Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU

Thinking of entering the European market with your wireless devices? If your products use radio frequencies to communicate, then complying with the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU is crucial. Are you looking to navigate the complexities of CE RED certification for your radio equipment?  360 Compliance is here to offer expert guidance and support through every step of the certification process, ensuring a smooth market entry.

What is CE RED Certification?

CE RED Certification is a crucial element within the European Union’s regulatory landscape, intimately tied to the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU adopted on June 13, 2016. Its objectives include standardizing devices, ensuring efficient use of radio frequencies (rf), prioritizing user safety, and guarding against data theft and fraud. The RED directive serves as the foundation for additional standards covering various aspects:

• emergency services calling;
• equipment compatibility;
• privacy protection;
• corporate secrecy;
• crime prevention;
• ensuring confidential communications of intelligence services.

The Importance of the Radio Equipment Directive

RED certification opens the door to selling equipment in all 27 countries of the European Union, the third-largest electronics market by revenue globally. Additionally, many countries, including Australia and those in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), have adopted the CE RED standard as their national regulation.

What Products Need the RED Mark?

All radio frequency emitting sources sold in the EU undergo RED testing. Unlike the previous R&TTE standard, the new directive does not impose any limits on device frequency range or supply voltage. Commonly certified equipment includes:

• smartphones and cell phones;
• radio frequency identifiers (RFID);
• common band transmitters (CB);
• stationary and mobile satellite systems;
• wireless networking equipment;
• stationary wireless telephones;
• industrial, scientific, and medical standard (ISM) transmitters;
• avionics;
• navigation systems;
• telemetry for remote control of equipment;
• wireless headphones and microphones, etc.

What Products Can Be Sold Without the RED Mark?

The RED directive does not apply to amateur communication devices like pre-tuned Walkie-Talkies for short-distance communication. Exceptions also include equipment used by the military, police, and national security services. For example, aircraft communications and navigation systems follow a separate standard (EC216/2008), and shipboard radio equipment adheres to EN 60945.

How to Apply for RED Certification?

Manufacturers can bring a product to market through certification for conformity to harmonized EU standards, CE RED testing under authorized bodies, or notification of a certified quality system. The certification process involves preparing technical documentation, conducting tests, and issuing a Declaration of Conformity.

CE certification of Radio Equipment

RED testing confirms product compliance with EU regulations for the effective and safe use of radio frequencies. Manufacturers must provide :

• technical documentation, including a description of the appearance, functions, interface, and software of the device;
• a copy of the Declaration of Conformity;
• if possible, a copy of the Certificate of Conformity to EU standards;
• instructions for use, including accessories and software.

The certification procedure typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. For complex products, which must conform to a large number of regulations, the time frame extends to 8 to 12 weeks. 

Manufacturer’s Responsibility

Companies seeking RED certification must certify their product for use in at least one EU country and submit technical documentation. Responsibilities include applying CE marking, publishing geographical limitations, maintaining complaint registers, and recalling non-compliant products.

Distributor Responsibility

Authorized companies selling equipment in the EU must ensure products meet RED standards. Altering technical characteristics is forbidden, and doubts about CE RED compliance require suspension of sales and withdrawal of supplied equipment.

Differences Between RED and FCC Certificates

CE RED and FCC Certificates are regulatory approvals for electronic devices in the EU and the United States, respectively. CE RED emphasizes safety without frequency limits, addressing intentional emitters with a comprehensive assessment. In contrast, FCC certification is mandatory for United States radio equipment and has less stringent overall requirements but enforces rigorous testing exclusively by accredited laboratories. Manufacturers need to grasp these distinctions for compliance in their target markets.

Easy CE RED Certification with 360Compliance

360Compliance facilitates bringing electronic products to the European Union, Australia, and other markets. Choosing 360 Compliance means securing a partner who not only understands the technicalities of Directive 2014/53/EU but also offers tailored solutions to ensure your radio equipment successfully meets EU standards. Offering a full range of services related to CE RED certification, including drawing up work plans and obtaining documents, the company ensures transparent prices, clear service timelines, and full technical support at all stages of the procedure. Apply online to learn more about RED certification.