FCC has two main equipment authorization paths: SDoC and FCC ID. The selection depends entirely on whether the product has wireless transmission functions. Wrong selection will cause huge losses. Below is a detailed product classification guide for reference.
Core rule: Products without any radio frequency transceiver circuits can apply for SDoC. Common product categories are as follows:
·Power products: Power adapters, chargers, non-wireless power banks, UPS power supplies and LED drivers (the largest category for SDoC).
·Lighting products: LED bulbs, desk lamps, ceiling lights, spotlights and light strips (excluding models with wireless remote control or Bluetooth dimming).
·Computer peripherals: Wired keyboards, wired mice, monitors, printers, scanners, projectors and external hard drive enclosures. High-speed digital circuits do not affect SDoC eligibility as long as no RF modules are built-in.
·Audio & video equipment: Wired speakers, power amplifiers and wired set-top boxes. For radios and TVs with RF receivers (tuners), 47 CFR 15.101 allows either SDoC or Certification. Note that scanning receivers and radar detectors must apply for FCC ID.
·Home appliances: Washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners and rice cookers.
·Power tools: Electric drills, angle grinders and saws (no wireless modules).
·Industrial equipment: PLC controllers, industrial monitors, inverters and servo drives (no wireless modules).
2. Easily Misclassified Products (Typical Cases)
·USB chargers: USB data pins do not affect classification. Chargers with USB ports are qualified for SDoC as long as no wireless modules are installed.
·Smart home products: Smart lights with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or Zigbee modules are intentional radiators and must apply for FCC ID. Only wired-control lights use SDoC.
·Dash cameras: Pure wired dash cameras → SDoC; models with Wi-Fi or GPS → FCC ID.
·Electronic scales: Ordinary scales → SDoC; body fat scales with Bluetooth → FCC ID.
·Security cameras: Wired CCTV cameras connected to DVR/NVR → SDoC; Wi-Fi/4G wireless cameras → FCC ID.
Special Case: Microwave Ovens
Household microwave ovens are ISM devices regulated under FCC Part 18. They adopt the SDoC authorization path but follow Part 18 test standards (focusing on RF leakage), different from Part 15B for regular home appliances.
Rules for Hybrid Products
Products combining wireless and non-wireless parts (e.g., laptops and smart TVs with built-in Wi-Fi) must apply for FCC ID as a complete unit. FCC prohibits splitting one product into two authorization paths. FCC ID testing already covers EMC requirements for digital circuits.
3. Risks of Wrong Authorization Path
·Use SDoC for products requiring FCC ID: The product will be judged non-compliant during FCC spot checks, leading to customs detention and market removal. Repeated violations will result in high fines.
·Use FCC ID for products eligible for SDoC: Unnecessary extra costs and longer lead time.
It is recommended to conduct product teardown to check for RF modules, wireless charging coils or radio circuits before certification. Consult professional labs if you have doubts.
For FCC SDoC Declaration of Conformity services, please contact Blueasia: 13534225140
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