PTCRB PPMD V3.13
PTCRB PPMD V3.13
Version 3.13
December 2024
Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
programs@ctiacertification.org
1.202.785.0081
www.ptcrb.com
List of Tables
Table 11.2-1 Device Assessment Requirements by Device Type .............................................................. 38
Table 11.6-1 Number of DUT Models vs. Number of Test Samples ......................................................... 53
Table 11.10-1 Emergency Call Retesting Requirements for Integrated Devices ...................................... 59
Table 11.10-2 Power Interface Test Requirements for Integrated Devices ............................................... 60
Table 11.10-3 SIM Interface Test Requirements for Integrated Devices .................................................. 61
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this PTCRB Program Management Document (PPMD) is to provide the framework
within which GERAN, UTRA, E-UTRA, and NR device certification can take place. This PPMD
includes both PTCRB and IoT Network Certified™ certification.
PTCRB certification is a process by which devices are technically evaluated to meet the minimum
requirements for registration on the networks of operators that utilize the PTCRB certification
program to evaluate device compliance to wireless industry requirements.
IoT Network Certified certification applies to IoT Devices integrating a PTCRB certified Module or
an IoT Network Certified Embedded Modem.
This process is recommended for all manufacturers developing devices that are expected to
operate on these networks. Any device manufacturer may submit devices for certification by
following the processes outlined in this document. Membership in CTIA Certification is not required
to submit a device for certification.
Acronym/Term Definition
AE Application Enabler
Certified A Chipset that meets the certification requirements defined in this document.
Chipset
A Certified Chipset shall:
Test results from the Certified Chipset may be leveraged when the Certified
Chipset is (1) Being integrated in a LTE-M or NB-IoT Module or (2) Part of an
End Device that’s an IoT device supporting NB-IoT or LTE-M. Test results
from a Certified Chipset cannot be leveraged for any other type of device
(e.g., Certified Chipsets are not applicable for use in a Smartphone, Feature
Phone, Notebook, Tablet, or any LTE Cat-1 or higher Integrated Device).
• Baseband
• RF Transceiver
• RF Front End
• Power Management IC
C-TIS Combined Total Integrated Sensitivity. This metric quantifies the DUT’s
downlink radiated performance in terms of a non-directional (e.g. spherical)
antenna pattern across all antenna branches supported by the DUT. If the
DUT has only one receive antenna, Total Isotropic Sensitivity (i.e. TIS) is
measured instead of C-TIS.
End Product A device that provides WWAN radio functionality as a finished product used
as sold. An End Product is not intended for integration or design into another
End Product for use in normal operation.
GCF Bands Radio frequency bands identified by GCF for their certification program,
which have not been identified as PTCRB Bands.
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System. This is a term used to denote any
satellite-based navigation system. GPS, GLONASS, Beidou and Galileo all
represent examples of GNSS.
A-GNSS denotes that assistance (provided through any number of delivery
services) is available to improve location fix accuracy and time-to-first-fix of
one or more satellite-based location systems.
IoT Device A device whose main function is to allow objects to be accessed, sensed
and/or controlled remotely across existing mobile network infrastructures.
An IoT Device may incorporate and leverage the certification from a certified
Module, certified Embedded Modem, or Certified Chipset but is not required
to use these paths to be considered an IoT Device.
To be eligible for IoT Network Certified certification, the IoT device must use
either a PTCRB certified Module or an IoT Network Certified Embedded
Modem.
Integrated Any device type that embeds a PTCRB-certified Module to create an End
Device Product. To be considered an Integrated Device, the PTCRB-certified Module
must be embedded in full accordance with the Module's Initial PTCRB
certification.
Initial The first PTCRB certification for a device of any type. This term is used to
Certification denote the certification from which a timeline for subsequent ECO testing will
be determined.
Internet of The Internet of Things (IoT) describes the coordination of multiple machines,
Things devices and appliances connected to the Internet through multiple networks.
These include everyday objects such as Tablets and consumer electronics,
and other machines such as vehicles, monitors and sensors equipped with
machine-to-machine (M2M) communications that allow them to send and
receive data.
ISM Industrial, Scientific and Medical band. Radio bands reserved internationally
for the use of radio frequency (RF) energy for industrial, scientific and
medical purposes other than telecommunications.
Lifetime Waiver Waiver that has been approved for the lifetime of the device for which it was
requested, including subsequent ECOs.
M2M UICC UICC with specific properties for use in M2M environments, this includes
existing form factors according to ETSI TS 102 221 and the MFF specified in
ETSI TS 102 671
MMI Man-Machine Interface (MMI) is the hardware and/or software which allows
the user to control and monitor the device function, as opposed to the
hardware and/or software that contains the logic by which machine operation
is controlled.
Module Modules are finished WWAN radio devices that do not directly connect to a
host via a standardized external interface such as USB, PCMCIA, Compact
Flash, MMC, RS-232, or IEEE-1394. A Module may or may not include an
integral antenna system or SIM/USIM interface.
Modules shall use interfaces such as PCIe, M.2 or Surface Mount
Technology (SMT) such as LGA, BGA or LCC. OEM custom interfaces can
also be classified as a Module.
*Modules supporting FR2 are not finished WWAN radio devices from the FR2
perspective and therefore RRM and RF testing cannot be completed at the
module level and must be performed as part of the Integrated Device
certification.
NB-IoT LTE Narrow Band IoT technology, part of the Low Power Wide Area network
solutions, also referred to as Category NB1 or NB2
NHPIS Near-Horizon Partial Isotropic Sensitivity. This metric assesses the DUT’s
downlink radiated performance based on power received from a source at or
near the horizon. NHPIS performance is quantified in terms of the DUT’s
ability to receive a signal source that’s within +/- 30 degrees and +/- 45
degrees of the horizon.
Typically, NHPIS applies only to devices with an antenna whose orientation is
fixed relative to the horizon.
Non-PTCRB Those public safety applications that are not based on open standards or that
Public Safety are based on standards that are outside the scope of the PTCRB certification
Applications program, such as Land Mobile Radio (LMR).
Notebook A portable personal computer combining the computer, keyboard and display
in one form factor. Typically, the keyboard is built into the base and the
display is hinged along the back edge of the base. A convertible Notebook is
a form factor that enables configuration as a Notebook or as a Tablet.
Devices which support computing functionality but are designed to be held to
the ear (in the same fashion as a conventional UE), devices which support
Circuit-Switched Voice and/or VoLTE and/or VoNR do not qualify as a
Notebook platform for the purpose of PTCRB certification.
All references to Notebook in this document refer to devices that have
implemented WWAN connectivity utilizing a Module. Notebook devices
utilizing a chipset-based WWAN connectivity implementation are currently
outside the scope of this definition.
Off-Site Test A laboratory which is not authorized to conduct PTCRB certification testing,
Laboratory but which operates valid test platform(s) according to the most current
version of PPMD and NAPRD03. An Off-Site Test Laboratory may be utilized
by a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory for PTCRB certification testing according to
the procedures laid down in Section 11.5 of this document.
Off-Site Testing Process of PTCRB certification testing in an Off-Site Test Laboratory which is
executed on valid test platform(s) by a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory's own
personnel.
Parent A PTCRB-certified device (of any type) from which Variant or Child Devices
can be derived.
PTCRB Full A laboratory authorized to conduct PTCRB certification testing, having met
Test the full qualification requirements, in a specific technology area (GERAN,
Laboratory UTRA, E-UTRA, NR, etc.).
PTCRB Bands Radio frequency bands identified for the PTCRB certification program. These
are defined in NAPRD03 Section 2.8.
Public Safety A device capable of supporting public safety users on the basis that it
Device supports mission-critical features through application-layer functionality.
Public Safety Devices shall support 3GPP Band 14 and be FCC certified
under 47 C.F.R. Part 90 Subpart R for Public Safety Broadband (PS BB)
service.
Devices which are also FCC certified under 47 C.F.R Part 90 Subpart R for
Public Safety Narrowband (PS NB) are not covered by this definition.
Public Safety A device whose main purpose is to support public safety users on the basis
Device with that it supports mission-critical features and supports an integrated narrow-
Integrated LMR band Land Mobile Radio (LMR).
Public Safety Devices with Integrated LMR shall support 3GPP Band 14 and
be FCC certified under both 47 C.F.R. Part 90 Subpart R for Public Safety
Broadband (PS BB) service and 47 C.F.R Part 90 Subpart R for Public Safety
Narrowband (PS NB) service.
RSE Radiated Spurious Emissions. This measurement quantifies the power level
of undesired (i.e., spurious) emissions radiated by a DUT while it’s in an idle
state and/or an active (transmitting) state.
Smartphone According to GSMA TS 06, “A device with large display, predominantly with
touch screen technology, fast processor and memory in the GB range. A
fully-featured OS/platform that provides voice and data communications
capabilities, enables personalization of the device by the user and in addition
supports installation and maintenance of mobile applications (e.g.,
downloadable from an Application store)”
Standard Any device category not explicitly categorized within the PTCRB certification
Device process.
Tablet A portable personal computer combining the computer and display in a single
form factor resembling a writing slate. User input is typically accomplished via
a touchscreen or stylus pen. A portable personal computer which supports
Circuit-Switched Voice and/or VoLTE and/or VoNR does not qualify as a
Tablet.
All references to Tablet in this document refer to products that have
implemented WWAN connectivity utilizing a Module. Tablet products utilizing
a chipset-based WWAN connectivity implementation are currently outside the
scope of this definition.
Testing Project Set of GSM, UTRA, E-UTRA, or AE test cases from PTCRB categories "A",
"B" or "E" to be performed with one single device type.
TIS Total Isotropic Sensitivity. This metric quantifies the DUT’s downlink radiated
performance in terms of a non-directional (e.g. spherical) antenna pattern.
TIS is measured for each of the DUT’s individual antenna branches, so it’s
typically used for DUTs with only one receive antenna.
If the DUT has more than one receive antenna, Combined Total Isotropic
Sensitivity (i.e. C-TIS) is typically measured instead of TIS.
TRP Total Radiated Power. This metric quantifies the DUT’s uplink radiated
performance in terms of a non-directional (e.g. spherical) antenna pattern.
If the DUT utilizes more than one transmit antenna, TRP will be measured for
each one.
UE User Equipment
Variant Family A set of Modules or devices whose lineage can be traced in the certification
database to a single Parent device certification.
A family can contain a Parent and a Variant or a Parent with multiple variants.
All Variants to that Parent will be considered part of a family.
Wearable A device in a form factor that is intended to be worn on the body by the user.
Could take any number of form factors, i.e. wristwatch, glasses, body camera
etc.
The device may include a display. If user input is implemented, it may be
accomplished but not limited to a touchscreen, crown, external buttons or
connected input devices.
All references to wearable in this document refer to products that may or may
not include a module to implement WWAN connectivity.
WWAN Wireless Wide Area Network. In this document, WWAN currently refers to
devices supporting GSM, UTRA, E-UTRA or NR RATs.
CTIA Certification is the administrator for the PTCRB and IoT Network Certified certification
programs. Responsibilities include:
• Maintenance of certification database
• Maintenance of TC database
• Maintenance of PTCRB and IoT Network Certified websites
• Collecting, reviewing and storing all certification data
• Awarding certifications
CTIA Certification is the IMEI Administrator for the PTCRB certification program. Responsibilities
include:
• Receive and review IMEI TAC requests
• Issue IMEI TACs
• Maintain database of allocated TACs
• Provide allocated TACs to GSMA
• Serve as a GSMA Reporting Body for TAC allocations
The PTCRB certification program is managed by the PTCRB Working Group within CTIA
Certification. Membership in either CTIA or the CTIA Certification Program Working Group is
required to participate in this working group.
• To join CTIA, go to https://www.ctia.org/about/become-a-member. Any membership category
allows for participation in the working group.
• To join the CTIA Certification Program Working Group only, contact
programs@ctiacertification.org.
3.1.1 Responsibilities
The PTCRB Plenary is responsible for defining and maintaining the requirements for PTCRB
certification and for providing oversight of the various PTCRB Working Groups and task forces.
3.1.2 Representatives
The Plenary is composed of PTCRB Working Group member company representatives including,
for example, network operators, device manufacturers, test labs and test solution providers.
Any company within the wireless industry may join the Plenary for a period of 6 months, without
having membership as described above, in order to observe the group and determine interest in
ongoing participation.
To join the Plenary, go to https://cpwg.ctiacertifiation.org/, select New User Registration, and select
PTCRB Plenary on the next page.
3.1.3 Leadership
The Plenary is run by a Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary. These positions are held by working
group participants elected to 2-year terms.
3.1.3.1 Chair
The PTCRB Plenary meets quarterly face-to-face. Meeting invitations are sent to the Plenary email
list.
All work is contribution-driven. Contributions are submitted using the CTIA Certification Program
Contribution Form found on the working group website at https://cpwg.ctiacertification.org/ under
the “Templates/Contribution Template” folder. The contribution process is described in the “PTCRB
WG Contribution Policy” document located in the “Polices” folder on the working group website.
3.2.1 Responsibilities
Individual working groups and task forces are defined as needed to focus on specific areas of
interest.
3.2.2 Representatives
These working groups and task forces are composed of PTCRB Working Group member company
representatives including, for example, network operators, device manufacturers, test labs and test
solution providers.
Any company within the wireless industry may join for a period of 6 months, without having
membership as described above, in order to observe the group/task force and determine interest
for ongoing participation.
3.2.3 Leadership
Each working group and task force is run by a Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary. These positions are
held by working group participants elected to 2-year terms. See Sections 3.1.3.1 through 3.1.3.3 of
this document for leadership roles.
Each working group and task force determines its own meeting schedule. Meeting invitations are
sent to the working group email list.
The PTCRB Validation Group (PVG) is the technical consultation body of the PTCRB Working
Group. PVG is a conformance test management group which serves a consulting role to the
PTCRB Plenary and holds separate quarterly face-to-face meetings. The PVG responsibilities
include, but are not limited to:
• Management of PTCRB RFTs (Requests for Tests)
• Management of test case validation activities and qualifying of test equipment
• Management of PTCRB TC (Test Case) database technical content
• Consultation with the PTCRB Plenary concerning any technical issues
• Liaising with other bodies (SDOs and other technical groups)
• PVG administration (membership, PVG PRDs, meetings
• Progress reporting during PTCRB Operator Steering Group, PTCRB Leadership Council and
PTCRB Working Group meetings on an as-needed basis
The Operator Steering Group (OSG) is composed of PTCRB Working Group network operators that
utilize the PTCRB certification program to evaluate device compliance to wireless industry
requirements. Operators interested in joining the OSG shall complete and submit a membership
application found in Appendix E of his document, indicating their anticipated level of participation in
the group:
• Active (plan to participate in all meetings), or
• Passive (do not plan to participate in all meetings)
PTCRB OSG membership is approved by consensus of the current OSG members. In order to
maintain Active status, operators shall attend 50% of PTCRB OSG and PTCRB Plenary meetings
(a teleconference or face-to-face counts equally as a “meeting”), and shall not miss more than two
consecutive meetings.
When decisions are being made, a quorum consisting of at least 50% of the Active PTCRB OSG
members is necessary. Votes will be based on a simple majority of operators present. For
circulation votes, at least 50% of the OSG members must respond. Of the operators responding, a
simple majority must approve.
The PTCRB Industry Council (PIC) is composed of the OSG, the leadership of the PVG, the
leaders of the PTCRB Working Groups, and the elected representatives from each of the following
five wireless industry segments:
a) chipset vendors
b) module vendors
c) phone vendors
The PIC is intended to gather a diverse range of input and experience from the members of
the PTCRB Working Groups, therefore delegates from companies that could be eligible for
multiple segments will be judged for eligibility based on the core business of the member
company, as judged by CTIA Certification. For example:
o A chipset vendor, module vendor or phone vendor with a PTCRB Authorized Test
Laboratory(s) under the same corporate umbrella will only be eligible for the chipset
vendor, module vendor or phone vendor segment.
o A PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory with a test equipment vendor division under the
same corporate umbrella will only be eligible for the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory
segment.
Delegates from companies holding PTCRB and/or Working Group leadership positions
(PTCRB Plenary, PVG and PTCRB IoT WG) will not be eligible for election as a
representative of the PTCRB Industry segment for which their company is eligible. This rule
may be waived in the event there is no other eligible or willing delegate for an Industry
Segment and with the agreed consensus of the industry segment as confirmed by CTIA
Certification.
In the event that more than one delegate from within a member corporate umbrella is
nominated for an industry segment only, one delegate will be allowed to accept the
nomination.
Any companies uncertain of eligibility for industry segments should contact CTIA
Certification in advance of an election to discuss potential eligibility for an industry segment.
The PIC meets quarterly face-to-face and via teleconference as-needed. PIC representatives shall
attend all meetings of the PIC.
-5 Week
CTIA Certification will call for PTCRB Plenary, PVG, PIC and working group
leadership position nominees five weeks before the second quarter PTCRB
Plenary or PVG meeting during the appropriate election year, nomination
submission deadline which shall be specified by CTIA Certification.
-4 Weeks
CTIA Certification will notify the PTCRB Plenary and PVG membership of the
upcoming election and will provide instructions as to how member ballots shall be
-2 Weeks
cast in the appropriate election year. The deadline for ballot submission shall be
22:00 UTC on the last day of the ballot submission period.
-1 Week CTIA Certification will check votes for eligibility and tally the results.
Beginning with Version 3.0 of this document, the content of this section has been moved to Section
1.2.
The PTCRB certification program maintains two documents which describe, in detail, the test
requirements and test processes associated with PTCRB device certification. The PTCRB
certification program documentation will be modified to reflect the most recent test coverage and
procedural agreements accepted by the PTCRB Working Group as described in Sections 5.2
through 5.6 of this document.
The PTCRB NAPRD03 contains the technical certification test and assessment requirements.
These requirements are separated from the program management requirements in PPMD.
NAPRD03 will be released four times per year according to the PTCRB Working Group meeting
schedule.
Devices submitted for certification are required to complete the execution of all applicable tests
approved and published in one of the two most recent versions of NAPRD03 as of the date the
device is to complete certification.
Example:
• NAPRD03 version 1.0 is released on January 1
• NAPRD03 version 1.1 is released on April 1
According to the example release dates above, a DUT may be certified to the test requirements
described in either NAPRD03 version 1.0 or NAPRD03 version 1.1 until NAPRD03 version 1.2 is
released on July 1. Once NAPRD03 version 1.2 is released, the DUT must be certified against
either NAPRD03 version 1.1 or version 1.2.
The PPMD may be released at any time. A five working-day comment period will apply from the
date the updated draft document is placed on the CPWG website in the Program Management
Documents folder and an email notifying the PTCRB Working Group is sent to the working group
distribution list.
Upon release of a new PPMD version, the new version supersedes all previous versions. All new
requirements/rules go into effect upon the release of the PPMD unless otherwise stated.
The NAPRD03 and PPMD version numbers are in the format x.yy.z.
Each time the document is fully approved, the characters will be incremented as appropriate.
NAPRD03 can only be approved during a PTCRB meeting with a quorum of working group
Additions to the PTCRB requirements will be managed by the PTCRB Working Group.
The PTCRB will attempt to harmonize PTCRB certification with the GCF (Global Certification
Forum) certification program and other industry fora when opportunities to do so arise.
When new tests are recommended by the PVG prior to a PTCRB meeting, all recommended tests
will be released as Category E and shall remain in this category until a minimum of 90 days have
passed.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory is selected by the device manufacturer to take primary
responsibility for ensuring the DUT has met all PTCRB certification requirements. The selected
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory must be a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory qualified in E-UTRA and/or
NR depending upon the DUT’s RAT capability.
To be selected as the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory for an LTE-M Module or device, the
laboratory must be a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory qualified in E-UTRA and LTE-M.
To be selected as the PTCRB Primary Test Lab for an NB-IoT Module or device, the laboratory
must be a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory qualified in E-UTRA and NB-IoT.
LTE-M or NB-IoT Integrated Devices which utilize a PTCRB-certified Module shall select a Primary
Test Laboratory that is qualified in E-UTRA.
A PTCRB Full Test Laboratory is a test laboratory that meets the requirements of a PTCRB Full
Test Laboratory as defined in the CTIA Certification Policies and Procedures for Authorized Test
Labs found here: https://ctiacertification.org/test-labs/.
A PTCRB Associate Laboratory is a test laboratory that is sponsored by a PTCRB Full Test
Laboratory and meets the requirements of a PTCRB Associate Laboratory as defined in the CTIA
Certification Policies and Procedures for Authorized Test Laboratories found here
https://ctiacertification.org/test-labs/.
DUT test results will be uploaded to the PTCRB certification database by the PTCRB Primary Test
Laboratory. CTIA Certification staff and members of the Operator Steering Group will have access
to the test results.
The content of this section was removed in Version 3.0 of this document.
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code used to identify an
individual GSM, UTRA or E-UTRA device to a mobile network. The numerical format of the IMEI is:
D14 - D13: Reporting Body Identifier (35 = BABT, 01 = PTCRB for Reserved/Certified IMEIs)
D12 - D07: Type Identifier issued by Reporting Body. Limits production to 1,000,000 units per TAC
D06 - D01: Allocated by Reporting Body, but assigned to individual units by the Manufacturer
D14 - D13 = 00
• Production IMEI - used for products that will be submitted for certification. Issued in blocks of
1M. A block of 1,000,000 is a TAC. So, when a new IMEI is assigned, the next available TAC
is assigned.
"IMEI SVN" is a term used to refer to the combination of the IMEI and the Software Version Number
(SVN).
An IMEI Software Version Number (SVN, provided by the manufacturer) is used to identify each
approved and commercially available software version.
Networks may request the IMEISV from any Phase 2 or later device. The IMEISV shall contain the
first 14 digits of the IMEI plus a Software version number (SVN). The SVN shall be incremented
when the device software is modified. Allocation of the 2-digit SVN is under the control of the
Reporting Body. SVN "99" is reserved for future use (See 3GPP TS 23.003).
NNXXXXXX ZZZZZZ SS
Where:
SS=Software Version Number 00 - 98. SVN 99 is reserved for future use. (See 3GPP TS 23.003)
This section outlines the methods and procedures to be used by operators and manufacturers to
reserve, obtain, record and distribute IMEI (SV)s.
TACs for IMEIs are assigned to specific SVNs within a Manufacturer/Model#. There may be more
than one TAC for a given Manufacturer/Model# (i.e., if the manufacturer builds more than 1,000,000
units of a device).
Under extenuating circumstances operators may allow the same TAC to be used across multiple
models, marketed as a single model. In this case the SVN must be used to differentiate between
the different models. The same SVN shall not be used on multiple models with different feature sets
when the TAC is shared across these multiple models.
The SVN (part of the IMEI SV) is required to be updated when the radio / protocol layer software
changes or has been recompiled for any reason. If the applications and protocol modules are
integrated into a single build, with one version number visible to the user, then the SVN must be
incremented. For products that have separate SW “modules” for radio / protocol SW, OS and
Application SW, with version numbers for the modules and an overall bundle version number, the
SVN wouldn’t have to incremented for application changes unless the protocol software was
changing or recompiled as well. A new hardware version shall be used if the hardware has been
modified.
The SVN shall be unique and shall be revised in ascending, sequential numeric order. PTCRB
Primary Test Labs shall always verify that the SVN is correct by running at least one of following
test cases with the release version of the software. This will minimize the risk that SVN 00 or any
non-sequential SVN is being released to the market.
• 3GPP TS 51.010-1, test case 26.7.3.1 for a GSM Device
• 3GPP TS 34.123-1, test case 9.3.1 for a UTRA Device
• 3GPP TS 36.523-1, test case 9.1.4.2 for a E-UTRA Device
• 3GPP TS 38.523-1, test cases 9.1.3.1 for a NR Device
Unless noted otherwise in this section all devices are required to obtain a unique TAC per unique
model number. This applies to Variants of already approved devices.
An Integrated Device manufacturer may utilize the TAC of the PTCRB-certified embedded Module
only if the expected production of the Integrated Device is not expected to exceed 100,000 over the
life of the Integrated Device.
If the production of the Integrated Device is expected to exceed 100,000 devices, then the
Integrated Device manufacturer shall obtain a unique TAC range for the specific Integrated Device.
Note Notebooks and Tablets using a PTCRB-certified embedded Module may not use the Module’s
TAC and shall follow the rules specific to those devices. The Integrated Device manufacturer may
request a unique TAC for use across multiple devices that are certified using the Integrated Device
Variant process AND contain exactly the same Module. The unique TAC cannot be shared with
Integrated Devices that are not linked as Parent or Integrated Device Variant in the PTCRB
database.
The integrator must maintain a complete model number to IMEI mapping, which must be made
available to network operators upon request.
The Module manufacturer must maintain a complete IMEI mapping indicating the manufacturer or
distributor each IMEI was shipped to which must be made available to network operators upon
request.
If the device is intended for use only on a specific network operator, the manufacturer should
consult with the network operator to determine whether or not a unique TAC is required.
8.2.2.2 IMEI Assignment for Notebooks and Tablets with a Certified Module
For Notebook platforms, which incorporate a certified Module, the integrator must obtain either a
unique TAC for a Family of Notebooks or a unique TAC for a specific Notebook model. A family
consists of Notebooks integrating the same wireless Module.
For Tablet platforms, which incorporate a certified Module, the integrator must obtain a unique TAC
for a Family of Tablets or a unique TAC for a specific Tablet model. A family consists of Tablets
integrating the same wireless Module.
In all cases, a new hardware version shall be issued if the hardware has been modified.
After an upgrade of commercially available software by any recognized method (and after raising
an ECO), a request shall be made to the responsible PTCRB Primary Test Lab to confirm that the
IMEI SV has been incremented. The PTCRB Primary Test Lab must ensure that the IMEI SV
update has occurred and the IMEI has not been altered. No formal report is required. Confirmation
of the correct IMEI and IMEISV may be accomplished by performing test cases listed in Section
8.2.1 of this document. For a Device supporting GSM, UTRA, E-UTRA and NR, execution in either
technology is sufficient, and the execution of this test will require analysis of the Identity Response
message. These tests must be executed with the production TAC and final IMEISV information.
The new IMEI SVN shall then be entered onto the PTCRB certification database by the PTCRB
Primary Laboratory as confirmation that the SVN has been correctly incremented.
Devices that have completed PTCRB certification will be issued an IMEI on the Certified list.
Service will not be denied to a device on the Certified list due to equipment type. Service could still
be denied for subscription reasons (no roaming agreements, invalid SIM, etc.) Terminals that are
stolen or for other reasons need to be denied service will be placed on the Block list.
All UEs that were issued an IMEI prior to the availability of Type Certification testing (June 1, 1997)
will be placed on an "Uncertified List". Manufactures must declare that the mobile equipment will
pass the device approved certification tests. Operators are not required to support phones on this
list and do so at their own risk.
Multi-band/multi-mode devices shall contain only one IMEI. TACs issued by regulatory bodies may
be used by the PTCRB in a multi-band/multi-mode device and placed on the PTCRB Certified list
after the multi-band/multi-mode device conforms to the certification requirements listed in this
document.
The DUT may be loaded with the Reserved/Production IMEI for testing purposes provided this is
done with the final / production hardware.
8.2.10 Miscellaneous
The GSM Association IMEI PRD TS.06 will apply to any areas not addressed in this document. The
issues of IMEI for more than 1 million devices produced may be solved by using an additional TAC.
In accordance with the GSM Association document TS.06, the format of the test IMEI shall be
001MMM/00/NNNyyy/zz, where:
• MMM - Represents a number issued by the IMEI Administrator and is unique to each
manufacturer
• 00 - Represents the FAC code of the DUT
• NNN - Represents a number assigned by the IMEI Administrator
• yyy - Represents the serial number of the DUT
• zz - Represents the software version (SV) number
• The IMEI (SV) will be placed on the Certified, Uncertified, or Block list of the North American
CEIR
• The IMEI (SV) will be sent by the IMEI Administrator to the GSM Association in Dublin
• The most recent IMEI lists will be available in the operator-only area of the PTCRB web site
• The manufacturer will receive notification from CTIA Certification when the device has been
certified
To obtain an IMEI (SV), the device certification administrator or manufacturer shall submit an IMEI
TAC request via PTCRB certification database at https://certify.ptcrb.com/. Questions can be
directed to the IMEI Administrator may be contacted at imei@ctiacertification.org.
The IMEI TAC will be reserved for 120 days. If, at the end of 120 days, the device has not been
certified, the TAC will be revoked.
Multi-band devices shall have only one IMEI. TACs issued by regulatory bodies may be used in a
multi-band device and placed on the PTCRB Certified list after the multi-band device conforms to
the certification requirements listed in this document. The format for a "TEST" IMEI shall comply
with GSM Association PRD TS.06.
Any changes to information provided on the IMEI TAC Request, or any major feature and/or
function change would constitute a Variant and would require a unique IMEI, as well as any
operator requests for a unique IMEI.
• For an Integrated Device, the SV number must be the same as the Modules SVN.
Integrated Devices utilizing PTCRB Certified Modules which have been tested in
accordance Section 11.10 of this document and the SVN has not changed; then
verification of the SVN is not required by the integrator.
9.1 Overview
All PTCRB certified and IoT Network Certified devices are available for view via the PTCRB
certification database at https://certify.ptcrb.com/. Please note that:
• Members of the Operator Steering Group can view all certified devices and all information
associated with these devices in the database
• Manufacturers may view only the certification requests they have submitted
• Test labs may view only the certification requests which manufacturers have assigned to
them for certification testing
To access the PTCRB certification database go to https://certify.ptcrb.com/ and select “New User
Registration”. Complete the User Registration Request page. The registration name shall be for a
specific individual and the email domain name shall match the company name on the page. Read
and agree to the database terms and conditions; then click Submit. The Certification Database
Administrator will respond to your request.
If this is the company’s first PTCRB certification database access request, the individual applying
for database access will be appointed as the primary point of contact.
Should a certification database account be inactive for 180 days (e.g., no logins to the PTCRB
certification database within the last 180 days), the account will be disabled. To re-enable an
account, contact the Certification Database Administrator at support@ctiacertification.org.
If a suspected certification violation is identified by an operator, the identifying party shall report the
suspected violation to CTIA Certification at support@ctiacertification.org. The identifying party shall
provide fully documented details of the suspected certification violation and the effects that this
violation may cause or has caused. The OSG shall review the documentation.
If the OSG determines there are reasonable grounds to believe a certification violation has taken
place CTIA Certification shall contact the offending party and attempt to resolve the case. If it is
determined that a certification violation has occurred, the OSG will then discuss whether the
violation warrants placing the offending party on probation for a set period of time (typically 1 year).
The offending party shall not be held responsible for violations caused by errors or omissions by the
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory or by the Certification Administrator.
Any noncompliance with the requirements in this document constitutes a certification violation.
CTIA Certification may revoke the certification of a noncompliant device.
Any noncompliance with the CTIA Certification Authorized Test Lab license and service agreement
constitutes a certification violation. As noted in the license and service agreement, CTIA
Certification may revoke the license of a test laboratory that fails to meet the requirements of the
agreement.
A manufacturer found to be in violation shall immediately stop shipment of the offending device and
correct the infraction (e.g., software revision, ECO certification, etc.).
An Initial Certification is the first PTCRB certification for a device of any type.
The Initial Certification of a Parent device (i.e., new device) requires that a complete set of test
cases be executed. Test results from other devices can be leveraged, if:
1. The test results were obtained from an alternative device of the same manufacturer, and
2. The applicability of leveraging test results from an alternative device has been confirmed
by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory responsible for the Initial certification.
Spot-checking of leveraged test results may be allowed at the discretion of the PTCRB Primary
Test Laboratory responsible for testing the Initial Certification.
Table 11.2-1 summarizes the applicability of device assessment requirements by device type.
Notes:
P = Parent
V = Variant
C = Child Device
NA = Not Applicable
Device Type
Notebook,
Smartphone,
PPMD Section Tablet
Feature Integrated Certified
(incorporating Module
Phone, Device Chipset
a certified
Other
module)
11.1 D D D D D
11.3 D D D D D
11.4 D D D D D
11.5 D D D D D
11.6 E E E E E
11.7 D D D D D
11.8 D D D D D
11.9 NA NA NA I, E, V I, E
11.10 NA NA I, E NA NA
11.10.9 NA NA V NA NA
11.11 NA I, E NA NA NA
11.12 V V NA V V
11.13 D D D D D
11.14 D D D D D
11.15 NA NA NA NA I, E
11.16 I, E NA NA I, E NA
Device manufacturers and PTCRB test laboratories must comply with the following submission
procedures for PTCRB certification. All certification documentation shall be submitted in English.
The manufacturer shall submit a certification request via the PTCRB certification database at
https://certify.ptcrb.com/. Information for obtaining a PTCRB Certification Database user name and
password can be found in Section 9.2 of this document.
The manufacturer shall select the request type and identify the device type.
The manufacturer shall indicate if the DUT represents a Superset Device. A Superset Device may
only be created as an Initial or Variant certification. A Superset Device may not be created via an
ECO certification. A Superset Device may, however, be re-certified via an ECO Certification.
The manufacturer shall enter the following information into the PTCRB certification database:
• Valid production model name/number. See Section 11.3.1.5 of this document.
• Type of device (select from displayed categories)
• Indicate if the device incorporates a Module, Embedded Modem or Certified Chipset
o With the exception of Notebooks and Tablets, devices incorporating a Module or
Embedded Modem will be submitted for IoT Network Certified certification.
• Supported technologies and frequencies
• Regulatory approval ID:
o FCC ID if the DUT is intended for use within the U.S.
o ISED ID if the DUT is intended for use within Canada
o Other national regulatory ID and country of destination
• Current HW and SW (including SV) versions. If the DUT is an Integrated Device the
integrator must specify the HW and SW version associated with the DUT. It is not acceptable
for the DUT to use the Module’s HW and SW versions. If the Integrated Device does not
have integration level software, indicate a software version of “0”.
• Supported features (If a feature is missing from the feature list for which testing is required,
notify CTIA Certification via email that your DUT supports this feature.) If the DUT is a
Superset Device, all feature Subsets must be identified.
• IMEI TAC
The model name/number shall consist of alphanumeric values which represent the actual model
name/model number of the DUT; variables or wild-card digits shall not be used.
Only a single model name/model number shall be used; multiple model names/model numbers may
only be used when the alternate name/number is used as an alternative means of marketing the
same DUT. There can be no changes in hardware, firmware or software between the alternatively
named DUTs.
A declaration that the DUTs are the same must be provided to the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory,
and the laboratory may require the inspection of sample products and/or supporting documentation
as evidence of compliance to this requirement.
Additional marketing names under which the device is placed on the market may be listed in the
optional marketing name field. All multiple marketing names shall reference back to the same
model name/model number. Additional marketing names may only be added to a certified device by
contacting CTIA Certification at support@ctiacertification.org and providing a declaration that the
devices are identical and only differ in how they are marketed.
The manufacturer shall select a Full Test Laboratory as the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will be responsible for management of 100% of the test cases
executed for any certification request. The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will be responsible for
ensuring that 100% of the test cases required for certification have been executed by authorized
test labs. This includes ensuring that all identified Subsets have been tested in the case of a
Superset Device. Subcontracting may be requested by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory only.
Off-Site Testing still applies and must follow the rules defined in Section 11.5 of this document.
11.3.1.6 Declarations
The device manufacturer shall review and accept the following declarations in the PTCRB
certification database.
• Declaration of Air Interface Compliance
• Declaration of IMEI Security
• Declaration of AE Compliance -This declaration is required if the device supports Application
Enablers applicable for PTCRB certification
Note: The information listed above is not required for Integrated Devices (such devices will leverage
the module information) or Certified Chipsets (this information will be required by the Module or End
Product integrating the Certified Chipset).
The following declarations apply to all device types:
• Declaration of Multiple marketing Names – In the case of multiple marketing names used to
market the same device under different names, a declaration shall be made that the devices
are exactly the same and only differ in the way they are marketed. Note that the laboratory may
require samples and/or supporting documentation of each model number as part of the review.
11.3.1.7 Documents
The manufacturer shall upload the following documents into the PTCRB certification database:
• PICS/PIXIT – Not required for Integrated Devices. A document indicating the DUT's
supported features according to the following 3GPP specifications (As applicable):
o 3GPP TS 51.010-2
o 3GPP TS 34.121-2 and 34.123-2
o 3GPP TS 36.521-2 and 36.523-2
o 3GPP TS 36.579-4
o 3GPP TS 37.571-3
o 3GPP TS 38.508-2
• Product Description - A product description shall be provided (a draft version is acceptable).
This may be any document, such as a product brochure, describing the device and
referencing the manufacturer name and model name/number of the device.
• Options Table/ICS/Test Case Mapping document - This document is required if the DUT
supports Application Enablers that are applicable for PTCRB certification.
• HW/SW Change Release Notes – Required for all Integrated Device ECOs that do not
require lab review.
Manufacturers shall obtain regulatory approval from the regulatory body(ies) of the
country/countries in which the DUT is intended to be sold or distributed.
Manufacturers shall ensure devices comply with all applicable regulations for the jurisdiction in
which the device is intended to be sold or distributed.
• If a DUT is intended to be sold or distributed in the United States and the DUT is subject to
FCC (Federal Communications Commission) equipment authorization, manufacturers shall
obtain an FCC Grant of Equipment Authorization in accordance with all applicable rule parts
(i.e. Parts 22H, 24E, 27, 90, 30, etc.) covering all technologies (i.e. GERAN, UTRA, E-UTRA,
NR, etc.) and frequency bands supported by the device. The manufacturer shall enter the
associated FCC identification number (FCC ID) in the PTCRB submission prior to receiving
PTCRB certification.
o To expedite the certification process, the submitting manufacturer may upload a copy
of the FCC Grant of Equipment Authorization to the Supporting Documentation
section of the PTCRB certification database.
• If a DUT is intended to be sold or distributed in Canada and the DUT is subject to ISED
(Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada), manufacturers shall obtain an
ISED Technical Acceptance Certificate in accordance with all applicable rule parts (i.e. RSS-
132, RSS-133, RSS-139 etc.) covering all technologies (i.e. GERAN, UTRA, E-UTRA, etc.)
and frequency bands supported by the device. The manufacturer shall enter the associated
ISED certification identification number in the PTCRB submission prior to receiving PTCRB
certification.
• If the DUT is intended to be sold or distributed in a jurisdiction other than the USA or Canada,
manufacturers shall comply with the applicable regulations in that jurisdiction and upload the
evidence of such compliance to the Supporting Documentation section of the PTCRB
certification database.
The manufacturer shall review and agree to the terms and conditions of the certification license
agreement.
The device manufacturer shall review the items identified in Appendix A of this document and
submit all items requested by the PTCRB Primary laboratory. The device manufacturer shall also
provide all required (P)ICS/(P)IXIT declarations listed in Section 11.3.1.7 of PPMD V 3.9 (or later).
CTIA Certification will invoice the manufacturer a certification fee (USD) of:
• $12,500 for an Initial Certification request ($15,000 if incorporating Wi-Fi and undergoing
Converged Device Testing)
o $7,500 if a Module or End Product using a Certified Chipset; $10,000 if incorporating
Wi-Fi and undergoing Converged Device Testing
o $1,500 if an Integrated Device, Embedded Modem, Notebook, or Tablet incorporating
a certified Module; $2,125 if incorporating Wi-Fi and undergoing Converged Device
Testing
• $3,125 for a Variant certification request ($3,750 if incorporating Wi-Fi and undergoing
Converged Device Testing)
o $1,000 for an Integrated Device Variant certification request ($1,625 if incorporating
Wi-Fi and undergoing Converged Device Testing)
• $3,125 for rebranding of a previously-certified device. If the device is an Integrated Device,
the fee is $1,000.
The fee is the same regardless of whether the Device incorporates Wi-Fi. See Section 11.13 of this
document for the definition of and processes for rebranding.
• $3,125 for each Subset beyond the first Subset
Manufacturers shall inform CTIA Certification of any specific invoicing and payment requirements.
Should the manufacturer require a PO number on the invoice, the manufacturer shall enter the PO
number (or a placeholder for the PO number) in the certification database Purchase Order # field,
and/or upload the purchase order to the Supporting Documentation section of the certification
request.
All PTCRB-certified devices are listed on the public portion of the PTCRB website. All IoT Network
Certified devices are listed on the public portion of the IoT Network Certified website.
When submitting the certification request, the manufacturer is given the following options for when
the device is published:
• Publish when certified
• Publish x days after certification, where x is a number between 1 – 365
As noted in Section 8 of this document, all PTCRB certified and IoT Network Certified devices are
available for view via the PTCRB certification database. Should the manufacturer wish to allow one
or more operators to view a pending certification request, they may select those operators during
the certification request submission.
Software patches loaded into devices via FOTA shall bit-match certified software that was manually
loaded into the device.
All software, whether downloaded via FOTA or through manual methods, must be certified.
Therefore, software resulting from a FOTA patch must be certified if not bit-matched to the certified
software version.
Beginning with NAPRD03 V6.12, devices requesting PTCRB certification shall not support
encryption algorithm GEA1 regardless of the device’s declared 3GPP GERAN release.
Conformance to this requirement will be established through execution of 3GPP TS 51.010-1,
TC 44.2.5.2.5.
Beginning with NAPRD03 V6.13, devices requesting PTCRB certification shall not support
encryption algorithm GEA2 regardless of the device’s declared 3GPP GERAN release.
Once all items have been received from the manufacturer and PTCRB Primary Test Lab, and once
CTIA Certification has approved the test results, the certification request status shall be updated to
"Under Review by CTIA Certification" in the PTCRB certification database. After a final review of all
certification requirements, the device will be certified. The manufacturer will receive an email
notification.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will receive a certification testing request via the PTCRB
certification database at https://certify.ptcrb.com/. An e-mail notification will be sent to the
laboratory's designated point(s) of contact when such a request has been submitted.
The laboratory shall log into the PTCRB certification database to review and accept/reject the
certification testing request.
Upon completion of the device’s evaluation, the PTCRB Primary laboratory shall log into the
PTCRB certification database and input or verify the following device information:
1. Final HW Version
2. Final SW Version (including SV)
3. Features
4. NAPRD03 Version
5. GCF-CC Version (If the device’s supported frequencies include those included in the
GCF certification scheme)
6. IMEI TAC, in the format of 8-digit TAC + yyyyyy
7. Versions of the applicable testing standards as identified in the PTCRB TC database
8. Versions of the standards used to identify the applicability of test cases
9. Versions of any standards identify the test environment
10. Actual test start and end dates
11. Indicate if No Testing was Required (ensure supporting explanatory documents are
uploaded)
12. Indicate if there were Category E failures
13. Verify device categorization
14. Indicate if the device meets the definition of an IoT Device
The laboratory shall also upload the final test report. The final test report should be uploaded within
five business days after completing the evaluation. At a minimum, the test report shall provide
details in the following areas (additional information may be provided at the laboratory's discretion):
A detailed list of the test equipment employed for the DUT’s certification, including:
• Manufacturer and model
• Software and hardware versions
• Calibration date for all relevant test equipment
All required device description and related information shall be provided in accordance with the
(P)ICS/(P)IXIT requirements in Section 11.3.1.7.
If applicable, the laboratory shall provide a detailed explanation of any specialized/unique test set-
ups required to perform the testing.
A list of the tests performed using NAPRD03. This shall include the test category as identified in the
applicable NAPRD03 version.
Identification of Pass, Fail, Not Applicable (N/A), or Pass with Declaration (Declared) for the
appropriate tests. Test cases which have been granted a waiver shall also be identified in the test
report.
Test case failures will indicate whether the failure was caused by the DUT or an issue with the test
implementation.
If the failure is caused by the DUT, a description of the cause of the failure shall be included in the
report.
If the failure is caused by an issue with the test implementation, the PTCRB Full Test Laboratory
shall immediately work with the test equipment vendor to confirm the issue and either add an
exception to, or downgrade, the test case.
See the guidelines of PVG.12 for the process on how to deal with test case failures during
certification.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall identify the DUT’s final software and hardware versions
that successfully passed the evaluation (this must match the Final HW/SW Version entered into the
PTCRB certification database). Final hardware used for certification must have a production IMEI. It
is highly recommended that this information be located on the first page of the report.
When the DUT is a Smartphone or a device which utilizes separate software components that may
affect conformance to the recognized specifications, all relevant software version information
relating to the certified device configuration must be recorded and stated in the equipment build
status (e.g., a protocol stack version with SVN and a MMI version).
For certification requests which utilize multiple PTCRB laboratories to perform testing on one DUT,
and where the DUT may utilize HW and/or SW during the certification process that differs from the
final build being PTCRB certified, a final build declaration for the DUT shall be uploaded by the
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory to the PTCRB certification database. The final build declaration
shall be uploaded along with the final test reports, and will list the DUT’s tested HW and SW. This
information shall appear in each of the subset of laboratory reports (refer to Appendix C of this
document).
The DUT's supported features (PICS/PIXIT/Options table/Test Case Mapping Document, etc.) shall
be in accordance with 3GPP TS 51.010-2, TS 34.121-2, TS 34.123-2, TS 36.521-2, TS 36.523-2,
TS 36.579-4, TS 37.571-3, TS 38.508-2 or appropriate document.
When multiple marketing names are declared by the manufacturer, the final build declaration shall
include an acknowledgement that the DUTs are the same and only differ in how they are marketed.
A laboratory declaration asserting the DUT’s successful completion of the evaluation and
compliance to the PTCRB certification requirements.
Test results for all bands supported by the DUT are required.
For Initial certifications, the test reports shall include the test results for all applicable test cases. For
Variants that require testing, the test reports shall include the test results for all applicable test
cases. If no testing is required, a document shall be uploaded providing justification for this
decision. The justification shall be specific for each test required (i.e., specific for the GSM, UTRA,
E-UTRA, AE test and/or specific for the RF Performance Test). This justification document shall
also include the certification request number, hardware version, software version, SVN, and date of
letter. If a Variant is leveraging test results from another PTCRB-certified device (e.g., a device not
directly linked to the specific certification request) the test results for the leveraged device shall be
uploaded to the PTCRB certification database.
For Superset Devices, the test reports shall include the test results for all applicable test cases,
including all Subsets identified in the certification request.
For IoT devices, the test reports shall include test results for the CTIA IoT Cybersecurity
Certification Test Plan, if testing was performed.
For ECO certifications, the test report shall include all the applicable test cases that have been
executed due to the ECO.
If a Variant is leveraging test results from a Parent device the test results for that Parent device
shall be uploaded to the PTCRB certification database.
If no testing is required, a document shall be uploaded providing justification for this decision. The
justification shall be specific for each test required (i.e., specific for the GSM, UTRA, E-UTRA, AE
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall make a best effort to verify the content of the grants
associated with regulatory IDs entered into the PTCRB certification database. These grants shall be
reviewed to ensure they accurately reflect the bands, technologies, and operating bandwidths
supported by the DUT.
The need to conduct full or partial testing against a DUT undergoing certification will be determined
by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory. The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory’s decision
concerning required testing of the DUT shall be based on objective and defensible criteria. If the
DUT’s manufacturer disagrees with the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory’s decision, they may
submit a waiver request. (See Section 11.8.) In this instance, a PTCRB Primary Laboratory waiver
endorsement document would not be required for upload to the waiver request.
Certification testing in PTCRB test laboratories ensures a high degree of confidence in the
functionality of a DUT. This is achieved by establishing and maintaining a high quality level in
PTCRB laboratories, which is also supported by ISO 17025 accreditations and fulfillment of the
requirements of PPMD and NAPRD03.
However, special situations might occur where Testing Projects could be unfairly delayed because
of insufficient testing capacities, defective test equipment or lack of appropriate test equipment in
PTCRB test laboratories.
In such situations Off-Site Testing under the control of a PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory, may be
employed to prevent further delays in the certification testing process. However, Off-Site Testing
shall not be considered a replacement for certification testing in PTCRB test laboratories and shall
be considered an exception.
Off-Site Testing shall be restricted to a maximum of 20% of all test cases within each overall
Testing Project. Consequently, at least 80% of all test cases within each Testing Project shall be
performed in PTCRB test laboratories. In this calculation only test cases from PTCRB categories
"A", "B" and "E" shall be counted. Test cases performed in both 850 MHz and 1900 MHz frequency
bands are counted twice. Previous Off-Site Testing shall be used along with new Off-Site testing
when calculating the percentage for ECOs.
In unusual cases when a given test or group of tests is available in less than three PTCRB test
laboratories, the 80% rule described in the previous paragraph does not apply. Tests executed off-
site in accordance with this paragraph shall be marked as such in the test report.
11.5.3 Procedure
For any single Testing Project which uses Off-Site Testing, the following procedure shall apply:
1. The PTCRB Full Test Laboratory conducting testing of the DUT shall send the completed
and signed application form (see Appendix D of this document) to CTIA Certification at
Before beginning an Off-Site Testing Project, the PTCRB Full Test Laboratory conducting the
testing has an obligation to examine and spot-check the following attributes of the off-site
laboratory:
• Laboratory environment, such as shielding, temperature, humidity, etc.
• Laboratory equipment such as vibration table, climatic chamber, multimeter, power supplies,
etc.
• Calibration records of all equipment to be used for off-site testing
• Test platforms such as hardware, hardware versions, software versions, message files,
parameter settings, calibration parameters, etc.
• Documentation from the installation/compilation of the test systems and system software as
well as documents pertaining to daily system checks and calibrations
At its conclusion, the PTCRB Full Test Laboratory shall compare the outcome of this examination
against previously agreed quality rules. The results of the examination shall be documented in
quality records, which shall be available to the PTCRB upon request.
Each individual (engineer, test system operator) from the PTCRB Full Test Laboratory performing
testing in the off-site Test Laboratory shall fulfill the requirements for "Testers" given in the CTIA
Certification Policies and Procedures for Authorized Test Labs document. This includes the
obligation that all testing personnel involved are fully aware of the current PTCRB testing
procedures, requirements and special situations.
Each individual (engineer, test system operator) from the PTCRB Full Test Laboratory performing
Off-Site Testing shall be present during test case execution to avoid any possible influence on test
Each test case performed in an Off-Site Test Laboratory shall be unambiguously marked in the
PTCRB Full Test Laboratory's test report for the corresponding Testing Project. Furthermore, if the
percentage of allowed off-site tests (as defined in Section 11.5.2 of this document) is exceeded
because of test cases which fall under the exception(s) described in this section, then all
exceptional “off-site” test cases shall be marked separately in the test report to distinguish them
from all other test cases executed against the DUT.
The PTCRB Full Test Laboratory shall have internal quality management procedures in place for
the entire Off-Site Testing process. Prior to performing any Off-Site Testing, these procedures shall
have been successfully audited under ISO 17025. These procedures shall therefore become part of
the “off-site” laboratory’s accreditation scope.
The PTCRB Full Test Laboratory agrees that lack of adherence to any “off-site” test procedures
described in this section will result in termination as a PTCRB Full Test Laboratory.
Any PTCRB-certified device undergoing Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) shall be reassessed
for continual compliance. DUT changes applicable to this requirement include (but are not limited
to):
1. Any change to the DUT’s hardware/hardware version shall result in an ECO certification
2. Any change of the DUT’s radio/protocol stack resulting in a change to the software
version/SVN shall result in an ECO certification
3. Any recompiling of the DUT’s radio/protocol stack shall result in an ECO certification
Implementation Examples:
Example 1: If the DUT’s operating system/applications software and the radio/protocol stack are
integrated into a single software, with one version number visible to the user, then an ECO
certification would be required.
1. The DUT’s operating system/applications software and the radio/protocol stack are in
separate software modules (with individual version numbers for the separate modules and
an overall bundle version number,) and
2. The DUT’s radio/protocol module has not changed or been recompiled
Example 3: If the DUT's software component(s) which contain the radio/protocol stack has
changed only with security related patches, then a unique SVN would NOT be required.
Example 4: If DUT's MMI version is updated only with changes which do not affect radio/protocol
function, then a unique SVN would NOT be required.
Upon revision of a device's hardware and/or software, the manufacturer shall submit an ECO
certification request for the DUT via the PTCRB certification database at https://certify.ptcrb.com/.
For Integrated Device ECOs, where only the Integrated Device’s software version has changed, the
“Check this box if only the Integrated Device’s software is changing and the changes do not require
testing as outlined in PPMD. Testing shall not be required.” checkbox shall be selected.
The need to conduct full or partial testing against a DUT undergoing an ECO certification will be
determined by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory. The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory’s
decision concerning required regression testing of the DUT shall be based on objective and
defensible criteria.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall ensure that all certification requirements are met. This
includes ensuring that any tests identified as missing from the Initial or previous ECO certifications
are executed against the DUT prior to approval of the current ECO certification request.
In the case of DUT antenna changes, the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory is responsible for
determining whether TRP, C-TIS, TIS, RSE, NHPRP or NHPIS OTA testing, as applicable, is
required. The lab shall also determine whether full OTA testing of the DUT is required or if OTA
spot-checks would be sufficient.
For Module ECO reviews, the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall prepare an assessment of
whether or not Integrated Devices using previous versions of the Module require testing to utilize
the ECO’ed Module.
For Integrated Device ECOs, where the Module’s software and/or hardware has changed and the
assessment, noted in Section 11.6.4.1.of this document, has determined that no testing is required
for Integrated Devices, no laboratory review of the associated Integrated Devices utilizing the
For Integrated Device ECOs, where only the Integrated Device’s software version has changed and
the changes do not impact any test requirements defined in Section 11.10.3 of this document, no
laboratory review is required. The manufacturer shall submit a request in the PTCRB certification
database and indicate that only the Integrated Device’s SW version is changing.
If the laboratory determines that radiated performance testing of the ECO is required, the ECO’s
TRP shall be no more than 2 dB less than the Parent-device’s TRP, and the ECO’s TIS (or C-TIS,
as applicable) shall be no more than 2 dB above the Parent device’s TIS/C-TIS. This 2 dB rule shall
also apply if NHPRP and NHPIS are applicable to the Integrated Device’s use case in place of
TRP/TIS.
For Variant Device ECOs the laboratory’s review shall include an assessment of whether the
Variant Device’s software and/or hardware changes are common with the Parent device. If they are
common with the Parent device, then test results for common features and functions may be
leveraged from the Parent Device to Variant Device.
Upon completion of the evaluation, the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall log into the PTCRB
certification database and upload the final test report. The report will contain the information
identified in Section 11.4.3 of this document.
Module ECO result submittals shall include an appropriate response to the “Check this box if an
Integrated Device ECO using this Module will require testing” checkbox to reflect the results of the
assessment noted in Section 11.6.4.1 of this document.
Integrated Device ECOs for which Section 11.6.4.2 of this document applies are not required to
submit results.
This section is applicable to DUTs which have submitted an ECO for PTCRB certification in which
an NAPRD03 version change has:
If the changes affect the DUT’s bearer technology or Application Enabler (AE) in any way, or if the
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory determines that additional testing is required, the DUT will be
required to execute all applicable delta test cases.
This section is applicable to devices which have submitted an ECO for PTCRB certification in which
the NAPRD03 version change has:
If the changes affect the DUT’s bearer technology or Application Enabler (AE) in any way, or if the
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory determines additional testing is required, the device will be
required to execute the applicable delta test cases.
This section is applicable to devices defined as Public Safety Devices or Public Safety Devices with
Integrated LMR, either of which have:
1. Submitted an ECO for PTCRB certification in which an NAPRD03 version change has
resulted in delta test cases; and,
2. The only software changes are related to non-PTCRB Public Safety applications
DUTs which qualify for this section will not be required to execute the delta test cases. If the
changes affect the Commercial Mobile Radio Service (CMRS) bearer technology or Application
Enabler (AE) in any way, or if the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory determines that additional
testing is required, the DUT will be required to execute the delta test cases.
Manufacturers may submit an ECO to disable GEA1 and/or GEA2 on a previously certified device
supporting GSM. The NAPRD.03 version of the certification would not be required to be
incremented to any subsequent releases for this.
11.6.8.2 Procedure
DUTs meeting the criteria in Section 11.6.8.1 of this document will be allowed to re-certify against
the NAPRD03 version to which the DUT was most recently certified.
1. The DUT’s software version and SVN has changed in all models identified in Appendix C
2. The DUT’s software changes are the same across all models identified
3. No testing of the DUT is required except for execution of an SVN check
The manufacturer will identify and declare the DUT models that meet the above criteria. The
manufacturer shall submit an ECO certification request per the normal database process for each
DUT model. The manufacturer shall select one PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory for all the
identified DUT models. The manufacturer shall execute the SVN check on all models identified with
their own PTCRB-validated test platform. The manufacturer will provide a declaration of compliance
for the DUT models identified to the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory. See Appendix C.
1–5 1
6 – 10 2
11 – 15 3
16 – 20 4
21 – 25 5
26 – 30 6
If any failures / contradictions are found by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory during the testing
of the DUT models, the process identified in Section 11.6.9 of this document is no longer applicable
and the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will conduct the SVN check on all DUT models identified.
Upon completion of the evaluation, the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will log into the PTCRB
certification database and upload the final test report and the declaration of compliance provided by
the manufacturer. The report will indicate which DUT models were tested by the manufacturer and
which were tested by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory. CTIA Certification will mediate any
disputes identified in this process.
The device may add or remove bands and/or features (except VoLTE) through the ECO process
only if the band or feature change(s) can be enabled through a SW update.
Any ECO with band or feature changes must be accompanied by an updated device SVN to
differentiate the various versions of the device on the network. The updated band/feature set shall
then be utilized in all future ECOs of the device.
This process shall not to be utilized to enable multiple SKU management through a single Initial or
Variant certification.
This section does not apply to Integrated Devices. Integrated Device band and feature change
requirements may be found in Sections 11.10.5 and 11.10.6 of this document.
Certification of a DUT shall be based on the most recently released version of NAPRD03 as of the
date the test reports are uploaded to the certification database. Alternatively, one version prior to
the most recently-released version of NAPRD03 may be used as the basis of certification.
Example:
• NAPRD03 version 1.0 is released on January 1
• NAPRD03 version 1.1 is released on April 1
According to the example NAPRD03 versions above, a DUT may use either NAPRD03 version 1.0
or version 1.1 until NAPRD03 version 1.2 is released on July 1. Once version 1.2 is released the
DUT must be certified against either NAPRD03 version 1.1 or version 1.2.
Testing and submission of FR2 results was not mandatory for Device Certification to NAPRD.03
Version 6.9 or earlier.
Any Variant, ECO Certification based on an Initial Certification using NAPRD.03 Version 6.9 or
earlier that triggers a change to a NAPRD.03 Version 6.10 or higher the testing and submission of
FR2 results shall be exempt. Where FR2 testing has been assessed by the PTCRB Primary
Laboratory as being exempt based on the Initial Certification NAPRD version, a declaration of no
testing being required shall be uploaded to the PTCRB Certification Database.
PTCRB Primary Laboratories shall be responsible for the assessment of the integrated device to
determine the required testing.
DUTs which cannot meet the requirements of PTCRB certification may have the opportunity to
request a waiver against the issue preventing certification.
The manufacturer of a DUT applying for any type of waiver shall submit their request via the waiver
request function within the PTCRB certification database. Each waiver submission shall be
prepared in accordance with the rules described in Section 11.8.2.1 through 11.8.2.3 below:
11.8.2.1 A single waiver submission shall include one or more test case(s) and/or
certification requirement(s) for which waivers are requested.
11.8.2.2 Each waiver submission shall separate the test cases and/or certification
requirements requested for a waiver according to the two waiver request groups
described in Section 11.8.2.2.1 and 11.8.2.2.2 below.
11.8.2.2.1 SDO Waiver Requests: Waiver requests which apply to test cases developed and
maintained by Standards Development Organizations (SDOs) such as:
• 3GPP TR and/or TS test specifications
• GSMA TS test specifications
This category shall also be selected in cases where no PTCRB Laboratory is
available to execute any required test case(s) prepared by an SDO.
11.8.2.2.2 Certification Body Waiver Requests: Waiver requests which apply to certification
tests or certification requirements developed and maintained by certification bodies
such as:
• PTCRB (e.g., NAPRD03 and/or PPMD certification requirements)
• CTIA Certification (e.g., Audio Performance and/or Cybersecurity
certification test requirements)
• CTIA Certification OTA (All Working Groups and Sub-Working Groups)
test requirements
This category shall also be selected in cases where no PTCRB Laboratory is
available to execute any required test case(s) prepared by a certification body.
Prior to acceptance of a waiver submission, the DUT vendor must verify that the Primary Test
Laboratory responsible for their DUT has reviewed and will support the waiver request. A waiver
endorsement document with the lab manager’s signature shall be uploaded to the Supporting
Document section of the waiver request. \The DUT vendor’s waiver request will not be accepted
until the Primary Test Laboratory waiver endorsement document is uploaded.
Lab managers are required to ensure that all reasonable actions to verify the root cause(s) of the
waiver have been addressed before submitting the waiver endorsement.
The Primary Test Laboratory’s waiver endorsement document shall include the information
described in Section 11.8.2.3, presented in tabular format with an explanation why each test and/or
certification requirement waiver request is justified. This explanation must be prepared in the
Waiver request submissions must also embed copies of any email communications (as per PVG.12
Section 4) seeking to:
a) Subcontract the execution of test cases not supported in the Primary Test
Laboratory
b) Any response(s) to (a) above from supporting labs or the validated Test System
vendor and
c) If certain test cases cannot be executed in other labs as noted in (a) and (b) above,
an explanation of the reason(s) why the limited availability of the test cases could
not be resolved.
Following submission of the waiver request form, CTIA Certification will review the waiver request
for completeness and content.
Once the waiver request form has been approved, CTIA Certification will coordinate its review with
the PTCRB OSG and attempt to complete the review within 7 (seven) calendar days.
If the waiver request is deemed complete, the PTCRB OSG will be notified of the request, at which
point the 7-day approval timeline begins.
Active PTCRB OSG members may respond to the waiver request in any one of five ways:
1. No response,
2. Select “Approve” in the database,
3. Select “Abstain” in the database,
4. Select “Reject” in the database, or
5. Add a comment and/or request for additional information in the database
If no Active PTCRB OSG members respond by selecting [5] (i.e., request that the DUT vendor
provide comments or additional information), or respond by selecting [4] (i.e., “Reject”), the waiver
request is deemed approved upon expiration of the 7-day approval timeline.
If one or more Active PTCRB OSG member responds by selecting [5] (i.e., request for the DUT
vendor to provide comments or requesting additional information), CTIA Certification will notify the
requesting manufacturer by email. The 7-day approval timeline will begin again when the
manufacturer provides a response and the PTCRB OSG is provided notice.
If any Active PTCRB OSG member indicates “Reject” in the database, the waiver is deemed
rejected unless at least one Active PTCRB OSG member indicates “Approve”, in which case the
waiver is deemed granted and the waived test cases will be designated Category E. Please note
that:
• Waiver requests/approvals are certification-request specific
• Lifetime Waiver approvals are carried over from the certification in which it was applied
(Initial/Variant/ECO) to the subsequent ECOs.
• Waiver requests/approvals are device-specific. They do not carry over to Variants.
• Waiver requests must not reference any operator name
11.9.1 Modules Supporting Up to and Including 5G NR FR1 Radio Access Technologies (RAT)
Modules shall be certified under the same processes and requirements as all other PTCRB-certified
devices
• A Module shall be certified as an Initial Certification or a Variant of another Module
• A Module cannot be a Variant of any other type device (i.e., PC card, smartphone, etc.)
• A complete set of tests must be executed against the Module applying for Initial Certification
The Module’s PICS/PIXIT and test results shall be made available to the PTCRB Primary Test
Laboratory conducting the evaluation of an Integrated Device containing that Module.
In addition to the requirements for Modules supporting up to and including NR FR1; FR2 capable
Modules are required to execute FR2 protocol test cases. FR2 capable Modules are not subject to FR2
Radio Frequency (RF), Performance or Radio Resource Management (RRM) test cases. Test
requirements for FR2 capable Modules are detailed in Table 11.9-1.
Refer to Table 11.10-6 for FR2 testing to be executed on the host device as part of the final
integration.
All modules supporting E-UTRA FDD band 30 and/or 5G NR FR1 band n30 shall be required to
fulfill transmit/uplink requirements of 3GPP TS 36.521-1 and/or 3GPP TS 36.521-3 and/or 3GPP
TS 38.521-1 and/or 3GPP TS 38.521-3 and/or 3GPP TS 38.521-4 and/or 3GPP TS 38.533.
11.10.1 Applicability
This subsection applies to any device type which integrates a PTCRB-certified module.
Integrated Devices will receive IoT Network Certified certification and shall be certified as either an
End Product or Embedded Modem.
To be considered an End Product an Integrated Device must meet the following criteria:
• Serve its final intended use without any further hardware and software modifications. If an
interface connection to a host is required for operation of the device, that connection can only
be made through one of these physical control interfaces:
o USB, PCMCIA, Compact Flash, MMC, RS-232 (DE9), IEEE-1394, RJ45 or OBD2.
o No other physical control interfaces are acceptable.
• Shall obtain power through the standardized physical control interface or have a provisioned
power source (i.e. dedicated battery, or a dedicated power connector).
• Shall have a UICC Interface-either a fully self-contained UICC slot or embedded UICC.
• Shall utilize a self-contained antenna or provide an external antenna connector (e.g. SMA,
FAKRA, TNC).
• Radio Access Technologies - Covers at least one (1) comprehensive radio technology as
specified by 3GPP for GERAN, UTRA, E-UTRA or NR.
• Be consistent with the terms of its FCC/Industry Canada type acceptance (e.g., type of
antenna, distance from user). In all cases, the End Product shall not alter its antenna system
in any way from that allowed by the associated type acceptance or other regulatory approval.
When connected to a host device (PC, PDA, etc.), through one of the above authorized interfaces
no certification of the host device is required.
Devices that require connection to the host device through PCIe, M.2 connectors, Surface Mount
Technology or other non-standard or custom interfaces shall be treated as either an Embedded
Modem or a Module.
An Integrated Device will be subject to testing against the same version of NAPRD03 as that used
to certify the Module itself. The validity period of the NAPRD03 version used for certification of the
Module is three years provided that the Module used in the Integrated Device employs the same
software version as that used to obtain PTCRB certification.
The three-year validity period begins on the date of the last certification applicable to the Module.
In order to use the Module for new Integrated Devices, after three years the Module must re-certify
to the latest NAPRD03 version. All new Integrated Devices of the certified Module will be required
to certify against this new NAPRD03 version.
If the Module is being re-certified due to expiration of the three-year NAPRD03 validity period and
the Module has not changed, any “delta” test cases (e.g., test cases added since the previous
certification) may be reported as Category E test cases even if they are Category A in the current
version of NAPRD03.
Alternatively, an integrator certifying a new Integrated Device with a Module which has exceeded
the three-year validity period may perform the delta test cases against the Integrated Device and
submit them as Category E test cases even if they are Category A in the current version of
NAPRD03.
ECOs on the Integrated Device due to changes in Module SW or HW are subject to the regular
ECO requirements.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will determine which DUT interfaces, if any, have been
affected by the integration of a PTCRB-certified Module. This analysis will be used to determine
which specific test cases shall be executed against the Integrated Device.
Audio testing is necessary when the Integrated Device utilizes a new housing with acoustic
characteristics which differ from those of the Initial Certification request. If Modules are integrated in
other DUTs that support speech, audio testing will always apply. PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory
will determine if the device needs to be tested against CTIA Certification Speech Performance Test
Plan based on the associated changes.
Retesting of the DUT’s emergency call functionality is required whenever the DUT includes an
audio interface (acoustic or electrical) intended for supporting calls to and from the PSTN,
regardless of the DUT's form factor. See Table 11.10-1 for the applicable test cases.
If the voltage supplied to the integrated Module is different than that used during initial Module
certification testing, then all test cases related to voltage extremes shall be re-executed. See Table
11.10-2 for the applicable test cases.
If full UICC/SIM/USIM testing was successfully performed on a PTCRB certified Module, the
following scenario shall be taken into consideration for Integrated Devices based on this Module:
• If the Integrated Device’s UICC-UE interface configuration (including electrical connectors,
wires, wire lengths, PCB material, PCB layout, etc.) as well as all relevant interface power
supply parameters are identical to that of the PTCRB-certified Module, then electrical UICC-
UE interface retesting will not be required for the Integrated Device.
Note: Integrated Devices using an MFF2 UICC on the Integrated Device shall not be required to
perform SIM Electrical testing. An example of SIM Interface test data would be measurement
results (for the PTCRB-certified Parent Module, performed by a PTCRB laboratory) from electrical
UICC-UE interface testing for different external (minimum/maximum) wire lengths that might be
used to ensure compliance.
If integration of the Module will not result in any changes to the RF layout, components, or RF
shielding characteristics of the Module, then retesting of the RF conducted part is not required.
However, in all cases a spot check of the RF radiated part shall be performed. All RSE spot checks
shall remain within the current specification/test plan limits.
Testing shall be performed in the highest order RAT for each band supported by the device, as per
NAPRD03 Section 2.9.7.
The frequency bands to be tested are defined in NAPRD03 Section 2.8. See Table for the
applicable test cases.
If the Integrated Device is intended to support an externally mounted vehicular antenna, the
Integrated Device manufacturer shall select "UE with external vehicle-mounted antennas" and
“Band 30 and/or n30 DL Only” checkboxes from PTCRB certification database. RF radiated in
Table 11.10-4 could be exempted for E-UTRA FDD band 30 and/or 5G NR FR1 band n30. The
PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory responsible for the certification shall be required to verify that
the DUT does not support uplink transmission.
In cases where the integrator provides an MMI for the Module, all MMI-related test cases within
Supplementary Services, SIM Toolkit, Emergency Call and SMS shall be re-tested. See Table
11.10-5 for the applicable test cases.
Where the integrator has added or modified any Application Enablers, then application enabler
conformance tests must be executed.
In all instances it is the responsibility of the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory to advise the integrator
as to any additional testing requirements.
The Integrated Device will be subject to testing against the same version of NAPRD03 as that
utilized to certify the Module. For RF Performance Evaluation per Section 2.9 of NAPRD03 and
NAPRD03 Section 4 (Miscellaneous Certification Requirements), the latest version of NAPRD03
must be applied to the Integrated Device’s certification.
The Module manufacturer is required to provide all PTCRB test reports and PICS documentation
associated with the certification of the Module used by the Integrated Device as requested by the
Integrated Device manufacturer and/or the associated PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory.
The Integrated Device shall complete any tests of features supported by the Module which were not
completed for the Module’s certification (e.g., tests requiring availability of an MMI).
The integrator must specify the hardware and software version associated with the Integrated
Device, and it is not acceptable to use the Module’s hardware and software versions. If the
Integrated Device does not have integration-level software, the device shall indicate a software
version of “0”.
The following definition for external antennas is generic and is meant to apply to DUTs without
integrated antennas (i.e., Modules and/or Integrated Devices with no fixed antenna, but FCC or
ISED-certified to support a defined antenna system). The following shall also address situations
where a DUT is certified as an End Product but is supplied with no specific antenna or antenna
system.
Antenna systems shall comply with all regulatory requirements as defined by the governing bodies
relevant to the device and shall include (but shall not be limited to) the following criteria:
• The antenna system, as used in this section, refers to antennas that have similar in-band and
out-of-band radiation characteristics as that which was used for the Initial Certification
• A DUT may be operated only with the antenna or antenna system with which it is authorized
by the DUT’s relevant governing bodies. If an antenna is marketed with the DUT, it shall be of
a type which has been authorized with that DUT. In some cases, the DUT may be authorized
with multiple antenna systems.
• Manufacturers shall supply a list of acceptable antenna systems to the integrator
An Integrated Device with an FR2 Module shall be required to perform the type of testing listed in
Table 11.10-6 as part of the final integration.
If an Integrated Device utilizes an NSA FR2-capable Module which has previously executed the
NSA FR2 protocol tests specified by 3GPP TS 38.523-1 in Section 11.9.2, Table 11.9-1, the
module’s FR2 protocol test results shall be provided to the PTCRB Primary Lab responsible for
certifying the Integrated Device and these test results shall be considered valid by the Primary
PTCRB Lab for certification of the Integrated Device.
If an Integrated Device utilizes an NSA FR2-capable Module which has not executed the NSA FR2
protocol tests specified by 3GPP TS 38.523-1, the Integrated Device shall be required to execute
NSA FR2 protocol testing specified by 3GPP TS 38.523-1 in addition to RF, RRM and Performance
testing as listed in in Table 11.10-7. The PTCRB Primary Lab responsible for certifying the
Integrated Device shall be allowed to execute the required 3GPP TS 38.523-1 protocol tests as an
ECO certification during an FR2 conformance test phase-in period applicable to NSA FR2-capable
Modules which shall begin with the release of NAPRD03 V 6.10 and end with the release of
NAPRD03 V3.14.
The manufacturer shall enter into the PTCRB certification database the Regulatory approval ID(s)
of the WWAN radio subsystem(s) of the Integrated Device.
It is recommended that the Integrated Device support all the PTCRB Bands supported by the
integrated Module.
The Integrated Device may declare support for a subset of PTCRB Bands supported by the
Module. The Integrated Device shall be required to test the PTCRB Bands declared as supported,
bands not utilized by the Integrated Device shall be disabled.
The Integrated Device manufacturer shall check with their target operator to ensure bands and
technologies selected meet the target deployment.
The Integrated Device manufacturer shall use the Integrated Device Variant process to certify
additional subsets of band support required to support different operator or country requirements.
The Integrated Device shall not enable any frequency band or radio technology that was not
originally approved on the integrated Module.
The Integrated Device’s feature set must accurately reflect its capabilities and not just the Module’s
capabilities.
The feature list of the Integrated Device shall match the cellular radio Module integrated in the
device with the possible exception of the following:
• A-GNSS/GNSS
• AMR-NB
• AMR-WB
• Band 30 and/or n30 DL Only
• Bluetooth
• Circuit-Switched Voice
• FUMO
• HAC
• IMPS
• ISM
• MMS Release
• Multi-SIM Support
• OMA Browsing
• OMA DM
• OMA POC
• OMA SUPL
• Remote SIM Provisioning
• SCOMO
• TTY
• UICC-Based NFC
• UE with external vehicle-mounted antennas
o Note: A PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory shall verify that E-UTRA FDD band 30
and/or 5G NR FR1 band n30 transmit/uplink is disabled in the device.
• VoLTE – Requires Integrated Device to obtain a unique TAC and not reuse the Module TAC
o Note: A PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory shall verify that VoLTE is disabled in the
device.
• WAP Version
• Wi-Fi
Devices integrating multiple Modules shall check the box in the database request indicating “Device
Contains Multiple Modules”. In addition, the integrator shall upload a declaration to the PTCRB
certification database indicating:
Once the certification request is submitted, an email notification will be sent to the manufacturer of
the integrated Module. The email will be sent to the Module manufacturer’s primary point of contact
on record with CTIA Certification.
Body: This is a notification that a PTCRB certification request, which includes the [Module
Manufacturer] [Module Model Name/Number] module, has just been submitted.
Request #: __________
Manufacturer: __________
Model Name/Number: __________
Point of Contact (POC): __________
POC E-mail: __________
POC Phone: __________
11.10.9.1 Applicability
An Integrated Device Variant will be subject to testing against the same version of NAPRD03 as
that used to certify the Module contained within the proposed Integrated Device Variant.
The degree of testing required for an Integrated Device Variant shall be assessed by the PTCRB
Primary Test Laboratory as defined in this section. The Integrated Device Variant shall be
categorized into one of two possible designations:
1. No Testing Required
2. Spot Check Testing Required
Devices that do not meet the criteria defined in these sections shall be treated as an Initial
Certification of an Integrated Device; see Section 11.10.9.4 of this document. The frequency bands
to be tested are defined in NAPRD03 Section 2.8.
The following types of changes between DUTs qualify for a declaration-only certification. The
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall upload a justification for this decision.
• Cosmetic and/or case change and/or paint change that does not have electrical impact to the
performance of compliance of the DUT (including paint properties)
• A new device that is hardware identical to an existing PTCRB certified device, with software-
only changes at the Integrated Device, which do not impact the bands or features of the
device as declared in the PTCRB certification database. No Module changes are permitted.
This is a new model name/number, not an ECO to an existing device.
The following types of changes between products qualify for a spot check. The PTCRB Primary
Test Laboratory shall upload a justification for this decision.
Modification to the DUT in areas not directly related to cellular components such as:
• Addition or removal of non-cellular board components (Ethernet, USB, Video, Audio, GPS,
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.)
Note: Addition of some features may cause the Integrated Device to be tested for that
feature.
• Addition or removal of a feature from the Parent device in the Integrated Device, from the
allowed list of features in Section 11.10.6 of this document
• Change of power cable and/or battery type/capacity – no change to power characteristics
(input Voltage, current draw, power conditioning, power rating, etc.)
• Cosmetic and/or case change and/or paint change that has an electrical impact on the DUT
• Module change only, to a Module from within the same Variant Family as the certified Module
used in the Parent Integrated Device. No other HW changes are allowed in the DUT
Any change that is not covered by 11.10.9.3.1 or 11.10.9.3.2 does not qualify for the Integrated
Device Variant process and must be certified as an Initial Certification. The following are examples
of types of changes that do not qualify:
1. Change of device board layout and/or placement of any hardware components in the
DUT’s cellular circuit
2. Changes to the DUT’s power circuitry beyond cabling and battery (input voltage, current
draw, power conditioning circuitry, etc.)
3. Module change between Modules that were not approved as a Variant Family of Module
in the Parent
4. Module change between Modules where the form factor of the Module has changed thus
requiring modifications to accommodate the new Module
The verification spot check method is utilized to establish on-going device compliance, generally
when the laboratory has some engineering confidence that the device still meets the specification
requirements.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory shall reference the original formal compliance test
results/report to determine whether the Integrated Device being evaluated as an Integrated Device
Variant meets the requirements defined by the spot check criteria.
Where a different PTCRB laboratory is used for the Variant assessment from that used for the
Parent assessment, the laboratory is permitted to perform the spot checks on the Parent Integrated
Device to use for this comparison.
Where the delta between the Integrated Device measurements and the Parent measurements are
outside the limits defined by the spot check rules then the Integrated Device does not qualify as a
Variant of the Parent device and shall be treated as an Initial Certification.
The laboratory shall perform a subset of OTA tests and reference back to the original verification
results. The delta for OTA TRP and TIS shall be within 2dB from the Parent while still remaining
within the current specification/test plan limits.
For any band where the DUT’s TRP or TIS delta is not within 2 dB from the Parent, the standard
TRP/TIS testing (or TRP/C-TIS, as applicable) shall be performed for that band.
The OTA spot check shall consist of the following test requirements:
• TRP for mid channel
• C-TIS or TIS (as applicable) for mid channel
• Intermediate channel across the subset of the band from the mid channel
Testing shall be performed for each PTCRB band supported by the DUT in the two-highest RATs
supported on each band.
RSE testing shall be performed in the highest-order RAT for each band supported by the device, as
per NAPRD03 Section 2.9.7.
The manufacturer shall submit a Variant declaration (see Appendix G of this document) to the
PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory defining the Variant DUT’s relationship to the Parent device. This
declaration will become an integral part of the approval documentation for the Integrated Device
Variant. The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will validate the relationship and assess the testing
required as described in Section 11.10.9.3 of this document.
11.10.10.1 Applicability
This subsection applies to the certification of Integrated Devices intended to serve as Embedded
Modems. It also applies to End Products using an Embedded Modem.
11.10.10.2 Requirements
Devices using an Embedded Modem will be subject to the End Product definition requirements from
11.10.1.1.
Embedded Modems shall be subject to testing against the same version of NAPRD03 as that used
by the module itself. Reference Section 11.10.2 of this document for further details.
Due to the limited scope of testing required, End Products using an Embedded Modem shall be
subject to the latest version of NAPRD03.
Devices classified as Embedded Modems shall follow the Technology and Frequency Bands for
Integrated Devices (Section 11.10.5 of this document) and Feature Set for Integrated Devices
(Section 11.10.6 of this document).
Devices using an Embedded Modem shall be required to support the same Radio Access
Technologies, Frequency Bands and Feature Set as for the certified Embedded Modem.
11.10.10.7 Requirements
Devices classified as Embedded Modem’s shall obtain a unique TAC and are not permitted to
share the TAC of the module integrated.
It shall be permitted for Embedded Modems that are linked through the Integration Variant process
to leverage the same unique TAC range across those variants.
An Embedded Modem device shall be submitted as an IoT Device and will be certified utilizing the
IoT Network Certified program.
Devices using an Embedded Modem may share the TAC range of the Embedded Modem.
Devices using an Embedded Modem will be classified as an IoT Device and will be certified utilizing
the IoT Network Certified program.
Devices meeting the Embedded Modem classification will be certified in accordance with the
Integrated Device requirements defined in Sections 11.10.2 through 11.10.9 of this document.
Certification of devices using an Embedded Modem is recommended and maybe required by some
Operators.
The review and assessment of Integrated Devices using an Embedded Modem will be limited to RF
OTA Performance:
11.11 Certification of Notebook and Tablet Platforms with an Integrated Radio Module
11.11.1 Applicability
This section applies to any Notebook and Tablet platform which integrates a PTCRB-certified
Module.
A Notebook and Tablet platform will be subject to testing against the same version of NAPRD03 as
that used to certify the Module itself. The validity period of the NAPRD03 version used for
certification of the Module is three years provided that the Module used in the Notebook and Tablet
platform employs the same software version as that used to obtain PTCRB certification.
The three-year validity period begins on the certification date of the last certification which required
testing to certify the Module.
In order to use the Module for new Integrated Devices, after three years the Module must re-certify
to the latest NAPRD03 version. All new Integrated Devices of the certified Module will be required
to certify against this new NAPRD03 version.
If the Module is being re-certified due to expiration of the three-year NAPRD03 validity period and
the Module has not changed, any “delta” test cases (e.g., test cases added since the previous
certification) may be reported as Category E test cases even if they are Category A in the current
version of NAPRD03.
Alternatively, an integrator certifying a new Notebook and Tablet platform with a Module which has
exceeded the three-year validity period may perform the delta test cases against the Integrated
Device and submit them as Category E test cases even if they are Category A in the current
version of NAPRD03.
Currently-certified Integrated Devices are not required to submit an ECO if no changes have
occurred in the Module or the Integrated Device.
ECOs on the Integrated Device due to changes in Module SW or HW are subject to the regular
ECO requirements.
Notebook and Tablet platforms typically take on multiple configurations which can vary according to
target market, price point, use case, etc. Because the number of Notebook and Tablet platforms
with similar WWAN radio subsystems can be large, the testing of each platform is impractical and
unnecessary. As a result, an approach which leverages the “Family” concept described earlier in
this document is provided. In this approach, the PTCRB certification process allows a defined
Parent Device platform to serve as a certification test reference for a set of Child Notebook and
Tablet platforms. This will result in the reduction or in some cases the elimination of testing, thereby
enabling lower cost, improved time to market and rapid deployment.
Parent and Child Notebook and Tablet platforms will be submitted through the PTCRB certification
database for PTCRB Approval. The manufacturer shall select the Notebook or Tablet device type to
indicate the submission is a Notebook or Tablet. The unique aspects of this method are described
in the subsections that follow.
During product development the manufacturer is expected to determine what represents the most
popular configuration of components and to use that configuration for PTCRB submission or
receiver performance assessment. Once the most popular version of a Parent has been identified,
all Child Devices will be assessed against only that specific version of the Parent. This will hold true
even if that particular version of the Parent does not remain the most popular over time.
When a device contains switchable graphics technology (e.g., switch between two graphics
solutions, discrete and UMA) the manufacturer is expected to perform an assessment for each
graphics mode to determine which creates the greatest increase in noise floor or poorest C-TIS or
TIS (as applicable) on all supported WWAN bands. The manufacturer will use that configuration for
PTCRB submission or receiver performance tests.
Once this mode has been identified for a Parent, all Child Devices will be assessed against only
that specific graphics mode of the Parent.
The Parent/Child concept is built on the premise that Child Device computing platforms are simply
product variations of a Parent computing platform (e.g., platform sizes or commodities may change
but the WWAN radio subsystem remains similar). Since techniques are available to confirm the
WWAN radio performance between Parent and Child Devices, there is the opportunity to streamline
testing and certification. However, the Parent/Child concept applies only to Child Device computing
platforms operating in WWAN bands below 7.1 GHz (i.e., FR1). The Parent/Child concept does not
apply to the FR2 portion of Child Device computing platforms which support FR2 NSA operation.
Parent devices are subject to testing of the following interfaces as determined by the PTCRB
Primary Test Laboratory
• SIM
• RF (includes RSE and TRP/TIS measurements); the frequency bands to be tested are
defined in NAPRD03 Section 2.8
• MMI
• Audio
• Power
Manufacturers may declare any fully tested Notebook and Tablet platform a Parent device. A fully
tested platform is one which has been evaluated in terms of TRP/TIS performance, SIM electrical
interface performance, radiated spurious emissions and any other applicable PTCRB and/or 3GPP
tests as described in Section 11.11.10 of this document. From this fully tested Parent platform, the
manufacturer can identify Child Devices which are related to the Parent. The “lineage” of Child
Devices must be documented and specifically indicate which children are associated with which
Parent device. This lineage, once established, cannot be changed.
While a Child Device platform’s lineage to the Parent cannot be changed, it is possible for a Child
Device to become a Parent and for a Parent to have new children. For example, if a Child Device
adds a Module that wasn’t included in its associated Parent platform, the manufacturer must fully
certify the new Module in the Child Device. In this case, the Child Device remains a Child Device to
its original Parent but is also now a Parent to its children that use the new Module. Only one
“generation” is allowed under this provision.
The manufacturer will submit a Parent/Child declaration to the PTCRB certification database. This
declaration will become an integral part of the approval documentation for the Parent and any
children associated with it. Refer to Appendix F of this document.
The antenna subsystem in a Child Device must be similar in design and performance to that of its
Parent (e.g., the antenna itself may be provided by a manufacturer which differs from that used in
the Parent or the transmission line type/length may differ, but the antenna subsystem must be
based on the same design specification).
Manufacturers may choose the specific approach to assess Parent/Child receiver performance. The
following four receiver performance assessment methodologies are considered acceptable:
• Full C-TIS or TIS (as applicable)
• Single-point EIS
• Noise signature (spectrum analyzer method)
• Noise signature (in-situ measurements using Module-based “noise profiling” tools)
Manufacturers can perform the receiver performance assessment during product development so
long as the results are representative of the final product.
Child Device platforms will be considered similar to their Parent if either of the following criteria are
met:
During execution of a full C-TIS or TIS measurement, the Notebook or Tablet platform shall be
configured to comply with the operating parameters called for in CTIA Certification Test Plan for
Wireless Device Over-the-Air Performance, Appendix G, Sections G.4 through G.6 as applicable.
Single-Point EIS: Single-point EIS measurement indicates that the radiated performance of the
Child Device platform is equal to or better than that of the Parent. If Child Device performance is
worse than the Parent, the measured EIS value must be within 1.5 db of that of its Parent plus the
lab’s measurement uncertainty. The TIS measurement used to determine the single measurement
point for this test shall be conducted in accordance with the methodology described in CTIA
Certification Test Plan for Wireless Device Over-the-Air Performance, Appendix G and the single-
point EIS intermediate channel measurement procedure described in Section 6.14.1 of this same
document.
During execution of the Single-Point TIS measurement, the Notebook or Tablet platform shall be
configured to comply with the operating parameters called for in CTIA Certification Test Plan for
Wireless Device Over-the-Air Performance, Appendix G, Sections G.4 through G.6 as applicable.
Manufacturers who choose either the Full C-TIS/TIS or Single-Point EIS methods of assessing
Child Device receiver performance are not required to execute TRP equivalency testing.
Manufacturers who choose either of the “noise signature” receiver performance assessment
methods listed above must be aware that TRP equivalence between the Parent and Child Device
platforms is a prerequisite. TRP provides a very accurate measurement of antenna efficiency, and it
is important that antenna efficiency be maintained between Parent and Child Device platforms to
ensure that the noise signature test method provides valid results.
When employing noise signature receiver performance test methodologies, the antenna subsystem
in a Child Device is considered to be equivalent to its Parent if the following guideline can be met:
• The TRP of a platform the vendor considers a Child Device must be the same as or greater
than the TRP of its Parent or the TRP must not be more than 1.5 dB below its Parent on all
bands the Child Device has in common with the Parent, plus the lab’s TRP measurement
uncertainty.
If this guideline does not apply to any given Child Device platform, then the two noise
signature Parent/Child equivalence test processes do not apply and either Full C-
TIS/TIS or Single-Point C-TIS/TIS results are required.
The TRP equivalency test may be executed as part of the Child Device platform final
development process in order to simplify execution.
During execution of noise signature tests, the Notebook or Tablet platform shall be
configured to comply with the operating parameters called for in CTIA Certification
Test Plan for Wireless Device Over-the-Air Performance, Appendix G, Sections G.4
through G.6 as applicable.
Child Devices using the noise signature approach must meet the following criteria:
A conformance test suite has been developed to ensure comparable in-situ noise signature test
results from a variety of Module implementations. The Module manufacturer is responsible for
executing this test suite and declaring that their implementation meets the pass/fail criteria included
in Appendix F of this document.
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will determine which interfaces, if any, have been affected by
the integration of a PTCRB-certified Module. This analysis will be used to determine which specific
test cases shall be executed against the Notebook and Tablet platform.
Audio interface testing is required for Notebook and Tablet platforms that support speech via the
integrated PTCRB-certified Module.
Emergency call retesting is required whenever the DUT includes an audio interface (acoustic or
electrical) intended for supporting calls to and from the PSTN, regardless of the device's form
factor.
Applicable Test Specifications/Test Sections: 3GPP TS 34.123-1 Section 6.1.2.6 and Section 13.x
as applicable.
If the voltage supplied to the integrated Module is different than that used during initial Module
certification testing, then all test cases related to voltage extremes shall be re-executed.
Applicable Test Specifications/Test Sections: Test cases from 3GPP TS 51.010-1 Section 12.x,
Section 13.x, Section 14.x,, 3GPP TS 34.121-1 Section 5.x, 6.x, 8.x and 3GPP TS 36.521-1
Section 6.x, 7.x and 3GPP TS 36.521-3 Section 6.x, 9.x and 3GPP TS38.521-1 Section 6.x, 7.x and
3GPP TS 38.521-3 Section 6.x, 7.x and 3GPP TS 38.533 Section 4.x, 6.x as applicable where
extreme testing is specified.
Because the successful execution of full UICC/SIM/USIM testing is a prerequisite for a Module to
become PTCRB certified, the following scenario shall be taken into consideration for Notebook and
Tablet platforms based on this Module:
• If the UICC-UE interface configuration used by the Notebook or Tablet (including electrical
connectors, wires, wire lengths, PCB material, PCB layout, etc.) as well as all relevant
interface power supply parameters are identical to that of the PTCRB-certified Module, then
electrical UICC-UE interface retesting will not be required.
• In all other cases regression tests (at least all electrical tests) shall be performed for the
UICC-UE interface, unless the manufacturer of the Notebook or Tablet platform provides the
test laboratory with evidence of test data which unambiguously proves compliance of the
modified interface configuration and/or modified power supply parameters.
Applicable Test Specifications/Test Sections: Test cases out of ETSI TS 102 230.
11.11.10.4 RF Interface
If integration of the Module will not result in any changes to the RF layout, components, or RF
shielding characteristics, then retesting of the RF conducted part is not required. However, in all
cases the RF radiated part must be retested.
Applicable Test Specifications/Test Sections: Test cases out of 3GPP TS 51.010-1 Section 12.2.x,
3GPP TS 34.124 Section 8.2 and 3GPP TS 36.124 Section 8.2 and 3GPP TS38.124 Section 8.2 as
applicable.
• Radiated spurious emissions measured while the certified Module is transmitting comply with
the spectral mask requirements described in 3GPP TS 51.010, Section 12.2.1, 3GPP TS
34.124, Section 8.2 and 3GPP TS 36.124 Section 8.2 and 3GPP TS38.124 Section 8.2 as
applicable
• Notebook and Tablet platforms which utilize a PTCRB-certified Module are exempt from the
measurement of idle-mode radiated spurious emissions specified in 3GPP TS 51.010,
Section 12.2.2
Parent platform RF Performance Evaluation measurements (e.g., TRP/TIS) must be supplied per
normal process to provide data on radiated power and receive sensitivity.
Parent and Child Device platforms previously certified with a specific PTCRB-certified Module are
allowed to change to the use of a different PTCRB-certified Module provided:
1. No changes of any type are made to the host Parent or Child Device platform
2. The new Module does not add or remove any functionality previously claimed in the Parent
or Child Device’s original PTCRB certification database feature declaration
3. Parent Notebook Module changes require full TRP and TIS testing of the Parent with the
new Module installed
4. Child Device Module changes may be made only if the same Module change was made to
the associated Parent platform and the Parent platform has gone through full TRP/TIS
testing
5. Module changes to a Child Device when the Parent’s Module remains unchanged are not
allowed unless the Child Device is fully tested as a Parent
In cases where the Notebook or Tablet platform provides an MMI for the Module, all MMI-related
test cases within Supplementary Services, SIM Toolkit, Emergency Call (if speech is supported)
and SMS must be re-tested.
Applicable Test Specification/Test Sections: 3GPP TS 34.123-1 Section 6.1.2.6, 13.x and 16.x,
3GPP 31.124 Section 27.22.x and 3GPP TS 36.523-1 Sections 11.x as applicable.
11.11.11 Technologies and Frequency Bands for Notebook and Tablet Platforms
A Notebook or Tablet platform shall be entered as an Initial certification request. It is not possible to
enter a Notebook or Tablet platform as a Variant certification request.
If the Notebook is a Child Device, its Parent can be selected from those Notebooks eligible to be a
Parent (See Section 11.10.6 of this document).
If the Notebook is not a Child Device, the embedded Module(s) shall be selected from the drop-
down list. This list will show all PTCRB certified Modules. If the Notebook is a Child Device, the
embedded Modules may be selected only from those Modules embedded in its Parent.
The manufacturer will be required to enter the following information into the PTCRB certification
database:
• Valid production model name/number
• Integrated Module(s)
• If the Notebook is intended for sale in the U.S., the FCC ID for the Notebook platform
• If the Notebook is intended for sale in Canada, the ISED ID for the Notebook platform
• If the Notebook is intended for sale in any other country, the regulatory approval information
for a country of destination
• Current HW and SW (including SV) product versions
• IMEI TAC
• Main point of contact and billing point of contact
11.11.13.3 Documentation
The manufacturer will be required to upload the following documents into the PTCRB certification
database:
• Declaration of Parent/Child Relationship – (Child Devices only) A document indicating the
Parent/Child relationship being established, listing which category is being used. The
11.11.14 Information Required for Notebook and Tablet Certification with Certified Module
supporting FR2
A Notebook or Tablet platform with certified Module supporting FR2 bands will be required to perform the
type of testing listed in Section 11.10.3.9 for all the applicable test cases.
11.12.1 Applicability
This subsection applies to any device which, per the definitions in Section 1.2, represents a Variant.
An initial Variant certification and any subsequent ECO certifications of the Variant may leverage
results from the certified Parent device. However, the Variant shall certify against one of the two
most recent versions of NAPRD03 as of the date the DUT is to complete certification and submit
the relevant delta test cases, in addition to the certified Parent test results. The NAPRD03 version
used to test the Variant DUT can never be an earlier version than that used for the certified Parent
device.
Variants which are marketed under the same name as the Parent device and share a TAC with the
Parent must provide a unique SVN to identify the device as the Variant.
For example, the Parent device could be identified as SVN 01, therefore the Variant could be
identified as SVN 02. This would also be applicable to Parent products which are upgraded to the
Variant’s capabilities. See Section 8.1.1 of this document for additional requirements and
exceptions related to use and management of the TAC and SVN device identifiers.
Appendix H of this document shall be used by the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory to determine
which areas of the Variant, if any, have been impacted by development from the Parent and thus
which specific test cases can be leveraged from the Parent.
11.13.1 Applicability
Rebranded Integrated Devices will apply the same rules for NAPRD03 version applicability as
applied to the original certified Integrated Device. See Section 11.10.2 of this document.
11.13.2 Process
The process for a manufacturer to rebrand another manufacturer's certified device is as follows:
• The rebranding manufacturer enters the device in the PTCRB certification database as an
Initial Certification of the same Device Type and enters the device’s model name/number
• The rebranding manufacturer uploads the required documentation as defined in PPMD
• The rebranding manufacturer chooses a PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory
• The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will upload the original certified device's test report to
the PTCRB certification database along with two additional documents:
o A Product Equality Letter from the rebranding manufacturer, and
o An “Authorization of Use Letter” from the Original Equipment Manufacturer
• The Product Equality Letter shall be submitted to the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory, by the
rebranding manufacturer and shall state: The original certified device by manufacturer name
and model name/number (as it appears in the PTCRB certification database) is exactly the
same as the rebranded device known as manufacturer name and model name/number and
no changes have been made other than the manufacturer's name and model name/number.
Date and signature required.
• The Authorization of Use Letter shall be submitted to the PTCRB Primary Test Lab, by the
OEM and shall state: OEM name allows the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory to use the test
reports from their originally certified device for the rebranded device certification. Date and
Signature required.
• The rebranding manufacturer shall obtain a unique IMEI TAC for the rebranded device by
submitting an IMEI TAC request via the PTCRB certification database at
https://certify.ptcrb.com/. Note: devices based on Modules shall follow the IMEI rules defined
in this document.
After the initial rebranding of a device, all subsequent ECO certifications are the responsibility of the
rebranding manufacturer. Any testing associated with the ECO must be performed on the
rebranded device.
11.14.1 Introduction
The UICC and the Network Access Application (NAA) is the main token to identify a device and the
user/publisher behind an application/device. As some devices are located in environments which
make it necessary to ensure the interface between the UICC and the terminal is robust against
extreme physical conditions. For example, a device installed in a dashboard of a car needs to be
designed in a way that ensures it will operate under temperature extremes and vibration. Because
‘Plug In’ UICCs do not satisfy such requirements, ETSI specified an M2M UICC that meets
enhanced requirements regarding vibration, temperature and humidity.
The main difference between the M2M UICC and the ‘Plug-In’ UICC is that the M2M version can be
soldered. In practice this means that the Device – UICC interface is no longer accessible.
Therefore, new test methods have been established to verify the behavior of devices using this
interface.
11.14.2 Applicability
This subsection applies to any DUT which is intended to use a UICC that is soldered.
11.14.3 Guidelines for Testing the UICC-UE interface for DUTs with Soldered UICCs
The device manufacturer shall provide a DUT without a soldered UICC in a way that the UICC
interface is physically accessible.
11.14.3.1 Connecting the DUT with Soldered UICCs to the Test Equipment
The DUT shall be connected using a flex print adapter adapting the UICC interface to the test
equipment interface.
• The flex adapter shall be compliant to ETSI TS 102 221
• The flex adapter shall be soldered to the DUT in a similar way as the UICC is soldered in the
production process. It is recommended that the DUT manufacturer solder the flex print onto
the DUT.
The presence of a properly functioning flex adapter shall be verified by the PTCRB authorized test
laboratory.
The laboratory shall determine the applicability of device assessment requirements per the DUT’s
category and type.
11.15.1 Applicability
Unless explicitly stated in this section, a Chipset shall be certified according to the processes and
requirements referenced from Table 11.2-1.
• A Chipset shall be certified as an Initial Certification
• A Chipset cannot be created as a Variant of any other type of device (i.e., PC card,
smartphone, module etc.)
• A complete set of applicable tests shall be executed against the Chipset applying for Initial
Certification
• Conformance tests shall be conducted by a PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory.
The Certified Chipset’s bands and feature information shall be made available to all PTCRB Test
Laboratories.
The Certified Chipset’s PICS/ PIXIT and test results shall be made available to the PTCRB Primary
Test Laboratory conducting the evaluation of the Module or End Product Integrating the Certified
Chipset.
Certified Chipsets shall not be assigned a TAC for commercial purposes. Note: A TAC shall only be
assigned at the Module or End Product level.
For certification testing the Certified Chipset shall obtain and utilize a test IMEI allocation.
Certified Chipsets shall be subject to standard NAPRD03 version applicability requirements per
Section 11.7 of this document.
Certified Chipsets are not required to submit a regulatory ID. Note: The regulatory ID is required at
the Module or End Product level.
A Certified Chipset may submit ECOs for SW and/or HW changes to the Certified Chipset and shall
follow the requirements per 11.6 when performing an ECO.
Certified Chipsets shall be required to complete all applicable testing for any Application Enabler
declared as supported by the Chipset
Certified Chipsets shall declare in the PTCRB database the manufacturer names, model numbers
and versions of the mandatory components needed to meet the functional block requirements for a
Chipset (Baseband, RFIC, RFFE, PMIC) that are required for the Certified Chipset package.
11.16 Requirements for Modules and End Products using a Certified Chipset
11.16.1 Applicability
This subsection applies to any NB-IoT or LTE-M Module or End Product which integrates a PTCRB
Certified Chipset.
If not explicitly stated within this section, then the Module or End Product incorporating a Certified
Chipset shall be certified according to the processes and requirements referenced from Table 11.2-
1.
Modules or End Products using a Certified Chipsets shall be subject to standard NAPRD03 version
applicability requirements per Section 11.7
The purpose of the Confidence Test Case List is to ensure that the integration of a Certified Chipset
has not affected compliance.
Test results from an uncertified Chipset shall not be eligible to be leveraged over to any module
or End Product.
A Module or End Product shall not leverage test results from a different Certified Chipset than
that contained in the Module or End Product seeking certification.
A Module or End Product shall not leverage any test results for any untested band or feature on a
Certified Chipset and shall be required to perform testing in full for associated band or feature.
The manufacturer shall enter the Regulatory approval ID(s) into the PTCRB certification database
of the WWAN radio subsystem(s) of the Module or End Product.
The Module or End Product shall be required to test all PTCRB Bands declared as supported,
including bands not certified by the Chipset. Bands not utilized by the Module or End Product
shall be disabled.
The Module or End Product may declare support for a subset of PTCRB Bands certified by the
Chipset.
The Module or End Product may declare support for additional PTCRB Bands beyond those
certified by the Chipset and shall be responsible to test those bands in full.
The Module or End Product shall be permitted to disable Radio Access Technologies that are not
required and shall not be responsible for testing a Radio Access Technology that is disabled.
The Module or End Product shall not be restricted to the feature set of the Certified Chipset. Any
feature added that was not tested as part of the Certified Chipset shall be tested in full on the
Module or End Product.
The manufacturer shall provide information to the PTCRB Lab to confirm the Functional Blocks of
the Certified Chipset being used in the DUT match those authorized as part of the Certified
Chipset record.
ECOs for Modules and End Products using a Certified Chipset shall follow the standard ECO
requirements per Section 11.6 and shall not inherit any new test results generated in any possible
Chipset ECO.
It shall not be required for an ECO to be performed on a Certified Chipset in order for that change
to be used in a Module or End Products using Certified Chipset.
Where the Module or End Product manufacturer has added or modified any Application Enablers,
then Application Enabler conformance tests must be executed.
In all instances it is the responsibility of the PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory to advise the module
or End Product manufacturer as to any additional testing requirements.
The Module or End Product using a Certified Chipset shall be required to submit a PICS/PIXIT
document for the device to be tested to the Primary PTCRB Test Laboratory responsible for the
certification.
The Module or End Product manufacturer must specify the hardware and software version
associated with the Module or End Product, and it is not acceptable to use the Certified Chipset’s
hardware and software versions.
The following checklist is an example and will vary based on the type of device and the test
laboratory’s requirements.
Units shall be submitted directly to the test laboratory. Additional items may be required from the
test laboratory; contact the test laboratory directly for a complete list.
A.1 Hardware
A.1.1 At least three samples of the unit to be tested complete with the necessary accessory
items (cables, batteries, charger, etc.). One unit shall be configured to perform SIM/ME
interface testing, and the other two shall be unmodified.
A.1.2 Test Interface Adapters - to allow direct access to RF (antenna), transmit and receive
audio test points, and SIM interface. If the unit requires computer control, a test bed shall
be provided.
A.3.2 Regulatory approval information for the other country(ies) of destination (if available)
A.3.7 Technical/engineering contact for technical assistance to lab testing personnel (Name,
address, and phone number)
A.3.8 PICS/PIXIT in accordance with the document list provided in Section 11.3.1.7 of PPMD V
3.9 (or later)
Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer Name
Contact
Date of Submission
We, the representatives of the above-mentioned Manufacturer, declare that the only PTCRB
certification impact of the SW update, for the models listed above, is the verification of the IMEI
SVN. Therefore, the IMEISV number has been confirmed as listed in this declaration of
compliance.
Date Signature
(yyyy-mm-dd) (Manufacturer Representative)
DUT Information
Manufacturer
Model Name/Number
IMEI
FCC ID Number
ISED ID Number
Indicate labs, testing conducted at each, and final HW/SW tested in each:
* We, the representatives of the above-mentioned Primary PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory
declare that the differences in Software and Hardware in the test reports listed in this document,
and the final HW/SW being reported in the PTCRB certification database will not affect
measurement data.
Phone Phone
Click or tap here to enter text. Click or tap here to enter text.
Email Email
Click or tap here to enter text. Click or tap here to enter text.
Type Name
Click or tap here to enter text.
Marketing Name
Click or tap here to enter text.
Location of Testing
Click or tap here to enter text.
We, the representatives of the above-mentioned PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratories, hereby
affirm that we will fulfill all requirements and all our obligations for Off-Site Testing as defined in the
latest valid version of the PTCRB Program Management Document (PPMD) for the Testing Project
defined above.
We are aware of the fact that violation of the rules therein might result in a disqualification of our
laboratories from PTCRB Authorized Test Laboratory status.
Operator Name:
Representative:
Email Address:
Telephone:
Website Address:
Explain how your company utilizes the PTCRB certification program to evaluate device compliance to
wireless industry requirements:
Active
The Operator plans to participate in all OSG meetings and will be counted to determine a Quorum. The
company logo will be displayed under PARTICIPATING OPERATORS at https://www.ptcrb.com/about/
and https://iotnetworkcertified.com/about/.
Passive
The Operator does not plan to participate in all OSG meetings and will not be counted to determine a
Quorum. The company logo will be displayed under PARTICIPATING OPERATORS at
https://www.ptcrb.com/about/ and https://iotnetworkcertified.com/about/.
Please complete the declaration for each Parent-Child pair and upload to the Child Device PTCRB
certification request in the Supporting Documentation area.
Device Details
Company name
FCC ID ISED ID
Embedded Module ID
Parent Device ID
Child Device ID
Compliance Testing
Parent Device:
Child Device:
DECLARATION (signature)
Date of Declaration
Contact Name
Email Address
Please complete the declaration for each Parent-Variant pair and upload it to the PTCRB
certification request in the Supporting Documentation area.
Device Details
Company name
Compliance Declaration
DECLARATION (signature)
Date of Declaration
Contact Name
Email Address
The PTCRB Primary Test Laboratory will determine which areas of the Variant, if any, have been
impacted by development from the Parent. This impact analysis will be used to determine which
specific test cases shall be executed against the Variant and which can be leveraged from the
Parent. The full Initial Certification testing requirement applies until this analysis is complete.
The impact analysis shall be based on documentation provided by the manufacturer to the PTCRB
Primary Test Laboratory that details differences between the Parent and Variant. This
documentation shall include a Parent-to-Variant functional comparison summary as well as a PICS
comparison.
The following areas shall as a minimum be considered when performing the impact analysis.
H.1.3 Antennas:
• Has the antenna been re-designed or re-tuned?
• Has the antenna position changed or other large components around it such as touch panels
changed?
H.1.4 Audio:
• Have the transducer parts changed or the originals re-tuned?
• Have the transducer parts position changed relative to the mechanical design?