As new applications for technology create new demands, such as streaming video to mobile devices, faster data rates are required. Thanks to this, interest in millimeter wave technology (mmWave) has only increased over the past few years. This technology provides higher transfer rates that are used for 5G wireless networks. However, proving compliance for mmWave devices has its own set of challenges due to its reduced wavelength and the increased number of antennas needed. As millimeter wave technology develops, RF Exposure Lab has decided to acquire equipment capable of testing mmWave devices. This equipment will be in our lab by early December 2021. This is all part of our effort to keep with advances in SAR requirements, regulations, and changing technologies.

Keep reading to learn about mm-wave technology as well as requirements for compliance with FCC requirements.

What You Should Know About Millimeter Wave Technology

Before discussing requirements for FCC compliance, let’s talk about what millimeter waves actually are.

Millimeter waves, which are also known as the extremely high frequency (EHF) band, are a band that is part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Millimeter wave technology allows transmission on frequencies ranging from 10 GHz to 300 GHz. Prior to mmWave, mobile devices typically transmitted on frequencies below 6 GHz. This is used for many services on mobile and wireless networks because of their ability to enable higher data rates for Wi-Fi and cellular networks. 

These frequencies got the name millimeter waves because their wavelengths are between 1 mm and 10 mm. Radio wavelengths used by smartphones are typically several dozen centimeters.

Millimeter wave is used in a variety of products and services such as high-speed, point-to-point wireless local area networks (WLANs), and broadband access. It’s ideal for short-distance wireless transmission of ultra-high-definition video and communications from small, low-power IoT devices. The limited distance of mmWave also makes it ideal for communications between autonomous vehicles.

mmWave Device Testing

Although millimeter wave technology has been around for over 50 years, testing only began fairly recently. Testing becomes especially important as this technology becomes more consumer-oriented. Manufacturers will have to figure out how mmWave devices will be manufactured, packaged, and tested.

This is further complicated by the fact that 5G and mmWave technology have a variety of applications, such as automotive uses, multi-mode and multi-band technologies, antennas, and more. All of these different devices and applications have different testing requirements. 

In some devices, the transceiver will need to be tested along with the antennas, while for other devices, only the antennas will need to be tested. However, when it comes to millimeter wave technology, transceivers and antennas along with the package and the speed and integrity of the signal may need to be tested. This complicates SAR testing for millimeter wave devices.

Millimeter Wave Device Testing at RF Exposure Lab

At RF Exposure Lab, we are always working to stay up to date on the latest developments in SAR regulations so that you don’t have to. We also go above and beyond to make sure our clients understand what we do and assist them in understanding how FCC regulations affect the testing required for your device. 

We strive to be as communicative and transparent as possible throughout the SAR testing process so you always know what’s going on with your product and are never left in the dark. We offer SAR testing services for a variety of wireless devices including cell phones, laptops and tablets, medical products, survey equipment, wireless modems, and, beginning in early December, millimeter wave technology devices. 

If you’re looking for SAR testing help that is provided with expertise, speed, accuracy, and integrity, contact us to get a quote for our services.