FCC FCC ID Labeling & Documentation Requirements 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What information is required on an FCC ID label affixed to a certified device?
- The FCC ID number (grantee code + product code) and the statement that the device complies with Part 15 or the applicable FCC rule (Correct answer)
- Only the manufacturer's name and model number
- The full text of FCC Part 15.19 on the label
- The serial number and country of manufacture only
Correct answer: The FCC ID number (grantee code + product code) and the statement that the device complies with Part 15 or the applicable FCC rule
FCC-certified devices must bear the FCC ID (a combination of the 3-5 character grantee code and the product code assigned by the applicant), which identifies the device and links it to the authorization record in the FCC database.
Question 2: What is an 'electronic label' (e-label) and when may it be used instead of a physical FCC label?
- A label displayed on the device's screen that can be accessed through a menu; allowed when the physical device is too small to accommodate a permanent label (Correct answer)
- A label embedded in the device's firmware that is readable by RF scanner
- A label applied to the device's packaging only, not the device itself
- A label submitted electronically to the FCC during the application process
Correct answer: A label displayed on the device's screen that can be accessed through a menu; allowed when the physical device is too small to accommodate a permanent label
FCC rules (Part 2.935) permit electronic labeling where the FCC ID and compliance statements are displayed on the device's screen, accessed through a menu sequence, when the device is too small to bear a permanent physical label.
Question 3: What is the 'grantee code' portion of an FCC ID and who assigns it?
- A 3–5 character alphanumeric code assigned by the FCC to the responsible party (manufacturer/applicant) that uniquely identifies them in the FCC system (Correct answer)
- A code assigned by the TCB to each individual device model
- A code derived from the device's operating frequency
- A code generated automatically by the FCC ID database based on submission date
Correct answer: A 3–5 character alphanumeric code assigned by the FCC to the responsible party (manufacturer/applicant) that uniquely identifies them in the FCC system
The grantee code is the permanent identifier for the applicant (company), assigned by the FCC upon first application, and it forms the first part of every FCC ID associated with that company's certified devices.
Question 4: What must accompany an FCC equipment authorization application in terms of test data?
- A test report from an FCC-recognized accredited laboratory containing measurement results, test conditions, equipment descriptions, and a compliance statement (Correct answer)
- A self-declaration signed by the CEO of the manufacturing company
- Only a block diagram of the device's circuitry without test data if the device is below a certain power level
- A sample of the device only, with no additional documentation required
Correct answer: A test report from an FCC-recognized accredited laboratory containing measurement results, test conditions, equipment descriptions, and a compliance statement
FCC equipment authorization applications must include a formal test report from an accredited, FCC-recognized laboratory documenting all required measurements, equipment descriptions, test configurations, results, and a conclusion on compliance.
Question 5: What is a 'Class II permissive change' under FCC rules, and when is it required?
- A modification to an already-certified device that may affect its emission characteristics, requiring retesting and a new application to the original TCB/FCC (Correct answer)
- Any change to the device's physical appearance or color
- A minor firmware update that does not affect RF emissions, requiring no FCC action
- A change that requires only a new label without any testing
Correct answer: A modification to an already-certified device that may affect its emission characteristics, requiring retesting and a new application to the original TCB/FCC
A Class II permissive change covers modifications to a certified device that could significantly affect RF emissions or other certified parameters, requiring new testing and filing with the original granting TCB or FCC to update the authorization record.
Question 6: What does 'responsible party' mean in FCC equipment authorization rules?
- The entity that ensures the device complies with FCC rules, whose name and contact information must appear in the application and on the authorization grant (Correct answer)
- The test laboratory that performed the compliance testing
- The retailer that sells the device to end users
- The FCC enforcement bureau officer assigned to the device category
Correct answer: The entity that ensures the device complies with FCC rules, whose name and contact information must appear in the application and on the authorization grant
The responsible party is the company or individual who certifies that the device complies with FCC rules, takes legal responsibility for ongoing compliance, and is identified on the FCC grant of equipment authorization.
FCC FCC ID Labeling & Documentation Requirements 1
What information is required on an FCC ID label affixed to a certified device?