For manufacturers planning to export computer products to the U.S. market, 2025 marks a pivotal year with significant shifts in the compliance landscape. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has introduced a series of new regulations, shifting its core focus from pure technical compliance reviews to include "national security" considerations regarding laboratory trustworthiness. These changes redefine the rules and have profound implications for the global supply chain. This article systematically outlines the key new regulations effective by the end of 2025 and provides actionable compliance strategies.
The table below summarizes key new regulations directly impacting computer product certification:
II. Deep Dive into 2025 FCC Regulation Impact：
1.Laboratory Trustworthiness Review: The Most Disruptive Change
This is the core 2025 FCC policy shift, fundamentally altering certification eligibility.
-The Rule: The FCC will no longer accept test results from labs, certification bodies, or accreditation bodies that are owned, controlled, or directed by entities on its "covered list." This applies to all authorization paths (FCC ID and SDoC).
-"Covered Entities": Includes companies on the FCC's "Covered List," U.S. Department of Commerce "Entity List," Department of Defense "Chinese Military Companies" list, and entities affiliated with certain foreign governments.
Key Thresholds:
-10% Ownership Rule: Labs with 10% or more direct/indirect ownership by a "covered entity" are prohibited.
-5% Disclosure Rule: Labs must report any entity with 5% or more ownership.
-Impact on Chinese Manufacturers: Many Chinese labs are now ineligible due to ownership structures. Verifying a lab's FCC trustworthiness status is now the first critical step before initiating certification for any computer with wireless functionality.
2.Updated RF Exposure (SAR) Test Guidelines: Good News for Laptops
The FCC's April 2025 interim guidance simplifies SAR evaluation for portable devices.
-Main Change: For rectangular devices like laptops/tablets, the default test distance for body exposure assessment is ≤5mm. This provides a clearer, easier compliance path compared to previous potential 0mm contact requirements for some edges.
-Design Opportunity: Manufacturers can achieve a larger test distance (e.g., ≤25mm) by including a certified "on-body holder" and clear instructions.
3.Cybersecurity & Technical Standard Upgrades
-Cybersecurity: High-end laptops with built-in 5G modules must comply with enhanced data security standards (e.g., FCC Part 30).
-Test Standards: From October 30, 2025, conducted emission tests must use the new ANSI C63.10-2020 standard. ECR submission processes have also been revised.
The 2025 FCC regulations represent a dual focus on "technical compliance" and "geopolitical compliance." For computer makers, especially those with wireless products, the core challenge is rebuilding certification supply chains under the new "trustworthiness" framework. For more information, contact BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140 for professional certification consulting.
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