Press Releases

New order expands allowances for e-labeling and streamlines device certification for manufacturers

Arlington, VA (July 13, 2017) – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, today applauded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for updating its Equipment Authorization (EA) rules to provide flexibility to manufacturers to use electronic labeling in lieu of a physical label or nameplate and streamline the certification process for devices imported into the United States.

Cinnamon Rogers, TIA Senior Vice President for Government Affairs, commented:

“The FCC’s newly adopted Order on Equipment Authorization is a win-win for consumers and manufacturers alike. Today’s action by the Commission brings a long-awaited upgrade to costly and outdated labeling rules for telecommunications equipment.

“By allowing the display of most FCC certification information on an attached screen, device packaging, or in an instruction manual—instead of on the device itself—the Commission has allowed manufacturers to display more prominently common symbols synonymous with consumer safety.

“Not only does this new form of labeling better inform users, but it also allows device manufacturers to design even smaller and more innovative products without the technical and logistical burdens of physical labeling or stamping the surface of those devices.

“TIA has long been a champion of eLabeling and for streamlining device approval processes around the world. TIA applauds the FCC for its efforts which increase regulatory certainty for ICT manufacturers and allows for more innovative product designs that can be brought to market faster, while improving consumer access to important information about the devices they use every day.

"TIA and its member companies appreciate the Commission’s efforts to tackle this important issue and we look forward to additional steps from the Office of Engineering and Technology and the ability to provide input to help further simplify the device certification processes in the future.”