FCC Part 15 Radio Frequency Standard

Radio Frequency Devices - Federal Communications Commission regulations for unlicensed radio frequency devices including motorcycle key fobs, remote controls, and wireless automotive communication systems ensuring electromagnetic compatibility and interference prevention. Achieve FCC compliance certification and ensure regulatory approval with professional RF device testing and documentation strategies.

Standard Overview

Regulation Code

47 CFR Part 15

Last Updated

2023-10-01

Status

Active FCC Regulation

Application

RF Device Compliance

FCC Part 15 Device Categories

Unintentional Radiators

Devices that generate RF energy for internal use only

Purpose: Internal RF generation
Examples: ECU processors, displays
Testing: Emission limits

Intentional Radiators

Devices designed to transmit RF signals

Purpose: RF signal transmission
Examples: Key fobs, remote controls
Testing: Comprehensive RF testing

Incidental Radiators

Devices that generate RF energy as a byproduct

Purpose: Non-RF primary function
Examples: Motors, switches
Testing: Basic emission limits

Automotive RF Device Applications

Key Systems

RF compliance for motorcycle and automotive key systems

Key Fobs: 315/433 MHz operation
Remote Start: Intentional radiator
Immobilizer: 125 kHz LF systems

Communication Systems

Wireless communication and connectivity systems

Bluetooth: 2.4 GHz ISM band
WiFi: 802.11 compliance
Cellular: Licensed spectrum

Frequently Asked Questions

What is FCC Part 15?

FCC Part 15 contains regulations for radio frequency devices that operate without an individual license, including motorcycle key fobs, remote controls, and wireless automotive communication systems.

What are the main device categories under FCC Part 15?

FCC Part 15 covers unintentional radiators (devices that generate RF energy for internal use), intentional radiators (devices designed to transmit RF signals), and incidental radiators (devices that generate RF energy as a byproduct).

How does FCC Part 15 apply to motorcycle key systems?

FCC Part 15 regulates motorcycle key fobs and remote controls as intentional radiators, requiring compliance with emission limits, testing procedures, and labeling requirements for wireless communication with vehicle systems.

What testing is required for FCC Part 15 compliance?

Testing requirements include conducted and radiated emissions measurements, spurious emissions testing, antenna requirements verification, and SAR testing for devices used near the body, performed by accredited test laboratories.

Authority Standards & References

Federal Communications Commission

Official FCC Part 15 regulations and equipment authorization procedures

Visit FCC.gov

FCC Equipment Authorization

Equipment authorization database and certification search

Visit FCC Database

ANSI Standards

American National Standards Institute RF testing standards

Visit ANSI.org

IEEE Standards

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers RF standards

Visit IEEE.org