Introduction
When building an Internet‑of‑Things (IoT) device, it’s not enough to have a clever design and robust firmware—you must also make sure your hardware complies with the regulatory and network standards of each market you want to enter. Four key certification schemes play a central role for wireless devices:
- FCC (United States)
- CE/RED (European Union)
- PTCRB (North American cellular networks)
- GCF (Global Certification Forum)
Understanding the purpose and scope of each scheme helps developers plan certification early and avoid costly redesigns.
FCC certification – avoiding interference and protecting consumers
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission regulates all electronic equipment that may emit radio frequency (RF) energy. Its goal is to protect consumers and prevent RF interference. Devices that unintentionally radiate RF energy (such as IT equipment and power adapters) are treated differently from devices that intentionally transmit radio signals (such as Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth modules).
- Unintentional radiators can often be authorized via a Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity (SDoC). The manufacturer self‑tests the device and keeps documentation available for inspection.
- Intentional transmitters (and certain unintentional radiators) require a Grant of Equipment Authorization issued by the FCC. Manufacturers must submit test reports, an FCC ID label, photographs and technical documentation. Once approved, the device can legally be marketed in the United States.
The FCC also defines two classes of digital devices. Class A equipment is intended for commercial and industrial environments, while Class B equipment is intended for residential use and must meet stricter RF emission limits. Early pre‑compliance testing helps identify emission issues before formal certification, saving time and expense1.
CE marking – compliance under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
To sell radio equipment in the European Economic Area, manufacturers must affix the CE mark. Under the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU), devices must meet essential requirements for:
- Safety, including protection of health and against electrical hazards
- Electromagnetic compatibility
- Efficient use of the radio spectrum
Manufacturers must perform or commission testing and compile a technical file demonstrating compliance. Once the essential requirements are met, a manufacturer can self‑declare conformity or use a Notified Body if harmonised standards are not applied in full.
Cybersecurity is also becoming part of CE compliance. Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 introduces three new essential requirements for Internet‑connected radio equipment: network protection, protection of personal data and fraud prevention. These requirements take effect on 1 August 2025; after which CE‑marked radio equipment will need to address cybersecurity to remain compliant2.
PTCRB – meeting North American cellular network requirements
While the FCC and CE schemes verify RF emissions and safety, cellular operators in North America require an additional certification called PTCRB. The PTCRB was formed in 1997 by North American mobile operators to ensure devices meet 3GPP standards and will not harm cellular networks. PTCRB certification verifies:
- Protocol conformance (does the device implement LTE‑M/NB‑IoT correctly?)
- Radio performance (does it maintain reliable connections?)
- Carrier feature compliance (does it support required bands and services?)
Without PTCRB approval, network operators may refuse to allow a device on their networks. For IoT developers, using a pre‑certified cellular module can greatly simplify PTCRB testing3.
GCF – enabling global interoperability
The Global Certification Forum (GCF) is a partnership between network operators, device manufacturers and test laboratories founded in 1999. GCF certification provides an independent program to ensure that mobile devices and IoT modules will interoperate across different networks worldwide. It uses 3GPP and other specifications to verify radio and protocol performance. Devices that pass GCF certification have a higher likelihood of performing well on networks and gaining commercial success4.
A developer’s certification checklist
- Start early: consider regulatory requirements during the design phase to avoid expensive rework.
- Choose the right module: using a cellular module that already has FCC/CE/PTCRB/GCF certifications can reduce your own testing burden.
- Prepare documentation: maintain a technical file with schematics, PCB layout, bill of materials, test reports and user manuals.
- Design for compliance: include shielding, filtering and proper PCB layout to minimize RF emissions and noise susceptibility.
- Plan for international markets: check region‑specific requirements (e.g., Japan’s TELEC, Canada’s ISED, Australia’s RCM) if you plan to sell outside the US/EU.
- Address cybersecurity: for Europe, implement secure update mechanisms and data encryption ahead of the 2025 cybersecurity requirements.
Conclusion
Navigating regulatory schemes is a crucial part of product development for IoT hardware. The FCC ensures devices do not cause harmful interference; the CE marking under RED focuses on safety, electromagnetic compatibility and spectrum efficiency; PTCRB validates network‑specific performance for North America; and GCF provides global interoperability. By planning early, leveraging pre‑certified modules and maintaining thorough documentation, developers can streamline certification and bring compliant devices to market faster.
This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or engineering advice.
Disclosure: This article was generated with AI assistance and subsequently fact‑checked and edited by a human to ensure accuracy. It complies with DEV Community guidelines for AI‑assisted content.
Top comments (0)