What is an RF test?
Everything about radio frequency testing
The number of electronic devices is continually growing. To ensure the safety concerning the radio frequency of these products, various guidelines have been established. One part of these guidelines (RED) is conducting an RF (radio frequency) test. This is an essential component to fully comply with national and international regulations. In this blog, we answer various questions such as what an RF test is, whether an RF test is mandatory, and how an RF test works.
What is the radio equipment directive (RED)?
In 2016, the
Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
was introduced to establish production standards for electronic devices and components. The standards relate to safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and
radio frequency (RF),
among other things. Naturally, RED is only applicable to products with radio capabilities. Any party wishing to produce or sell electronic devices and components must equip these products with a CE marking. Affixing a CE marking is mandatory; failing to do so can lead to fines and recalls. To be eligible to affix a CE marking, you must meet all the requirements. For products with radio capabilities, this also means conducting an RF test. But what is an RF test?
What is an RF test?
To answer the question, "What is an RF test?", it is important to understand what RF is. RF stands for radio frequency. It is a form of electromagnetic energy that travels through space as radio waves. All electronic devices and components with wireless communication must comply with radio frequency requirements to meet the radio spectrum standards within the bandwidths. An RF test evaluates whether a product's radio frequency meets these requirements.
With an RF test, you can check if you comply with the radio spectrum regulations. Think of it simply as a highway—are you adhering to the speed limit? Some well-known examples of RF are 4G, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
How does an RF Test work?
During an RF test, various scenarios are simulated in operational mode in a laboratory to see if they remain within their bandwidths. This includes testing for short-range (30 kHz – 866 MHz), wireless LAN, near-field communication (NFC/RFID), and WiGig 50 GHz. An accredited test laboratory ensures that products fully meet the mandatory RF requirements, thus guaranteeing successful market access.
Conducting an RF test
If you are not based in the EU and need to conduct an RF test for your products to be sold within the EU, you are required to have it done by an accredited body associated with the EU. This grants you market access in Europe and some other countries outside Europe.
We are your partner for testing various equipment and components such as batteries, hearing aids, lighting products, plugs, sockets, lighting, charging stations, household products, medical equipment, e-bikes, and scooters. DEKRA can perform all the tests. The test reports become part of the CE compliance dossier, allowing you to market your products with peace of mind.
DEKRA has multiple testing locations worldwide but can also conduct a test at your site. Large machines and installations are no problem for us. Feel free to contact one of our experts in the contact below.