Electronic – FCC part 15 “must accept interference from other sources”: what does this mean

fccinterferencelegal

I've googled around a bit and here are the interpretations I've found in non-authoritative sources:

  1. that the device is unable to filter out interference caused by
    other certified equipment
  2. that if there is interference, the device must not "complain" about it (whatever that means)
  3. that if there is interference and your device fails to work, you must not complain about it (i.e. you cannot sue for failure to perform the function)
  4. that if there is interference, the device can't do anything about it (though I can't think what it possibly could do about this other than actively seek out the source and shut it down, sci-fi style)
  5. that the device is actually required to work correctly regardless of any interference

So what does this phrasing actually mean? Is it phrased poorly or am I misunderstanding it as a result of not being a native speaker?

Best Answer

"Interference" in this context applies to one, radiated RF signal affecting the reception of another radiated RF signal. The interference is not produced within the interfering transmit system, but as a result of the radiated field intensity it produces at the receive location(s) of other transmitted signals.

Transmit systems whose operators and equipment are specifically licensed/certified by the FCC, and are operating as permitted by their station license are protected from such interference from "Part 15" unlicensed operators and systems — even when those unlicensed operators/systems strictly meet the technical requirements set out for them in FCC Part 15 rules.

This FCC protection from interference applies only to certain electronic devices using the RF spectrum. For example, the user of an audio amplifier in a home stereo system may hear the programming of a licensed AM broadcast or HAM radio station located physically nearby. But there is no FCC recourse. S/he must either accept that interference, use an amplifier that doesn't exhibit that issue, or relocate that stereo system far enough away from the transmit system so as not to be affected by its legal operation.

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