The FCC has released updated KDB publications relevant to equipment authorization pre-approval guidance,, transmitter module devices and U-NII 6 GHz devices. These updates are effective as of October 2024 and provide manufacturers, labs and TCBs with important guidance for compliance.
Here are the new document versions published for each KDB:
What devices require FCC guidance prior to a TCB issuing a grant of equipment authorization, and what are the procedures to obtain this guidance?
388624 D02 Pre-Approval Guidance List v18r07
Primary change: removal of PAG Item AGGREG and its associated checklist. For context, the Pre-Approval Guidance List identifies equipment types requiring FCC guidance before a TCB can issue equipment authorization. Each item on the list has a six-character identification code and is organized under six categories: RF Exposure, Sample Submission, EMC Radio Parameters, Administrative, Rule Part Specific, and Hearing Aid Compatibility. The PAG process, which was previously known as the “Permit But Ask” procedure, is further detailed in document 388624 D01.
What is the FCC guidance for equipment authorization of transmitter module devices, and equipment that incorporates transmitter modules?
996369 D01 Module Certification Guide v04r01
The primary focus of this revision was to clarify the treatment of licensed client modules with regard to antenna requirements. In addition to the changes regarding licensed client modules, v04r01 also includes additional clarification for Antenna LMA for Professional Host Installation in section 2.2.4. This section deals with the requirements for modules that are installed in hosts that require professional antenna installation, as permitted by §15.203.
996369 D02 Module Q&A v02r01
The updated question and answer provide a clearer explanation of the different options available, including:
○ Change of FCC ID: This option allows a new party to become the grantee of a certified module and subsequently file for a Class II permissive change to expand the operating environments.
○ New Certification Application: This option allows a new party to obtain a new FCC ID for a complete product using the module as a component or for a separate independent module.
Unlicensed Service Rules and Procedures
What are the requirements for obtaining a Certification for U-NII 6 GHz devices operating in the 5.925-7.125 GHz band under Part 15, Subpart E.
987594 D01 U-NII 6GHz General Requirements v03
987594 D02 U-NII 6 GHz EMC Measurement v03
987594 D03 U-NII 6 GHz QA v03
987594 D04 UN6GHZ Pre-Approval Guidance Checklist v03
This KDB series was updated for the 3rd time since 2021, now with an emphasis of incorporating the new unlicensed rules under FCC 23-86 for very low power (VLP) devices.
Impact on Type Approval and Market Access Requirements? – Yes
Impact on Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? – No
Impact on Spectrum Management? – No
Impact on Technical Standards? – Yes
