Required Certifications for Equipment operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands

Dual Band Equipment for the Indian Market: An Insight

Devices operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands are fundamental to modern wireless communication systems. These frequencies are widely used in technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to support everyday connectivity. In India, where more than 1 billion users use the Internet, and about 945 million wireless data users access online services on their devices. So, the manufacturers and importers must get the mandatory WPC, ETA and EPR Registration for Equipment Operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands in India. These frequency bands play a vital role in seamless data transfer for activities like browsing, video streaming, online work, and IoT applications. These devices are key to how people connect laptops, smartphones, smart home gadgets, and industrial equipment. This increase in the usage of wireless devices in sectors such as telecommunications, smart homes, and industrial IoT makes it mandatory that equipment meets Indian regulatory standards. 

Key Highlights 

What are the Required Certifications for Equipment operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands in the Indian Market?

Equipment operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands must obtain TEC, WPC and EPR Certification before they can be sold in India. Let’s understand the complete process, documentation, and essential requirements for making them eligible in the Indian market.

1. WPC ETA Approval for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

A WPC ETA approval is mandatory for equipment operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands. It is because these operate on wireless frequency bands sold in India. With the WPC ETA Approval, these networks are safe enough to use the required frequencies and will not interfere with other frequencies. Businesses cannot import or sell them legally in India. These can incur financial loss and penalties for not getting a WPC license. Hence, a WPC certificate, mandatory for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands to sell in the Indian market, is an essential requirement for businesses.

What happens if you sell or import without a WPC certificate? Read here in complete detail. 

2. TEC Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands 

TEC Certification is mandatory for technical safety and quality of all telecommunication devices for selling and importing in the Indian market. The dual bands are covered under Group C, Scheme GCS. If you are dealing in telecom equipment, then you must get the TEC certification to ensure adherence to the safety parameters. Therefore, a TEC license, mandatory for equipment operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands to sell in India, is a regulatory aspect for businesses.

What will happen if you sell or import without a TEC license? Read in detail here. 

3. EPR Certification for Electronics (E-waste) for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands 

EPR Certification for Electronics is mandatory for businesses that want to sell or import electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) in the Indian market. The EEE code ITEW 21 under India’s EPR rules applies to the Equipment Operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands. It ensures seamless compliance, proper disposal, and management of the electronic waste generated. Non-compliance can result in penalties and fines. Hence, the EPR certificate, mandatory for equipment operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands to sell in India, is a required compliance for the Indian market.

What will happen if the Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands is sold without EPR Registration in India? Read here. 

How to Get the Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands in India? 

1. WPC Approval for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Documents for WPC Certificate for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Here is the accurate and complete documentation for obtaining WPC ETA Approval. Manufacturers and importers must prepare all required documents beforehand to avoid delays and ensure a hassle-free application process:

1. A Radio Frequency (RF) Test report from either an ILAC-accredited Foreign lab or an NABL-accredited Indian lab
2. Product Technical Details
3. Manufacturing Details
4. Declaration by the Manufacturer (in case you are an importer) 

Process of WPC Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Understanding and following the correct procedure is crucial for achieving compliance and ensuring a smooth market entry in India:

1. Prepare documents
2. RF Testing of the products
3. Submit the application
4. Grant of ETA License

2. TEC Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Required Documents for a TEC Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Check out this detailed guide on the must-have documents for TEC certification and make your product market-ready, faster, and smoother

1. Trademark/ Brand Registration Certificate
2. Factory address proof
3. Lab test reports of the product
4. Technical Details of the product & User Manual
5. Appointment of AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) in case you are a foreign manufacturer

Note: You can appoint Brand Liaison as your AIR

Registration Procedure for TEC for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Here is a comprehensive guide to assist applicants in achieving TEC approval in a structured, reliable, and timely manner.

1. Prepare documents
2. Test products
3. Submit application
4. Grant of TEC Certification 

3. EPR Certification for Electronics for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Documents for EPR Certification for Electronics for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Check the following list of documents to get EPR registration. These documents should be prepared in advance by all eligible businesses to ensure seamless compliance and uninterrupted market access. 

1. Basic documents related to the Firm / Company
2. Details of the authorised signatory
3. Product details and specifications
4. Plans and flowcharts for the collection and recycling of Electronics
5. CTE/CTO consents, Agreement copies 

Procedure for EPR Certification for Electronics for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

Here are the steps given by CPCB to get EPR registration smoothly and efficiently in India.

1. Prepare documents
2. Submit application
3. Review and verification
4. Grant of Certification

Certification Guidelines for Indian Manufacturers 

1. WPC Certification

• Ensure wireless/IoT products comply with Indian RF and frequency regulations.
• Apply for the WPC approval before selling products in India.
• Submit technical details, RF test reports, and compliance documents.
• Professional assistance can help simplify the process.

2. TEC Certification 

• Ensure telecom products meet standards set by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre.
• Obtain TEC certification before selling in India.
• Submit technical documents and get products tested in approved labs.
• Label products with TEC certification and maintain records.

Certification Guidelines for Foreign Manufacturers 

1. WPC Certificate

• Must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
• Ensure products meet Indian RF standards before export.
• Submit verified test reports and technical documents through AIR.
• Obtain ETA approval before selling in India.

2. TEC Certification

• Must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
• Submit test reports and technical documents through AIR.
• Ensure proper labelling with TEC certification before entering the market.
• Maintain records and cooperate with audits and inspections.

Need complete knowledge about the certification? Click to view the complete guidebook. 

Certification Guidelines for Indian Importers

1. WPC Approval

• Not eligible to apply directly; only manufacturers can obtain WPC approval.
• Must coordinate with the manufacturer to get the certificate.
• Keep a copy of the ETA certificate to avoid customs issues.
• Can act as AIR if authorized by the manufacturer.

2. TEC Certification

• Not eligible to apply directly; only manufacturers can obtain certification.
• Must obtain the TEC certificate from the manufacturer.
• Keep a copy to avoid customs issues.
• Can act as AIR if authorized.

Certification Guidelines for the Trader

1. WPC Certification

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Maintain a copy of the WPC certificate for compliance.
• Can act as AIR if authorized by the manufacturer.

2. TEC Registration 

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Maintain a copy of the TEC certificate for compliance.
• Can act as AIR if authorized.

Certification Guidelines for Online Sellers

1. WPC ETA Certificate

• Not eligible to apply directly; only original manufacturers can apply.
• Must obtain the ETA certificate copy from the manufacturer.
• Required for compliance on e-commerce platforms.

2. TEC Registration

• Not eligible to apply directly; only original manufacturers can apply.
• Must obtain the TEC certificate copy from the manufacturer.
• Required for compliance on e-commerce platforms.

Visit here to check your eligibility for the Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands for the Indian market now! 

Guidelines for EPR Certification for Equipment Operating in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands

For Producers (Importers)

• Must obtain mandatory EPR registration from the Central Pollution Control Board before selling or importing products.
• Fulfill e-waste collection and recycling targets as per CPCB norms.
• Ensure compliance through authorized recyclers and maintain records with annual return filing.

For Recyclers

• Must have authorization from CPCB/SPCB to operate.
• Follow E-Waste Management Rules and CPCB guidelines for recycling.
• Issue recycling certificates and maintain records with annual returns.

For Refurbishers

• Registration and authorization from CPCB/SPCB are mandatory.
• Carry out refurbishing as per E-Waste Management Rules and CPCB guidelines.
• Maintain records and file annual returns on the CPCB portal.

For Manufacturers

• EPR registration on the CPCB portal is mandatory before manufacturing.
• Meet e-waste collection and recycling targets set by CPCB.
• Ensure compliance through authorized recyclers and maintain records with annual filings.

Get your EPR Certification for electronics smoothly with expert support from Brand Liaison.

How Brand Liaison Simplifies the Compliance Journey for Businesses

• Brand Liaison - a leading product certification consultant in India- provides specialist guidance in the certification process for products.
• Avoiding errors or omissions helps in preparing and organizing all the necessary documents correctly.
• This helps to ensure that the product complies with the IS standard and relevant specifications.
• Brand Liaison’s expert manages the submission process, reduces delays, and increases approval opportunities.
• Directs the factory inspection and audit on the site, ensuring readiness for regulatory assessment.

Connect with Brand Liaison for complete assistance, including documentation aid, product testing coordination, application filing, and compliance with audit readiness.