RF testing (Radio frequency test)

Ensure product quality, safety and compliance by using the radio spectrum effectively.

What is radio frequency testing?

Radio frequency testing (RF testing) ensures the proper functioning, safety and compliance of electronic devices and systems that emit radio frequency (RF) signals. A radio frequency test assesses whether radio and telecommunications equipment use the radio spectrum effectively by not interfering with other users.

TÜV SÜD's RF testing covers technologies such as Wi-Fi, Zigbee, PMR radio, RFID, NFC, GPS, cellular and more. We also perform tests to verify that a device meets local electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), electrical safety and RF exposure regulations.

Why RF testing is important

If you manufacture wireless devices or incorporate wireless devices into your product, you must comply with the regulations of your intended markets to sell your products there. Radio frequency testing is a mandatory requirement in most international markets including the EU, the US, Canada, Australia and Japan.

RF testing also helps to identify and mitigate potential sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and assesses the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by devices to ensure they comply with safety guidelines and exposure limits.

A radio frequency test can help you identify and address design flaws or vulnerabilities early, so that you can avoid costly rework and gain access to global markets fast.

How TÜV SÜD can help you with RF testing

TÜV SÜD has extensive experience in the testing and certification of wireless devices for global markets. By partnering with us, your business can avoid compliance failure and incorrect labelling that may lead to market recalls, heavy fines and loss of reputation.

Our experts are always up to date with regulatory changes and can efficiently support you in meeting the relevant test and certification requirements.

We provide a comprehensive solution for all types of RF testing through our global network of accredited laboratories and a world-leading certification service.

Get started with TÜV SÜD

Start your RF testing journey with us.

What our RF testing services include

TÜV SÜD provides the full range of radio frequency testing and certification services for wireless devices. We provide test reports and certificates according to different global market requirements including ETSI, CENELEC, FCC, Industry Canada and ARIB, ensuring quick and successful access to your intended market.

Our RF test portfolio includes:

Transmitter tests

Output Power
Adjacent Channel Leakage Power Ratio
Power Spectral Density
Spectrum Emission Mask
Occupied Channel Bandwidth
Frequency Stability / Error
Radiated Band Edge
Duty Cycle
Modulation Bandwidth
Transmitter unwanted emissions in the out-of-band or spurious domain

Receiver tests

Sensitivity
Adjacent Channel / Frequency Band Selectivity
Receiver Spurious Emissions
Receiver Intermodulation
Blocking
Certification

Our industry accreditations include:

Notified Body under the R&TTE, EMC, Low Voltage and Marine Equipment Directives for the European Union.
Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) – certification of wireless devices by the FCC for the U.S.
Foreign Certification Body (FCB) – certification of wireless devices for Canada.
RFCAB – certification of wireless devices for Japan.

How RF testing applies to industries

RF testing for consumer products and retail

Radio technology can be found in a wide range of consumer products such as radios, television receivers, smartphones, tablets, garage door openers, residential monitoring systems, smart home devices, gaming consoles and more. Manufacturers and distributors of such products need to comply with radio frequency regulations which are mandatory in most markets. A radio frequency test helps verify regulatory compliance and user safety.

RF testing for manufacturing

Industrial machinery, automation and control systems used in industrial environments may require RF testing to verify compliance with EMC standards and ensure reliable operation in the presence of electromagnetic interference and interoperability. Equipment requiring testing includes wireless sensors, RFID systems and industrial Wi-Fi networks.

RF testing for automotive

Modern vehicles increasingly incorporate RF-based technologies. Vehicle features with RF technology include keyless entry systems, tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), infotainment systems, and wireless communication modules. A radio frequency test helps assess the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of these systems to ensure that they operate safely and reliably, and do not interfere with other on-board electronics or external RF sources.

RF testing for medical devices

Certain medical devices may use RF technology for communication or treatment purposes. These include wireless medical implants, wearable health monitors and RF therapy devices. A radio frequency test ensures that these devices meet safety and performance requirements while minimising the risk of electromagnetic interference with other medical devices or nearby electronic equipment.