SGS Newsletter - Regulatory 202406

FCC Proposes Derecognition of Test Labs and TCBs Owned by Covered List Entities

On May 24, 2024, the FCC issued the proposed rule and order FCC 24-58, aiming to bolster national security within the telecommunications sector. This proposal introduces two key measures:

• Derecognizing Test Labs and TCBs Owned by Covered List Entities: the FCC proposes to prohibit the recognition of test labs and TCBs that are controlled or owned (10% or more direct or indirect ownership interest) by entities listed on the FCC’s Covered List. Any currently recognized labs or TCBs found to be owned or controlled by such entities will have their FCC recognitions suspended immediately. This is to prevent any potential security risks in the equipment authorization process.
• Ownership Information Reporting for TCBs and Labs: All FCC-recognized TCBs and test labs must certify that no Covered List entity has direct or indirect ownership or control of the relevant TCB or test lab no later than 30 days after the effective date of any final rules. No later than 90 days after the effective date of any final rules, all FCC-recognized TCBs and test labs must provide documentation to the FCC identifying any entity that holds 5% or more ownership or control interest.

FCC is seeking further comment on whether to prohibit recognition of any TCB or test lab directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a foreign adversary or any other entity that has been found to pose a risk to national security.

**For detailed information, please refer to the attached file: FCC Proposes Derecognition of Test Labs and TCBs Owned by Covered List Entities

 

EU Issues Guidance on the RED Common Charger Directive

On May 7, the EU published an Official Journal (OJ) to offer guidance, namely Q & A, on the RED Common Charger Directive to become effective December 28, 2024 (applicable for laptops starting April 28, 2026). The key points are:

• What types of equipment are covered? Radio equipment that can be recharged via wired charging and falls within specified categories such as mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, and more as listed in Annex Ia. Only earbuds that are with a charging case or box are excluded. Radio equipment that incorporates internal power supplies and is powered directly with AC from the mains is excluded as well.
• What are the main requirements for radio equipment under the Common Charger Directive? Equipment must support USB-C as a common charging solution and, if it requires more than 240W of charging power, it must also support USB PD up to 240W. The RED does not specify functional modes (off, standby, normal use, etc.) for charging, but equipment must ensure no interference with compliance when charging in any mode.
• Can proprietary solutions coexist with USB PD? They may coexist, but proprietary solutions implemented shall not hinder or interfere with USB PD. Charging currents above 5A are allowed with the additional proprietary protocol, provided it does not restrict the harmonized charging solution.

**For detailed information, please refer to the attached file: EU Issues Guidance on the RED Common Charger Directive