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On October 31, 2024, Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) introduced a new NBTC Standard for Digital Broadcasting Radio Receivers (DAB). The newly established NBTC BS 3004-2567 introduces conformity requirements for digital receivers to improve product quality and ensure compatibility with Thailand’s broadcasting standards.
Effective Dates for the NBTC Standard
The implementation timeline for the new NBTC Standard is as follows:
- For digital broadcasting radio receivers installed in new vehicles: Effective October 31, 2025 (1 year after the announcement date).
- For other digital broadcasting radio receivers: Effective February 28, 2025 (120 days from the announcement date).
Key Highlights of the Announcement
The NBTC’s new regulations outline requirements for different types of radio receivers, conformity assessment processes, and department-specific approval procedures. Below is a summary of the main updates:
1. Traditional FM/AM Receivers
- Traditional FM/AM receivers without digital (DAB) capability do not currently require approval.
- These devices will continue to operate without the need for approval after the new standard becomes effective.
2. FM/AM/DAB Receivers
- FM/AM/DAB receivers do not currently require approval.
- However, once the technical standard is in effect, these devices will require NBTC SDoC (Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity) certification.
Conformity Assessment for Digital Broadcasting Radio Receivers
The updated NBTC Standard outlines the requirements for conformity assessment and certification for digital broadcasting radio receivers:
- Acceptance of Overseas Test Reports: NBTC will accept test reports from overseas test labs, regardless of accreditation status. This includes test reports provided by manufacturers.
- No Sample Testing Required: Local testing in Thailand will not be mandatory.
- Thailand-Specific Requirements:
- Products must support the Thai Profile to display information in the Thai language.
- A user manual in Thai is mandatory. An English user manual can also be included as an additional resource.
- Test Reports: All test reports must address the full range of requirements outlined in the NBTC technical standard.
For detailed guidelines, refer to the official announcement document. A translated draft is available upon request.
Dual Certification Under the NBTC Standard
Products with multiple functionalities (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and DAB digital radio receivers) must undergo separate approvals for each function due to NBTC’s departmental structure.
- Telecommunication Department: Handles approval for telecommunication features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, and WWAN.
- Broadcasting Department: Handles approval for digital broadcasting features, including DAB receivers.
Products with combined functions (e.g., DAB receivers with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi) will require two SDoCs:
- An SDoC for telecommunication functions (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
- An SDoC for broadcasting functions (DAB receiver).
Each SDoC requires a separate application, documentation, and associated costs.
Preparing for Compliance with NBTC BS 3004-2567
To comply with the new technical standard, manufacturers and importers should take the following steps:
- Review Product Specifications: Ensure your products meet Thailand-specific requirements, including Thai Profile language support and user manual translation.
- Obtain Comprehensive Test Reports: Prepare test reports covering all requirements outlined in the NBTC standard. Ensure reports address both telecommunication and broadcasting functionalities if applicable.
- Prepare for Dual SDoCs: For multifunctional devices, plan for separate approvals from both NBTC departments.
- Stay Updated: Follow NBTC updates and ensure compliance timelines are met to avoid market access delays.
Conclusion
Thailand’s NBTC is making strides toward standardizing digital broadcasting radio receivers with the introduction of NBTC BS 3004-2567. These regulations ensure high-quality broadcasting devices while aligning with local requirements. Manufacturers and importers must act promptly to meet the upcoming compliance deadlines and avoid disruptions in market access.
For more detailed guidance or assistance with compliance, contact our experts to streamline the certification process for your products in Thailand.