FCC and wireless compliance terms in plain English
Use these definitions to move from raw FCC codes to the source documents, reports, and device pages that explain what the filing actually supports.
Read codes as clues
FCC terms point you toward the right part of a filing. They are not product reviews, feature promises, or compatibility claims by themselves.
Keep the source nearby
A useful reading connects the term to the grant, source exhibit, label, manual, photo set, RF report, or exposure report behind the page.
Move back to devices
After decoding a term, open a category hub or FCC ID page so the definition is tied to an actual device record.
Lookup identifiers
Start here when a label, manual, or source document gives you an FCC ID or applicant code.
Wireless classes and rule parts
Decode the codes that explain broad radio authorization context before reading test tables.
DTS
FCC equipment class for digital transmission systems.
Use it when a filing involves unlicensed digital radio transmitters.
NII
FCC equipment class for unlicensed national information infrastructure devices.
Use it when a filing points to 5 GHz or 6 GHz unlicensed network-device operation.
Part 15C
FCC rules for many unlicensed intentional radiators.
Use it around common low-power intentional-radiator filings.
Part 15E
FCC rules often associated with 5 GHz and 6 GHz network devices.
Use it around 5 GHz and 6 GHz unlicensed network-device filings.
Exposure and public exhibits
Understand source documents that carry body-use, exposure, and visible hardware evidence.
SAR
Specific Absorption Rate, a measure used in RF exposure evaluation.
Use it when a device is evaluated close to the body, such as a phone, tablet, watch, or wearable accessory.
RF Exposure
Evaluation of human exposure to radiofrequency energy.
Use it when a filing discusses human exposure evaluation for a radio device.
Internal Photos
Public FCC exhibit images showing the inside of a device.
Use it when you need visible hardware evidence from public FCC exhibits.
Authorization process
Use these terms when reading grants, certification paths, and authorization timing.
Telecommunication Certification Body
A recognized body that can issue equipment authorizations.
Use it when you need to understand who reviewed or issued an equipment authorization.
47 CFR 2.803
FCC rule covering marketing of radiofrequency devices before authorization.
Use it when product marketing, importation, demos, or pre-sale timing are close to authorization status.