Required Certifications for Modems in India

Modems for the Indian Market: An Insight

A modem (modulator-demodulator) is a crucial communication device that facilitates the transmission of digital data over analog communication channels. Its primary function is to modulate digital signals from a computer or network into analog signals for efficient transmission over telephone lines or cable systems. For modems in the Indian market, including wired, wireless, and cellular modems used by homes, businesses, and IoT systems, business demand is expanding at about ~15–16% per year, and these devices make up roughly ~8–9% of the overall connectivity gear demand as internet use and broadband needs grow rapidly across India. However, to make them legally eligible, it is essential to get the various compliances, TEC, WPC, and EPR Certifications and abide by them in the Indian market. 

Key Highlights 

What are the Required Certifications for Modems in the Indian Market?

In order to gain market approval in India, Modems must undergo WPC, TEC Certification and EPR Certification for electronics. Let’s discuss the procedure, documentation, and standards that are involved.

1. WPC ETA Approval for Modems

WPC Registration is mandatory for Modems. It is because these operate on wireless frequency bands sold in India. With the WPC ETA Approval, these are safe to use at the required frequencies with no interference with other frequencies. The manufacturers and importers cannot import or sell them legally in India without a license. These can incur financial loss and penalties for them. Hence, a WPC certificate, mandatory for Modems 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 Modems

The TEC license is a quality and technical safety assurance certificate for all telecommunication equipment being regulated in the Indian market. Modems, which help connect devices to the internet, fall under Group A, Scheme SCS (Simplified Certification Scheme) as per the Indian telecom rules by TEC (Telecommunication Engineering Centre). Businesses dealing with telecom products must abide by the TEC certificate guidelines to stay compliant and eligible. That is why TEC Certification, mandatory for modems to sell in India, is a required product certification for the market. 

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

3. EPR Certification for Electronics (E-waste) for Modems

Gaining an EPR registration for e-waste is an essential compliance requirement for businesses dealing with electrical equipment like modems. The EEE code ITEW26 under India’s EPR rules applies to Modems, with an assigned product life of 5 years. It ensures a responsible approach towards sustainability and eco-friendly practices for the long term. Therefore, an EPR Registration, mandatory for modems to sell in India, is required for compliance for businesses. 

What will happen if the Modems are sold without EPR Registration in India? Read here. 

How to get the Certification for Modems in India?

1. WPC Approval for Modems

Documents for WPC Certificate for Modems

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 Modems

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 Modems

Required Documents for a TEC Certification for Modems

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 Modems

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 Modems

Documents for EPR Certification for Electronics for Modems

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 Modems

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 Modems for the Indian market now!

Guidelines for EPR Certification for Modems

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.

Brand Liaison: Customized Solutions for Compliance Management 

Brand Liaison is definitely a one-stop compliance solution, known to be a top-notch product certification agent. Serving pan-India and globally, we have gained both experience as well as expertise. Know why we are most favoured by our clients across sectors: 

• We offer cost-effective solutions.
• Compliance consultancy is best and genuine with Brand Liaison.
• Fast processing of applications with comprehensive support is guaranteed.
• Customized compliance requirements are met by our team of experts.
• Professional consultancy is our specialization.

Get in touch with Brand Liaison, and we will ensure that your business is never behind in the stringent and evolving market. Talk with our team of experts and gain expert consultancy on various certification services, and we will help you stay compliant. Partner with us now and initiate your journey towards compliance management in the Indian market!