, the required isolation shall be
maintained in the event the
[[Page 780]]
device is not connected to a power source or power is interrupted. An
actual switch that can alternate between reception of cable television
service and an antenna is not required for a TV broadcast receiver,
provided compliance with the isolation requirement specified in this
paragraph can be demonstrated and the circuitry following the antenna
input terminal(s) has sufficient band-width to allow the reception of
all TV broadcast channels authorized under this chapter. The provisions
of this paragraph regarding frequencies in the range 550 MHz to 806 MHz
are applicable as of June 30, 1997.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 25341, May 16, 1994; 61
FR 30532, June 17, 1996; 67 FR 63294, Oct. 11, 2002]
Sec. 15.118 Cable ready consumer electronics equipment.
(a) All consumer electronics TV receiving equipment marketed in the
United States as cable ready or cable compatible shall comply with the
provisions of this section. Consumer electronics TV receiving equipment
that includes features intended for use with cable service but does not
fully comply with the provisions of this section are subject to the
labelling requirements of Sec. 15.19(d). Until such time as generally
accepted testing standards are developed, paragraphs (c) and (d) of this
section will apply only to the analog portion of covered consumer
electronics TV receiving equipment
(b) Cable ready consumer electronics equipment shall be capable of
receiving all NTSC or similar video channels on channels 1 through 125
of the channel allocation plan set forth in EIA IS-132: ``Cable
Television Channel Identification Plan'' (incorporated by reference, see
Sec. 15.38).
(c) Cable ready consumer electronics equipment must meet the
following technical performance requirements. Compliance with these
requirements shall be determined by performing measurements at the
unfiltered IF output port. Where appropriate, the Commission will
consider allowing alternative measurement methods.
(1) Adjacent channel interference. In the presence of a lower
adjacent channel CW signal that is 1.5 MHz below the desired visual
carrier in frequency and 10 dB below the desired visual carrier in
amplitude, spurious signals within the IF passband shall be attenuated
at least 55 dB below the visual carrier of the desired signal. The
desired input signal shall be an NTSC visual carrier modulated with a 10
IRE flat field with color burst and the aural carrier which is 10 dB
below the visual carrier should be unmodulated. Measurements are to be
performed for input signal levels of 0 dBmV and +15 dBmV, with the
receiver tuned to ten evenly spaced EIA IS-132 channels covering the
band 54 MHz to 804 MHz.
(2) Image channel interference. Image channel interference within
the IF passband shall be attenuated below the visual carrier of the
desired channel by at least 60 dB from 54 MHz to 714 MHz and 50 dB from
714 MHz to 804 MHz. The 60 dB standard applies at 714 MHz. In testing
for compliance with this standard, the desired input signal is to be an
NTSC signal on which the visual carrier is modulated with a 10 IRE flat
field with color burst and the aural carrier is unmodulated and 10 dB
below the visual carrier. The undesired test signal shall be a CW signal
equal in amplitude to the desired visual carrier and located 90 MHz
above the visual carrier frequency of the desired channel. Measurements
shall be performed for input signals of 0 dBmV and +15 dBmV, with the
receiver tuned to at least ten evenly spaced EIA IS-132 channels
covering the band 54 MHz to 804 MHz.
(3) Direct pickup interference. The direct pickup (DPU) of a co-
channel interfering ambient field by a cable ready device shall not
exceed the following criteria. The ratio of the desired to undesired
signal levels at the IF passband on each channel shall be at least 45
dB. The average ratio over the six channels shall be at least 50 dB. The
desired input signal shall be an NTSC signal having a visual carrier
level of 0 dBmV. The visual carrier is modulated with a 10 IRE flat
field with color burst, visual to aural carrier ratio of 10 dB, aural
carrier unmodulated. The equipment under test (EUT) shall be placed on a
rotatable table that is one meter in height. Any excess length of the
power cord and other connecting leads shall be coiled on the floor under
[[Page 781]]
the table. The EUT shall be immersed in a horizontally polarized uniform
CW field of 100 mV/m at a frequency 2.55 MHz above the visual carrier of
the EUT tuned channel. Measurements shall be made with the EUT tuned to
six EIA IS-132 channels, two each in the low VHF, high VHF and UHF
broadcast bands. On each channel, the levels at the IF passband due to
the desired and interfering signals are to be measured.
(4) Tuner overload. Spurious signals within the IF passband shall be
attenuated at least 55 dB below the visual carrier of the desired
channel using a comb-like spectrum input with each visual carrier signal
individually set at +15 dBmV from 54 to 550 MHz. The desired input
signal is to be an NTSC signal on which the visual carrier is modulated
with a 10 IRE flat field with color burst and the aural carrier is
unmodulated and 10 dB below the visual carrier. Measurements shall be
made with the receiver tuned to at least seven evenly spaced EIA IS-132
channels covering the band 54 MHz to 550 MHz. In addition, spurious
signals within the IF passband shall be attenuated at least 51 dB below
the visual carrier of the desired channel using a comb spectrum input
with each signal individually set at +15 dBmV from 550 to 804 MHz.
Measurements shall be made with the receiver tuned to at least three
evenly spaced EIA IS-132 channels covering the band 550 MHz to 804 MHz.
(5) Cable input conducted emissions. (i) Conducted spurious
emissions that appear at the cable input to the device must meet the
following criteria. The input shall be an NTSC video carrier modulated
with a 10 IRE flat field with color burst at a level of 0 dBmV and with
a visual to aural ratio of 10 dB. The aural carrier shall be
unmodulated. The peak level of the spurious signals will be measured
using a spectrum analyzer connected by a directional coupler to the
cable input of the equipment under test. Spurious signal levels must not
exceed the limits in the following table:
From 54 MHz up to and including 300 MHz-26 dBmV
From 300 MHz up to and including 450 MHz-20 dBmV
From 450 MHz up to and including 804 MHz-15 dBmV
(ii) The average of the measurements on multiple channels from 450
MHz up to and including 804 MHz shall be no greater than -20 dBmV.
Measurements shall be made with the receiver tuned to at least four EIA
IS-132 channels in each of the above bands. The test channels are to be
evenly distributed across each of the bands. Measurements for conducted
emissions caused by sources internal to the device are to be made in a
shielded room. Measurements for conducted emissions caused by external
signal sources shall be made in an ambient RF field whose field strength
is 100 mV/m, following the same test conditions as described in
paragraph (c)(3) of this section.
(d) The field strength of radiated emissions from cable ready
consumer electronics equipment shall not exceed the limits in Sec.
15.109(a) when measured in accordance with the applicable procedures
specified in Sec. Sec. 15.31 and 15.35 for unintentional radiators,
with the following modifications. During testing the NTSC input signal
level is to be +15 dBmV, with a visual to aural ratio of 10 dB. The
visual carrier is to be modulated by a 10 IRE flat field with color
burst; the aural carrier is to be unmodulated. Measurements are to be
taken on six EIA IS-132 channels evenly spaced across the required RF
input range of the equipment under test.
Note: The provisions of paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section
are applicable as of June 30, 1997.
[59 FR 25341, May 16, 1994, as amended at 61 FR 18509, Apr. 26, 1996; 65
FR 64391, Oct. 27, 2000; 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003; 69 FR 2849, Jan. 21,
2004]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 57861, Sept. 28, 2004, Sec. 15.118
was amended by revising paragraph (b), effective Oct. 28, 2004. For the
convenience of the user, the revised text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.118 Cable ready consumer electronics equipment.
* * * * *
(b) Cable ready consumer electronics equipment shall be capable of
receiving all NTSC or similar video channels on channels 1 through 125
of the channel allocation plan set forth in CEA-542-B: ``CEA Standard:
[[Page 782]]
Cable Television Channel Identification Plan,'' (incorporated by
reference, see Sec. 15.38).
* * * * *
Sec. 15.119 Closed caption decoder requirements for analog television
receivers.
(a) Effective July 1, 1993, all TV broadcast receivers with picture
screens 33 cm (13 in) or larger in diameter shipped in interstate
commerce, manufactured, assembled, or imported from any foreign country
into the United States shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Note: This paragraph places no restriction on the shipping or sale
of television receivers that were manufactured before July 1, 1993.
(b) Transmission format. Closed-caption information is transmitted
on line 21 of field 1 of the vertical blanking interval of television
signals, in accordance with Sec. 73.682(a)(22) of this chapter.
(c) Operating modes. The television receiver will employ customer-
selectable modes of operation for TV and Caption. A third mode of
operation, Text, may be included on an optional basis. The Caption and
Text Modes may contain data in either of two operating channels,
referred to in this document as C1 and C2. The television receiver must
decode both C1 and C2 captioning, and must display the captioning for
whichever channel the user selects. The TV Mode of operation allows the
video to be viewed in its original form. The Caption and Text Modes
define one or more areas (called ``boxes'') on the screen within which
caption or text characters are displayed.
Note: For more information regarding Text mode, see ``Television
Captioning for the Deaf: Signal and Display Specifications'',
Engineering Report No. E-7709-C, Public Broadcasting Service, dated May
1980, and ``TeleCaption II Decoder Module Performance Specification'',
National Captioning Institute, Inc., dated November 1985. These
documents are available, respectively, from the Public Broadcasting
Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314 and from the National
Captioning Institute, Inc., 5203 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041.
(d) Screen format. The display area for captioning and text shall
fall approximately within the safe caption area as defined in paragraph
(n)(12) of this section. This display area will be further divided into
15 character rows of equal height and 32 columns of equal width, to
provide accurate placement of text on the screen. Vertically, the
display area begins on line 43 and is 195 lines high, ending on line 237
on an interlaced display. All captioning and text shall fall within
these established columns and rows. The characters must be displayed
clearly separated from the video over which they are placed. In
addition, the user must have the capability to select a black background
over which the captioned letters are displaced.
(1) Caption mode. In the Caption Mode, text can appear on up to 4
rows simultaneously anywhere on the screen within the defined display
area. In addition, a solid space equal to one column width may be placed
before the first character and after the last character of each row to
enhance legibility. The caption area will be transparent anywhere that
either:
(i) No standard space character or other character has been
addressed and no accompanying solid space is needed; or,
(ii) An accompanying solid space is used and a ``transparent space''
special character has been addressed which does not immediately precede
or follow a displayed character.
(2) [Reserved]
(e) Presentation format. In analyzing the presentation of
characters, it is convenient to think in terms of a non-visible cursor
which marks the screen position at which the next event in a given mode
and data channel will occur. The receiver remembers the cursor position
for each mode even when data are received for a different address in an
alternate mode or data channel.
(1) Screen addressing. Two kinds of control codes are used to move
the cursor to specific screen locations. In Caption Mode, these
addressing codes will affect both row and column positioning. In Text
Mode, the codes affect only column positioning. In both modes, the
addressing codes are optional. Default positions are defined for each
mode and style when no addressing code is provided.
[[Page 783]]
(i) The first type of addressing code is the Preamble Address Code
(PAC). It assigns a row number and one of eight ``indent'' figures. Each
successive indent moves the cursor four columns to the right (starting
from the left margin). Thus, an indent of 0 places the cursor at Column
1, an indent of 4 sets it at Column 5, etc. The PAC indent is non-
destructive to displayable characters. It will not affect the display to
the left of the new cursor position on the indicated row. Note that
Preamble Address Codes also set initial attributes for the displayable
characters which follow. See paragraph (h) of this section and the
Preamble Address Code table.
(ii) The second type of addressing code is the Tab Offset, which is
one of three Miscellaneous Control Codes. Tab Offset will move the
cursor one, two, or three columns to the right. The character cells
skipped over will be unaffected; displayable characters in these cells,
if any, will remain intact while empty cells will remain empty, in the
same manner that a PAC indent is non-destructive.
(2) [Reserved]
(f) Caption Mode. There are three styles of presenting text in
Caption Mode: roll-up, pop-on, and paint-on. Character display varies
significantly with the style used, but certain rules of character
erasure are common to all styles. A character can be erased by
addressing another character to the same screen location or by
backspacing over the character from a subsequent location on the same
row. The entire displayed memory will be erased instantly by receipt of
an Erase Displayed Memory command. Both displayed memory and non-
displayed memory will be entirely erased simultaneously by either: The
user switching receiver channels or data channels (C1/C2) or fields (F1/
F2) in decoders so equipped; the loss of valid data (see paragraph (j)
of this section); or selecting non-captioning receiver functions which
use the display memory of the decoder. Receipt of an End of Caption
command will cause a displayed caption to become non-displayed (and vice
versa) without being erased from memory. Changing the receiver to a non-
captioning mode which does not require use of the decoder's display
memory will leave that memory intact, and the decoder will continue to
process data as if the caption display were selected.
(1) Roll-up. Roll-up style captioning is initiated by receipt of one
of three Miscellaneous Control Codes that determine the maximum number
of rows displayed simultaneously, either 2, 3 or 4 contiguous rows.
These are the three Roll-Up Caption commands.
(i) The bottom row of the display is known as the ``base row''. The
cursor always remains on the base row. Rows of text roll upwards into
the contiguous rows immediately above the base row to create a
``window'' 2 to 4 rows high.
(ii) The Roll-Up command, in normal practice, will be followed (not
necessarily immediately) by a Preamble Address Code indicating the base
row and the horizontal indent position. If no Preamble Address Code is
received, the base row will default to Row 15 or, if a roll-up caption
is currently displayed, to the same base row last received, and the
cursor will be placed at Column 1. If the Preamble Address Code received
contains a different base row than that of a currently displayed
caption, the entire window will move intact (and without erasing) to the
new base row immediately.
(iii) Each time a Carriage Return is received, the text in the top
row of the window is erased from memory and from the display or scrolled
off the top of the window. The remaining rows of text are each rolled up
into the next highest row in the window, leaving the base row blank and
ready to accept new text. This roll-up must appear smooth to the user,
and must take no more than 0.433 second to complete. The cursor is
automatically placed at Column 1 (pending receipt of a Preamble Address
Code).
(iv) Increasing or decreasing the number of roll-up rows instantly
changes the size of the active display window, appropriately turning on
or off the display of the top one or two rows. A row which is turned off
should also be erased from memory.
(v) Characters are always displayed immediately when received by the
receiver. Once the cursor reaches the 32nd column position on any row,
all
[[Page 784]]
subsequent characters received prior to a Carriage Return, Preamble
Address Code, or Backspace will be displayed in that column replacing
any previous character occupying that address.
(vi) The cursor moves automatically one column to the right after
each character or Mid-Row Code received. A Backspace will move the
cursor one column to the left, erasing the character or Mid-Row Code
occupying that location. (A Backspace received when the cursor is in
Column 1 will be ignored.)
(vii) The Delete to End of Row command will erase from memory any
characters or control codes starting at the current cursor location and
in all columns to its right on the same row. If no displayable
characters remain on the row after the Delete to End of Row is acted
upon, the solid space (if any) for that row should also be erased to
conform with the following provisions.
(viii) If a solid space is used for legibility, it should appear
when the first displayable character (not a transparent space) or Mid-
Row Code is received on a row, not when the Preamble Address Code, if
any, is given. A row on which there are no displayable characters or
Mid-Row Codes will not display a solid space, even when rolled up
between two rows which do display a solid space.
(ix) If the reception of data for a row is interrupted by data for
the alternate data channel or for Text Mode, the display of caption text
will resume from the same cursor position if a Roll-Up Caption command
is received and no Preamble Address Code is given which would move the
cursor.
(x) A roll-up caption remains displayed until one of the standard
caption erasure techniques is applied. Receipt of a Resume Caption
Loading command (for pop-on style) or a Resume Direct Captioning command
(for paint-on style) will not affect a roll-up display. Receipt of a
Roll-Up Caption command will cause any pop-on or paint-on caption to be
erased from displayed memory and non-displayed memory.
(2) Pop-on. Pop-on style captioning is initiated by receipt of a
Resume Caption Loading command. Subsequent data are loaded into a non-
displayed memory and held there until an End of Caption command is
received, at which point the non-displayed memory becomes the displayed
memory and vice versa. (This process is often referred to as ``flipping
memories'' and does not automatically erase memory.) An End of Caption
command forces the receiver into pop-on style if no Resume Caption
Loading command has been received which would do so. The display will be
capable of 4 full rows, not necessarily contiguous, simultaneous
anywhere on the screen.
(i) Preamble Address Codes can be used to move the cursor around the
screen in random order to place captions on Rows 1 to 15. Carriage
Returns have no effect on cursor location during caption loading.
(ii) The cursor moves automatically one column to the right after
each character or Mid-Row Code received. Receipt of a Backspace will
move the cursor one column to the left, erasing the character or Mid-Row
Code occupying that location. (A Backspace received when the cursor is
in Column 1 will be ignored.) Once the cursor reaches the 32nd column
position on any row, all subsequent characters received prior to a
Backspace, an End of Caption, or a Preamble Address Code, will replace
any previous character at that location.
(iii) The Delete to End of Row command will erase from memory any
characters or control codes starting at the current cursor location and
in all columns to its right on the same row. If no displayable
characters remain on a row after the Delete to End of Row is acted upon,
the solid space (if any) for that element should also be erased.
(iv) If data reception is interrupted during caption loading by data
for the alternate caption channel or for Text Mode, caption loading will
resume at the same cursor position if a Resume Caption Loading command
is received and no Preamble Address Code is given that would move the
cursor.
(v) Characters remain in non-displayed memory until an End of
Caption command flips memories. The caption will be erased without being
displayed upon receipt of an Erase Non-Displayed Memory command, a Roll-
Up Caption
[[Page 785]]
command, or if the user switches receiver channels, data channels or
fields, or upon the loss of valid data (see paragraph (j) of this
section).
(vi) A pop-on caption, once displayed, remains displayed until one
of the standard caption erasure techniques is applied or until a Roll-Up
Caption command is received. Characters within a displayed pop-on
caption will be replaced by receipt of the Resume Direct Captioning
command and paint-on style techniques (see below).
(3) Paint-on. Paint-on style captioning is initiated by receipt of a
Resume Direct Captioning command. Subsequent data are addressed
immediately to displayed memory without need for an End of Caption
command.
(i) Preamble Address Codes can be used to move the cursor around the
screen in random order to display captions on Rows 1 to 15. Carriage
Returns have no affect on cursor location during direct captioning. The
cursor moves automatically one column to the right after each character
or Mid-Row Code is received. Receipt of a Backspace will move the cursor
one column to the left, erasing the character or Mid-Row Code occupying
that location. (A Backspace received when the cursor is in Column 1 will
be ignored.) Once the cursor reaches the 32nd column position on any
row, all subsequent characters received prior to a Preamble Address Code
or Backspace will be displayed in that column replacing any previous
character occupying that location.
(ii) The Delete to End of Row command will erase from memory any
characters or control codes starting at the current cursor location and
in all columns to its right on the same row. If no displayable
characters remain on the row after the Delete to End of Row is acted
upon, the solid space (if any) for that element should also be erased.
(iii) If the reception of data is interrupted during the direct
captioning by data for the alternate caption channel or for Text Mode,
the display of caption text will resume at the same cursor position if a
Resume Direct Captioning command is received and no Preamble Address
Code is given which would move the cursor.
(iv) Characters remain displayed until one of the standard caption
erasure techniques is applied or until a Roll-Up Caption command is
received. An End of Caption command leaves a paint-on caption fully
intact in non-displayed memory. In other words, a paint-on style caption
behaves precisely like a pop-on style caption which has been displayed.
(g) Character format. Characters are to be displayed on the screen
within a character ``cell'' which is the height and width of a single
row and column. The following codes define the displayable character
set. Television receivers manufactured prior to January 1, 1996 and
having a character resolution of 5 x 7 dots, or less, may display the
allowable alternate characters in the character table. A statement must
be in a prominent location on the box or other package in which the
receiver is to be marketed, and information must be in the owner's
manual, indicating the receiver displays closed captioning in upper case
only.
Character Set Table
Special Characters
These require two bytes for each symbol. Each hex code as shown will
be preceded by a 11h for data channel 1 or by a 19h for data channel 2.
For example: 19h 37h will place a musical note in data channel 2.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEX Example Alternate Description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 [reg] See note\1\ Registered mark symbol
31 [deg] ............ Degree sign
32 \1/2\ ............ \1/2\
33 ............ Inverse query
34 TM See note\1\ Trademark symbol
35 [cent] ............ Cents sign
36 [pound] ............ Pounds Sterling sign
37 X ............ Music note
38 a A Lower-case a with grave accent
39 ............ Transparent space
3A e E Lower-case e with grave accent
3B a A Lower-case a with circumflex
3C e E Lower-case e with circumflex
3D i I Lower-case i with circumflex
3E o O Lower-case o with circumflex
3F u U Lower-case u with circumflex
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Note: The registered and trademark symbols are used to satisfy
certain legal requirements. There are various legal ways in which
these symbols may be drawn or displayed. For example, the trademark
symbol may be drawn with the ``T'' next to the ``M'' or over the
``M''. It is preferred that the trademark symbol be superscripted,
i.e., XYZTM. It is left to each individual manufacturer to interpret
these symbols in any way that meets the legal needs of the user.
[[Page 786]]
Standard characters
------------------------------------------------------------------------
HEX Example Alternate Description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 .......... Standard space
21 ! .......... Exclamation mark
22 `` .......... Quotation mark
23 .......... Pounds (number) sign
24 $ .......... Dollar sign
25 % .......... Percentage sign
26 & .......... Ampersand
27 ' .......... Apostrophe
28 ( .......... Open parentheses
29 ) .......... Close parentheses
2A a A Lower-case a with acute accent
2B + .......... Plus sign
2C , .......... Comma
2D - .......... Minus (hyphen) sign
2E . .......... Period
2F / .......... Slash
30 0 .......... Zero
31 1 .......... One
32 2 .......... Two
33 3 .......... Three
34 4 .......... Four
35 5 .......... Five
36 6 .......... Six
37 7 .......... Seven
38 8 .......... Eight
39 9 .......... Nine
3A : .......... Colon
3B ; .......... Semi-colon
3C < .......... Less than sign
3D = .......... Equal sign
3E
Sec. 15.120 Program blocking technology requirements for television
receivers.
(a) Effective July 1, 1999, manufacturers of television broadcast
receivers as defined in section 15.3(w) of this chapter, including
personal computer systems meeting that definition, must ensure that one-
half of their product models with picture screens 33 cm (13 in) or
larger in diameter shipped in interstate commerce or manufactured in the
United States comply with the
[[Page 792]]
provisions of paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this section.
Note: This paragraph places no restrictions on the shipping or sale
of television receivers that were manufactured before July 1999.
(b) Effective January 1, 2000, all TV broadcast receivers as defined
in section 15.3(w) of this chapter, including personal computer systems
meeting that definition, with picture screens 33 cm (13 in) or larger in
diameter shipped in interstate commerce or manufactured in the United
States shall comply with the provisions of paragraphs (c), (d), and (e)
of this section.
(c) Transmission format. (1) Analog television program rating
information shall be transmitted on line 21 of field 2 of the vertical
blanking interval of television signals, in accordance with Sec.
73.682(a)(22) of this chapter.
(2) [Reserved]
(d) Operation. (1) Analog television receivers will receive program
ratings transmitted pursuant to EIA-744: ``Transport of Content Advisory
Information Using Extended Data Service (XDS)'' (incorporated by
reference, see Sec. 15.38) and EIA-608: ``Recommended Practice for Line
21 Data Service'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38). Blocking
of programs shall occur when a program rating is received that meets the
pre-determined user requirements.
(2) Digital television receivers shall react in a similar manner as
analog televisions when programmed to block specific rating categories.
(e) All television receivers as described in paragraph (a) of this
section shall block programming as follows:
(1) Channel Blocking. Channel Blocking should occur as soon as a
program rating packet with the appropriate Content Advisory or MPAA
rating level is received. Program blocking is described as a receiver
performing all of the following:
Muting the program audio.
Rendering the video black or otherwise
indecipherable.
Eliminating program-related captions.
(2) Default State. The default state of a receiver (i.e., as
provided to the consumer) should not block unrated programs. However, it
is permissible to include features that allow the user to reprogram the
receiver to block programs that are not rated.
(3) Picture-In-Picture (PIP). If a receiver has the ability to
decode program-related rating information for the Picture-In-Picture
(PIP) video signal, then it should block the PIP channel in the same
manner as the main channel. If the receiver does not have the ability to
decode PIP program-related rating information, then it should block or
otherwise disable the PIP if the viewer has enabled program blocking.
(4) Selection of Ratings. Each television receiver, in accordance
with user input, shall block programming based on the age based ratings,
the content based ratings, or a combination of the two.
(i) If the user chooses to block programming according to its age
based rating level, the receiver must have the ability to automatically
block programs with a more restrictive age based rating. For example, if
all shows with an age-based rating of TV-PG have been selected for
blocking, the user should be able to automatically block programs with
the more restrictive ratings of TV-14 and TV-MA.
(ii) If the user chooses to block programming according to a
combination of age based and content based ratings the receiver must
have the ability to automatically block programming with a more
restrictive age rating but a similar content rating. For example, if all
shows rated TV-PG-V have been selected for blocking, the user should be
able to block automatically shows with the more restrictive ratings of
TV-14-V and TV-MA-V.
(iii) The user should have the capability of overriding the
automatic blocking described in paragraphs (e)(4)(i) and (4)(ii) of this
section.
[63 FR 20133, Apr. 23, 1998, as amended at 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003; 69
FR 2849, Jan. 21, 2004]
Sec. 15.121 Scanning receivers and frequency converters used with scanning
receivers.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, scanning
receivers and frequency converters designed or
[[Page 793]]
marketed for use with scanning receivers, shall:
(1) Be incapable of operating (tuning), or readily being altered by
the user to operate, within the frequency bands allocated to the
Cellular Radiotelephone Service in part 22 of this chapter (cellular
telephone bands). Scanning receivers capable of ``readily being altered
by the user'' include, but are not limited to, those for which the
ability to receive transmissions in the cellular telephone bands can be
added by clipping the leads of, or installing, a simple component such
as a diode, resistor or jumper wire; replacing a plug-in semiconductor
chip; or programming a semiconductor chip using special access codes or
an external device, such as a personal computer. Scanning receivers, and
frequency converters designed for use with scanning receivers, also
shall be incapable of converting digital cellular communication
transmissions to analog voice audio.
(2) Be designed so that the tuning, control and filtering circuitry
is inaccessible. The design must be such that any attempts to modify the
equipment to receive transmissions from the Cellular Radiotelephone
Service likely will render the receiver inoperable.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, scanning
receivers shall reject any signals from the Cellular Radiotelephone
Service frequency bands that are 38 dB or lower based upon a 12 dB SINAD
measurement, which is considered the threshold where a signal can be
clearly discerned from any interference that may be present.
(c) Scanning receivers and frequency converters designed or marketed
for use with scanning receivers, are not subject to the requirements of
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section provided that they are
manufactured exclusively for, and marketed exclusively to, entities
described in 18 U.S.C. 2512(2), or are marketed exclusively as test
equipment pursuant to Sec. 15.3(dd).
(d) Modification of a scanning receiver to receive transmissions
from Cellular Radiotelephone Service frequency bands will be considered
to constitute manufacture of such equipment. This includes any
individual, individuals, entity or organization that modifies one or
more scanners. Any modification to a scanning receiver to receive
transmissions from the Cellular Radiotelephone Service frequency bands
voids the certification of the scanning receiver, regardless of the date
of manufacture of the original unit. In addition, the provisions of
Sec. 15.23 shall not be interpreted as permitting modification of a
scanning receiver to receiver Cellular Radiotelephone Service
transmissions.
(e) Scanning receivers and frequency converters designed for use
with scanning receivers shall not be assembled from kits or marketed in
kit form unless they comply with the requirements in paragraph (a)
through (c) of this section.
(f) Scanning receivers shall have a label permanently affixed to the
product, and this label shall be readily visible to the purchaser at the
time of purchase. The label shall read as follows: WARNING: MODIFICATION
OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CELLULAR RADIOTELEPHONE SERVICE SIGNALS IS
PROHIBITED UNDER FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.
(1) ``Permanently affixed'' means that the label is etched,
engraved, stamped, silkscreened, indelible printed or otherwise
permanently marked on a permanently attached part of the equipment or on
a nameplate of metal, plastic or other material fastened to the
equipment by welding, riveting, or permanent adhesive. The label shall
be designed to last the expected lifetime of the equipment in the
environment in which the equipment may be operated and must not be
readily detachable. The label shall not be a stick-on, paper label.
(2) When the device is so small that it is not practicable to place
the warning label on it, the information required by this paragraph
shall be placed in a prominent location in the instruction manual or
pamphlet supplied to the user and shall also be placed on the container
in which the device is marketed. However, the FCC identifier must be
displayed on the device.
[64 FR 22561, Apr. 27, 1999, as amended at 66 FR 32582, June 15, 2001]
[[Page 794]]
Sec. 15.122 Closed caption decoder requirements for digital television
receivers and converter boxes.
(a)(1) Effective July 1, 2002, all digital television receivers with
picture screens in the 4:3 aspect ratio with picture screens measuring
13 inches or larger diagonally, all digital television receivers with
picture screens in the 16:9 aspect ratio measuring 7.8 inches or larger
vertically and all separately sold DTV tuners shipped in interstate
commerce or manufactured in the United States shall comply with the
provisions of this section.
Note to paragraph (a)(1):
This paragraph places no restrictions on the shipping or sale of
digital television receivers that were manufactured before July 1, 2002.
(2) Effective July 1, 2002, DTV converter boxes that allow digitally
transmitted television signals to be displayed on analog receivers shall
pass available analog caption information to the attached receiver in a
form recognizable by that receiver's built-in caption decoder circuitry.
Note to paragraph (a)(2):
This paragraph places no restrictions on the shipping or sale of DTV
converter boxes that were manufactured before July 1, 2002.
(b) Digital television receivers and tuners must be capable of
decoding closed captioning information that is delivered pursuant to
EIA-708-B: ``Digital Television (DTV) Closed Captioning'' (incorporated
by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
(c) Services. (1) Decoders must be capable of decoding and
processing data for the six standard services, Caption Service
1 through Caption Service 6.
(2) Decoders that rely on Program and System Information Protocol
data to implement closed captioning functions must be capable of
decoding and processing the Caption Service Directory data. Such
decoders must be capable of decoding all Caption Channel Block Headers
consisting of Standard Service Headers, Extended Service Block Headers,
and Null Block headers. However, decoding of the data is required only
for Standard Service Blocks (Service IDs <-6), and then only if the
characters for the corresponding language are supported. The decoders
must be able to display the directory for services 1 through 6.
(d) Code space organization. (1) Decoders must support Code Space
C0, G0, C1, and G1 in their entirety.
[[Page 795]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR29SE00.000
(2) The following characters within code space G2 must be supported:
(i) Transparent space (TSP).
(ii) Non-breaking transparent space (NBTSP).
(iii) Solid block ( ).
(iv) Trademark symbol (\TM\).
(v) Latin-1 characters [Scaron], [OElig], [scaron], [oelig], [Yuml].
(3) The substitutions in Table 2 are to be made if a decoder does
not support the remaining G2 characters.
Table 2--G2 Character Substitution Table
------------------------------------------------------------------------
G2 Character Substitute with
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Open single quote (`), G2 char G0 single quote (`), char code 0x27
code 0x31.
Close single quote ('), G2 char G0 single quote ('), char code 0x27
code 0x32.
Open double quote (``), G2 char G0 double quote (``), char code 0x22
code 0x33.
Close double quote (''), G2 char G0 double quote (''), char code 0x22
code 0x34.
Bold bullet (), G1 bullet (), char
G2 char code 0x35. code 0xB7
Elipsis (. . .), G2 char code G0 underscore (--), char code 0x5F
0x25.
One-eighth (\1/8\), G2 char code G0 percent sign (%), char code 0x25
0x76.
Three-eighths (\3/8\), G2 char G0 percent sign (%), char code 0x25
code 0x77.
Five-eighths (\5/8\), G2 char G0 percent sign (%), char code 0x25
code 0x78.
Seven-eighths (\7/8\), G2 char G0 percent sign (%), char code 0x25
code 0x79.
[[Page 796]]
Vertical border ([verbar]), G2 G0 stroke ([verbar]), char code 0x7C
char code 0x7A.
Upper-right border ([), G2 char G0 dash (-), char code 0x2D
code 0x7B.
Lower-left border (), G2 G0 dash (-), char code 0x2D
char code 0x7C.
Horizontal border (--), G2 char G0 dash (-), char code 0x2D
code 0x7D.
Lower-right border (]), G2 char G0 dash (-), char code 0x2D
code 0x7E.
Upper-left border (), G2 G0 dash (-), char code 0x2D
char code 0x7F.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Support for code spaces C2, C3, and G3 is optional. All
unsupported graphic symbols in the G3 code space are to be substituted
with the G0 underscore character (--), char code 0x5F.
(e) Screen coordinates. Table 3 specifies the screen coordinate
resolutions and limits for anchor point positioning in 4:3 and 16:9
display formats, and the number of characters per row.
Table 3--Screen Coordinate Resolutions and Limits
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Maximum
Screen aspect ratio Maximum anchor position Minimum anchor position displayed characters
resolution resolution rows per row
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4:3.......................... 75v x 160h................. 15v x 32h.................. 4 32
16:9......................... 75v x 210h................. 15v x 42h.................. 4 42
Other........................ 75v x (5 x H).............. 15v x H*................... 4 \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\H = 32 x (the width of the screen in relation to a 4:3 display). For example, the 16:9 format is \1/3\ wider
than a 4:3 display; thus, H = 32 * \4/3\ = 42.667, or 42.
(1) This means that the minimum grid resolution for a 4:3 aspect
ratio instrument is 15 vertical positions x 32 horizontal positions.
This minimum grid resolution for 16:9 ratio instrument is 15 vertical
positions x 42 horizontal positions. These minimum grid sizes are to
cover the entire safe-title area of the corresponding screen.
(2) The minimum coordinates equate to a \1/5\ reduction in the
maximum horizontal and vertical grid resolution coordinates. Caption
providers are to use the maximum coordinate system values when
specifying anchor point positions. Decoders using the minimum resolution
are to divide the provided horizontal and vertical screen coordinates by
5 to derive the equivalent minimum coordinates.
(3) Any caption targeted for both 4:3 and 16:9 instruments is
limited to 32 contiguous characters per row. If a caption is received by
a 4:3 instrument that is targeted for a 16:9 display only, or requires a
window width greater than 32 characters, then the caption may be
completely disregarded by the decoder. 16:9 instruments should be able
to process and display captions intended for 4:3 displays, providing all
other minimum recommendations are met.
(4) If the resulting size of any window is larger than the safe
title area for the corresponding display's aspect ratio, then this
window will be completely disregarded.
(f) Caption windows. (1) Decoders need to display no more than 4
rows of captions on the screen at any given time, regardless of the
number of windows displayed. This implies that no more than 4 windows
can be displayed at any given time (with each having only one caption
row). However, decoders should maintain storage to support a minimum
total of 8 rows of captions. This storage is needed for the worst-case
support of a displayed window with 4 rows of captioning and a non-
displayed window which is buffering the incoming rows for the next 4-row
caption. As implied above, the maximum number of windows that may be
displayed at any one time by a minimum decoder implementation is 4. If
more than 4 windows are defined in the caption stream, the decoder may
disregard the youngest and lowest priority window definition(s). Caption
providers must be aware of this limitation, and either restrict the
total number of windows used or accept that some windows will not be
displayed.
[[Page 797]]
(2) Decoders do not need to support overlapped windows. If a window
overlaps another window, the overlapped window need not be displayed by
the decoder.
(3) At a minimum, decoders will assume that all windows have rows
and columns ``locked''. This implies that if a decoder implements the
SMALL pen-size, then word-``un''wrapping, when shrinking captions, need
not be implemented. Also, if a decoder implements the LARGE pen size,
then word wrapping (when enlarging captions) need not be implemented.
(4) Whenever possible, the receiver should render embedded carriage
returns as line breaks, since these carriage returns indicate an
important aspect of the caption's formatting as determined by the
service provider. However, it may sometimes be necessary for the
receiver to ignore embedded line breaks. For example, if a caption is to
appear in a larger font, and if its window's rows and/or columns are
unlocked, the rows of text may need to become longer or shorter to fit
within the allocated space. Such automatic reformatting of a caption is
known as ``word wrap.'' If decoders support word-wrapping, it must be
implemented as follows:
(i) The receiver should follow standard typographic practice when
implementing word wrap. Potential breaking points (word-wrapping points)
are indicated by the space character (20h) and by the hyphen character
(2Dh).
(ii) If a row is to be broken at a space, the receiver should remove
the space from the caption display. If a row is to be broken after a
hyphen, the hyphen should be retained.
(iii) If an embedded return is to be removed, it should usually be
replaced with a space. However, if the character to the left of the
embedded return is a hyphen, the embedded return should be removed but
NOT replaced with a space.
(iv) This specification does not include optional hyphens, nor does
it provide for any form of automatic hyphenation. No non-breaking hyphen
is defined. The non-breaking space (A0h in the G1 code set) and the non-
breaking transparent space (21h in the G2 code set) should not be
considered as potential line breaks.
(v) If a single word exceeds the length of a row, the word should be
placed at the start of a new row, broken at the character following the
last character that fits on the row, and continued with further breaks
if needed.
(g) Window text painting. (1) All decoders should implement
``left'', ``right'', and ``center'' caption-text justification.
Implementation of ``full'' justification is optional. If ``full''
justification is not implemented, fully justified captions should be
treated as though they are ``left'' justified.
(i) For ``left'' justification, decoders should display any portion
of a received row of text when it is received. For ``center'',
``right'', and ``full'' justification, decoders may display any portion
of a received row of text when it is received, or may delay display of a
received row of text until reception of a row completion indicator. A
row completion indicator is defined as receipt of a CR, ETX or any other
command, except SetPenColor, SetPenAttributes, or SetPenLocation where
the pen relocation is within the same row.
(ii) Receipt of a character for a displayed row which already
contains text with ``center'', ``right'' or ``full'' justification will
cause the row to be cleared prior to the display of the newly received
character and any subsequent characters. Receipt of a justification
command which changes the last received justification for a given window
will cause the window to be cleared.
(2) At a minimum, decoders must support LEFT--TO--RIGHT printing.
(3) At a minimum, decoders must support BOTTOM--TO--TOP scrolling.
For windows sharing the same horizontal scan lines on the display,
scrolling may be disabled.
(4) At a minimum, decoders must support the same recommended
practices for scroll rate as is provided for NTSC closed-captioning.
(5) At a minimum, decoders must support the same recommended
practices for smooth scrolling as is provided for NTSC closed-
captioning.
[[Page 798]]
(6) At a minimum, decoders must implement the ``snap'' window
display effect. If the window ``fade'' and ``wipe'' effects are not
implemented, then the decoder will ``snap'' all windows when they are to
be displayed, and the ``effect speed'' parameter is ignored.
(h) Window colors and borders. At a minimum, decoders must implement
borderless windows with solid, black backgrounds (i.e., border type =
NONE, fill color = (0,0,0), fill opacity = SOLID), and borderless
transparent windows (i.e., border type = NONE, fill opacity =
TRANSPARENT).
(i) Predefined window and pen styles. Predefined Window Style and
Pen Style ID's may be provided in the DefineWindow command. At a
minimum, decoders should implement Predefined Window Attribute Style 1
and Predefined Pen Attribute Style 1, as shown in Table 4 and Table 5,
respectively.
[[Page 799]]
Table 4--Predefined Window Style ID's
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Print Scroll Word Display Effect Effect Fill Border
Style ID Justify direction direction wrap effect direction speed Fill color opacity Border type color Usage
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................ Left........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top No..... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ (0,0,0) Solid...... None....... n/a........ NTSC Style
Black. PopUp
Captions
2............................ Left........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top No..... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ n/a......... Transparent None....... n/a........ PopUp Captions
w/o Black
Background
3............................ Cntr........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top No..... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ (0,0,0) Solid...... None....... n/a........ NTSC Style
Black. Centered
PopUp
Captions
4............................ Left........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top Yes.... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ (0,0,0) Solid...... None....... n/a........ NTSC Style
Black. RollUp
Captions
5............................ Left........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top Yes.... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ n/a......... Transparent None....... n/a........ RollUp
Captions w/o
Black
Background
6............................ Cntr........ Left-to-right Bottom-to-top Yes.... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ (0,0,0) Solid...... None....... n/a........ NTSC Style
Black. Centered
RollUp
Captions
7............................ Left........ Top-to-bottom Right-to-left No..... Snap........ n/a......... n/a........ (0,0,0) Solid...... None....... n/a........ Ticker Tape
Black.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 5--Predefined Pen Style ID's
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foregrnd Foregrnd Backgrnd Backgrnd
Predefined style ID Pen size Font style Offset Italics Underline Edge type color opacity color opacity Edge color Usage
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................. Stndr........ 0............ Normal....... No....... No.......... None....... (2,2,2) Solid...... (0,0,0) Solid...... n/a........ Default NTSC
White. Black. Style*
[[Page 800]]
2............................. Stndr........ 1............ Normal....... No....... No.......... None....... (2,2,2).... Solid...... (0,0,0) Solid...... n/a........ NTSC Style*
White. Mono w/
Serif
3............................. Stndr........ 2............ Normal....... No....... No.......... None....... (2,2,2) Solid...... (0,0,0) Solid...... n/a........ NTSC Style*
White. Black. Prop w/
Serif
4............................. Stndr........ 3............ Normal....... No....... No.......... None....... (2,2,2) Solid...... (0,0,0) Solid...... n/a........ NTSC Style*
White. Black. Mono w/o
Serif
5............................. Stndr........ 4............ Normal....... No....... No.......... None....... (2,2,2) Solid...... (0,0,0) Solid...... n/a........ NTSC Style*
White. Black. Prop w/o
Serif
6............................. Stndr........ 3............ Normal....... No....... No.......... Unifrm..... (2,2,2) Solid...... n/a........ Transparent (0,0,0) Mono w/o
White. Black. Serif,
Bordered
Text, No BG
7............................. Stndr........ 4............ Normal....... No....... No.......... Unifrm..... (2,2,2) Solid...... n/a........ Transparent (0,0,0) Prop. w/o
White. Black. Serif,
Bordered
Text, No BG
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*``NTSC Style''--White Text on Black Background
[[Page 801]]
(j) Pen size. (1) Decoders must support the standard, large, and
small pen sizes and must allow the caption provider to choose a pen size
and allow the viewer to choose an alternative size. The STANDARD pen
size should be implemented such that the height of the tallest character
in any implemented font is no taller than \1/15\ of the height of the
safe-title area, and the width of the widest character is no wider than
\1/32\ of the width of the safe-title area for 4:3 displays and \1/42\
of the safe-title area width for 16:9 displays.
(2) The LARGE pen size should be implemented such that the width of
the widest character in any implemented font is no wider than \1/32\ of
the safe-title area for 16:9 displays. This recommendation allows for
captions to grow to a LARGE pen size without having to reformat the
caption since no caption will have more than 32 characters per row.
(k) Font styles. (1) Decoders must support the eight fonts listed
below. Caption providers may specify 1 of these 8 font styles to be used
to write caption text. The styles specified in the ``font style''
parameter of the SetPenAttributes command are numbered from 0 through 7.
The following is a list of the 8 required font styles. For information
purposes only, each font style references one or more popular fonts
which embody the characteristics of the style:
(i) 0--Default (undefined)
(ii) 1--Monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier)
(iii) 2--Proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New
Roman)
(iv) 3--Monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced)
(v) 4--Proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and
Swiss)
(vi) 5--Casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress)
(vii) 6--Cursive font type (similar to Coronet and Marigold)
(viii) 7--Small capitals (similar to Engravers Gothic)
(2) Font styles may be implemented in any typeface which the decoder
manufacturer deems to be a readable rendition of the font style, and
need not be in the exact typefaces given in the example above. Decoders
must include the ability for consumers to choose among the eight fonts.
The decoder must display the font chosen by the caption provider unless
the viewer chooses a different font.
(l) Character offsetting. Decoders need not implement the character
offsetting (i.e., subscript and superscript) pen attributes.
(m) Pen styles. At a minimum, decoders must implement normal,
italic, and underline pen styles.
(n) Foreground color and opacity. (1) At a minimum, decoders must
implement transparent, translucent, solid and flashing character
foreground type attributes.
(2) At a minimum, decoders must implement the following character
foreground colors: white, black, red, green, blue, yellow, magenta and
cyan.
(3) Caption providers may specify the color/opacity. Decoders must
include the ability for consumers to choose among the color/opacity
options. The decoder must display the color/opacity chosen by the
caption provider unless the viewer chooses otherwise.
(o) Background color and opacity. (1) Decoders must implement the
following background colors: white, black, red, green, blue, yellow,
magenta and cyan. It is recommended that this background is extended
beyond the character foreground to a degree that the foreground is
separated from the underlying video by a sufficient number of background
pixels to insure the foreground is separated from the background.
(2) Decoders must implement transparent, translucent, solid and
flashing background type attributes. Caption providers may specify the
color/opacity. Decoders must include the ability for consumers to choose
among the color/opacity options. The decoder must display the color/
opacity chosen by the caption provider unless the viewer chooses
otherwise.
(p) Character edges. Decoders must implement separate edge color and
type attribute control.
(q) Color representation. (1) At a minimum, decoders must support
the 8 colors listed in Table 6.
[[Page 802]]
Table 6--Minimum Color List Table
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Color Red Green Blue
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Black........................................ 0 0 0
White........................................ 2 2 2
Red.......................................... 2 0 0
Green........................................ 0 2 0
Blue......................................... 0 0 2
Yellow....................................... 2 2 0
Magenta...................................... 2 0 2
Cyan......................................... 0 2 2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2)(i) When a decoder supporting this Minimum Color List receives an
RGB value not in the list, it will map the received value to one of the
values in the list via the following algorithm:
(A) All one (1) values are to be changed to 0.
(B) All two (2) values are to remain unchanged.
(C) All three (3) values are to be changed to 2.
(ii) For example, the RGB value (1,2,3) will be mapped to (0,2,2),
(3,3,3) will be mapped to (2,2,2) and (1,1,1) will be mapped to (0,0,0).
(3) Table 7 is an alternative minimum color list table supporting 22
colors.
Table 7--Alternative Minimum Color List Table
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Color Red Green Blue
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Black........................................ 0 0 0
Gray......................................... 1 1 1
White........................................ 2 2 2
Bright White................................. 3 3 3
Dark Red..................................... 1 0 0
Red.......................................... 2 0 0
Bright Red................................... 3 0 0
Dark Green................................... 0 1 0
Green........................................ 0 2 0
Bright Green................................. 0 3 0
Dark Blue.................................... 0 0 1
Blue......................................... 0 0 2
Bright Blue.................................. 0 0 3
Dark Yellow.................................. 1 1 0
Yellow....................................... 2 2 0
Bright Yellow................................ 3 3 0
Dark Magenta................................. 1 0 1
Magenta...................................... 2 0 2
Bright Magenta............................... 3 0 3
Dark Cyan.................................... 0 1 1
Cyan......................................... 0 2 2
Bright Cyan.................................. 0 3 3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(i) When a decoder supporting the Alternative Minimum Color List in
Table 7 receives an RGB value not in the list (i.e., an RGB value whose
non-zero elements are not the same value), it will map the received
value to one of the values in the list via the following algorithm:
(A) For RGB values with all elements non-zero and different--e.g.,
(1,2,3), (3,2,1), and (2,1,3), the 1 value will be changed to 0, the 2
value will remain unchanged, and the 3 value will be changed to 2.
(B) For RGB values with all elements non-zero and with two common
elements--e.g. (3,1,3), (2,1,2), and (2,2,3), if the common elements are
3 and the uncommon one is 1, then the 1 elements is changed to 0; e.g.
(3,1,3) [rarr] (3,0,3). If the common elements are 1 and the uncommon
element is 3, then the 1 elements are changed to 0, and the 3 element is
changed to 2; e.g. (1,3,1) [rarr] (0,2,0). In all other cases, the
uncommon element is changed to the common value; e.g., (2,2,3) [rarr]
(2,2,2), (1,2,1) [rarr] (1,1,1), and (3,2,3) [rarr] (3,3,3).
(ii) All decoders not supporting either one of the two color lists
described above, must support the full 64 possible RGB color value
combinations.
(r) Character rendition considerations. In NTSC Closed Captioning,
decoders were required to insert leading and trailing spaces on each
caption row. There were two reasons for this requirement:
(1) To provide a buffer so that the first and last characters of a
caption row do not fall outside the safe title area, and
(2) To provide a black border on each side of a character so that
the ``white'' leading pixels of the first character on a row and the
trailing ``white'' pixels of the last character on a row do not bleed
into the underlying video.
(i) Since caption windows are required to reside in the safe title
area of the DTV screen, reason 1 (above) is not applicable to DTVCC
captions.
(ii) The attributes available in the SetPenAttributes command for
character rendition (e.g., character background and edge attributes)
provide unlimited flexibility to the caption provider when describing
caption text in an ideal decoder implementation. However, manufacturers
need not implement all pen attributes. Thus it is recommended that no
matter what the level of implementation, decoder manufacturers should
take into account the readability of all caption text against a variety
of all video backgrounds, and should implement some
[[Page 803]]
automatic character delineation when the individual control of character
foreground, background and edge is not supported.
(s) Service synchronization. Service Input Buffers must be at least
128 bytes in size. Caption providers must keep this lower limit in mind
when following Delay commands with other commands and window text. In
other words, no more than 128 bytes of DTVCC commands and text should be
transmitted (encoded) before a pending Delay command's delay interval
expires.
(t) Settings. Decoders must include an option that permits a viewer
to choose a setting that will display captions as intended by the
caption provider (a default). Decoders must also include an option that
allows a viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to
alter these settings, including periods when the television is turned
off.
[65 FR 58471, Sept. 29, 2000, as amended at 69 FR 2849, Jan. 21, 2004]
Sec. 15.123 Labeling of digital cable ready products.
(a) The requirements of this section shall apply to unidirectional
digital cable products. Unidirectional digital cable products are one-
way devices that accept a Point of Deployment module (POD) and which
include, but are not limited to televisions, set-top-boxes and recording
devices connected to digital cable systems. Unidirectional digital cable
products do not include interactive two-way digital television products.
(b) A unidirectional digital cable product may not be labeled with
or marketed using the term ``digital cable ready,'' or other terminology
that describes the device as ``cable ready'' or ``cable compatible,'' or
otherwise indicates that the device accepts a POD or conveys the
impression that the device is compatible with digital cable service
unless it implements at a minimum the following features:
(1) Tunes NTSC analog channels transmitted in-the-clear.
(2) Tunes digital channels that are transmitted in compliance with
SCTE 40 2003 (formerly DVS 313): ``Digital Cable Network Interface
Standard'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38), provided,
however, that with respect to Table B.11 of that standard, the phase
noise requirement shall be -86 dB/Hz including both in-the-clear
channels and channels that are subject to conditional access.
(3) Allows navigation of channels based on channel information
(virtual channel map and source names) provided through the cable system
in compliance with ANSI/SCTE 65 2002 (formerly DVS 234): ``Service
Information Delivered Out-of-Band for Digital Cable Television''
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38), and/or PSIP-enabled
navigation (ANSI/SCTE 54 2003 (formerly DVS 241): ``Digital Video
Service Multiplex and Transport System Standard for Cable Television''
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38)).
(4) Includes the POD-Host Interface specified in SCTE 28 2003
(formerly DVS 295): ``Host-POD Interface Standard'' (incorporated by
reference, see Sec. 15.38), and SCTE 41 2003 (formerly DVS 301): ``POD
Copy Protection System'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38),
or implementation of a more advanced POD-Host Interface based on
successor standards. Support for Internet protocol flows is not
required.
(5) Responds to emergency alerts that are transmitted in compliance
with ANSI/SCTE 54 2003 (formerly DVS 241): ``Digital Video Service
Multiplex and Transport System Standard for Cable Television''
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
(6) In addition to the requirements of paragraphs (b)(1) through (5)
of this section, a unidirectional digital cable television may not be
labeled or marketed as digital cable ready or with other terminology as
described in paragraph (b) of this section, unless it includes a DTV
broadcast tuner as set forth in Sec. 15.117(i) and employs at least one
specified interface in accordance with the following schedule:
(i) For 480p grade unidirectional digital cable televisions, either
a DVI/HDCP, HDMI/HDCP, or 480p Y,Pb,Pr interface:
(A) Models with screen sizes 36 inches and above: 50% of a
manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July
1, 2004; 100% of such
[[Page 804]]
models manufactured or imported after July 1, 2005.
(B) Models with screen sizes 32 to 35 inches: 50% of a
manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July
1, 2005; 100% of such models manufactured or imported after July 1,
2006.
(ii) For 720p/1080i grade unidirectional digital cable televisions,
either a DVI/HDCP or HDMI/HDCP interface:
(A) Models with screen sizes 36 inches and above: 50% of a
manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July
1, 2004; 100% of such models manufactured or imported after July 1,
2005.
(B) Models with screen sizes 25 to 35 inches: 50% of a
manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July
1, 2005; 100% of such models manufactured or imported after July l,
2006.
(C) Models with screen sizes 13 to 24 inches: 100% of a
manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July
1, 2007.
(c) Before a manufacturer's or importer's first unidirectional
digital cable product may be labeled or marketed as digital cable ready
or with other terminology as described in paragraph (b) of this section,
the manufacturer or importer shall verify the device as follows:
(1) The manufacturer or importer shall have a sample of its first
model of a unidirectional digital cable product tested to show
compliance with the procedures set forth in Uni-Dir-PICS-I01-030903:
``Uni-Directional Receiving Device: Conformance Checklist: PICS
Proforma'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38) at a qualified
test facility. The manufacturer or importer shall have any modifications
to the product to correct failures of the procedures in Uni-Dir-PICS-
I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional Receiving Device: Conformance Checklist:
PICS Proforma'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38) retested at
a qualified test facility.
(2) A qualified test facility is a facility representing cable
television system operators serving a majority of the cable television
subscribers in the United States or an independent laboratory with
personnel knowledgeable with respect to the standards referenced in
paragraph (b) of this section concerning the procedures set forth in
Uni-Dir-PICS-I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional Receiving Device: Conformance
Checklist: PICS Proforma'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
(3) Subsequent to the testing of its initial unidirectional digital
cable product model, a manufacturer or importer is not required to have
other models of unidirectional digital cable products tested at a
qualified test facility for compliance with the procedures of Uni-Dir-
PICS-I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional Receiving Device: Conformance
Checklist: PICS Proforma'' (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
However, the manufacturer or importer shall ensure that all subsequent
models of unidirectional digital cable products comply with the
procedures in the Uni-Dir-PICS-I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional Receiving
Device: Conformance Checklist: PICS Proforma'' (incorporated by
reference, see Sec. 15.38) and all other applicable rules and
standards. The manufacturer or importer shall maintain records
indicating such compliance in accordance with the verification procedure
requirements in part 2, subpart J of this chapter. The manufacturer or
importer shall further submit documentation verifying compliance with
the procedures in the Uni-Dir-PICS-I01-030903: ``Uni-Directional
Receiving Device: Conformance Checklist: PICS Proforma'' (incorporated
by reference, see Sec. 15.38) to a facility representing cable
television system operators serving a majority of the cable television
subscribers in the United States.
(d) Manufacturers and importers shall provide in appropriate post-
sale material that describes the features and functionality of the
product, such as the owner's guide, the following language: ``This
digital television is capable of receiving analog basic, digital basic
and digital premium cable television programming by direct connection to
a cable system providing such programming. A security card provided by
your cable operator is required to view encrypted digital programming.
[[Page 805]]
Certain advanced and interactive digital cable services such as video-
on-demand, a cable operator's enhanced program guide and data-enhanced
television services may require the use of a set-top box. For more
information call your local cable operator.''
[68 FR 66733, Nov. 28, 2003]
Subpart C_Intentional Radiators
Sec. 15.201 Equipment authorization requirement.
(a) Intentional radiators operated as carrier current systems,
devices operated under the provisions of Sec. Sec. 15.211, 15.213, and
15.221, and devices operating below 490 kHz in which all emissions are
at least 40 dB below the limits in Sec. 15.209 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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003]
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. 15.211, Sec. 15.213, Sec. 15.217, Sec. 15.219, or Sec. 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. 15.204 External radio frequency power amplifiers and antenna
modifications.
(a) Except as otherwise described in paragraph (b) of this section,
no person
[[Page 806]]
shall use, manufacture, sell or lease, offer for sale or lease
(including advertising for sale or lease), or import, ship, or
distribute for the purpose of selling or leasing, any external radio
frequency power amplifier or amplifier kit intended for use with a Part
15 intentional radiator.
(b) A transmission system consisting of an intentional radiator, an
external radio frequency power amplifier, and an antenna, may be
authorized, marketed and used under this part. However, when a
transmission system is authorized as a system, it must always be
marketed as a complete system and must always be used in the
configuration in which it was authorized. An external radio frequency
power amplifier shall be marketed only in the system configuration with
which the amplifier is authorized and shall not be marketed as a
separate product.
(c) Only the antenna with which an intentional radiator is
authorized may be used with the intentional radiator.
[62 FR 26242, May 13, 1997]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54034, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.204 was
revised, effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the convenience of the user, the
revised text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.204 External radio frequency power amplifiers and antenna
modifications.
(a) Except as otherwise described in paragraphs (b) and (d) of this
section, no person shall use, manufacture, sell or lease, offer for sale
or lease (including advertising for sale or lease), or import, ship, or
distribute for the purpose of selling or leasing, any external radio
frequency power amplifier or amplifier kit intended for use with a part
15 intentional radiator.
(b) A transmission system consisting of an intentional radiator, an
external radio frequency power amplifier, and an antenna, may be
authorized, marketed and used under this part. Except as described
otherwise in this section, when a transmission system is authorized as a
system, it must always be marketed as a complete system and must always
be used in the configuration in which it was authorized.
(c) An intentional radiator may be operated only with the antenna
with which it is authorized. If an antenna is marketed with the
intentional radiator, it shall be of a type which is authorized with the
intentional radiator. An intentional radiator may be authorized with
multiple antenna types.
(1) The antenna type, as used in this paragraph, refers to antennas
that have similar in-band and out-of-band radiation patterns.
(2) Compliance testing shall be performed using the highest gain
antenna for each type of antenna to be certified with the intentional
radiator. During this testing, the intentional radiator shall be
operated at its maximum available output power level.
(3) Manufacturers shall supply a list of acceptable antenna types
with the application for equipment authorization of the intentional
radiator.
(4) Any antenna that is of the same type and of equal or less
directional gain as an antenna that is authorized with the intentional
radiator may be marketed with, and used with, that intentional radiator.
No retesting of this system configuration is required. The marketing or
use of a system configuration that employs an antenna of a different
type, or that operates at a higher gain, than the antenna authorized
with the intentional radiator is not permitted unless the procedures
specified in Sec. 2.1043 of this chapter are followed.
(d) Except as described in this paragraph, an external radio
frequency power amplifier or amplifier kit shall be marketed only with
the system configuration with which it was approved and not as a
separate product.
(1) An external radio frequency power amplifier may be marketed for
individual sale provided it is intended for use in conjunction with a
transmitter that operates in the 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, and 5725-
5850 MHz bands pursuant to Sec. 15.247 of this part or a transmitter
that operates in the 5.725-5.825 GHz band pursuant to Sec. 15.407 of
this part. The amplifier must be of a design such that it can only be
connected as part of a system in which it has been previously
authorized. (The use of a non-standard connector or a form of electronic
system identification is acceptable.) The output power of such an
amplifier must not exceed the maximum permitted output power of its
associated transmitter.
(2) The outside packaging and user manual for external radio
frequency power amplifiers sold in accordance with paragraph (d)(1) of
this section must include notification that the amplifier can be used
only in a system which it has obtained authorization. Such a notice must
identify the authorized system by FCC Identifier.
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:
[[Page 807]]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MHz MHz MHz GHz
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.090-0.110.......................... 16.42-16.423 399.9-410 4.5-5.15
\1\ 0.495-0.505...................... 16.69475-16.69525 608-614 5.35-5.46
2.1735-2.1905........................ 16.80425-16.80475 960-1240 7.25-7.75
4.125-4.128.......................... 25.5-25.67 1300-1427 8.025-8.5
4.17725-4.17775...................... 37.5-38.25 1435-1626.5 9.0-9.2
4.20725-4.20775...................... 73-74.6 1645.5-1646.5 9.3-9.5
6.215-6.218.......................... 74.8-75.2 1660-1710 10.6-12.7
6.26775-6.26825...................... 108-121.94 1718.8-1722.2 13.25-13.4
6.31175-6.31225...................... 123-138 2200-2300 14.47-14.5
8.291-8.294.......................... 149.9-150.05 2310-2390 15.35-16.2
8.362-8.366.......................... 156.52475-156.52525 2483.5-2500 17.7-21.4
8.37625-8.38675...................... 156.7-156.9 2655-2900 22.01-23.12
8.41425-8.41475...................... 162.0125-167.17 3260-3267 23.6-24.0
12.29-12.293......................... 167.72-173.2 3332-3339 31.2-31.8
12.51975-12.52025.................... 240-285 3345.8-3358 36.43-36.5
12.57675-12.57725.................... 322-335.4 3600-4400 (\2\)
13.36-13.41..........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Until February 1, 1999, this restricted band shall be 0.490-0.510 MHz.
\2\ Above 38.6
(b) Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) 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 paragraphs (d) and (e) 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.
(4) Any equipment operated under the provisions of Sec. Sec.
15.253, 15.255 or 15.257.
(5) Biomedical telemetry devices operating under the provisions of
Sec. 15.242 of this part are not subject to the restricted band 608-614
MHz but are subject to compliance within the other restricted bands.
(6) Transmitters operating under the provisions of subparts D or F
of this part.
(7) Devices operated pursuant to Sec. 15.225 are exempt from
complying with this section for the 13.36-13.41 MHz band only.
(8) Devices operated in the 24.075-24.175 GHz band under Sec.
15.245 are exempt from complying with the requirements of this section
for the 48.15-48.35 GHz and 72.225-72.525 GHz bands only, and shall not
exceed the limits specified in Sec. 15.245(b).
(9) Devices operated in the 24.0-24.25 GHz band under Sec. 15.249
are exempt from complying with the requirements of this section for the
48.0-48.5 GHz and 72.0-72.75 GHz bands only, and shall not exceed the
limits specified in Sec. 15.249(a).
(e) Harmonic emissions appearing in the restricted bands above 17.7
GHz from field disturbance sensors operating under the provisions of
Sec. 15.245
[[Page 808]]
shall not exceed the limits specified in Sec. 15.245(b).
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 46791, Nov. 7, 1990; 56
FR 6288, Feb. 15, 1991; 57 FR 13048, Apr. 15, 1992; 58 FR 33774, June
21, 1993; 60 FR 28068, May 30, 1995; 61 FR 14503, Apr. 2, 1996; 62 FR
4655, Jan. 31, 1997; 62 FR 58658, Oct. 30, 1997; 67 FR 34855, May 16,
2002; 68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003; 69 FR 3265, Jan. 23, 2004]
Sec. 15.207 Conducted limits.
(a) Except as shown in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, for
an intentional radiator 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 150 kHz to 30 MHz, shall not exceed the limits in the following
table, as measured using a 50 [mu]H/50 ohms line impedance stabilization
network (LISN). Compliance with the provisions of this paragraph shall
be based on the measurement of the radio frequency voltage between each
power line and ground at the power terminal. The lower limit applies at
the boundary between the frequency ranges.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Conducted limit (dB[mu]V)
Frequency of emission (MHz) ----------------------------------------
Quasi-peak Average
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.15-0.5....................... 66 to 56*.......... 56 to 46*
0.5-5.......................... 56................. 46
5-30........................... 60................. 50
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Decreases with the logarithm of the frequency.
(b) The limit shown in paragraph (a) of this section shall not apply
to carrier current systems operating as intentional radiators on
frequencies below 30 MHz. In lieu thereof, these carrier current systems
shall be subject to the following standards:
(1) For carrier current system containing their fundamental emission
within the frequency band 535-1705 kHz and intended to be received using
a standard AM broadcast receiver: no limit on conducted emissions.
(2) For all other carrier current systems: 1000 [mu]V within the
frequency band 535-1705 kHz, as measured using a 50 [mu]H/50 ohms LISN.
(3) Carrier current systems operating below 30 MHz are also subject
to the radiated emission limits in Sec. 15.205, Sec. 15.209, Sec.
15.221, Sec. 15.223, or Sec. 15.227, as appropriate.
(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 provisions for, the use of battery chargers which
permit operating while charging, AC adapters or battery eliminators or
that connect to the AC power lines indirectly, obtainig their power
through another device which is connected to the AC power lines, shall
be tested to demonstrate compliance with the conducted limits.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 56 FR 373, Jan. 4, 1991; 57
FR 33448, July 29, 1992; 58 FR 51249, Oct. 1, 1993; 67 FR 45671, July
10, 2002]
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:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Measurement
Frequency (MHz) Field strength 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. Sec. 15.231
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
[[Page 809]]
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. Sec. 15.31, 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) Perimeter protection systems may operate in the 54-72 MHz and
76-88 MHz bands under the provisions of this section. The use of such
perimeter protection systems is limited to industrial, business and
commercial applications.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989; 54 FR 32339, Aug. 7, 1989; 55 FR 18340, May
2, 1990; 62 FR 58658, Oct. 30, 1997]
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,
[[Page 810]]
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.
Sec. 15.214 Cordless telephones.
(a) 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
for certification, if appropriate, for each type of receiver included in
the system.
(b) A cordless telephone that is intended to be connected to the
public switched telephone network shall also comply with the applicable
regulations in part 68 of this chapter. A separate procedure for
approval under part 68 is required for such terminal equipment.
(c) The label required under subpart A of this part shall also
contain the following statement: ``Privacy of communications may not be
ensured when using this phone.''
(d) Cordless telephones shall incorporate circuitry which makes use
of a digital security code to provide protection against unintentional
access to the public switched telephone network by the base unit and
unintentional ringing by the handset. These functions shall operate such
that each access of the telephone network or ringing of the handset is
preceded by the transmission of a code word. Access to the telephone
network shall occur only if the code transmitted by the handset matches
code set in the base unit. Similarly, ringing of the handset shall occur
only if the code transmitted by the base unit matches the code set in
the handset. The security code required by this section may also be
employed to perform other communications functions, such as providing
telephone billing information. This security code system is to operate
in accordance with the following provisions.
(1) There must be provision for at least 256 possible discrete
digital codes. Factory-set codes must be continuously varied over at
least 256 possible codes as each telephone is manufactured. The codes
may be varied either randomly, sequentially, or using another systematic
procedure.
(2) Manufacturers must use one of the following approaches for
facilitating variation in the geographic distribution of individual
security codes:
(i) Provide a means for the user to readily select from among at
least 256 possible discrete digital codes. The cordless telephone shall
be either in a non-operable mode after manufacture until the user
selects a security code or the manufacturer must continuously vary the
initial security code as each telephone is produced.
(ii) Provide a fixed code that is continuously varied among at least
256 discrete digital codes as each telephone is manufactured.
(iii) Provide a means for the cordless telephone to automatically
select a different code from among at least 256 possible discrete
digital codes each time it is activated.
(iv) It is permissible to provide combinations of fixed, automatic,
and user-selectable coding provided the above criteria are met.
(3) A statement of the means and procedures used to achieve the
required protection shall be provided in any application for equipment
authorization of a cordless telephone.
[56 FR 3785, Jan. 31, 1991, as amended at 63 FR 36603, July 7, 1998; 66
FR 7580, Jan. 24, 2001]
Radiated Emission Limits, Additional Provisions
Sec. 15.215 Additional provisions to the general radiated emission
limitations.
(a) The regulations in Sec. Sec. 15.217 through 15.257 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.
[[Page 811]]
(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) Intentional radiators operating under the alternative provisions
to the general emission limits, as contained in Sec. Sec. 15.217
through 15.257 and in subpart E of this part, must be designed to ensure
that the 20 dB bandwidth of the emission is contained within the
frequency band designated in the rule section under which the equipment
is operated. The requirement to contain the 20 dB bandwidth of the
emission within the specified frequency band includes the effects from
frequency sweeping, frequency hopping and other modulation techniques
that may be employed as well as the frequency stability of the
transmitter over expected variations in temperature and supply voltage.
If a frequency stability is not specified in the regulations, it is
recommended that the fundamental emission be kept within at least the
central 80% of the permitted band in order to minimize the possibility
of out-of-band operation.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 62 FR 45333, Aug. 27, 1997;
67 FR 34855, May 16, 2002; 69 FR 3265, Jan. 23, 2004]
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) Carrier current systems and transmitters employing a leaky
coaxial cable as the radiating antenna may operate in the band 525-1705
kHz provided the field strength levels of the radiated emissions do not
exceed 15 uV/m, as measured at a distance of 47,715/(frequency in kHz)
meters (equivalent to Lambda/2Pi) from the electric power line or the
coaxial cable, respectively. The field strength levels of emissions
outside this band shall not exceed the general radiated emission limits
in Sec. 15.209.
(b) As an alternative to the provisions in paragraph (a) of this
section, intentional radiators used for the operation of an AM broadcast
station on a college or university campus or on the campus of any other
education institution may comply with the following:
(1) 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 comply.
[[Page 812]]
(2) 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 in Sec. 15.209.
(3) The conducted limits specified in Sec. 15.207 apply to the
radio frequency voltage 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 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.
(c) A grant of equipment authorization is not required for
intentional radiators operated under the provisions of this section. In
lieu thereof, the intentional radiator 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.
(d) 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.
[56 FR 373, Jan. 4, 1991]
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 13.110-14.010 MHz.
(a) The field strength of any emissions within the band 13.553-
13.567 MHz shall not exceed 15,848 microvolts/meter at 30 meters.
(b) Within the bands 13.410-13.553 MHz and 13.567-13.710 MHz, the
field strength of any emissions shall not exceed 334 microvolts/meter at
30 meters.
(c) Within the bands 13.110-13.410 MHz and 13.710-14.010 MHz the
field strength of any emissions shall not exceed 106 microvolts/meter at
30 meters.
(d) The field strength of any emissions appearing outside of the
13.110-14.010 MHz band shall not exceed the general radiated emission
limits in Sec. 15.209.
(e) 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.
(f) In the case of radio frequency powered tags designed to operate
with a device authorized under this section, the tag may be approved
with the device or be considered as a separate device subject to its own
authorization. Powered tags approved with a device under a single
application shall be labeled with the same identification number as the
device.
[68 FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003]
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.
[[Page 813]]
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. Continuous
transmissions, voice, video and the radio control of toys are not
permitted. Data is permitted to be sent with a control signal. 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, including
data, to determine system integrity of transmitters used in security or
safety applications are allowed if the total duration of transmissions
does not exceed more than two seconds per hour for each transmitter.
There is no limit on the number of individual transmissions, provided
the total transmission time does not exceed two seconds per hour.
(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:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field strength of Field strength of
Fundamental frequency (MHz) fundamental spurious emissions
(microvolts/meter) (microvolts/meter)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
40.66-40.70..................... 2,250............. 225
70-130.......................... 1,250............. 125
130-174......................... \1\ 1,250 to 3,750 \1\ 125 to 375
174-260......................... 3,750............. 375
260-470......................... \1\ 3,750 to \1\ 375 to 1,250
12,500.
Above 470....................... 12,500............ 1,250
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\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,
[[Page 814]]
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:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field strength of Field strength of
Fundamental frequency (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 \1\.. 50 to 150 \1\
174-260......................... 1,500............. 150
260-470......................... 1,500 to 5,000 \1\ 150 to 500 \1\
Above 470....................... 5,000............. 500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\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, as amended at 68
FR 68546, Dec. 9, 2003]
Sec. 15.233 Operation within the bands 43.71-44.49 MHz, 46.60-46.98 MHz,
48.75-49.51 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 centered on one or more of the following frequency
pairs, subject to the following conditions:
(1) Frequencies shall be paired as shown below, except that channel
pairing for channels one through fifteen may be accomplished by pairing
any of the fifteen base transmitter frequencies with any of the fifteen
handset transmitter frequencies.
(2) Cordless telephones operating on channels one through fifteen
must:
(i) Incorporate an automatic channel selection mechanism that will
prevent establishment of a link on any occupied frequency; and
(ii) The box or an instruction manual which is included within the
box which the individual cordless telephone is to be marketed shall
contain information
[[Page 815]]
indicating that some cordless telephones operate at frequencies that may
cause interference to nearby TVs and VCRs; to minimize or prevent such
interference, the base of the cordless telephone should not be placed
near or on top of a TV or VCR; and, if interference is experienced,
moving the cordless telephone farther away from the TV or VCR will often
reduce or eliminate the interference. A statement describing the means
and procedures used to achieve automatic channel selection shall be
provided in any application for equipment authorization of a cordless
telephone operating on channels one through fifteen.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Base Handset
Channel transmitter transmitter
(MHz) (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1....................................... 43.720 48.760
2....................................... 43.740 48.840
3....................................... 43.820 48.860
4....................................... 43.840 48.920
5....................................... 43.920 49.020
6....................................... 43.960 49.080
7....................................... 44.120 49.100
8....................................... 44.160 49.160
9....................................... 44.180 49.200
10...................................... 44.200 49.240
11...................................... 44.320 49.280
12...................................... 44.360 49.360
13...................................... 44.400 49.400
14...................................... 44.460 49.460
15...................................... 44.480 49.500
16...................................... 46.610 49.670
17...................................... 46.630 49.845
18...................................... 46.670 49.860
19...................................... 46.710 49.770
20...................................... 46.730 49.875
21...................................... 46.770 49.830
22...................................... 46.830 49.890
23...................................... 46.870 49.930
24...................................... 46.930 49.990
25...................................... 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
and shall be centered on a carrier frequency shown above, 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 20 kHz removed
from the center frequency 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 cordless telephones that do not comply with Sec. 15.214(d)
of this part, 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
[[Page 816]]
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, as amended at 56
FR 3785, Jan. 31, 1991; 56 FR 5659, Feb. 12, 1991; 60 FR 21985, May 4,
1995]
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, 74.6-74.8 MHz and
75.2-76.0 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.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 57 FR 13048, Apr. 15, 1992]
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
[[Page 817]]
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. 15.240 Operation in the band 433.5-434.5 MHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is restricted to
devices that use radio frequency energy to identify the contents of
commercial shipping containers. Operations must be limited to commercial
and industrial areas such as ports, rail terminals and warehouses. Two-
way operation is permitted to interrogate and to load data into devices.
Devices operated pursuant to the provisions of this section shall not be
used for voice communications.
(b) The field strength of any emissions radiated within the
specified frequency band shall not exceed 11,000 microvolts per meter
measured at a distance of 3 meters. The emission limit in this paragraph
is based on measurement instrumentation employing an average detector.
The peak level of any emissions within the specified frequency band
shall not exceed 55,000 microvolts per meter measured at a distance of 3
meters. Additionally, devices authorized under these provisions shall be
provided with a means for automatically limiting operation so that the
duration of each transmission shall not be greater than 60 seconds and
be only permitted to reinitiate an interrogation in the case of a
transmission error. Absent such a transmission error, the silent period
between transmissions shall not be less than 10 seconds.
(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) In the case of radio frequency powered tags designed to operate
with a device authorized under this section, the tag may be approved
with the device or be considered as a separate device subject to its own
authorization. Powered tags approved with a device under a single
application shall be labeled with the same identification number as the
device.
(e) To prevent interference to Federal Government radar systems,
operation under the provisions of this section is not permitted within
40 kilometers of the following locations:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DoD Radar Site Latitude Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beale Air Force Base.......... 39[deg]08[min]10[se 121[deg]21[min]04[s
c] N ec] W
Cape Cod Air Force Station.... 41[deg]45[min]07[se 070[deg]32[min]17[s
c] N ec] W
Clear Air Force Station....... 64[deg]55[min]16[se 143[deg]05[min]02[s
c] N ec] W
Cavalier Air Force Station.... 48[deg]43[min]12[se 097[deg]54[min]00[s
c] N ec] W
Eglin Air Force Base.......... 30[deg]43[min]12[se 086[deg]12[min]36[s
c] N ec] W
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(f) As a condition of the grant, the grantee of an equipment
authorization for a device operating under the provisions of this
section shall provide information to the user concerning compliance with
the operational restrictions in paragraphs (a) and (e) of this section.
As a further condition, the grantee shall provide information on the
locations where the devices are installed to the FCC Office of
Engineering and Technology, which shall provide this information to the
Federal Government through the National Telecommunications and
Information Administration. The user of the device shall be responsible
for submitting updated information in the event the operating location
or other information changes after the initial registration. The grantee
shall notify the user of this requirement. The information provided by
the grantee or user to the Commission shall include the name, address,
telephone number and e-mail address of the user, the address and
geographic coordinates of the operating location, and the FCC
identification
[[Page 818]]
number of the device. The material shall be submitted to the following
address:
Experimental Licensing Branch, OET, Federal Communications
Commission, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554, ATTN: RFID
Registration.
[69 FR 29464, May 24, 2004]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 29464, May 24, 2004, Sec. 15.240 was
added. This section contains information collection and recordkeeping
requirements and will not become effective until approval has been given
by the Office of Management and Budget.
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. 15.242 Operation in the bands 174-216 MHz and 470-668 MHz.
(a) The marketing and operation of intentional radiators under the
provisions of this section is restricted to biomedical telemetry devices
employed solely on the premises of health care facilities.
(1) A health care facility includes hospitals and other
establishments that offer services, facilities, and beds for use beyond
24 hours in rendering medical treatment and institutions and
organizations regularly engaged in providing medical services through
clinics, public health facilities, and similar establishments, including
governmental entities and agencies for their own medical activities.
(2) This authority to operate does not extend to mobile vehicles,
such as ambulances, even if those vehicles are associated with a health
care facility.
(b) The fundamental emissions from a biomedical telemetry device
operating under the provisions of this section shall be contained within
a single television broadcast channel, as defined in part 73 of this
chapter, under all conditions of operation and shall lie wholly within
the frequency ranges of 174-216 MHz and 470-668 MHz.
(c) The field strength of the fundamental emissions shall not exceed
200 mV/m, as measured at a distance of 3 meters using a quasi-peak
detector. Manufacturers should note that a quasi-peak detector function
indicates field strength per 120 kHz of bandwidth 20 kHz. Accordingly, the total signal level over the
band of operation may be higher than 200 mV/m. The field strength of
emissions radiated on any frequency outside of the television broadcast
channel within which the fundamental is contained shall not exceed the
general limits in Sec. 15.209.
(d) The user and the installer of a biomedical telemetry device
operating within the frequency range 174-216 MHz, 470-608 MHz or 614-668
MHz shall ensure that the following minimum separation distances are
maintained between the biomedical telemetry device and the authorized
radio services operating on the same frequencies:
(1) At least 10.3 km outside of the Grade B field strength contour
(56 dBuV/m) of a TV broadcast station or an associated TV booster
station operating within the band 174-216 MHz.
(2) At least 5.5 km outside of the Grade B field strength contour
(64 dBuV/m) of a TV broadcast station or an associated TV booster
station operating within the bands 470-608 MHz or 614-668 MHz.
(3) At least 5.1 km outside of the 68 dBuV/m field strength contour
of a low power TV or a TV translator station operating within the band
174-216 MHz.
(4) At least 3.1 km outside of the 74 dBuV/m field strength contour
of a low power TV or a TV translator station operating within the bands
470-608 MHz or 614-668 MHz.
[[Page 819]]
(5) Whatever distance is necessary to protect other authorized users
within these bands.
(e) The user and the installer of a biomedical telemetry device
operating within the frequency range 608-614 MHz and that will be
located within 32 km of the very long baseline array (VLBA) stations or
within 80 km of any of the other radio astronomy observatories noted in
footnote US 311 of Section 2.106 of this chapter must coordinate with,
and obtain the written concurrence of, the director of the affected
radio astronomy observatory before the equipment can be installed or
operated. The National Science Foundation point of contact for
coordination is: Spectrum Manager, Division of Astronomical Sciences,
NSF Rm 1045, 4201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22230; tel: (703) 306-
1823.
(f) Biomedical telemetry devices must not cause harmful interference
to licensed TV broadcast stations or to other authorized radio services,
such as operations on the broadcast frequencies under subparts G and H
of part 74 of this chapter, land mobile stations operating under part 90
of this chapter in the 470-512 MHz band, and radio astronomy operation
in the 608-614 MHz band. (See Sec. 15.5.) If harmful interference
occurs, the interference must either be corrected or the device must
immediately cease operation on the occupied frequency. Further, the
operator of the biomedical telemetry device must accept whatever level
of interference is received from other radio operations. The operator,
i.e., the health care facility, is responsible for resolving any
interference that occurs subsequent to the installation of these
devices.
(g) The manufacturers, installers, and users of biomedical telemetry
devices are reminded that they must ensure that biomedical telemetry
transmitters operating under the provisions of this section avoid
operating in close proximity to authorized services using this spectrum.
Sufficient separation distance, necessary to avoid causing or receiving
harmful interference, must be maintained from co-channel operations.
These parties are reminded that the frequencies of the authorized
services are subject to change, especially during the implementation of
the digital television services. The operating frequencies of the part
15 devices may need to be changed, as necessary and in accordance with
the permissive change requirements of this chapter, to accommodate
changes in the operating frequencies of the authorized services.
(h) The manufacturers, installers and users of biomedical telemetry
devices are cautioned that the operation of this equipment could result
in harmful interference to other nearby medical devices.
[62 FR 58658, Oct. 30, 1997]
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.
[[Page 820]]
(b) The field strength of emissions from intentional radiators
operated within these frequency bands shall comply with the following:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field Field
strength of strength of
Fundamental frequency (MHz) fundamental harmonics
(millivolts/ (millivolts/
meter) 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) Regardless of the limits shown in the above table, harmonic
emissions in the restricted bands below 17.7 GHz, as specified in Sec.
15.205, shall not exceed the field strength limits shown in Sec.
15.209. Harmonic emissions in the restricted bands at and above 17.7 GHz
shall not exceed the following field strength limits:
(i) For the second and third harmonics of field disturbance sensors
operating in the 24075-24175 MHz band and for other field disturbance
sensors designed for use only within a building or to open building
doors, 25.0 mV/m.
(ii) For all other field disturbance sensors, 7.5 mV/m.
(iii) Field disturbance sensors designed to be used in motor
vehicles or aircraft must include features to prevent continuous
operation unless their emissions in the restricted bands, other than the
second and third harmonics from devices operating in the 24075-24175 MHz
band, fully comply with the limits given in Sec. 15.209. Continuous
operation of field disturbance sensors designed to be used in farm
equipment, vehicles such as fork lifts that are intended primarily for
use indoors or for very specialized operations, or railroad locomotives,
railroad cars and other equipment which travels on fixed tracks is
permitted. A field disturbance sensor will be considered not to be
operating in a continuous mode if its operation is limited to specific
activities of limited duration (e.g., putting a vehicle into reverse
gear, activating a turn signal, etc.).
(2) Field strength limits are specified at a distance of 3 meters.
(3) 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.
(4) The emission limits shown above are based on measurement
instrumentation employing an average detector. The provisions in Sec.
15.35 for limiting peak emissions apply.
[54 FR 17714, Apr. 25, 1989, as amended at 55 FR 46792, Nov. 7, 1990; 61
FR 42558, Aug. 16, 1996; 68 FR 68547, Dec. 9, 2003]
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 digitally modulated 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) For frequency hopping systems operating in the 902-928 MHz band:
if the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is less than 250 kHz, the
system shall use at least 50 hopping frequencies and the average time of
occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds within
a 20 second period; if the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 250
kHz or greater, the system shall use at least 25 hopping frequencies and
the average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than
0.4 seconds within a 10 second period. The maximum allowed 20 dB
bandwidth of the hopping channel is 500 kHz.
(ii) Frequency hopping systems operating in the 5725-5850 MHz band
shall use at least 75 hopping frequencies. The
[[Page 821]]
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.
(iii) Frequency hopping systems in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band shall
use at least 15 non-overlapping channels. The average time of occupancy
on any channel shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds within a period of
0.4 seconds multiplied by the number of hopping channels employed.
Frequency hopping systems which use fewer than 75 hopping frequencies
may employ intelligent hopping techniques to avoid interference to other
transmissions. Frequency hopping systems may avoid or suppress
transmissions on a particular hopping frequency provided that a minimum
of 15 non-overlapping channels are used.
(2) Systems using digital modulation techniques may operate in the
902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz bands. The minimum 6 dB
bandwidth shall be at least 500 kHz.
(b) The maximum peak output power of the intentional radiator shall
not exceed the following:
(1) For frequency hopping systems in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band
employing at least 75 hopping channels, and all frequency hopping
systems in the 5725-5850 MHz band: 1 Watt. For all other frequency
hopping systems in the 2400-2483.5 band: 0.125 Watt.
(2) For frequency hopping systems operating in the 902-928 MHz band:
1 watt for systems employing at least 50 hopping channels; and, 0.25
watts for systems employing less than 50 hopping channels, but at least
25 hopping channels, as permitted under paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this
section.
(3) For systems using digital modulation in the 902-928 MHz, 2400-
2483.5 MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz bands: 1 Watt.
(4) Except as shown in paragraphs (b)(3) (i), (ii) and (iii) of this
section, if transmitting antennas of directional gain greater than 6 dBi
are used the peak output power from the intentional radiator shall be
reduced below the stated values in paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this
section, as appropriate, by the amount in dB that the directional gain
of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(i) Systems operating in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band that are used
exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations may employ transmitting
antennas with directional gain greater than 6 dBi provided the maximum
peak output power of the intentional radiator is reduced by 1 dB for
every 3 dB that the directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(ii) Systems operating in the 5725-5850 MHz band that are used
exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations may employ transmitting
antennas with directional gain greater than 6 dBi without any
corresponding reduction in transmitter peak output power.
(iii) Fixed, point-to-point operation, as used in paragraphs
(b)(3)(i) and (b)(3)(ii) of this section, excludes the use of point-to-
multipoint systems, omnidirectional applications, and multiple co-
located intentional radiators transmitting the same information. The
operator of the spread spectrum intentional radiator or, if the
equipment is professionally installed, the installer is responsible for
ensuring that the system is used exclusively for fixed, point-to-point
operations. The instruction manual furnished with the intentional
radiator shall contain language in the installation instructions
informing the operator and the installer of this responsibility.
(5) Systems operating under the provisions of this section shall be
operated in a manner that ensures that the public is not exposed to
radio frequency energy levels in excess of the Commission's guidelines.
See Sec. 1.1307(b)(1) of this chapter.
(c) In any 100 kHz bandwidth outside the frequency band in which the
spread spectrum or digitally modulated intentional radiator is
operating, the radio frequency power that is produced by the intentional
radiator shall be at least 20 dB below that in the 100 kHz bandwidth
within the band that contains the highest level of the desired power,
based on either an RF conducted or a radiated measurement. Attenuation
below the general limits specified in Sec. 15.209(a) is not required.
In addition, radiated emissions which fall in the restricted bands, as
defined in Sec. 15.205(a), must also comply with
[[Page 822]]
the radiated emission limits specified in Sec. 15.209(a) (see Sec.
15.205(c)).
(d) For digitally modulated systems, the peak power spectral density
conducted from the intentional radiator to the antenna shall not be
greater than 8 dBm in any 3 kHz band during any time interval of
continuous transmission.
(e) [Reserved]
(f) For the purposes of this section, hybrid systems are those that
employ a combination of both frequency hopping and digital modulation
techniques. The frequency hopping operation of the hybrid system, with
the direct sequence or digital modulation 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 digital modulation 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.
(g) Frequency hopping spread spectrum systems are not required to
employ all available hopping channels during each transmission. However,
the system, consisting of both the transmitter and the receiver, must be
designed to comply with all of the regulations in this section should
the transmitter be presented with a continuous data (or information)
stream. In addition, a system employing short transmission bursts must
comply with the definition of a frequency hopping system and must
distribute its transmissions over the minimum number of hopping channels
specified in this section.
(h) The incorporation of intelligence within a frequency hopping
spread spectrum system that permits the system to recognize other users
within the spectrum band so that it individually and independently
chooses and adapts its hopsets to avoid hopping on occupied channels is
permitted. The coordination of frequency hopping systems in any other
manner for the express purpose of avoiding the simultaneous occupancy of
individual hopping frequencies by multiple transmitters is not
permitted.
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, July 13, 1990;
62 FR 26242, May 13, 1997; 65 FR 57561, Sept. 25, 2000; 67 FR 42734,
June 25, 2002]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54035, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.247 was
amended by revising paragraphs (a), (b) introductory text, (b)(1),
(b)(3), (b)(4) introductory text, (c), (d), and by adding paragraph (e),
effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the convenience of the user, the added and
revised text is set forth as follows:
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 digitally modulated 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. Alternatively, frequency
hopping systems operating in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band may have hopping
channel carrier frequencies that are separated by 25 kHz or two-thirds
of the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel, whichever is greater,
provided the systems operate with an output power no greater than 125
mW. The system shall hop to channel frequencies that are selected at the
system hopping rate from a pseudo randomly 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) For frequency hopping systems operating in the 902-928 MHz band:
if the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is less than 250 kHz, the
system shall use at least 50 hopping frequencies and the average time of
occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds within
a 20 second period; if the 20 dB bandwidth of the hopping channel is 250
kHz or greater, the system shall use at least 25 hopping frequencies and
the average time of occupancy on any frequency shall not be greater than
0.4 seconds
[[Page 823]]
within a 10 second period. The maximum allowed 20 dB bandwidth of the
hopping channel is 500 kHz.
(ii) Frequency hopping systems operating in the 5725-5850 MHz band
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.
(iii) Frequency hopping systems in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band shall
use at least 15 channels. The average time of occupancy on any channel
shall not be greater than 0.4 seconds within a period of 0.4 seconds
multiplied by the number of hopping channels employed. Frequency hopping
systems may avoid or suppress transmissions on a particular hopping
frequency provided that a minimum of 15 channels are used.
(2) Systems using digital modulation techniques may operate in the
902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz bands. The minimum 6 dB
bandwidth shall be at least 500 kHz.
(b) The maximum peak conducted output power of the intentional
radiator shall not exceed the following:
(1) For frequency hopping systems operating in the 2400-2483.5 MHz
band employing at least 75 non-overlapping hopping channels, and all
frequency hopping systems in the 5725-5850 MHz band: 1 watt. For all
other frequency hopping systems in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band: 0.125
watts.
* * * * *
(3) For systems using digital modulation in the 902-928 MHz, 2400-
2483.5 MHz, and 5725-5850 MHz bands: 1 Watt. As an alternative to a peak
power measurement, compliance with the one Watt limit can be based on a
measurement of the maximum conducted output power. Maximum Conducted
Output Power is defined as the total transmit power delivered to all
antennas and antenna elements averaged across all symbols in the
signaling alphabet when the transmitter is operating at its maximum
power control level. Power must be summed across all antennas and
antenna elements. The average must not include any time intervals during
which the transmitter is off or is transmitting at a reduced power
level. If multiple modes of operation are possible (e.g., alternative
modulation methods), the maximum conducted output power is the highest
total transmit power occurring in any mode.
(4) The conducted output power limit specified in paragraph (b) of
this section is based on the use of antennas with directional gains that
do not exceed 6 dBi. Except as shown in paragraph (c) of this section,
if transmitting antennas of directional gain greater than 6 dBi are
used, the conducted output power from the intentional radiator shall be
reduced below the stated values in paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3)
of this section, as appropriate, by the amount in dB that the
directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(c) Operation with directional antenna gains greater than 6 dBi.
(1) Fixed point-to-point operation:
(i) Systems operating in the 2400-2483.5 MHz band that are used
exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations may employ transmitting
antennas with directional gain greater than 6 dBi provided the maximum
conducted output power of the intentional radiator is reduced by 1 dB
for every 3 dB that the directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(ii) Systems operating in the 5725-5850 MHz band that are used
exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations may employ transmitting
antennas with directional gain greater than 6 dBi without any
corresponding reduction in transmitter conducted output power.
(iii) Fixed, point-to-point operation, as used in paragraphs
(c)(1)(i) and (c)(1)(ii) of this section, excludes the use of point-to-
multipoint systems, omnidirectional applications, and multiple co-
located intentional radiators transmitting the same information. The
operator of the spread spectrum or digitally modulated intentional
radiator or, if the equipment is professionally installed, the installer
is responsible for ensuring that the system is used exclusively for
fixed, point-to-point operations. The instruction manual furnished with
the intentional radiator shall contain language in the installation
instructions informing the operator and the installer of this
responsibility.
(2) In addition to the provisions in paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(3),
(b)(4) and (c)(1)(i) of this section, transmitters operating in the
2400-2483.5 MHz band that emit multiple directional beams,
simultaneously or sequentially, for the purpose of directing signals to
individual receivers or to groups of receivers provided the emissions
comply with the following:
(i) Different information must be transmitted to each receiver.
(ii) If the transmitter employs an antenna system that emits
multiple directional beams but does not do emit multiple directional
beams simultaneously, the total output power conducted to the array or
arrays that comprise the device, i.e., the sum of the power supplied to
all antennas, antenna elements, staves, etc. and summed across all
carriers or frequency channels, shall not exceed the limit specified in
paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(3) of this section, as applicable. However, the
total conducted output power shall be reduced by 1 dB below the
specified limits for each 3 dB that the directional gain of the antenna/
antenna array exceeds 6 dBi. The directional antenna gain shall be
computed as follows:
[[Page 824]]
(A) The directional gain shall be calculated as the sum of 10 log
(number of array elements or staves) plus the directional gain of the
element or stave having the highest gain.
(B) A lower value for the directional gain than that calculated in
paragraph (c)(2)(ii)(A) of this section will be accepted if sufficient
evidence is presented, e.g., due to shading of the array or coherence
loss in the beamforming.
(iii) If a transmitter employs an antenna that operates
simultaneously on multiple directional beams using the same or different
frequency channels, the power supplied to each emission beam is subject
to the power limit specified in paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section. If
transmitted beams overlap, the power shall be reduced to ensure that
their aggregate power does not exceed the limit specified in paragraph
(c)(2)(ii) of this section. In addition, the aggregate power transmitted
simultaneously on all beams shall not exceed the limit specified in
paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section by more than 8 dB.
(iv) Transmitters that emit a single directional beam shall operate
under the provisions of paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
(d) In any 100 kHz bandwidth outside the frequency band in which the
spread spectrum or digitally modulated intentional radiator is
operating, the radio frequency power that is produced by the intentional
radiator shall be at least 20 dB below that in the 100 kHz bandwidth
within the band that contains the highest level of the desired power,
based on either an RF conducted or a radiated measurement, provided the
transmitter demonstrates compliance with the peak conducted power
limits. If the transmitter complies with the conducted power limits
based on the use of RMS averaging over a time interval, as permitted
under paragraph (b)(3) of this section, the attenuation required under
this paragraph shall be 30 dB instead of 20 dB. Attenuation below the
general limits specified in Sec. 15.209(a) is not required. In
addition, radiated emissions which fall in the restricted bands, as
defined in Sec. 15.205(a), must also comply with the radiated emission
limits specified in Sec. 15.209(a) (see Sec. 15.205(c)).
(e) For digitally modulated systems, the power spectral density
conducted from the intentional radiator to the antenna shall not be
greater than 8 dBm in any 3 kHz band during any time interval of
continuous transmission. This power spectral density shall be determined
in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (b) of this section. The
same method of determining the conducted output power shall be used to
determine the power spectral density.
(i) Systems operating under the provisions of this section shall be
operated in a manner that ensures that the public is not exposed to
radio frequency energy levels in excess of the Commission's guidelines.
See Sec. 1.1307(b)(1) of this chapter.
Sec. 15.249 Operation within the bands 902-928 MHz, 2400-2483.5 MHz,
5725-5875 MHZ, and 24.0-24.25 GHz.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the field
strength of emissions from intentional radiators operated within these
frequency bands shall comply with the following:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Field Field
strength of strength of
Fundamental frequency fundamental harmonics
(millivolts/ (microvolts/
meter) 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) Fixed, point-to-point operation as referred to in this paragraph
shall be limited to systems employing a fixed transmitter transmitting
to a fixed remote location. Point-to-multipoint systems, omnidirectional
applications, and multiple co-located intentional radiators transmitting
the same information are not allowed. Fixed, point-to-point operation is
permitted in the 24.05-24.25 GHz band subject to the following
conditions:
(1) The field strength of emissions in this band shall not exceed
2500 millivolts/meter.
(2) The frequency tolerance of the carrier signal shall be
maintained within 0.001% 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.
(3) Antenna gain must be at least 33 dBi. Alternatively, the main
lobe beamwidth must not exceed 3.5 degrees. The beamwidth limit shall
apply to both the azimuth and elevation planes. At antenna gains over 33
dBi or beamwidths narrower than 3.5 degrees, power must be reduced to
ensure that the field strength does not exceed 2500 millivolts/meter.
(c) Field strength limits are specified at a distance of 3 meters.
[[Page 825]]
(d) 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.
(e) As shown in Sec. 15.35(b), for frequencies above 1000 MHz, the
field strength limits in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section 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. For point-
to-point operation under paragraph (b) of this section, the peak field
strength shall not exceed 2500 millivolts/meter at 3 meters along the
antenna azimuth.
(f) 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;
67 FR 1625, Jan. 14, 2002]
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]
[[Page 826]]
Sec. 15.253 Operation within the bands 46.7-46.9 GHz and 76.0-77.0 GHz.
(a) Operation within the bands 46.7-46.9 GHz and 76.0-77.0 GHz is
restricted to vehicle-mounted field disturbance sensors used as vehicle
radar systems. The transmission of additional information, such as data,
is permitted provided the primary mode of operation is as a vehicle-
mounted field disturbance sensor. Operation under the provisions of this
section is not permitted on aircraft or satellites.
(b) The radiated emission limits within the bands 46.7-46.9 GHz and
76.0-77.0 GHz are as follows:
(1) If the vehicle is not in motion, the power density of any
emission within the bands specified in this section shall not exceed 200
nW/cm \2\ at a distance of 3 meters from the exterior surface of the
radiating structure.
(2) For forward-looking vehicle-mounted field disturbance sensors,
if the vehicle is in motion the power density of any emission within the
bands specified in this section shall not exceed 60 [mu]W/cm \2\ at a
distance of 3 meters from the exterior surface of the radiating
structure.
(3) For side-looking or rear-looking vehicle-mounted field
disturbance sensors, if the vehicle is in motion the power density of
any emission within the bands specified in this section shall not exceed
30 [mu]W/cm \2\ at a distance of 3 meters from the exterior surface of
the radiating structure.
(c) The power density of any emissions outside the operating band
shall consist solely of spurious emissions and shall not exceed the
following:
(1) Radiated emissions below 40 GHz shall not exceed the general
limits in Sec. 15.209.
(2) Radiated emissions outside the operating band and between 40 GHz
and 200 GHz shall not exceed the following:
(i) For vehicle-mounted field disturbance sensors operating in the
band 46.7-46.9 GHz: 2 pW/cm\2\ at a distance of 3 meters from the
exterior surface of the radiating structure.
(ii) For forward-looking vehicle-mounted field disturbance sensors
operating in the band 76-77 GHz: 600 pW/cm\2\ at a distance of 3 meters
from the exterior surface of the radiating structure.
(iii) For side-looking or rear-looking vehicle-mounted field
disturbance sensors operating in the band 76-77 GHz: 300 pW/cm\2\ at a
distance of 3 meters from the exterior surface of the radiating
structure.
(3) For radiated emissions above 200 GHz from field disturbance
sensors operating in the 76-77 GHz band: the power density of any
emission shall not exceed 1000 pW/cm\2\ at a distance of 3 meters from
the exterior surface of the radiating structure.
(4) For field disturbance sensors operating in the 76-77 GHz band,
the spectrum shall be investigated up to 231 GHz.
(d) The provisions in Sec. 15.35 limiting peak emissions apply.
(e) Fundamental emissions must be contained within the frequency
bands specified in this section during all conditions of operation.
Equipment is presumed to operate over the temperature range -20 to +50
degrees celsius with an input voltage variation of 85% to 115% of rated
input voltage, unless justification is presented to demonstrate
otherwise.
(f) Regardless of the power density levels permitted under this
section, devices operating under the provisions of this section are
subject to the radiofrequency radiation exposure requirements specified
in Sec. Sec. 1.1307(b), 2.1091 and 2.1093 of this chapter, as
appropriate. Applications for equipment authorization of devices
operating under this section must contain a statement confirming
compliance with these requirements for both fundamental emissions and
unwanted emissions. Technical information showing the basis for this
statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
[61 FR 14503, Apr. 2, 1996, as amended at 61 FR 41018, Aug. 7, 1996; 63
FR 42279, Aug. 7, 1998]
Sec. 15.255 Operation within the band 57-64 GHz.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is not permitted
for the following products:
(1) Equipment used on aircraft or satellites.
(2) Field disturbance sensors, including vehicle radar systems,
unless the field disturbance sensors are employed
[[Page 827]]
for fixed operation. For the purposes of this section, the reference to
fixed operation includes field disturbance sensors installed in fixed
equipment, even if the sensor itself moves within the equipment.
(b) Within the 57-64 GHz band, emission levels shall not exceed the
following:
(1) For products other than fixed field disturbance sensors, the
average power density of any emission, measured during the transmit
interval, shall not exceed 9 [mu]W/cm\2\, as measured 3 meters from the
radiating structure, and the peak power density of any emission shall
not exceed 18 [mu]W/cm\2\, as measured 3 meters from the radiating
structure.
(2) For fixed field disturbance sensors that occupy 500 MHz or less
of bandwidth and that are contained wholly within the frequency band
61.0-61.5 GHz, the average power density of any emission, measured
during the transmit interval, shall not exceed 9 [mu]W/cm\2\, as
measured 3 meters from the radiating structure, and the peak power
density of any emission shall not exceed 18 [mu]W/cm\2\, as measured 3
meters from the radiating structure. In addition, the average power
density of any emission outside of the 61-61.5 GHz band, measured during
the transmit interval, but still within the 57-64 GHz band, shall not
exceed 9 nW/cm\2\, as measured 3 meters from the radiating structure,
and the peak power density of any emission shall not exceed 18 nW/cm\2\,
as measured three meters from the radiating structure.
(3) For fixed field disturbance sensors other than those operating
under the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the peak
transmitter output power shall not exceed 0.1 mW and the peak power
density shall not exceed 9 nW/cm\2\ at a distance of 3 meters.
(4) Peak power density shall be measured with an RF detector that
has a detection bandwidth that encompasses the 57-64 GHz band and has a
video bandwidth of at least 10 MHz, or using an equivalent measurement
method.
(5) The average emission levels shall be calculated, based on the
measured peak levels, over the actual time period during which
transmission occurs.
(c) Limits on spurious emissions:
(1) The power density of any emissions outside the 57-64 GHz band
shall consist solely of spurious emissions.
(2) Radiated emissions below 40 GHz shall not exceed the general
limits in Sec. 15.209.
(3) Between 40 GHz and 200 GHz, the level of these emissions shall
not exceed 90 pW/cm\2\ at a distance of 3 meters.
(4) The levels of the spurious emissions shall not exceed the level
of the fundamental emission.
(d) Only spurious emissions and transmissions related to a publicly-
accessible coordination channel, whose purpose is to coordinate
operation between diverse transmitters with a view towards reducing the
probability of interference throughout the 57-64 GHz band, are permitted
in the 57-57.05 GHz band.
Note to paragraph (d):
The 57-57.05 GHz is reserved exclusively for a publicly-accessible
coordination channel. The development of standards for this channel
shall be performed pursuant to authorizations issued under part 5 of
this chapter.
(e) Except as specified elsewhere in this paragraph (e), the total
peak transmitter output power shall not exceed 500 mW.
(1) Transmitters with an emission bandwidth of less than 100 MHz
must limit their peak transmitter output power to the product of 500 mW
times their emission bandwidth divided by 100 MHz. For the purposes of
this paragraph (e)(1), emission bandwidth is defined as the
instantaneous frequency range occupied by a steady state radiated signal
with modulation, outside which the radiated power spectral density never
exceeds 6 dB below the maximum radiated power spectral density in the
band, as measured with a 100 kHz resolution bandwidth spectrum analyzer.
The center frequency must be stationary during the measurement interval,
even if not stationary during normal operation (e.g. for frequency
hopping devices).
(2) Peak transmitter output power shall be measured with an RF
detector that has a detection bandwidth that encompasses the 57-64 GHz
band and that has a video bandwidth of at least 10 MHz, or using an
equivalent measurement method.
[[Page 828]]
(3) For purposes of demonstrating compliance with this paragraph
(e), corrections to the transmitter output power may be made due to the
antenna and circuit loss.
(f) Fundamental emissions must be contained within the frequency
bands specified in this section during all conditions of operation.
Equipment is presumed to operate over the temperature range -20 to +50
degrees celsius with an input voltage variation of 85% to 115% of rated
input voltage, unless justification is presented to demonstrate
otherwise.
(g) Regardless of the power density levels permitted under this
section, devices operating under the provisions of this section are
subject to the radiofrequency radiation exposure requirements specified
in Sec. Sec. 1.1307(b), 2.1091 and 2.1093 of this chapter, as
appropriate. Applications for equipment authorization of devices
operating under this section must contain a statement confirming
compliance with these requirements for both fundamental emissions and
unwanted emissions. Technical information showing the basis for this
statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
(h) Any transmitter that has received the necessary FCC equipment
authorization under the rules of this chapter may be mounted in a group
installation for simultaneous operation with one or more other
transmitter(s) that have received the necessary FCC equipment
authorization, without any additional equipment authorization. However,
no transmitter operating under the provisions of this section may be
equipped with external phase-locking inputs that permit beam-forming
arrays to be realized.
(i) For all transmissions that emanate from inside of a building,
within any one second interval of signal transmission, each transmitter
with a peak output power equal to or greater than 0.1 mW or a peak power
density equal to or greater than 3 nW/cm\2\, as measured 3 meters from
the radiating structure, must transmit a transmitter identification at
least once. Each application for equipment authorization for equipment
that will be used inside of a building must declare that the equipment
contains the required transmitter identification feature and must
specify a method whereby interested parties can obtain sufficient
information, at no cost, to enable them to fully detect and decode this
transmitter identification information. Upon the completion of decoding,
the transmitter identification data block must provide the following
fields:
(1) FCC Identifier, which shall be programmed at the factory.
(2) Manufacturer's serial number, which shall be programmed at the
factory.
(3) Provision for at least 24 bytes of data relevant to the specific
device, which shall be field programmable. The grantee must implement a
method that makes it possible for users to specify and update this data.
The recommended content of this field is information to assist in
contacting the operator.
[63 FR 42279, Aug. 7, 1998, as amended at 66 FR 7409, Jan. 23, 2001; 68
FR 68547, Dec. 9, 2003]
Sec. 15.257 Operation within the band 92-95 GHz.
(a) Operation of devices under the provisions of this section is
limited to indoor use;
(1) Devices operating under the provisions of this section, by the
nature of their design, must be capable of operation only indoors. The
necessity to operate with a fixed indoor infrastructure, e.g., a
transmitter that must be connected to the AC power lines, may be
considered sufficient to demonstrate this.
(2) The use of outdoor mounted antennas, e.g., antennas mounted on
the outside of a building or on a telephone pole, or any other outdoors
infrastructure is prohibited.
(3) The emissions from equipment operated under this section shall
not be intentionally directed outside of the building in which the
equipment is located, such as through a window or a doorway.
(4) Devices operating under the provisions of this section shall
bear the following or similar statement in a conspicuous location on the
device or in the instruction manual supplied with the device: ``This
equipment may only
[[Page 829]]
be operated indoors. Operation outdoors is in violation of 47 U.S.C. 301
and could subject the operator to serious legal penalties.''
(b) Operation under the provisions of this section is not permitted
on aircraft or satellites.
(c) Within the 92-95 GHz bands, the emission levels shall not exceed
the following:
(1) The average power density of any emission, measured during the
transmit interval, shall not exceed 9 uW/sq. cm, as measured at 3 meters
from the radiating structure, and the peak power density of any emission
shall not exceed 18 uW/sq. cm, as measured 3 meters from the radiating
structure.
(2) Peak power density shall be measured with an RF detector that
has a detection bandwidth that encompasses the band being used and has a
video bandwidth of at least 10 MHz, or uses an equivalent measurement
method.
(3) The average emission limits shall be calculated based on the
measured peak levels, over the actual time period during which
transmission occurs.
(d) Limits on spurious emissions:
(1) The power density of any emissions outside the band being used
shall consist solely of spurious emissions.
(2) Radiated emissions below 40 GHz shall not exceed the general
limits in Sec. 15.209.
(3) Between 40 GHz and 200 GHz, the level of these emissions shall
not exceed 90 pW/cm \2\ at a distance of 3 meters.
(4) The levels of the spurious emissions shall not exceed the level
of the fundamental emission.
(e) The total peak transmitter output power shall not exceed 500 mW.
(f) Fundamental emissions must be contained within the frequency
bands specified in this section during all conditions of operation.
Equipment is presumed to operate over the temperature range -20 to +50
degrees Celsius with an input voltage variation of 85% to 115% of rated
input voltage, unless justification is presented to demonstrate
otherwise.
(g) Regardless of the maximum EIRP and maximum power density levels
permitted under this section, devices operating under the provisions of
this section are subject to the radiofrequency radiation exposure
requirements specified in 47 CFR 1.1307(b), 2.1091, and 2.1093, as
appropriate. Applications for equipment authorization of devices
operating under this section must contain a statement confirming
compliance with these requirements for both fundamental emissions and
unwanted emissions. Technical information showing the basis for this
statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
(h) Any transmitter that has received the necessary FCC equipment
authorization under the rules of this chapter may be mounted in a group
installation for simultaneous operation with one or more other
transmitter(s) that have received the necessary FCC equipment
authorization, without any additional equipment authorization. However,
no transmitter operating under the provisions of this section may be
equipped with external phase-locking inputs that permit beam-forming
arrays to be realized.
[69 FR 3265, Jan. 23, 2004]
Subpart D_Unlicensed Personal Communications Service Devices
Source: 58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993, unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 15.301 Scope.
This subpart sets out the regulations for unlicensed personal
communications services (PCS) devices operating in the 1910-1930 MHz and
2390-2400 MHz frequency bands.
[60 FR 13073, Mar. 10, 1995]
Sec. 15.303 Definitions.
(a) Asynchronous devices. Devices that transmit RF energy at
irregular time intervals, as typified by local area network data
systems.
(b) Coordinatable PCS device. PCS devices whose geographical area of
operation is sufficiently controlled either by necessity of operation
with a fixed infrastructure or by disabling mechanisms to allow adequate
coordination of their locations relative to incumbent fixed microwave
facilities.
(c) Emission bandwidth. For purposes of this subpart the emission
bandwidth shall be determined by measuring the
[[Page 830]]
width of the signal between two points, one below the carrier center
frequency and one above the carrier center frequency, that are 26 dB
down relative to the maximum level of the modulated carrier. Compliance
with the emissions limits is based on the use of measurement
instrumentation employing a peak detector function with an instrument
resolutions bandwidth approximately equal to 1.0 percent of the emission
bandwidth of the device under measurement.
(d) Isochronous devices. Devices that transmit at a regular
interval, typified by time-division voice systems.
(e) Noncoordinatable PCS device. A PCS device that is capable of
randomly roaming and operating in geographic areas containing incumbent
microwave facilities such that operation of the PCS device will
potentially cause harmful interference to the incumbent microwave
facilities.
(f) Peak transmit power. The peak power output as measured over an
interval of time equal to the frame rate or transmission burst of the
device under all conditions of modulation. Usually this parameter is
measured as a conducted emission by direct connection of a calibrated
test instrument to the equipment under test. If the device cannot be
connected directly, alternative techniques acceptable to the Commission
may be used.
(g) Personal Communications Services (PCS) Devices [Unlicensed].
Intentional radiators operating in the frequency bands 1910-1930 MHz and
2390-2400 MHz that provide a wide array of mobile and ancillary fixed
communication services to individuals and businesses.
(h) Spectrum window. An amount of spectrum equal to the intended
emission bandwidth in which operation is desired.
(i) Sub-band. For purposes of this subpart the term sub-band refers
to the spectrum allocated for isochronous or asynchronous transmission.
(j) Thermal noise power. The noise power in watts defined by the
formula N=kTB where N is the noise power in watts, K is Boltzmann's
constant, T is the absolute temperature in degrees Kelvin (e.g., 295
[deg]K) and B is the emission bandwidth of the device in hertz.
(k) Time window. An interval of time in which transmission is
desired.
[58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 32852, June 24, 1994; 60
FR 13073, Mar. 10, 1995]
Sec. 15.305 Equipment authorization requirement.
PCS devices operating under this subpart shall be certified by the
Commission under the procedures in subpart J of part 2 of this chapter
before marketing. The application for certification must contain
sufficient information to demonstrate compliance with the requirements
of this subpart.
Sec. 15.307 Coordination with fixed microwave service.
(a) UTAM, Inc. is designated to coordinate and manage the transition
of the 1910-1930 MHz band from the Private Operational-Fixed Microwave
Service (OFS) operating under part 101 of this chapter to unlicensed PCS
operations,
(b) Each application for certification of equipment operating under
the provisions of this subpart must be accompanied by an affidavit from
UTAM, Inc. certifying that the applicant is a participating member of
UTAM, Inc. In the event a grantee fails to fulfill the obligations
attendant to participation in UTAM, Inc., the Commission may invoke
administrative sanctions as necessary to preclude continued marketing
and installation of devices covered by the grant of certification,
including but not limited to revoking certification.
(c) An application for certification of a PCS device that is deemed
by UTAM, Inc. to be noncoordinatable will not be accepted until the
Commission announces that a need for coordination no longer exists.
(d) A coordinatable PCS device is required to incorporate means that
ensure that it cannot be activated until its location has been
coordinated by UTAM, Inc. The application for certification shall
contain an explanation of all measures taken to prevent unauthorized
operation. This explanation shall include all procedural safeguards,
such as the mandatory use of licensed technicians to install the
equipment,
[[Page 831]]
and a complete description of all technical features controlling
activation of the device.
(e) A coordinatable PCS device shall incorporate an automatic
mechanism for disabling operation in the event it is moved outside the
geographic area where its operation has been coordinated by UTAM, Inc.
The application for certification shall contain a full description of
the safeguards against unauthorized relocation and must satisfy the
Commission that the safeguards cannot be easily defeated.
(f) At such time as the Commission deems that the need for
coordination between unlicensed PCS operations and existing Part 101
Private Operational-Fixed Microwave Services ceases to exist, the
disabling mechanism required by paragraph (e) of this section will no
longer be required.
(g) Operations under the provisions of this subpart are required to
protect systems in the Private Operational-Fixed Microwave Service
operating within the 1850-1990 MHz band until the dates and conditions
specified in Sec. Sec. 101.69 through 101.73 of this chapter for
termination of primary status. Interference protection is not required
for part 101 stations in this band licensed on a secondary basis.
(h) The operator of a PCS device that is relocated from the
coordinated area specified by UTAM, Inc., must cease operating the
device until coordination for the new location is verified by UTAM, Inc.
[58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 32852, June 24, 1994; 60
FR 27425, May 24, 1995; 61 FR 29689, June 12, 1996]
Sec. 15.309 Cross reference.
(a) The provisions of subpart A of this part apply to unlicensed PCS
devices, except where specific provisions are contained in subpart D.
(b) The requirements of subpart D apply only to the radio
transmitter contained in the PCS device. Other aspects of the operation
of a PCS device may be subject to requirements contained elsewhere in
this chapter. In particular, a PCS device that includes digital
circuitry not directly associated with the radio transmitter also is
subject to the requirements for unintentional radiators in subpart B.
Sec. 15.311 Labelling requirements.
In addition to the labelling requirements of Sec. 15.19(a)(3), all
devices operating in the frequency band 1910-1930 MHz authorized under
this subpart must bear a prominently located label with the following
statement:
Installation of this equipment is subject to notification and
coordination with UTAM, Inc. Any relocation of this equipment must be
coordinated through, and approved by UTAM. UTAM may be contacted at
[insert UTAM's toll-free number].
[60 FR 13073, Mar. 10, 1995]
Sec. 15.313 Measurement procedures.
Measurements must be made in accordance with subpart A, except where
specific procedures are specified in subpart D. If no guidance is
provided, the measurement procedure must be in accordance with good
engineering practice.
Sec. 15.315 Conducted limits.
An unlicensed PCS device that is designed to be connected to the
public utility (AC) power line must meet the limits specified in Sec.
15.207.
Sec. 15.317 Antenna requirement.
An unlicensed PCS device must meet the antenna requirement of Sec.
15.203.
Sec. 15.319 General technical requirements.
(a) The 1910-1920 MHz and 2390-2400 MHz bands are limited to use by
asynchronous devices under the requirements of Sec. 15.321. The 1920-
1930 MHz sub-band is limited to use by isochronous devices under the
requirements of Sec. 15.323.
(b) All transmissions must use only digital modulation techniques.
(c) Peak transmit power shall not exceed 100 microwatts multiplied
by the square root of the emission bandwidth in hertz. Peak transmit
power must be measured over any interval of continuous transmission
using instrumentation calibrated in terms of an rms-equivalent voltage.
The measurement results shall be properly adjusted for
[[Page 832]]
any instrument limitations, such as detector response times, limited
resolution bandwidth capability when compared to the emission bandwidth,
sensitivity, etc., so as to obtain a true peak measurement for the
emission in question over the full bandwidth of the channel.
(d) Power spectral density shall not exceed 3 milliwatts in any 3
kHz bandwidth as measured with a spectrum analyzer having a resolution
bandwidth of 3 kHz.
(e) The peak transmit power shall be reduced by the amount in
decibels that the maximum directional gain of the antenna exceeds 3 dBi.
(f) The device shall automatically discontinue transmission in case
of either absence of information to transmit or operational failure. The
provisions in this section are not intended to preclude transmission of
control and signaling information or use of repetitive codes used by
certain digital technologies to complete frame or burst intervals.
(g) Notwithstanding other technical requirements specified in this
subpart, attenuation of emissions below the general emission limits in
Sec. 15.209 is not required.
(h) Where there is a transition between limits, the tighter limit
shall apply at the transition point.
(i) Unlicensed PCS devices are subject to the radiofrequency
radiation exposure requirements specified in Sec. Sec. 1.1307(b),
2.1091 and 2.1093 of this chapter, as appropriate. All equipment shall
be considered to operate in a ``general population/uncontrolled''
environment. Applications for equipment authorization of devices
operating under this section must contain a statement confirming
compliance with these requirements for both fundamental emissions and
unwanted emissions. Technical information showing the basis for this
statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
[58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 32852, June 24, 1994; 59
FR 40835, Aug. 10, 1994; 60 FR 13073, Mar. 10, 1995; 61 FR 41018, Aug.
7, 1996]
Sec. 15.321 Specific requirements for asynchronous devices operating
in the 1910-1920 MHz and 2390-2400 MHz bands.
(a) Operation shall be contained within either or both of the 1910-
1920 MHz and 2390-2400 MHz bands. The emission bandwidth of any
intentional radiator operating in these bands shall be no less than 500
kHz.
(b) All systems of less than 2.5 MHz emission bandwidth shall start
searching for an available spectrum window within 3 MHz of the band edge
at 1910, 1920, 2390, or 2400 MHz while systems of more than 2.5 MHz
emission bandwidth will first occupy the center half of the band.
Devices with an emission bandwidth of less than 1.0 MHz may not occupy
the center half of the band if other spectrum is available.
(c) Asynchronous devices must incorporate a mechanism for monitoring
the spectrum that its transmission is intended to occupy. The following
criteria must be met:
(1) Immediately prior to initiating a transmission, devices must
monitor the spectrum window they intend to use for at least 50
microseconds.
(2) The monitoring threshold must not be more than 32 dB above the
thermal noise power for a bandwidth equivalent to the emission bandwidth
of the device.
(3) If no signal above the threshold level is detected, a
transmission burst may commence in the monitored spectrum window. Once a
transmission burst has started, an individual device or a group of
cooperative devices is not required to monitor the spectrum window
provided the intraburst gap timing requirement specified below is not
exceeded.
(4) After completion of a transmission, an individual device or
cooperating group of devices must cease transmission and wait a
deference time randomly chosen from a uniform random distribution
ranging from 50 to 750 microseconds, after which time an attempt to
access the band again may be initiated. For each occasion that an access
attempt fails after the initial inter-burst interval, the range of the
deference time chosen shall double until an upper limit of 12
milliseconds is reached. The deference time remains
[[Page 833]]
at the upper limit of 12 milliseconds until an access attempt is
successful. The deference time is re-initialized after each successful
access attempt.
(5) The monitoring system bandwidth must be equal to or greater than
the emission bandwidth of the intended transmission and shall have a
maximum reaction time less than 50xSQRT(1.25/emission bandwidth in MHz)
microseconds for signals at the applicable threshold level but shall not
be required to be less than 50 microseconds. If a signal is detected
that is 6 dB or more above the threshold level, the maximum reaction
time shall be 35xSQRT(1.25/emission bandwidth in MHz) microseconds but
shall not be required to be less than 35 microseconds.
(6) The monitoring system shall use the same antenna used for
transmission, or an antenna that yields equivalent reception at that
location.
(7) Devices that have a power output lower than the maximum
permitted under the rules may increase their detection threshold by one
decibel for each one decibel that the transmitter power is below the
maximum permitted.
(d) Emissions shall be attenuated below a reference power of 112
milliwatts as follows: 30 dB between the sub-band edges and 1.25 MHz
above or below the sub-band; 50 dB between 1.25 and 2.5 MHz above or
below the sub-band; and 60 dB at 2.5 MHz or greater above or below the
sub-band. Compliance with the emissions limits is based on the use of
measurement instrumentation employing a peak detector function with an
instrument resolution bandwidth approximately equal to 1.0 percent of
the emission bandwidth of the device under measurement.
(e) The frequency stability of the carrier frequency of intentional
radiators operating in accordance with this section shall be 10 ppm over 10 milliseconds or the interval between
channel access monitoring, whichever is shorter. The frequency stability
shall be maintained over a temperature variation of -20[deg] to +50
[deg]Celsius at normal supply voltage, and over a variation in the
primary supply voltage of 85 percent to 115 percent of the rated supply
voltage at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. For equipment that is
capable of operating only from a battery, the frequency stability tests
shall be performed using a new battery without any further requirement
to vary supply voltage.
(f) An asynchronous transmission burst is a series of transmissions
from one or more transmitters acting cooperatively. The transmission
burst duration from one device or group of devices acting cooperatively
shall be no greater than 10 milliseconds. Any intraburst gap between
cooperating devices shall not exceed 25 microseconds.
(g) Operation of devices in the 2390-2400 MHz band from aircraft
while airborne is prohibited, in order to protect space research
operations at the National Astronomy and Ionospheric Center at Arecibo,
Puerto Rico.
[58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993; 59 FR 15269, Mar. 31, 1994. Redesignated at
59 FR 32852, June 24, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 32853, June 24, 1994; 59
FR 40835, Aug. 10, 1994; 60 FR 13073, Mar. 10, 1995; 61 FR 55926, Oct.
30, 1996]
Sec. 15.323 Specific requirements for isochronous devices operating in
the 1920-1930 MHz sub-band.
(a) Operation shall be contained within one of eight 1.25 MHz
channels starting with 1920-1921.25 MHz and ending with 1928.75-1930
MHz. Further sub-division of a 1.25 MHz channel is permitted with a
reduced power level, as specified in Sec. 15.319(c), but in no event
shall the emission bandwidth be less than 50 kHz.
(b) Intentional radiators with an intended emission bandwidth less
than 625 kHz shall start searching for an available time and spectrum
window within 3 MHz of the sub-band edge at 1920 MHz and search upward
from that point. Devices with an intended emission bandwidth greater
than 625 kHz shall start searching for an available time and spectrum
window within 3 MHz of the sub-band edge at 1930 MHz and search downward
from that point.
(c) Isochronous devices must incorporate a mechanism for monitoring
the time and spectrum windows that its transmission is intended to
occupy. The following criteria must be met:
(1) Immediately prior to initiating transmission, devices must
monitor
[[Page 834]]
the combined time and spectrum windows in which they intend to transmit
for a period of at least 10 milliseconds for systems designed to use a
10 milliseconds or shorter frame period or at least 20 milliseconds for
systems designed to use a 20 milliseconds frame period.
(2) The monitoring threshold must not be more than 30 dB above the
thermal noise power for a bandwidth equivalent to the emission bandwidth
used by the device.
(3) If no signal above the threshold level is detected, transmission
may commence and continue with the same emission bandwidth in the
monitored time and spectrum windows without further monitoring. However,
occupation of the same combined time and spectrum windows by a device or
group of cooperating devices continuously over a period of time longer
than 8 hours is not permitted without repeating the access criteria.
(4) Once access to specific combined time and spectrum windows is
obtained an acknowledgment from a system participant must be received by
the initiating transmitter within one second or transmission must cease.
Periodic acknowledgments must be received at least every 30 seconds or
transmission must cease. Channels used exclusively for control and
signaling information may transmit continuously for 30 seconds without
receiving an acknowledgment, at which time the access criteria must be
repeated.
(5) If access to spectrum is not available as determined by the
above, and a minimum of 40 duplex system access channels are defined for
the system, the time and spectrum windows with the lowest power level
below a monitoring threshold of 50 dB above the thermal noise power
determined for the emission bandwidth may be accessed. A device
utilizing the provisions of this paragraph must have monitored all
access channels defined for its system within the last 10 seconds and
must verify, within the 20 milliseconds (40 milliseconds for devices
designed to use a 20 milliseconds frame period) immediately preceding
actual channel access that the detected power of the selected time and
spectrum windows is no higher than the previously detected value. The
power measurement resolution for this comparsion must be accurate to
within 6 dB. No device or group of cooperating devices located within 1
meter of each other shall occupy more than three 1.25 MHz channels
during any frame period. Devices in an operational state that are
utilizing the provisions of this section are not required to use the
search provisions of paragraph (b) of this section.
(6) If the selected combined time and spectrum windows are
unavailable, the device may either monitor and select different windows
or seek to use the same windows after waiting an amount of time,
randomly chosen from a uniform random distribution between 10 and 150
milliseconds, commencing when the channel becomes available.
(7) The monitoring system bandwidth must be equal to or greater than
the emission bandwidth of the intended transmission and have a maximum
reaction time less than 50xSQRT (1.25/emission bandwidth in MHz)
microseconds for signals at the applicable threshold level but shall not
be required to be less than 50 microseconds. If a signal is detected
that is 6 dB or more above the applicable threshold level, the maximum
reaction time shall be 35xSQRT (1.25/emission bandwidth in MHz)
microseconds but shall not be required to be less than 35 microseconds.
(8) The monitoring system shall use the same antenna used for
transmission, or an antenna that yields equivalent reception at that
location.
(9) Devices that have a power output lower than the maximum
permitted under this subpart may increase their monitoring detection
threshold by one decibel for each one decibel that the transmitter power
is below the maximum permitted.
(10) An initiating device may attempt to establish a duplex
connection by monitoring both its intended transmit and receive time and
spectrum windows. If both the intended transmit and receive time and
spectrum windows meet the access criteria, then the initiating device
can initiate a transmission in the intended transmit time and spectrum
window. If the power detected by the responding device can be decoded as
a duplex connection signal
[[Page 835]]
from the initiating device, then the responding device may immediately
begin transmitting on the receive time and spectrum window monitored by
the initiating device.
(11) An initiating device that is prevented from monitoring during
its intended transmit window due to monitoring system blocking from the
transmissions of a co-located (within one meter) transmitter of the same
system, may monitor the portions of the time and spectrum windows in
which they intend to receive over a period of at least 10 milliseconds.
The monitored time and spectrum window must total at least 50 percent of
the 10 millisecond frame interval and the monitored spectrum must be
within the 1.25 MHz frequency channel(s) already occupied by that device
or co-located co-operating devices. If the access criteria is met for
the intended receive time and spectrum window under the above
conditions, then transmission in the intended transmit window by the
initiating device may commence.
(12) The provisions of (c)(10) or (c)(11) of this section shall not
be used to extend the range of spectrum occupied over space or time for
the purpose of denying fair access to spectrum to other devices.
(d) Emissions shall be attenuated below a reference power of 112
milliwatts as follows: 30 dB between the channel edges and 1.25 MHz
above or below the channel; 50 dB between 1.25 and 2.5 MHz above or
below the channel; and 60 dB at 2.5 MHz or greater above or below the
channel. Systems that further sub-divide a 1.25 MHz channel into X sub-
channels must comply with the following emission mask: In the bands
between 1B and 2B measured from the center of the emission bandwidth the
total power emitted by the device shall be at least 30 dB below the
transmit power permitted for that device; in the bands between 2B and 3B
measured from the center of the emission bandwidth the total power
emitted by an intentional radiator shall be at least 50 dB below the
transmit power permitted for that radiator; in the bands between 3B and
the 1.25 MHz channel edge the total power emitted by an intentional
radiator in the measurement bandwidth shall be at least 60 dB below the
transmit power permitted for that radiator. ``B'' is defined as the
emission bandwidth of the device in hertz. Compliance with the emission
limits is based on the use of measurement instrumentation employing a
peak detector function with an instrument resolution bandwidth
approximately equal to 1.0 percent of the emission bandwidth of the
device under measurement.
(e) The frame period (a set of consecutive time slots in which the
position of each time slot can be identified by reference to a
synchronizing source) of an intentional radiator operating in these sub-
bands shall be 20 milliseconds or 10 milliseconds/X where X is a
positive whole number. Each device that implements time division for the
purposes of maintaining a duplex connection on a given frequency carrier
shall maintain a frame repetition rate with a frequency stability of at
least 50 parts per million (ppm). Each device which further divides
access in time in order to support multiple communication links on a
given frequency carrier shall maintain a frame repetition rate with a
frequency stability of at least 10 ppm. The jitter (time-related,
abrupt, spurious variations in the duration of the frame interval)
introduced at the two ends of such a communication link shall not exceed
25 microseconds for any two consecutive transmissions. Transmissions
shall be continuous in every time and spectrum window during the frame
period defined for the device.
(f) The frequency stability of the carrier frequency of the
intentional radiator shall be maintained within 10
ppm over 1 hour or the interval between channel access monitoring,
whichever is shorter. The frequency stability shall be maintained over a
temperature variation of -20[deg] to +50 [deg]C at normal supply
voltage, and over a variation in the primary supply voltage of 85
percent to 115 percent of the rated supply voltage at a temperature of
20 [deg]C. For equipment that is capable only of operating from a
battery, the frequency stability tests shall be performed using a new
battery without
[[Page 836]]
any further requirement to vary supply voltage.
[58 FR 59180, Nov. 8, 1993; 59 FR 15269, Mar. 31, 1994. Redesignated at
59 FR 32852, June 24, 1994, as amended at 59 FR 32853, June 24, 1994; 59
FR 40835, Aug. 10, 1994; 59 FR 55373, Nov. 7, 1994; 60 FR 3303, Jan. 13,
1995]
Subpart E_Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure Devices
Sec. 15.401 Scope.
This subpart sets out the regulations for unlicensed National
Information Infrastructure (U-NII) devices operating in the 5.15-5.35
GHz, 5.47-5.725 GHz and 5.725-5.825 GHz bands.
[69 FR 2686, Jan. 20, 2004]
Sec. 15.403 Definitions.
(a) Access Point (AP). A U-NII transceiver that operates either as a
bridge in a peer-to-peer connection or as a connector between the wired
and wireless segments of the network.
(b) Available Channel. A radio channel on which a Channel
Availability Check has not identified the presence of a radar.
(c) Average Symbol Envelope Power. The average symbol envelope power
is the average, taken over all symbols in the signaling alphabet, of the
envelope power for each symbol.
(d) Channel Availability Check. A check during which the U-NII
device listens on a particular radio channel to identify whether there
is a radar operating on that radio channel.
(e) Channel Move Time. The time needed by a U-NII device to cease
all transmissions on the current channel upon detection of a radar
signal above the DFS detection threshold.
(f) Digital modulation. The process by which the characteristics of
a carrier wave are varied among a set of predetermined discrete values
in accordance with a digital modulating function as specified in
document ANSI C63.17-1998.
(g) Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) is a mechanism that
dynamically detects signals from other systems and avoids co-channel
operation with these systems, notably radar systems.
(h) DFS Detection Threshold. The required detection level defined by
detecting a received signal strength (RSS) that is greater than a
threshold specified, within the U-NII device channel bandwidth.
(i) Emission bandwidth. For purposes of this subpart the emission
bandwidth shall be determined by measuring the width of the signal
between two points, one below the carrier center frequency and one above
the carrier center frequency, that are 26 dB down relative to the
maximum level of the modulated carrier. Determination of the emissions
bandwidth is based on the use of measurement instrumentation employing a
peak detector function with an instrument resolution bandwidth
approximately equal to 1.0 percent of the emission bandwidth of the
device under measurement.
(j) In-Service Monitoring. A mechanism to check a channel in use by
the U-NII device for the presence of a radar.
(k) Non-Occupancy Period. The required period in which, once a
channel has been recognized as containing a radar signal by a U-NII
device, the channel will not be selected as an available channel.
(l) Operating Channel. Once a U-NII device starts to operate on an
Available Channel then that channel becomes the Operating Channel.
(m) Peak Power Spectral Density. The peak power spectral density is
the maximum power spectral density, within the specified measurement
bandwidth, within the U-NII device operating band.
(n) Peak Transmit Power. The maximum transmit power as measured over
an interval of time of at most 30/B (where B is the 26 dB emission
bandwidth of the signal in hertz) or the transmission pulse duration of
the device, whichever is less, under all conditions of modulation. The
peak transmit power may be averaged across symbols over an interval of
time equal to the transmission pulse duration of the device or over
successive pulses. The averaging must include only time intervals during
which the transmitter is operating at its maximum power and must not
include any time intervals during which the transmitter is off or is
transmitting at a reduced power level.
[[Page 837]]
(o) Power Spectral Density. The power spectral density is the total
energy output per unit bandwidth from a pulse or sequence of pulses for
which the transmit power is at its peak or maximum level, divided by the
total duration of the pulses. This total time does not include the time
between pulses during which the transmit power is off or below its
maximum level.
(p) Pulse. A pulse is a continuous transmission of a sequence of
modulation symbols, during which the average symbol envelope power is
constant.
(q) RLAN. Radio Local Area Network.
(r) Transmit Power. The total energy transmitted over a time
interval of at most 30/B (where B is the 26 dB emission bandwidth of the
signal in hertz) or the duration of the transmission pulse, whichever is
less, divided by the interval duration.
(s) Transmit Power Control (TPC). A feature that enables a U-NII
device to dynamically switch between several transmission power levels
in the data transmission process.
(t) U-NII devices. Intentional radiators operating in the frequency
bands 5.15-5.35 GHz and 5.470-5.825 GHz that use wideband digital
modulation techniques and provide a wide array of high data rate mobile
and fixed communications for individuals, businesses, and institutions.
[69 FR 2687, Jan. 20, 2004]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54036, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.403 was
amended by revising paragraph (n), removing paragraph (r), and
redesignating paragraphs (s) and (t) as paragraphs (r) and (s),
effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the convenience of the user, the revised
text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.403 Definitions.
* * * * *
(n) Maximum Conducted Output Power. The total transmit power
delivered to all antennas and antenna elements averaged across all
symbols in the signaling alphabet when the transmitter is operating at
its maximum power control level. Power must be summed across all
antennas and antenna elements. The average must not include any time
intervals during which the transmitter is off or is transmitting at a
reduced power level. If multiple modes of operation are possible (e.g.,
alternative modulation methods), the maximum conducted output power is
the highest total transmit power occurring in any mode.
* * * * *
Sec. 15.405 Cross reference.
(a) The provisions of subparts A, B, and C of this part apply to
unlicensed U-NII devices, except where specific provisions are contained
in subpart E. Manufacturers should note that this includes the
provisions of Sec. Sec. 15.203 and 15.205.
(b) The requirements of subpart E apply only to the radio
transmitter contained in the U-NII device. Other aspects of the
operation of a U-NII device may be subject to requirements contained
elsewhere in this chapter. In particular, a U-NII device that includes
digital circuitry not directly associated with the radio transmitter
also is subject to the requirements for unintentional radiators in
subpart B.
[63 FR 40835, July 31, 1998]
Sec. 15.407 General technical requirements.
(a) Power limits:
(1) For the band 5.15-5.25 GHz, the peak transmit power over the
frequency band of operation shall not exceed the lesser of 50 mW or 4
dBm + 10logB, where B is the 26-dB emission bandwidth in MHz. In
addition, the peak power spectral density shall not exceed 4 dBm in any
1-MHz band. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater than 6
dBi are used, both the peak transmit power and the peak power spectral
density shall be reduced by the amount in dB that the directional gain
of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(2) For the 5.25-5.35 GHz and 5.47-5.725 GHz bands, the peak
transmit power over the frequency bands of operation shall not exceed
the lesser of 250 mW or 11 dBm + 10log B, where B is the 26 dB emission
bandwidth in megahertz. In addition, the peak power spectral density
shall not exceed 11 dBm in any 1 megahertz band. If transmitting
antennas of directional gain greater than 6 dBi are used, both the peak
transmit power and the peak power spectral density shall be reduced by
the amount in dB that the directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
[[Page 838]]
(3) For the band 5.725-5.825 GHz, the peak transmit power over the
frequency band of operation shall not exceed the lesser of 1 W or 17 dBm
+ 10logB, where B is the 26-dB emission bandwidth in MHz. In addition,
the peak power spectral density shall not exceed 17 dBm in any 1-MHz
band. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater than 6 dBi
are used, both the peak transmit power and the peak power spectral
density shall be reduced by the amount in dB that the directional gain
of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi. However, fixed point-to-point U-NII
devices operating in this band may employ transmitting antennas with
directional gain up to 23 dBi without any corresponding reduction in the
transmitter peak output power or peak power spectral density. For fixed,
point-to-point U-NII transmitters that employ a directional antenna gain
greater than 23 dBi, a 1 dB reduction in peak transmitter power and peak
power spectral density for each 1 dB of antenna gain in excess of 23 dBi
would be required. Fixed, point-to-point operations exclude the use of
point-to-multipoint systems, omni directional applications, and multiple
collocated transmitters transmitting the same information. The operator
of the U-NII device, or if the equipment is professionally installed,
the installer, is responsible for ensuring that systems employing high
gain directional antennas are used exclusively for fixed, point-to-point
operations.
Note to paragraph (a)(3):
The Commission strongly recommends that parties employing U-NII
devices to provide critical communications services should determine if
there are any nearby Government radar systems that could affect their
operation.
(4) The peak transmit power must be measured over any interval of
continuous transmission using instrumentation calibrated in terms of an
rms-equivalent voltage. The measurement results shall be properly
adjusted for any instrument limitations, such as detector response
times, limited resolution bandwidth capability when compared to the
emission bandwidth, sensitivity, etc., so as to obtain a true peak
measurement conforming to the definitions in this paragraph for the
emission in question.
(5) The peak power spectral density is measured as a conducted
emission by direct connection of a calibrated test instrument to the
equipment under test. If the device cannot be connected directly,
alternative techniques acceptable to the Commission may be used.
Measurements are made over a bandwidth of 1 MHz or the 26 dB emission
bandwidth of the device, whichever is less. A resolution bandwidth less
than the measurement bandwidth can be used, provided that the measured
power is integrated to show total power over the measurement bandwidth.
If the resolution bandwidth is approximately equal to the measurement
bandwidth, and much less than the emission bandwidth of the equipment
under test, the measured results shall be corrected to account for any
difference between the resolution bandwidth of the test instrument and
its actual noise bandwidth.
(6) The ratio of the peak excursion of the modulation envelope
(measured using a peak hold function) to the peak transmit power
(measured as specified in this paragraph) shall not exceed 13 dB across
any 1 MHz bandwidth or the emission bandwidth whichever is less.
(b) Undesirable emission limits: Except as shown in paragraph (b)(6)
of this section, the peak emissions outside of the frequency bands of
operation shall be attenuated in accordance with the following limits:
(1) For transmitters operating in the 5.15-5.25 GHz band: all
emissions outside of the 5.15-5.35 GHz band shall not exceed an EIRP of
-27 dBm/MHz.
(2) For transmitters operating in the 5.25-5.35 GHz band: all
emissions outside of the 5.15-5.35 GHz band shall not exceed an EIRP of
-27 dBm/MHz. Devices operating in the 5.25-5.35 GHz band that generate
emissions in the 5.15-5.25 GHz band must meet all applicable technical
requirements for operation in the 5.15-5.25 GHz band (including indoor
use) or alternatively meet an out-of-band emission EIRP limit of -27
dBm/MHz in the 5.15-5.25 GHz band.
(3) For transmitters operating in the 5.47-5.725 GHz band: all
emissions outside of the 5.47-5.725 GHz band shall not exceed an EIRP of
-27 dBm/MHz.
[[Page 839]]
(4) For transmitters operating in the 5.725-5.825 GHz band: all
emissions within the frequency range from the band edge to 10 MHz above
or below the band edge shall not exceed an EIRP of -17 dBm/MHz; for
frequencies 10 MHz or greater above or below the band edge, emissions
shall not exceed an EIRP of -27 dBm/MHz.
(5) The emission measurements shall be performed using a minimum
resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz. A lower resolution bandwidth may be
employed near the band edge, when necessary, provided the measured
energy is integrated to show the total power over 1 MHz.
(6) Unwanted emissions below 1 GHz must comply with the general
field strength limits set forth in Sec. 15.209. Further, any U-NII
devices using an AC power line are required to comply also with the
conducted limits set forth in Sec. 15.207.
(7) The provisions of Sec. 15.205 apply to intentional radiators
operating under this section.
(8) When measuring the emission limits, the nominal carrier
frequency shall be adjusted as close to the upper and lower frequency
block edges as the design of the equipment permits.
(c) The device shall automatically discontinue transmission in case
of either absence of information to transmit or operational failure.
These provisions are not intended to preclude the transmission of
control or signalling information or the use of repetitive codes used by
certain digital technologies to complete frame or burst intervals.
Applicants shall include in their application for equipment
authorization a description of how this requirement is met.
(d) Any U-NII device that operates in the 5.15-5.25 GHz band shall
use a transmitting antenna that is an integral part of the device.
(e) Within the 5.15-5.25 GHz band, U-NII devices will be restricted
to indoor operations to reduce any potential for harmful interference to
co-channel MSS operations.
(f) U-NII devices are subject to the radio frequency radiation
exposure requirements specified in Sec. 1.1307(b), Sec. 2.1091 and
Sec. 2.1093 of this chapter, as appropriate. All equipment shall be
considered to operate in a ``general population/uncontrolled''
environment. Applications for equipment authorization of devices
operating under this section must contain a statement confirming
compliance with these requirements for both fundamental emissions and
unwanted emissions. Technical information showing the basis for this
statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
(g) Manufacturers of U-NII devices are responsible for ensuring
frequency stability such that an emission is maintained within the band
of operation under all conditions of normal operation as specified in
the users manual.
(h) Transmit Power Control (TPC) and Dynamic Frequency Selection
(DFS).
(1) Transmit power control (TPC). U-NII devices operating in the
5.25-5.35 GHz band and the 5.47-5.725 GHz band shall employ a TPC
mechanism. The U-NII device is required to have the capability to
operate at least 6 dB below the mean EIRP value of 30 dBm. A TPC
mechanism is not required for systems with an e.i.r.p. of less than 500
mW.
(2) Radar Detection Function of Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS).
U-NII devices operating in the 5.25-5.35 GHz and 5.47-5.725 GHz bands
shall employ a DFS radar detection mechanism to detect the presence of
radar systems and to avoid co-channel operation with radar systems. The
minimum DFS detection threshold for devices with a maximum e.i.r.p. of
200 mW to 1 W is -64 dBm. For devices that operate with less than 200 mW
e.i.r.p. the minimum detection threshold is -62 dBm. The detection
threshold is the received power averaged over 1 microsecond referenced
to a 0 dBi antenna. The DFS process shall be required to provide a
uniform spreading of the loading over all the available channels.
(i) Operational Modes. The DFS requirement applies to the following
operational modes:
(A) The requirement for channel availability check time applies in
the master operational mode.
(B) The requirement for channel move time applies in both the master
and slave operational modes.
[[Page 840]]
(ii) Channel Availability Check Time. A U-NII device shall check if
there is a radar system already operating on the channel before it can
initiate a transmission on a channel and when it has to move to a new
channel. The U-NII device may start using the channel if no radar signal
with a power level greater than the interference threshold values listed
in paragraph (h)(2) of this part, is detected within 60 seconds.
(iii) Channel Move Time. After a radar's presence is detected, all
transmissions shall cease on the operating channel within 10 seconds.
Transmissions during this period shall consist of normal traffic for a
maximum of 200 ms after detection of the radar signal. In addition,
intermittent management and control signals can be sent during the
remaining time to facilitate vacating the operating channel.
(iv) Non-occupancy Period. A channel that has been flagged as
containing a radar system, either by a channel availability check or in-
service monitoring, is subject to a non-occupancy period of at least 30
minutes. The non-occupancy period starts at the time when the radar
system is detected.
[63 FR 40836, July 31, 1998, as amended at 69 FR 2687, Jan. 20, 2004]
Effective Date Note: At 69 FR 54036, Sept. 7, 2004, Sec. 15.407 was
amended by revising paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(6) and by removing and
reserving paragraph (d), effective Oct. 7, 2004. For the convenience of
the user, the revised text is set forth as follows:
Sec. 15.407 General technical requirements.
(a) * * *
(1) For the band 5.15-5.25 GHz, the maximum conducted output power
over the frequency band of operation shall not exceed the lesser of 50
mW or 4 dBm + 10 log B, where B is the 26-dB emission bandwidth in MHz.
In addition, the peak power spectral density shall not exceed 4 dBm in
any 1-MHz band. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater
than 6 dBi are used, both the maximum conducted output power and the
peak power spectral density shall be reduced by the amount in dB that
the directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi.
(2) For the 5.25-5.35 GHz and 5.47-5.725 GHz bands, the maximum
conducted output power over the frequency bands of operation shall not
exceed the lesser of 250 mW or 11 dBm + 10 log B, where B is the 26 dB
emission bandwidth in megahertz. In addition, the peak power spectral
density shall not exceed 11 dBm in any 1 megahertz band. If transmitting
antennas of directional gain greater than 6 dBi are used, both the
maximum conducted output power and the peak power spectral density shall
be reduced by the amount in dB that the directional gain of the antenna
exceeds 6 dBi.
(3) For the band 5.725-5.825 GHz, the maximum conducted output power
over the frequency band of operation shall not exceed the lesser of 1 W
or 17 dBm + 10 log B, where B is the 26-dB emission bandwidth in MHz. In
addition, the peak power spectral density shall not exceed 17 dBm in any
1-MHz band. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater than 6
dBi are used, both the maximum conducted output power and the peak power
spectral density shall be reduced by the amount in dB that the
directional gain of the antenna exceeds 6 dBi. However, fixed point-to-
point U-NII devices operating in this band may employ transmitting
antennas with directional gain up to 23 dBi without any corresponding
reduction in the transmitter peak output power or peak power spectral
density. For fixed, point-to-point U-NII transmitters that employ a
directional antenna gain greater than 23 dBi, a 1 dB reduction in peak
transmitter power and peak power spectral density for each 1 dB of
antenna gain in excess of 23 dBi would be required. Fixed, point-to-
point operations exclude the use of point-to-multipoint systems,
omnidirectional applications, and multiple collocated transmitters
transmitting the same information. The operator of the U-NII device, or
if the equipment is professionally installed, the installer, is
responsible for ensuring that systems employing high gain directional
antennas are used exclusively for fixed, point-to-point operations.
Note to paragraph (a)(3):
The Commission strongly recommends that parties employing U-NII
devices to provide critical communications services should determine if
there are any nearby Government radar systems that could affect their
operation.
(4) The maximum conducted output power must be measured over any
interval of continuous transmission using instrumentation calibrated in
terms of an rms-equivalent voltage. The measurement results shall be
properly adjusted for any instrument limitations, such as detector
response times, limited resolution bandwidth capability when compared to
the emission bandwidth, sensitivity, etc., so as to obtain a true peak
measurement conforming to the above definitions for the emission in
question.
(5) The peak power spectral density is measured as a conducted
emission by direct connection of a calibrated test instrument to the
equipment under test. If the device cannot be connected directly,
alternative techniques acceptable to the Commission may be
[[Page 841]]
used. Measurements are made over a bandwidth of 1 MHz or the 26 dB
emission bandwidth of the device, whichever is less. A resolution
bandwidth less than the measurement bandwidth can be used, provided that
the measured power is integrated to show total power over the
measurement bandwidth. If the resolution bandwidth is approximately
equal to the measurement bandwidth, and much less than the emission
bandwidth of the equipment under test, the measured results shall be
corrected to account for any difference between the resolution bandwidth
of the test instrument and its actual noise bandwidth.
(6) The ratio of the peak excursion of the modulation envelope
(measured using a peak hold function) to the maximum conducted output
power (measured as specified above) shall not exceed 13 dB across any 1
MHz bandwidth or the emission bandwidth whichever is less.
* * * * *
Subpart F_Ultra-Wideband Operation
Source: 67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002, unless otherwise noted.
Sec. 15.501 Scope.
This subpart sets out the regulations for unlicensed ultra-wideband
transmission systems.
Sec. 15.503 Definitions.
(a) UWB bandwidth. For the purpose of this subpart, the UWB
bandwidth is the frequency band bounded by the points that are 10 dB
below the highest radiated emission, as based on the complete
transmission system including the antenna. The upper boundary is
designated fH and the lower boundary is designated
fL. The frequency at which the highest radiated emission
occurs is designated fM.
(b) Center frequency. The center frequency, fC, equals
(fH + fL)/2.
(c) Fractional bandwidth. The fractional bandwidth equals
2(fH-fL)/ (fH + fL).
(d) Ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitter. An intentional radiator that,
at any point in time, has a fractional bandwidth equal to or greater
than 0.20 or has a UWB bandwidth equal to or greater than 500 MHz,
regardless of the fractional bandwidth.
(e) Imaging system. A general category consisting of ground
penetrating radar systems, medical imaging systems, wall imaging systems
through-wall imaging systems and surveillance systems. As used in this
subpart, imaging systems do not include systems designed to detect the
location of tags or systems used to transfer voice or data information.
(f) Ground penetrating radar (GPR) system. A field disturbance
sensor that is designed to operate only when in contact with, or within
one meter of, the ground for the purpose of detecting or obtaining the
images of buried objects or determining the physical properties within
the ground. The energy from the GPR is intentionally directed down into
the ground for this purpose.
(g) Medical imaging system. A field disturbance sensor that is
designed to detect the location or movement of objects within the body
of a person or animal.
(h) Wall imaging system. A field disturbance sensor that is designed
to detect the location of objects contained within a ``wall'' or to
determine the physical properties within the ``wall.'' The ``wall'' is a
concrete structure, the side of a bridge, the wall of a mine or another
physical structure that is dense enough and thick enough to absorb the
majority of the signal transmitted by the imaging system. This category
of equipment does not include products such as ``stud locators'' that
are designed to locate objects behind gypsum, plaster or similar walls
that are not capable of absorbing the transmitted signal.
(i) Through-wall imaging system. A field disturbance sensor that is
designed to detect the location or movement of persons or objects that
are located on the other side of an opaque structure such as a wall or a
ceiling. This category of equipment may include products such as ``stud
locators'' that are designed to locate objects behind gypsum, plaster or
similar walls that are not thick enough or dense enough to absorb the
transmitted signal.
(j) Surveillance system. A field disturbance sensor used to
establish a stationary RF perimeter field that is used
[[Page 842]]
for security purposes to detect the intrusion of persons or objects.
(k) EIRP. Equivalent isotropically radiated power, i.e., the product
of the power supplied to the antenna and the antenna gain in a given
direction relative to an isotropic antenna. The EIRP, in terms of dBm,
can be converted to a field strength, in dBuV/m at 3 meters, by adding
95.2. As used in this subpart, EIRP refers to the highest signal
strength measured in any direction and at any frequency from the UWB
device, as tested in accordance with the procedures specified in Sec.
15.31(a) and 15.523 of this chapter.
(l) Law enforcement, fire and emergency rescue organizations. As
used in this subpart, this refers to those parties eligible to obtain a
license from the FCC under the eligibility requirements specified in
Sec. 90.20(a)(1) of this chapter.
(m) Hand held. As used in this subpart, a hand held device is a
portable device, such as a lap top computer or a PDA, that is primarily
hand held while being operated and that does not employ a fixed
infrastructure.
Sec. 15.505 Cross reference.
(a) Except where specifically stated otherwise within this subpart,
the provisions of subparts A and B and of Sec. Sec. 15.201 through
15.204 and 15.207 of subpart C of this part apply to unlicensed UWB
intentional radiators. The provisions of Sec. 15.35(c) and 15.205 do
not apply to devices operated under this subpart. The provisions of
Footnote US 246 to the Table of Frequency Allocations contained in Sec.
2.106 of this chapter does not apply to devices operated under this
subpart.
(b) The requirements of this subpart apply only to the radio
transmitter, i.e., the intentional radiator, contained in the UWB
device. Other aspects of the operation of a UWB device may be subject to
requirements contained elsewhere in this chapter. In particular, a UWB
device that contains digital circuitry not directly associated with the
operation of the transmitter also is subject to the requirements for
unintentional radiators in subpart B of this part. Similarly, an
associated receiver that operates (tunes) within the frequency range 30
MHz to 960 MHz is subject to the requirements in subpart B of this part.
Sec. 15.507 Marketing of UWB equipment.
In some cases, the operation of UWB devices is limited to specific
parties, e.g., law enforcement, fire and rescue organizations operating
under the auspices of a state or local government. The marketing of UWB
devices must be directed solely to parties eligible to operate the
equipment. The responsible party, as defined in Sec. 2.909 of this
chapter, is responsible for ensuring that the equipment is marketed only
to eligible parties. Marketing of the equipment in any other manner may
be considered grounds for revocation of the grant of certification
issued for the equipment.
Sec. 15.509 Technical requirements for ground penetrating radars and
wall imaging systems.
(a) The UWB bandwidth of an imaging system operating under the
provisions of this section must be below 10.6 GHz.
(b) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
GPRs and wall imaging systems operated for purposes associated with law
enforcement, fire fighting, emergency rescue, scientific research,
commercial mining, or construction.
(1) Parties operating this equipment must be eligible for licensing
under the provisions of part 90 of this chapter.
(2) The operation of imaging systems under this section requires
coordination, as detailed in Sec. 15.525.
(c) A GPR that is designed to be operated while being hand held and
a wall imaging system shall contain a manually operated switch that
causes the transmitter to cease operation within 10 seconds of being
released by the operator. In lieu of a switch located on the imaging
system, it is permissible to operate an imaging system by remote control
provided the imaging system ceases transmission within 10 seconds of the
remote switch being released by the operator.
(d) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
from a device operating under
[[Page 843]]
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610.................................................. -65.3
1610-1990................................................. -53.3
1990-3100................................................. -51.3
3100-10600................................................ -41.3
Above 10600............................................... -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (d) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240................................................. -75.3
1559-1610................................................. -75.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(f) For UWB devices where the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM, is above 960 MHz, there is a
limit on the peak level of the emissions contained within a 50 MHz
bandwidth centered on fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
[68 FR 19749, Apr. 22, 2003]
Sec. 15.510 Technical requirements for through D-wall imaging systems.
(a) The UWB bandwidth of an imaging system operating under the
provisions of this section must be below 960 MHz or the center
frequency, fC, and the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM, must be contained between 1990
MHz and 10600 MHz.
(b) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
through-wall imaging systems operated by law enforcement, emergency
rescue or firefighting organizations that are under the authority of a
local or state government.
(c) For through-wall imaging systems operating with the UWB
bandwidth below 960 MHz:
(1) Parties operating this equipment must be eligible for licensing
under the provisions of part 90 of this chapter.
(2) The operation of these imaging systems requires coordination, as
detailed in Sec. 15.525.
(3) The imaging system shall contain a manually operated switch that
causes the transmitter to cease operation within 10 seconds of being
released by the operator. In lieu of a switch located on the imaging
system, it is permissible to operate an imaging system by remote control
provided the imaging system ceases transmission within 10 seconds of the
remote switch being released by the operator.
(4) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
shall not exceed the following average limits when measured using a
resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610.................................................. -65.3
1610-1990................................................. -53.3
Above 1990................................................ -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (c)(4) of this section, emissions from these imaging
systems shall not exceed the following average limits when measured
using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240................................................. -75.3
1559-1610................................................. -75.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) For equipment operating with fC and fM
between 1990 MHz and 10600 MHz:
(1) Parties operating this equipment must hold a license issued by
the Federal Communications Commission to operate a transmitter in the
Public Safety Radio Pool under part 90 of this chapter. The license may
be held by the organization for which the UWB operator works on a paid
or volunteer basis.
(2) This equipment may be operated only for law enforcement
applications, the providing of emergency services, and necessary
training operations.
(3) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz shall not exceed the
[[Page 844]]
emission levels in Sec. 15.209 of this chapter. The radiated emissions
above 960 MHz shall not exceed the following average limits when
measured using a resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610.................................................. -46.3
1610-10600................................................ -41.3
Above 10600............................................... -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
paragraph (d)(3) of this section, emissions from these imaging systems
shall not exceed the following average limits when measured using a
resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240................................................. -56.3
1559-1610................................................. -56.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
(e) Through-wall imaging systems operating under the provisions of
this section shall bear the following or similar statement in a
conspicuous location on the device: ``Operation of this device is
restricted to law enforcement, emergency rescue and firefighter
personnel. Operation by any other party is a violation of 47 U.S.C. 301
and could subject the operator to serious legal penalties.''
[68 FR 19750, Apr. 22, 2003]
Sec. 15.511 Technical requirements for surveillance systems.
(a) The UWB bandwidth of an imaging system operating under the
provisions of this section must be contained between 1990 MHz and 10,600
MHz.
(b) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
fixed surveillance systems operated by law enforcement, fire or
emergency rescue organizations or by manufacturers licensees, petroleum
licensees or power licensees as defined in Sec. 90.7 of this chapter.
(1) Parties operating under the provisions of this section must be
eligible for licensing under the provisions of part 90 of this chapter.
(2) The operation of imaging systems under this section requires
coordination, as detailed in Sec. 15.525.
(c) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
from a device operating under the provisions of this section shall not
exceed the following average limits when measured using a resolution
bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610.................................................. -53.3
1610-1990................................................. -51.3
1990-10600................................................ -41.3
Above 10600............................................... -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (c) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240................................................. -63.3
1559-1610................................................. -63.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
(f) Imaging systems operating under the provisions of this section
shall bear the following or similar statement in a conspicuous location
on the device: ``Operation of this device is restricted to law
enforcement, fire and rescue officials, public utilities, and industrial
entities. Operation by any other party is a violation of 47 U.S.C. 301
and could subject the operator to serious legal penalties.''
[68 FR 19750, Apr. 22, 2003]
[[Page 845]]
Sec. 15.513 Technical requirements for medical imaging systems.
(a) The UWB bandwidth of an imaging system operating under the
provisions of this section must be contained between 3100 MHz and 10,600
MHz.
(b) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to
medical imaging systems used at the direction of, or under the
supervision of, a licensed health care practitioner. The operation of
imaging systems under this section requires coordination, as detailed in
Sec. 15.525.
(c) A medical imaging system shall contain a manually operated
switch that causes the transmitter to cease operation within 10 seconds
of being released by the operator. In lieu of a switch located on the
imaging system, it is permissible to operate an imaging system by remote
control provided the imaging system ceases transmission within 10
seconds of the remote switch being released by the operator.
(d) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
from a device operating under the provisions of this section shall not
exceed the following average limits when measured using a resolution
bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610.................................................. -65.3
1610-1990................................................. -53.3
011990-3100............................................... -51.3
3100-10600................................................ -41.3
Above 10600............................................... -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (d) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240................................................. -75.3
1559-1610................................................. -53.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(f) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
[68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003]
Sec. 15.515 Technical requirements for vehicular radar systems.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to UWB
field disturbance sensors mounted in terrestrial transportation
vehicles. These devices shall operate only when the vehicle is
operating, e.g., the engine is running. Operation shall occur only upon
specific activation, such as upon starting the vehicle, changing gears,
or engaging a turn signal.
(b) The UWB bandwidth of a vehicular radar system operating under
the provisions of this section shall be contained between 22 GHz and 29
GHz. In addition, the center frequency, fC, and the frequency
at which the highest level emission occurs, fM, must be
greater than 24.075 GHz.
(c) Following proper installation, vehicular radar systems shall
attenuate any emissions within the 23.6-24.0 GHz band that appear 38
degrees or greater above the horizontal plane by 25 dB below the limit
specified in paragraph (d) of this section. For equipment authorized,
manufactured or imported on or after January 1, 2005, this level of
attenuation shall be 25 dB for any emissions within the 23.6-24.0 GHz
band that appear 30 degrees or greater above the horizontal plane. For
equipment authorized, manufactured or imported on or after January 1,
2010, this level of attenuation shall be 30 dB for any emissions within
the 23.6-24.0 GHz band that appear 30 degrees or greater above the
horizontal plane. For equipment authorized, manufactured or imported on
or after January 1, 2014, this level of attenuation shall be 35 dB for
any emissions within the 23.6-24.0 GHz band that appear 30 degrees or
greater above the horizontal plane. This level of attenuation can be
achieved through the antenna directivity, through a reduction in output
power or any other means.
(d) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating
[[Page 846]]
under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the emission
levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz from a
device operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed
the following average limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth
of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610............................................. -75.3
1610-22,000.......................................... -61.3
22,000-29,000........................................ -41.3
29,000-31,000........................................ -51.3
Above 31,000......................................... -61.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (d) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240............................................ -85.3
1559-1610............................................ -85.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(f) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
Sec. 15.517 Technical requirements for indoor UWB systems.
(a) Operation under the provisions of this section is limited to UWB
transmitters employed solely for indoor operation.
(1) Indoor UWB devices, by the nature of their design, must be
capable of operation only indoors. The necessity to operate with a fixed
indoor infrastructure, e.g., a transmitter that must be connected to the
AC power lines, may be considered sufficient to demonstrate this.
(2) The emissions from equipment operated under this section shall
not be intentionally directed outside of the building in which the
equipment is located, such as through a window or a doorway, to perform
an outside function, such as the detection of persons about to enter a
building.
(3) The use of outdoor mounted antennas, e.g., antennas mounted on
the outside of a building or on a telephone pole, or any other outdoors
infrastructure is prohibited.
(4) Field disturbance sensors installed inside of metal or
underground storage tanks are considered to operate indoors provided the
emissions are directed towards the ground.
(5) A communications system shall transmit only when the intentional
radiator is sending information to an associated receiver.
(b) The UWB bandwidth of a UWB system operating under the provisions
of this section must be contained between 3100 MHz and 10,600 MHz.
(c) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
from a device operating under the provisions of this section shall not
exceed the following average limits when measured using a resolution
bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610............................................. -75.3
1610-1990............................................ -53.3
1990-3100............................................ -51.3
3100-10600........................................... -41.3
Above 10600.......................................... -51.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (c) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240............................................ -85.3
1559-1610............................................ -85.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
[[Page 847]]
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
(f) UWB systems operating under the provisions of this section shall
bear the following or similar statement in a conspicuous location on the
device or in the instruction manual supplied with the device:
``This equipment may only be operated indoors. Operation outdoors is
in violation of 47 U.S.C. 301 and could subject the operator to serious
legal penalties.''
[67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002; 67 FR 39632, June 10, 2002]
Sec. 15.519 Technical requirements for hand held UWB systems.
(a) UWB devices operating under the provisions of this section must
be hand held, i.e., they are relatively small devices that are primarily
hand held while being operated and do not employ a fixed infrastructure.
(1) A UWB device operating under the provisions of this section
shall transmit only when it is sending information to an associated
receiver. The UWB intentional radiator shall cease transmission within
10 seconds unless it receives an acknowledgement from the associated
receiver that its transmission is being received. An acknowledgment of
reception must continue to be received by the UWB intentional radiator
at least every 10 seconds or the UWB device must cease transmitting.
(2) The use of antennas mounted on outdoor structures, e.g.,
antennas mounted on the outside of a building or on a telephone pole, or
any fixed outdoors infrastructure is prohibited. Antennas may be mounted
only on the hand held UWB device.
(3) UWB devices operating under the provisions of this section may
operate indoors or outdoors.
(b) The UWB bandwidth of a device operating under the provisions of
this section must be contained between 3100 MHz and 10,600 MHz.
(c) The radiated emissions at or below 960 MHz from a device
operating under the provisions of this section shall not exceed the
emission levels in Sec. 15.209. The radiated emissions above 960 MHz
from a device operating under the provisions of this section shall not
exceed the following average limits when measured using a resolution
bandwidth of 1 MHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
960-1610............................................ -75.3
1610-1990........................................... -63.3
1990-3100........................................... -61.3
3100-10600.......................................... -41.3
Above 10600......................................... -61.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) In addition to the radiated emission limits specified in the
table in paragraph (c) of this section, UWB transmitters operating under
the provisions of this section shall not exceed the following average
limits when measured using a resolution bandwidth of no less than 1 kHz:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frequency in MHz EIRP in dBm
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1164-1240............................................ -85.3
1559-1610............................................ -85.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) There is a limit on the peak level of the emissions contained
within a 50 MHz bandwidth centered on the frequency at which the highest
radiated emission occurs, fM. That limit is 0 dBm EIRP. It is
acceptable to employ a different resolution bandwidth, and a
correspondingly different peak emission limit, following the procedures
described in Sec. 15.521.
[67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002; 67 FR 39632, June 10, 2002]
Sec. 15.521 Technical requirements applicable to all UWB devices.
(a) UWB devices may not be employed for the operation of toys.
Operation onboard an aircraft, a ship or a satellite is prohibited.
(b) Manufacturers and users are reminded of the provisions of
Sec. Sec. 15.203 and 15.204.
(c) Emissions from digital circuitry used to enable the operation of
the UWB transmitter shall comply with the limits in Sec. 15.209, rather
than the limits specified in this subpart, provided it can be clearly
demonstrated that those emissions from the UWB device are due solely to
emissions from digital circuitry contained within the transmitter and
that the emissions are not intended to be radiated from the
transmitter's antenna. Emissions from associated digital devices, as
defined in Sec. 15.3(k), e.g., emissions from digital circuitry used to
control additional
[[Page 848]]
functions or capabilities other than the UWB transmission, are subject
to the limits contained in Subpart B of this part.
(d) Within the tables in Sec. Sec. 15.509, 15.511, 15.513, 15.515,
15.517, and 15.519, the tighter emission limit applies at the band
edges. Radiated emission levels at and below 960 MHz are based on
measurements employing a CISPR quasi-peak detector. Radiated emission
levels above 960 MHz are based on RMS average measurements over a 1 MHz
resolution bandwidth. The RMS average measurement is based on the use of
a spectrum analyzer with a resolution bandwidth of 1 MHz, an RMS
detector, and a 1 millisecond or less averaging time. If pulse gating is
employed where the transmitter is quiescent for intervals that are long
compared to the nominal pulse repetition interval, measurements shall be
made with the pulse train gated on. Alternative measurement procedures
may be considered by the Commission.
(e) The frequency at which the highest radiated emission occurs,
fM, must be contained within the UWB bandwidth.
(f) Imaging systems may be employed only for the type of information
exchange described in their specific definitions contained in Sec.
15.503. The detection of tags or the transfer or data or voice
information is not permitted under the standards for imaging systems.
(g) When a peak measurement is required, it is acceptable to use a
resolution bandwidth other than the 50 MHz specified in this subpart.
This resolution bandwidth shall not be lower than 1 MHz or greater than
50 MHz, and the measurement shall be centered on the frequency at which
the highest radiated emission occurs, fM. If a resolution
bandwidth other than 50 MHz is employed, the peak EIRP limit shall be 20
log (RBW/50) dBm where RBW is the resolution bandwidth in megahertz that
is employed. This may be converted to a peak field strength level at 3
meters using E(dBuV/m) = P(dBm EIRP) + 95.2. If RBW is greater than 3
MHz, the application for certification filed with the Commission must
contain a detailed description of the test procedure, calibration of the
test setup, and the instrumentation employed in the testing.
(h) The highest frequency employed in Sec. 15.33 to determine the
frequency range over which radiated measurements are made shall be based
on the center frequency, fC, unless a higher frequency is
generated within the UWB device. For measuring emission levels, the
spectrum shall be investigated from the lowest frequency generated in
the UWB transmitter, without going below 9 kHz, up to the frequency
range shown in Sec. 15.33(a) or up to fC + 3/(pulse width in
seconds), whichever is higher. There is no requirement to measure
emissions beyond 40 GHz provided fC is less than 10 GHz;
beyond 100 GHz if fC is at or above 10 GHz and below 30 GHz;
or beyond 200 GHz if fC is at or above 30 GHz.
(i) The prohibition in Sec. 2.201(f) and 15.5(d) of this chapter
against Class B (damped wave) emissions does not apply to UWB devices
operating under this subpart.
(j) Responsible parties are reminded of the other standards and
requirements cross referenced in Sec. 15.505, such as a limit on
emissions conducted onto the AC power lines.
[67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003]
Sec. 15.523 Measurement procedures.
Measurements shall be made in accordance with the procedures
specified by the Commission.
Sec. 15.525 Coordination requirements.
(a) UWB imaging systems require coordination through the FCC before
the equipment may be used. The operator shall comply with any
constraints on equipment usage resulting from this coordination.
(b) The users of UWB imaging devices shall supply operational areas
to the FCC Office of Engineering and Technology, which shall coordinate
this information with the Federal Government through the National
Telecommunications and Information Administration. The information
provided by the UWB operator shall include the name, address and other
pertinent contact information of the user, the desired geographical
area(s) of operation, and the FCC ID number and
[[Page 849]]
other nomenclature of the UWB device. If the imaging device is intended
to be used for mobile applications, the geographical area(s) of
operation may be the state(s) or county(ies) in which the equipment will
be operated. The operator of an imaging system used for fixed operation
shall supply a specific geographical location or the address at which
the equipment will be operated. This material shall be submitted to
Frequency Coordination Branch, OET, Federal Communications Commission,
445 12th Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20554, Attn: UWB Coordination.
(c) The manufacturers, or their authorized sales agents, must inform
purchasers and users of their systems of the requirement to undertake
detailed coordination of operational areas with the FCC prior to the
equipment being operated.
(d) Users of authorized, coordinated UWB systems may transfer them
to other qualified users and to different locations upon coordination of
change of ownership or location to the FCC and coordination with
existing authorized operations.
(e) The FCC/NTIA coordination report shall identify those
geographical areas within which the operation of an imaging system
requires additional coordination or within which the operation of an
imaging system is prohibited. If additional coordination is required for
operation within specific geographical areas, a local coordination
contact will be provided. Except for operation within these designated
areas, once the information requested on the UWB imaging system is
submitted to the FCC no additional coordination with the FCC is required
provided the reported areas of operation do not change. If the area of
operation changes, updated information shall be submitted to the FCC
following the procedure in paragraph (b) of this section.
(f) The coordination of routine UWB operations shall not take longer
than 15 business days from the receipt of the coordination request by
NTIA. Special temporary operations may be handled with an expedited
turn-around time when circumstances warrant. The operation of UWB
systems in emergency situations involving the safety of life or property
may occur without coordination provided a notification procedure,
similar to that contained in Sec. 2.405(a) through (e) of this chapter,
is followed by the UWB equipment user.
[67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003]
Effective Date Note: At 68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003, Sec. 15.525 was
amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (e). This amendment contains
information collection and recordkeeping requirements and will not
become effective until approval has been given by the Office of
Management and Budget.