--- title: "EU RED FAQ: Scope, CE and USB-C" canonical_url: "https://www.sorena.io/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq" source_url: "https://www.sorena.io/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items" author: "Sorena AI" description: "Answers to common EU RED questions on radio equipment scope, Article 3 requirements, cybersecurity, USB-C common charger rules, CE marking, and technical-file evidence." published_at: "2026-05-09" updated_at: "2026-05-09" keywords: - "EU Radio Equipment Directive" - "RED" - "Directive 2014/53/EU" - "CE marking" - "USB-C common charger" - "FAQ" --- **[SORENA](https://www.sorena.io/)** - AI-Powered GRC Platform [Home](https://www.sorena.io/) | [Solutions](https://www.sorena.io/solutions) | [Artifacts](https://www.sorena.io/artifacts) | [About Us](https://www.sorena.io/about-us) | [Contact](https://www.sorena.io/contact) | [Portal](https://app.sorena.io) --- # EU RED FAQ: Scope, CE and USB-C Answers to common EU RED questions on radio equipment scope, Article 3 requirements, cybersecurity, USB-C common charger rules, CE marking, and technical-file evidence. *FAQ* *EU* ## EU Radio Equipment Directive FAQ A practical index of recurring RED questions for connected products, wireless modules, consumer devices, and other equipment that intentionally emits or receives radio waves. Use it to route the first review: decide whether RED applies, identify the relevant Article 3 duties, confirm cybersecurity and common-charger triggers, and assemble CE and technical-file evidence. This FAQ index answers common Radio Equipment Directive questions at the point where product, regulatory, engineering, quality, and launch teams need a documented decision. It does not supersede product-specific legal assessment; it helps teams identify which RED rule and evidence file to check first. ## Browse sub-FAQ modules ### [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED? | RED FAQ](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md) RED FAQ for radio kits, construction kits, amateur-radio kits, and custom-built professional R&D evaluation boards under Directive 2014/53/EU. - 4 items ### [EU RED Common Charger FAQ: Which devices need USB-C?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md) FAQ on EU RED common charger scope, 28 December 2024 and 28 April 2026 dates, USB-C, USB Power Delivery, charger unbundling, labels, pictograms, and evidence. - 4 items ### [RED DoC and CE marking file: what to include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md) FAQ answer for Radio Equipment Directive declarations of conformity, CE marking evidence, technical documentation, notified-body records, and related labels. - 4 items ### [RED importer obligations FAQ | Directive 2014/53/EU](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md) What importers must check before placing radio equipment on the EU market: conformity assessment, spectrum use, technical documentation, EU declaration, CE marking, traceability, instructions, restrictions, storage, corrective action, and authority cooperation. - 6 items ### [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md) FAQ on how Directive 2014/53/EU treats RF modules and host products, including module evidence, final-product responsibility, Article 3 assessment, technical documentation, instructions, antennas, software, and DoC records. - 5 items ### [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence FAQ](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md) What SAR and RF exposure evidence to keep under the EU Radio Equipment Directive, including Article 3(1)(a), foreseeable use, frequency, power, antenna, and standards evidence. - 5 items ### [RED standards not cited in the OJEU: can you use them?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md) FAQ answer for Radio Equipment Directive products when a standard is useful but not OJEU-cited, including presumption of conformity, Article 17 route selection, and technical-file evidence. - 4 items ### [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment? | RED FAQ](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md) RED FAQ explaining when Article 3(3)(d), (e), and (f) cybersecurity requirements apply to internet-connected, childcare, toy, wearable, and payment-capable radio equipment. - 4 items ### [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by RED? | Directive 2014/53/EU FAQ](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md) RED scope FAQ for products that intentionally emit or receive radio waves for radio communication or radiodetermination, including receiver-only products, transmitters, accessory-dependent products, and common exclusions. - 4 items ### [Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Products Under the EU RED](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/wi-fi-and-bluetooth-products.md) FAQ for assessing Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, BLE and other short-range wireless products under the EU Radio Equipment Directive, including Article 3, CE, technical file, cybersecurity and notified-body triggers. - 5 items Browse all indexed questions: [/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items.md) ## All FAQ items *Page 1 of 3. Showing 20 of 45 items.* ### [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md#are-radio-kits-and-evaluation-boards-covered-by-the-red) *Module: [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md)* Start with the market-placement facts. The Directive applies to radio equipment made available on the Union market, and the Commission RED Guide says construction kits are covered when the assembled kit falls within RED scope and is intended to be made available on the EU market. - Covered: a repeatable radio construction kit marketed or supplied for assembly into radio equipment. - Potentially excluded: a custom-built evaluation kit for professional use solely at R&D facilities and for R&D purposes. - Also excluded from RED scope: radio kits for assembly and use by radio amateurs, but only where the amateur-radio equipment is not made available on the market. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Binding RED source for market availability, Annex I amateur-radio kit exclusions, and the custom-built evaluation-kit exclusion. - [European Commission - RED guide](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance for applying the RED to custom-built evaluation kits, construction kits, radio components, and demonstrations. ### [How to test the evaluation-kit exclusion](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md#how-to-test-the-evaluation-kit-exclusion) *Module: [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md)* Do not call a board an evaluation kit just because it is unfinished, developer-focused, or sold with sample firmware. The RED Guide says all elements of the exemption must be met, including custom-built status, professional destination, sole use at R&D facilities, and R&D purpose. - Identify the specific customer or joint R&D project that requested the board. - Show which unique design characteristics make the board suitable only for that project. - Restrict supply and documentation to professional R&D facility use, not general development, training, resale, production testing, or conformity testing. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Binding RED source for the Annex I exclusion for custom-built evaluation kits destined for professional R&D facilities. - [European Commission - RED guide](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance explaining the custom-built evaluation-kit elements and examples that do not qualify. ### [What evidence should be kept for radio kits?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md#what-evidence-should-be-kept-for-radio-kits) *Module: [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md)* For a covered construction kit, keep the RED evidence that proves the instructed assembly can meet the applicable essential requirements. At minimum, the file should identify the assembled configuration, antenna assumptions, software or firmware, instructions, applicable standards or other specifications, test evidence, conformity assessment route, EU declaration position, labelling, and market restrictions. - Record whether the kit is supplied commercially, free of charge, occasionally, or only under a project-specific R&D arrangement. - Keep the assembly instructions and the compliance assumptions together; the kit manufacturer remains responsible when the kit is assembled according to those instructions. - Reopen the file if the board becomes a standard catalogue item, the firmware or radio module changes, the antenna options change, or the intended user group expands. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Binding RED source for market availability, essential requirements, conformity assessment, EU declaration, technical documentation, and CE marking. - [European Commission - RED guide](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance on construction kits, custom-built evaluation kits, and use of component assessments in technical documentation. - [European Commission - harmonised standards for radio equipment](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/radio-equipment_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission source for RED harmonised standards references used when building the standards and test evidence plan. ### [Common mistakes to avoid with RED kit decisions](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md#common-mistakes-to-avoid-with-red-kit-decisions) *Module: [Are radio kits and evaluation boards covered by the RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/kits.md)* The biggest mistake is treating every developer board as exempt. The exemption is not a general prototype, lab, or engineering-sample safe harbour; it is limited to custom-built evaluation kits for professional R&D facility use. - Do not rely on an internal label such as prototype, engineering sample, or evaluation kit unless the RED Annex I facts are documented. - Do not use a radio module certificate as the full kit conclusion; it may be useful evidence, but the assembled configuration still needs its own assessment. - Do not demonstrate non-compliant radio equipment at events unless the required visible notice and interference, disturbance, health, and safety measures are in place. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Binding RED source for free movement, event display conditions, market availability, and Annex I exclusions. - [European Commission - RED guide](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance on trade-fair demonstrations, construction kits, custom-built evaluation kits, and component evidence limits. ### [Which radio equipment must meet the EU Common Charger rules?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md#which-radio-equipment-must-meet-the-eu-common-charger-rules) *Module: [EU RED Common Charger FAQ: Which devices need USB-C?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md)* The rules apply to the Annex Ia categories of radio equipment when they are capable of being recharged by wired charging. The listed categories are handheld mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, handheld videogame consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, earbuds, and laptops. - Answer scope from the Annex Ia category list, not from a broad electronics or accessory description. - Confirm whether the device can be recharged by wired charging before applying the USB-C charging-interface requirements. - Apply the 28 December 2024 date to the listed handheld device categories and the 28 April 2026 date to laptops. - Do not treat wireless charging as already covered by the wired-charging USB-C rule; the Commission is separately tracking wireless charging standardisation. Sources for this answer: - [Directive (EU) 2022/2380 common charger amendment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32022L2380&ref=sorena.io) - Binding amendment to Directive 2014/53/EU for common charger scope, application dates, USB-C, USB Power Delivery, unbundling, pictograms, labels, and instructions. - [European Commission - one common charging solution for all](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red/one-common-charging-solution-all_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission overview for covered device categories, common charger purpose, USB-C, charger unbundling, consumer information, and 2024 and 2026 timing. ### [What must the USB-C and fast-charging design support?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md#what-must-the-usb-c-and-fast-charging-design-support) *Module: [EU RED Common Charger FAQ: Which devices need USB-C?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md)* For in-scope wired-charging equipment, the design record should show the USB Type-C receptacle, cable compatibility, and whether the receptacle stays accessible and operational in the shipped configuration. - Record the final hardware interface and cable-charging evidence for each product variant. - Record voltage, current, and power assumptions used to decide whether the USB Power Delivery threshold is triggered. - Check any proprietary or additional fast-charging protocol against the requirement to preserve full USB Power Delivery functionality. - Use the updated 2022 EN IEC 62680 references when documenting the applicable technical specifications. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU consolidated text through 28 December 2024](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02014L0053-20241228&ref=sorena.io) - Consolidated RED text showing amended Article 3(4), Article 3a, Article 10(8), and Annex Ia common charger provisions after the 2022 and 2023 amendments. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1717 on wired charging specifications](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023R1717&ref=sorena.io) - Delegated regulation updating Annex Ia references to EN IEC 62680-1-3:2022 for USB Type-C and EN IEC 62680-1-2:2022 for USB Power Delivery. - [European Commission - one common charging solution for all](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red/one-common-charging-solution-all_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission overview explaining USB-C as the common port and harmonised fast charging as core common charger elements. ### [What charger, label, pictogram, and instruction information is required?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md#what-charger-label-pictogram-and-instruction-information-is-required) *Module: [EU RED Common Charger FAQ: Which devices need USB-C?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md)* If an economic operator offers in-scope radio equipment together with a charging device, it must also offer consumers and other end-users the possibility to acquire that equipment without any charging device. - Keep proof of the charger-included or charger-not-included pictogram on packaging and online product pages. - Keep the no-charger purchase option evidence whenever the same in-scope equipment is offered with a charging device. - Keep the Part IV label showing minimum and maximum charging power values and USB PD text where USB Power Delivery is supported. - Keep instructions and safety information that describe charging capabilities and compatible charging devices in the required market language. Sources for this answer: - [Directive (EU) 2022/2380 common charger amendment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32022L2380&ref=sorena.io) - Binding amendment source for no-charger purchase options, charger pictograms, label placement, instructions, and distance-selling display requirements. - [Directive 2014/53/EU consolidated text through 28 December 2024](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02014L0053-20241228&ref=sorena.io) - Consolidated RED text for Article 3a, Article 10(8), Annex Ia Part II, Part III, and Part IV consumer-information requirements. - [European Commission - one common charging solution for all](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red/one-common-charging-solution-all_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission page linking the high-resolution pictograms and label specified by Directive (EU) 2022/2380. ### [What evidence should support a Common Charger decision?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md#what-evidence-should-support-a-common-charger-decision) *Module: [EU RED Common Charger FAQ: Which devices need USB-C?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/common-charger.md)* Keep enough evidence for a reviewer to follow the decision without project history. The record should tie the product variant to the Annex Ia category, application date, wired-charging capability, USB-C and USB Power Delivery assessment, charger-in-box choice, consumer information, and retained source URLs. - Maintain a dated scope memo that identifies the product category, charging capability, market placement plan, and application date. - Attach design evidence for USB Type-C, cable charging, USB Power Delivery where triggered, and any additional charging protocol. - Attach packaging, label, pictogram, instruction, product-page, distance-selling, distributor, and marketplace evidence. - Name the owner for the decision and the trigger for review after product or legal changes. Sources for this answer: - [Directive (EU) 2022/2380 common charger amendment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32022L2380&ref=sorena.io) - Primary legal amendment for common charger scope, application dates, design duties, unbundling, labels, pictograms, and instructions. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1717 on wired charging specifications](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32023R1717&ref=sorena.io) - Source for updated technical specification references used in USB-C and USB Power Delivery design evidence. - [European Commission - one common charging solution for all](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red/one-common-charging-solution-all_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission implementation overview for common charger elements and ongoing review of additional categories, wireless charging, and unbundling experience. ### [Short answer: what the RED DoC and CE marking file should include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md#short-answer-what-the-red-doc-and-ce-marking-file-should-include) *Module: [RED DoC and CE marking file: what to include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md)* Keep the EU declaration of conformity or simplified declaration, the Annex V technical documentation, the conformity assessment record under Article 17, proof of CE marking under Articles 19 and 20, and the product identification that links those records to the exact radio equipment type. - Product link: type, batch or serial number, model designation, photographs or illustrations, marking, and any software or firmware version that affects conformity. - Technical file: Article 21 and Annex V evidence, including design information, standards or other technical specifications, test reports, design calculations or examinations, copy of the EU declaration, and explanations required for spectrum operation and use restrictions. - Conformity route: the Article 17 procedure used, including internal production control, EU-type examination plus conformity to type, or full quality assurance as applicable. - Notified-body record: EU-type examination certificate and annexes when Annex III was used, or the notified-body identification number following the CE marking when Annex IV was used. - Market-facing evidence: CE marking placement, packaging CE mark, instructions and safety information, frequency band and maximum transmitted power information for intentional transmitters, and Article 10(10) restriction information where relevant. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Articles 10, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and Annexes V, VI, and VII ground the RED technical file, conformity assessment, declaration, simplified declaration, and CE marking requirements. - [Commission Notice - Blue Guide on EU product rules (2022)](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A52022XC0629%2804%29&ref=sorena.io) - Blue Guide guidance supports the CE marking and declaration record by explaining the manufacturer's responsibility for conformity assessment and the meaning of CE marking across EU product rules. ### [Technical documentation to keep behind the RED DoC](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md#technical-documentation-to-keep-behind-the-red-doc) *Module: [RED DoC and CE marking file: what to include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md)* Article 21 requires technical documentation to contain the relevant data or means used to ensure the radio equipment complies with the essential requirements. Annex V lists the minimum elements wherever applicable, so the file should be organized around those elements rather than around a generic compliance checklist. - Include a general product description with external features, marking, internal layout, and compliance-relevant software or firmware versions. - Include design and manufacturing drawings, circuit or sub-assembly schemes, and explanations needed to understand operation. - List harmonised standards applied in full or in part; where they were not used, record the other technical specifications and solutions used to meet Article 3. - Attach design calculations, examinations, test reports, and the copy of the EU declaration of conformity. - Add the EU-type examination certificate and annexes if Annex III was used, plus the Article 10(2) and Article 10(10) explanations required by Annex V. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 21 and Annex V define the RED technical documentation content that supports the DoC and CE marking decision. - [European Commission - harmonised standards overview](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission harmonised-standards guidance supports documenting which OJEU-cited standards were used for presumption of conformity and which requirements they cover. ### [CE marking and notified-body evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md#ce-marking-and-notified-body-evidence) *Module: [RED DoC and CE marking file: what to include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md)* For RED products, the CE marking evidence should show that the mark was affixed before the radio equipment was placed on the market, was visible, legible, and indelible on the equipment or data plate where possible, and was also visible and legible on the packaging. - Keep artwork or photos showing the CE mark on the product or data plate and on packaging. - Record any reason the CE mark could not be placed on the product itself because of the nature of the radio equipment. - Keep the notified-body name, number, intervention description, and certificate details where Annex VI item 7 applies. - If Annex IV applies, verify that the notified-body identification number is placed after the CE marking. - Keep the manufacturer or authorised representative approval record for the declaration and CE marking release. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Articles 17, 19, and 20 support the conformity-assessment choices, CE marking placement rules, and notified-body identification-number requirement. - [Commission Notice - Blue Guide on EU product rules (2022)](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A52022XC0629%2804%29&ref=sorena.io) - Blue Guide CE-marking guidance supports explaining that CE marking is the manufacturer's declaration that applicable EU product requirements and conformity assessment procedures have been fulfilled. ### [When related RED records belong in the same file](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md#when-related-red-records-belong-in-the-same-file) *Module: [RED DoC and CE marking file: what to include](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/doc-and-ce.md)* Some RED products need additional records alongside the DoC and CE marking file because the declaration and technical documentation must cover the actual equipment configuration placed on the market. - For common-charger products, keep USB Type-C, USB Power Delivery where applicable, label, pictogram, packaging, distance-selling, and instructions evidence. - For internet-connected or otherwise covered cybersecurity products, map the product category to the activated Article 3(3) requirement and keep the assessment evidence with the technical file. - For products with user-changeable compliance-relevant software, accessories, or components, describe them in the DoC and user information at a level that lets the user operate compliant equipment. - For products with restrictions on putting into service or authorisation requirements, keep packaging and instruction evidence that identifies the relevant Member State or geographic area. - Reopen the file when hardware, firmware, accessories, intended use, standards, notified-body certificates, labels, packaging, or market restrictions change. Sources for this answer: - [Directive (EU) 2022/2380 on common charger requirements](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A32022L2380&ref=sorena.io) - This RED amendment supports keeping common-charger charging specifications, label, pictogram, packaging, and distance-selling evidence in the product compliance file for covered radio equipment. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 on RED cybersecurity](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/30/oj?ref=sorena.io) - This delegated act supports adding Article 3(3)(d), (e), and (f) cybersecurity assessment evidence when the covered categories or classes of radio equipment are in scope. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2444 on RED cybersecurity application date](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2023/2444/oj?ref=sorena.io) - This delegated regulation supports checking the application date for the RED cybersecurity delegated requirements before finalizing release gates. ### [What must importers check before placing RED equipment on the EU market?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#what-must-importers-check-before-placing-red-equipment-on-the-eu-market) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* Article 12 of Directive 2014/53/EU requires importers to place only compliant radio equipment on the market. The importer does not redo the manufacturer's conformity assessment, but it must check that the appropriate Article 17 procedure has been carried out and that the radio equipment is constructed so it can be operated in at least one Member State without infringing applicable radio-spectrum requirements. - Confirm the product is radio equipment in RED scope and is being placed on the EU market by the importer. - Check evidence that the manufacturer carried out the applicable RED conformity assessment and drew up the technical documentation. - Confirm that the radio equipment bears the CE marking and, where Annex IV full quality assurance was used, the notified-body identification number is handled under Article 20. - Check that instructions and safety information are supplied in the language required by the Member State concerned. - Check that intentionally transmitting equipment includes operating frequency bands and maximum radio-frequency power information. - Check that the EU declaration of conformity, or the simplified EU declaration with the exact internet address for the full declaration, accompanies each item. - Check packaging and instructions for Member State or geographical restriction information where the equipment is subject to restrictions on putting into service or authorisation requirements. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Primary RED source for Article 12 importer checks before placing radio equipment on the market. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance summarising the Article 12 importer checks, including conformity assessment, one-Member-State operation, technical documentation, CE marking, declaration, restrictions, and traceability. ### [What traceability and user information must the importer verify?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#what-traceability-and-user-information-must-the-importer-verify) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* The importer has its own traceability duty. It must indicate its name, registered trade name or registered trade mark, and postal contact address on the radio equipment. Where that is not possible, the information may appear on the packaging or in a document accompanying the equipment, including cases where the importer would otherwise have to open the packaging. - Importer contact details must be in a language easily understood by end-users and market surveillance authorities. - Manufacturer identification and product identification must be present before placement. - Instructions and safety information must be clear, understandable, intelligible, and in the language required by the Member State concerned. - For intentional transmitters, instructions must include operating frequency bands and maximum transmitted radio-frequency power. - If restrictions or authorisation requirements apply in at least one Member State, packaging and instructions must identify the affected Member States or geographical areas and the applicable restriction or requirement. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 12(3) and 12(4) set importer contact-detail and instruction-language duties; Article 12(2) ties importer checks to Article 10(6)-(10). - [Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1354 on Article 10(10) information](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2017/1354/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Binding source for how packaging and instructions present restriction and authorisation information under RED Article 10(10). ### [What must importers do after placing radio equipment on the market?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#what-must-importers-do-after-placing-radio-equipment-on-the-market) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* Importer duties continue after placement. While radio equipment is under the importer's responsibility, storage or transport conditions must not jeopardise compliance with the Article 3 essential requirements. - Control storage and transport conditions so handling does not undermine Article 3 compliance. - Use sample testing and complaint monitoring when appropriate for the risks presented by the radio equipment. - Keep distributors informed where monitoring identifies complaints, non-conforming equipment, or recalls relevant to supplied equipment. - Act immediately on suspected non-conformity by bringing the equipment into conformity, withdrawing it, or recalling it where appropriate. - If the equipment presents a risk, immediately inform competent national authorities in the Member States where it was made available, including details of the non-compliance and corrective measures taken. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 12(5) to 12(7) covers storage, transport, sample testing, complaints, corrective action, withdrawal, recall, and authority notification. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance restates importer post-market monitoring, corrective-action, and authority-cooperation obligations. ### [What records should a RED importer keep ready for authorities?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#what-records-should-a-red-importer-keep-ready-for-authorities) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* For 10 years after the radio equipment has been placed on the market, the importer must keep a copy of the EU declaration of conformity at the disposal of market surveillance authorities and ensure that technical documentation can be made available on request. - Keep the EU declaration of conformity for each imported model or version placed on the market. - Keep written supplier assurance or another practical mechanism showing that the technical documentation can be produced for authorities. - Keep product identity, model, batch, serial-number, firmware, hardware, accessory, and intended-use records aligned with the declaration and test evidence. - Keep importer and manufacturer contact details, instructions, safety information, restriction information, complaint records, non-conformity records, recall records, and corrective-action records. - Keep supply-chain traceability records showing the economic operator that supplied the importer and the economic operators to whom the importer supplied the radio equipment. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 12(8), Article 12(9), and Article 15 ground importer recordkeeping, technical-documentation availability, authority cooperation, and supply-chain traceability. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance says importers are advised to require formal written assurance that manufacturer documents will be available when requested by market surveillance authorities. ### [When does an importer become responsible as the manufacturer?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#when-does-an-importer-become-responsible-as-the-manufacturer) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* Directive 2014/53/EU treats an importer as the manufacturer where the importer places radio equipment on the market under its own name or trade mark, or modifies equipment already placed on the market in a way that may affect compliance with the Directive. In that case, the importer is subject to the manufacturer obligations in Article 10, not only the importer obligations in Article 12. - Check whether the importer is placing the equipment on the market under its own name or trade mark. - Check whether any modification may affect RED compliance, including Article 3 essential requirements, spectrum operation, cybersecurity obligations where applicable, or common-charger obligations where applicable. - If either condition applies, treat the importer as the manufacturer for Directive 2014/53/EU obligations. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 14 states when importer or distributor conduct triggers manufacturer obligations. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance explains that an economic operator taking manufacturer responsibilities must update or replace the declaration of conformity and assumes full responsibility for RED compliance. ### [What should importers avoid during market surveillance checks?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md#what-should-importers-avoid-during-market-surveillance-checks) *Module: [RED importer obligations](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/importers.md)* Market surveillance issues often start as missing or mismatched administrative evidence: the CE marking is absent or misused, the EU declaration is missing or incorrect, the notified-body number is wrong where required, Article 10 or Article 12 traceability information is absent, false, or incomplete, required user information does not accompany the equipment, or technical documentation is unavailable or incomplete. - Do not place equipment on the market based only on a supplier claim that is not tied to the exact model, version, firmware, accessories, intended use, and market. - Do not treat a voluntary certificate as a substitute for the EU declaration, technical-documentation availability, Article 17 conformity assessment, or CE marking requirements. - Do not ignore packaging or instruction requirements for radio equipment with Member State restrictions or authorisation requirements. - Do not lose the supply-chain traceability needed to answer authority requests under Article 15. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Articles 40, 41, and 43 ground market-surveillance evaluation, corrective action, and formal non-compliance examples. - [European Commission Radio Equipment Directive page](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/electrical-and-electronic-engineering-industries-eei/radio-equipment-directive-red_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission RED page warns that voluntary or additional certificates are not recognised proof of compliance for market-surveillance or customs checks. ### [Are RF modules covered by the Radio Equipment Directive?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md#are-rf-modules-covered-by-the-radio-equipment-directive) *Module: [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md)* Yes, the Commission RED Guide treats RF modules and components with an embedded RF module as radio equipment where they meet the RED definition and are placed on the EU market before integration into another product. Integrated circuits can also be covered where they have the capacity to receive or transmit radio signals once integrated as a standalone radio function into another product. - Identify whether the item being bought, sold, or imported is an RF module, a component with an embedded RF module, an integrated circuit with radio transmit or receive capability, or a finished host product. - For a module placed on the EU market before integration, keep the module's RED conformity evidence and integration instructions. - For the host product, run a final-product assessment instead of relying only on the module label, supplier declaration, or certificate. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Primary RED source for the definition of radio equipment and the Article 3 essential requirements that apply to radio equipment. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance identifying RF modules and embedded RF modules as radio equipment when placed on the EU market before integration, and warning that integration can create further obligations. ### [How should the host product be assessed?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md#how-should-the-host-product-be-assessed) *Module: [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md)* Start with the final product and intended market placement. If the host product is radio equipment because it intentionally emits or receives radio waves for radio communication or radiodetermination, map the final product to the applicable Article 3 requirements, not just to the module test report. - Confirm the exact host model, hardware revision, firmware version, radio modes, intended use, accessories, and EU market placement role. - Check whether the host changes the module's assessed conditions: antenna type or placement, enclosure, shielding, cables, power supply, grounding, ports, firmware settings, duty cycle, operating modes, installation position, user configuration, or intended environment. - Map Article 3(1)(a) safety and health, Article 3(1)(b) EMC, Article 3(2) efficient spectrum use, and any applicable Article 3(3) requirement to final-product evidence. - Use module reports only for the requirements, configurations, and conditions they actually cover. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Article 3 sets essential requirements and Article 17 sets conformity assessment requirements for radio equipment. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance explaining final-product responsibility, use of prior component assessments, and assessment across intended operating conditions and configurations. ## FAQ Pagination - Canonical index (page 1): [/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items.md) - Page 1 rule: `/page/1` is intentionally not generated; use the canonical index markdown URL. - Current page: 1 of 3 Pages: [1](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items.md) | [2](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items/page/2.md) | [3](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items/page/3.md) [Next page](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items/page/2.md) *Recommended next step* *Placement: after implementation section* ## Review your RED FAQ answers against the technical file Use this FAQ index to align product scope, Article 3 mapping, cybersecurity review, common-charger checks, CE evidence, and supporting source references before release or importer review. - [Open Research Copilot](/solutions/research-copilot.md): Answer RED scope, timing, and interpretation questions with cited outputs. - [Talk through implementation](/contact.md): Review your scope, evidence model, controls, and next actions. --- [Privacy Policy](https://www.sorena.io/privacy) | [Terms of Use](https://www.sorena.io/terms-of-use) | [DMCA](https://www.sorena.io/dmca) | [About Us](https://www.sorena.io/about-us) (c) 2026 Sorena AB (559573-7338). 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