Meaning
A certification definition delineates the structural limits where a pre-approved wireless module’s radio frequency testing extends to and governs the host device. Establishing a host-module authorization boundary dictates whether a manufacturer must undergo full re-testing for a new product or can leverage the existing modular approval. This limit stops applying if the antenna gain exceeds the original certified parameters or if the trace layouts change.
It is documented in the module’s integration manual and must be signed off by the lead hardware architect during the design review stage.
Electrical Trace
Layout specifications for antenna trace lines must match the reference design of the module vendor exactly. Within the host-module authorization boundary, any deviation in the substrate thickness or trace width requires a class II permissive change. This constraint prevents unintended emissions from the transmission lines.
Shielding Constraint
Physical metal shielding on the radio frequency section preserves the modular approval by isolating the high-frequency circuits from host noise. If the host-module authorization boundary is violated by placing the module too close to high-speed digital lines, the assembly fails to meet modular guidelines. This necessitates additional board isolation or shielding cans.
Compliance Testing
Exceeding the boundary limits requires a complete system-level evaluation of the final product. When the host-module authorization boundary is maintained, the integrator saves significant development time and testing expense during the certification phase. This reduces the risk of market delays during product launches.
