How does the certification process for signal boosters differ between the EU and the US

United States (FCC)

1. Testing and Certification: To legally market a signal booster in the US, the device must complete the FCC's testing and certification process[1]. This ensures compliance with technical and regulatory requirements[1].
2. Pre-testing Compliance Review: Testing during the design phase helps identify potential compliance issues early on[1].
3. Laboratory Compliance Testing: Devices undergo testing to assess EMC performance, output power, frequency accuracy, and overall function[1]. This verifies that the booster will not interfere with licensed cellular networks and operates within FCC limits[1].
4. Filing for FCC Certification: After passing tests, manufacturers submit an application with a detailed technical file showing testing results, design, and performance[1].
5. Grant of Equipment Authorization: Devices that pass testing and meet requirements receive a Grant of Equipment Authorization, allowing them to be legally marketed with an FCC ID[1].
6. Consumer and Industrial Boosters: The FCC has created two classes of signal boosters: Consumer and Industrial, each with specific regulatory requirements[2][5].
7. Network Protection Standards: Consumer Signal Boosters must meet network protection standards, including compliance with existing technical parameters, automatic self-monitoring and shutdown capabilities, and interference avoidance mechanisms[5].
8. Provider Consent and Registration: Subscribers must obtain provider consent to operate the booster, register the booster with their provider, and adhere to specific usage guidelines[5].

European Union (ETSI and EU Regulations)

1. CE Marking: Signal boosters must have CE marking, indicating compliance with EU safety and environmental requirements[3].
2. Installation: Proper installation according to the manufacturer’s instructions is mandatory[3].
3. Usage: Devices must not exceed the power limits specified in EU regulations to prevent interference[3].
4. Specific Country Regulations: Individual countries within the EU, such as the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Slovakia, have their own regulatory authorities and certification requirements[3]. These include Ofcom in the UK, Bundesnetzagentur in Germany, and ANFR in France[3].
5. Certification by National Authorities: Signal boosters often require certification from the specific national authority to be legally used in that country[3].
6. Installation Guidelines: Compliance with installation guidelines set by each country's regulatory authority is essential to prevent network interference[3].
7. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Unauthorized devices or non-compliance with regulations can result in fines, equipment seizure, or other legal consequences[3].