FCC proposal to deregulate equipment authorization requirements for digital devices

In the 1970s, it became clear that computers and data processing equipment were becoming a major source of harmful interference to radio communications in the USA. For this reason, the FCC amended Part 15 in 1980 by adding new standards and administrative requirements for what, at the time, was defined as computing devices. The new rules required computers and similar equipment to meet line conducted and radiated RF emission limits as well as to be labelled as complying with the new FCC rules. On February 7, 1995, the FCC adopted a new proposal to deregulate the equipment authorization requirements for digital devices. The proposal is in partial response to an industry request to replace the current requirement for certification of personal computers with manufacturer's declaration. The proposal also addresses issues of equipment authorization requirements for modular personal computers, laboratory approvals and international harmonization of conformity assessment. The FCC invited comments from all interested parties. This paper summarizes the salient points of the proposal and includes background information.