Important reminder | FCC releases temporary simplified guidelines for 47 CFR Part 2.1093 portable device RF exposure testing

On April 2, 2025, the FCC released temporary simplified guidelines for 47 CFR Part 2.1093 portable device RF exposure (SAR, PD, EMF, etc.) testing. The new guidelines mainly involve reference documents such as KDB 447498, KDB 616217, and KDB 648474, which address the 0mm (contact) Body exposure test requirements for portable devices (such as portable mobile phones, tablets, and laptops) and similar rectangular devices. The new test regulations will take effect from the date of release.

The main changes in the new test guidelines are as follows:

1. Changes in Body RF exposure test distance

The Body exposure test distance of all devices (mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) does not exceed 5mm, unless the device is equipped with an FCC-approved fixture (such as a bracket, fixed structure); note that the test distance of Hotspot mode remains at 10mm.

2. Compliance requirements for inherent devices (such as brackets, fixed structures)

★ The instructions for inherent devices must clearly indicate that the device has passed FCC testing and may involve KDB Inquiry procedures (such as KDB 447498, etc.).

★ With FCC approval, the minimum test separation distance can be increased by inherent devices, but not more than 25mm (the dimensions must be clearly marked in the certification document).

★ The inherent device must be built into the device and cannot be removed (such as the mobile phone bracket must be designed as an integral part of the body).

3. Test requirements in KDB 616217 D04

★ KDB 616217 D04 mentions that when the device earpiece supports voice mode, regardless of the overall size (whether the overall diagonal distance is greater than 20cm), mobile phones and tablets must be tested as required.

★ KDB 616217 D04 mentions that for foldable mobile phones, the earpiece may be located on the other side of the screen and also needs to be tested.

★ The test data of the mobile phone Hotspot and Body-Worn modes cannot be shared, and the test time may increase.

4. Test precautions

★ The Canadian ISED standard (RSS-102 Issue 6) allows a Body test distance of 10mm. If you apply for FCC+ISED certification at the same time, you need to test them separately or uniformly at 5mm.

★ The reduction of the test distance may cause the RF to exceed the standard. It is recommended to evaluate the design compliance in advance.

Compliance suggestions: It is recommended that relevant companies immediately check whether the recent wireless communication equipment is tested in accordance with the latest specification of no more than 5mm during SAR testing, and update the use distance information and certification materials in the manual in advance.

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