FCC Resumes Accepting Gear-Authorization Applications; Some Requests Can Be OK'd
As the FCC closure dragged on Friday, the agency reversed course by reopening the equipment authorization system (see 1901180040). That EAS resumption potentially lets some new RF equipment get approval, though particularly complex gear might still need to wait. The Jan. 2 public notice on what the commission was shutting and leaving open during the partial government shutdown said the EAS wouldn't be available, the FCC noted Friday. All other parts of that earlier PN remain effective.
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Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, the Telecommunications Industry Association and others sought reopening of the equipment system (see 1901110017). “This has been a problem and I’m glad" that Chairman Ajit Pai "has listened to my call to reopen this process," Rosenworcel emailed us Friday. "This is only a start. The certification of devices that break new ground is still on hold. At a time when we are working to lead the world in 5G technologies, keeping shut our review of the most innovative products is simply irresponsible.”
Because private, not government, entities play a part in reviewing RF equipment needing federal authorization, that process can continue. "Applications for certification are reviewed and granted by private sector Telecommunications Certification Bodies," the new PN noted. "TCBs are required to enter the application and grant of equipment certification into the EAS before the grant becomes effective. The reactivation of the EAS will enable the TCBs to grant equipment certifications, thereby allowing that equipment to be imported and marketed in the" U.S., it said. "While the EAS will be available to the public, no support will be provided by Commission staff."
Excluded are some would-be products "where the required tests are complex or break new ground," the commission said. "TCBs will continue to be unable to grant equipment certification for products subject to the pre-approval guidance procedure until the FCC resumes normal operations and staff is available." Generally in such instances, certifiers must consult with agency staff under the pre-approval guidance process.
"Most device approvals will be covered by today’s action, which will help eliminate the backlog" and ensure the U.S. can keep 5G leadership, said TIA Senior Vice President-Government Affairs Cinnamon Rogers. "The FCC plays a vital role in ensuring that new products can be approved and brought to market." The group hopes commission staff soon return to work "so that the full panoply of ground-breaking technologies can be made available to consumers,” Rogers added in a statement to us.