TCB FAQ

• How does the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) TCB program work?

  First, have your product tested at one of the UL's state-of-the-art laboratories, at a UL appointed independent laboratory or at a qualified manufacturer's laboratory. Second, prepare an application consisting of the appropriate FCC form 730 or 731, product documentation and test report yourself or through a laboratory acting as an agent on your behalf. Submit the application with the certification fee to a UL TCB for a certification review. Upon successful completion of the review, the UL TCB issues the grant or registration, and notifies the FCC.

  Please note, before submitting the first Application for review, you must enter a formal agreement with the UL TCB. This is accomplished through the execution of a UL TCB Program "Product Submittal Agreement." A manufacturer needs to execute this agreement once.

• What are my obligations once the product is certified?

  Once the product is certified, you are responsible for seeing that the product continues to comply with the applicable FCC rules. According to the FCC program requirements, a small percentage of all the products certified by a UL TCB are randomly selected by the TCB each year for surveillance. There are no additional fees associated with the surveillance program.

• Can I use my laboratory for testing in the UL TCB program?

  UL will consider any qualified laboratory, including manufacturer's laboratories, for appointment under the UL TCB program. The laboratory must sign an "EMC/Telecommunications Test Facility Agreement" and demonstrate competence in the necessary test methods and requirements. Test facility assessments are based on ISO/IEC 17025.

• When should I use a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC)?

  Although it appears that the FCC will be permitting a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) for some products, carefully consider if this approach is appropriate.

  • Do you have the necessary resources, test equipment and expertise to assume all obligations associated with an SDoC?
  • Are you confident that you can defend the results if they come into question?
  • Have all the regulatory authorities expressed confidence in the SDoC approach?

  UL believes that our TCB program backed by experience provides you with the confidence you need to market your product as complaint with the necessary rules and regulations. Having your product certified under UL's TCB program demonstrates your commitment to the safety and well-being of those using your products.

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