Meaning
Regulatory approvals issued by the Federal Communications Commission for a wireless module that has met all the requirements for standalone operation are highly valued by hardware integrators. The acquisition of a single-modular grant allows the certified transmitter to be integrated into any host system without further radio-frequency testing of the host itself. This holds true as long as the host integrator adheres to the specified installation instructions.
Shielding Criteria
Physical design rules must be met by the transmitter module to qualify for this certification. For a single-modular grant, the module must feature a complete metal shield over its radio-frequency circuitry. This shielding prevents the module from being affected by electromagnetic signals generated within the host device.
Host Limitations
Installation constraints are outlined in the user manual of the module to prevent the certification from being invalidated. If a host integrator uses an antenna that has not been approved under the single-modular grant, the integrator must apply for a permissive change or a new certification. This is a common issue when integrating modules into compact enclosures where the antenna placement is restricted.
It requires careful review of the module’s documentation to ensure compliance before finalizing the mechanical design.
Integration Advantage
Project timelines are greatly accelerated by using pre-certified wireless components. Selecting a module with a single-modular grant reduces the engineering resources needed to bring a new connected product to market. This efficiency is especially beneficial for start-ups and small-volume production runs.
