RED is a radio equipment directive adopted by the European Union on June 13, 2016. Its purpose is to create a set of rules to regulate the market for such equipment. It ensures the standardization of devices, efficient use of radio frequencies, user safety, and protection against data theft and fraud. The RED directive also serves as the basis for additional standards that relate to the following aspects:
RED certification allows you to sell equipment in all 28 countries of the European Union. It is the third-largest electronics market by revenue after the United States and China. Moreover, many countries adopted the CE RED standard as their national regulation. Among them are Australia and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
All radio frequency emitting sources sold in the EU are subject to RED testing. Unlike the previous R&TTE standard, the new directive does not set limits on the frequency range and supply voltage of the device. Most often, customers apply for certification of such equipment:
The RED directive does not apply to amateur communication devices. Examples are Walkie-Talkies, which are pre-tuned to a specific waveform and which operate over a short distance. RED certification does not apply to equipment used by the army, police, and national security services. The list of exceptions also includes:
As set forth in the appendices of the RED directive, there are three ways for a manufacturer to bring a product to the market:
RED testing is intended to confirm product compliance with EU regulations for effective and safe use of radio frequencies. Devices must not interfere with other equipment and must not occupy free bands unless required.
To pass the RED certification, the manufacturer must provide the following information:
On average, the RED certification procedure 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.
The responsibilities of a company seeking RED certification are not limited to the submission of technical documentation. It must certify that its product is approved for use in at least one European Union country. It is also required to apply the CE marking to the product or packaging. If this is not possible, it must publish information about geographical limitations for the use of equipment, maintain a register of complaints, and submit samples of products to authorized bodies, if necessary. If the product does not comply with the CE RED regulations, it must be withdrawn from sale and recalled.
An authorized company selling equipment on the EU market must ensure that the products meet all the requirements of the RED standard. It is forbidden to take any action that may alter the technical characteristics and properties of the product. If its representatives have any doubts about the CE RED compliance of equipment, the company must suspend selling the equipment and withdraw the equipment already supplied to customers.
The CE RED standard is valid in 28 EU countries. In addition, it is voluntarily accepted by some other states. Its standards are quite strict and include requirements for product safety but do not set limits on the frequency range of the equipment.
The need for the CE RED marking arose because of the difference between the standards and the respective testing procedure and the general CE rules. The RED directive focuses specifically on intentional emitters, that is, devices that purposefully use radio waves to perform their primary function. For testing, a comprehensive approach is applied, which includes assessment of the convenience, safety, efficiency, and reliability of the device.
The FCC certification is mandatory for radio equipment sold in the United States. Its requirements are less strict. For example, testing is not required for products that operate at frequencies less than 9 kHz. In addition, safety standards are set by another regulatory agency (OSHA). However, the testing procedure is stricter, and tests may be conducted only by laboratories accredited by the federal agency.
Our company will help you bring your electronic products to the markets of the European Union, Australia, and other countries. We offer a full range of services related to CE RED certification from drawing up a work plan to obtaining documents. We offer transparent prices, clear service timelines, and full technical support at all stages of the procedure. Submit an application online to learn more about RED certification.
What Is RED CE Certification? What Is the Importance of the Radio Equipment Directive? What Products Need the RED Mark? What Products Can Be Sold Without the RED Mark? How to Apply for RED Certification? How to Get RED Certification? Manufact...
Read More >>What Is RED CE Certification? What Is the Importance of the Radio Equipment Directive? What Products Need the RED Mark? What Products Can Be Sold Without the RED Mark? How to Apply for RED Certification? How to Get RED Certification? Manufact...
Read More >>
