NVLAP Electromagnetic Compatibility & Telecommunications LAP

Welcome

This site has been established for new applicants and renewal laboratories to the accreditation program for electromagnetic and telecommunications testing (ECT). On this site you will find important program information and links to documents required for successful participation in the program.

Program Description

The purpose of the ECT LAP is to accredit testing laboratories found capable and competent to perform EMC conformance testing to FCC, MIL-STD, IEC, EN, CISPR and other test method standards that have been and may be added to the program.

The program includes test methods for the testing of both intentional radiators (i.e., radio transmitters) and unintentional radiators (i.e., digital devices), as well as wireless and wired telecommunications products. The program also includes various test methods for conformance, performance and/or interoperability. In addition, the program envelopes test methods that are part of the FCC regulatory requirements associated with radio frequency (RF) safety including specific absorption rate (SAR) and maximum permissible exposure (MPE).

The NVLAP ECT test method standards are grouped into one or more of the following categories Laboratories may seek accreditation in ECT test methods in any of the areas listed below:

• Electromagnetic emissions;
• Electromagnetic immunity;
• Mil-Stds electromagnetic compatibility (emissions and immunity);
• Energy Star for Computers
• Telecommunications;
• Radio conformance;
• Product Safety
• RF Exposure.

For information on the requirements for accreditation see NIST Handbook 150 as well as NIST Handbook 150-11.

Proficiency Testing Requirements

At the present time, there are no required proficiency testing programs for ECT testing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the process for accreditation?

A: The process for laboratory accreditation is as follows:

1) The laboratory applies for accreditation with submission of the application with the appropriate documents and pays the appropriate fees.

2) The laboratory has a management system that meets the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 and NVLAP requirements. Sections 4 and 5 in NIST Handbook 150 contain verbatim the ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. NIST Handbook 150-11 is the program-specific handbook.

3) The laboratory has an on-site assessment to demonstrate that the lab conforms to ISO/IEC 17025 and NVLAP requirements and the lab demonstrates technical competence for the standard test methods for which the lab seeks accreditation.

4) The laboratory resolves nonconformities (if any) documented at the on-site assessment.

5) When all nonconformities are resolved, the laboratory receives accreditation.

The length of the accreditation period is one year. To continue accreditation, the lab will have to submit a renewal application each year with the appropriate fees.

After the initial on-site assessment to establish accreditation, the laboratory will have another on-site assessment during the next accreditation cycle, and then every two accrediting cycles (every two years) thereafter.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Currently, the fees for accreditation are as follows:

The Administrative/Technical Support Fee (paid annually) is published at NVLAP Fee Structure.

The On-Site Assessment Fee is variable and depends on the number of assessors and days of assessment.