Determining Permissive Change Classification for Encapsulated Radio Modules
Modifications to encapsulated radio modules require Class II permissive change filings whenever conducted power increases or radiated emissions degrade.
Class I Change
Meaning
Configuration control boards categorise hardware revisions to maintain design integrity across the life of a product. A class i change represents a major modification that alters the external dimensions, power requirements, performance, or regulatory status of the device. This classification demands a formal review by the buyer before the updated product can be shipped.
It governs changes to the casing, primary processors, and wireless modules.
Regulatory Consequence
Wireless products must comply with strict national emission limits to maintain their market access. Implementing a class i change typically voids the existing transmitter certification because the radiated profile of the board has changed. Technicians must resubmit the device to certified testing houses to obtain a new grant of authorization.
Failure to execute these tests can prevent the distribution of the product to retail channels.
Approval Authority
Customer approval must be documented through a signed contract amendment before the new design replaces the old in the factory. When a class i change is initiated, the supplier delivers a complete validation package containing test results, updated bills of materials, and updated mechanical files. This documentation allows the engineering team to verify that the revision does not break backward compatibility with existing accessories, ensuring the module fits perfectly into the enclosure.
Traceability Routine
Field failures can only be analyzed when the assembly history is completely clear. A class i change receives a unique revision number that is printed on the circuit board and stored in the firmware register. This identifier enables service centers to distinguish the older variant from the newer version during diagnostic runs.