--- 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/page/2" 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 2 of 3. Showing 20 of 45 items.* ### [What module and host evidence belongs in the technical documentation?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md#what-module-and-host-evidence-belongs-in-the-technical-documentation) *Module: [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md)* The technical documentation should let a reviewer connect the module evidence to the exact final radio equipment. Annex V requires a general product description, relevant photos or illustrations, marking and internal layout, software or firmware versions affecting compliance, user information, installation instructions, drawings, standards or other technical specifications, the EU declaration, and test or examination results where applicable. - Keep module DoC or supplier declaration information, module test reports, module installation instructions, approved antenna conditions, radio parameters, firmware assumptions, and limitations. - Keep host evidence for antenna location, enclosure, shielding, cable routing, power supply, grounding, ports, accessories, software settings, labels, packaging, instructions, and intended operating configurations. - List harmonised standards applied in full or in part; where harmonised standards are not applied or are only partly applied, describe the solutions used to meet Article 3. - If Annex III EU-type examination is used, include the EU-type examination certificate and annexes from the notified body. 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 RED technical-documentation contents, including product description, software or firmware affecting compliance, user information, standards, other specifications, DoC, certificates, and test results. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance stating that prior component or part assessments used for the radio equipment assessment should be included in the technical documentation. ### [What should instructions and the EU declaration say for a module-based product?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md#what-should-instructions-and-the-eu-declaration-say-for-a-module-based-product) *Module: [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md)* Instructions matter because they define how the radio equipment is intended to be used. Article 10(8) requires instructions and safety information in a language easily understood by consumers and other end-users as determined by the Member State concerned. For intentional transmitters, the instructions also need frequency bands and maximum transmitted radio-frequency power information. - State allowed antennas, antenna characteristics, installation limits, separation or mounting assumptions, power supply limits, firmware or software constraints, and supported radio modes where those facts affect compliance. - Do not leave module integration conditions only in supplier files; carry the relevant conditions into host instructions, technical documentation, and release checks. - Keep the DoC designation aligned with the product, module configuration, accessories, components, and software that allow the radio equipment to operate as intended. - If restrictions on putting into service or authorisation requirements apply, keep packaging and instruction evidence aligned with Article 10(10) analysis. 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 10 grounds manufacturer duties for instructions, safety information, frequency band and power information, restriction information, EU declaration, and CE marking. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance explaining instruction and DoC treatment for accessories, components, software, and antennas that affect conformity or are user-installed or user-changed. ### [When should a radio-module assessment be reopened?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md#when-should-a-radio-module-assessment-be-reopened) *Module: [RED radio modules FAQ: host product assessment](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/radio-modules.md)* Reopen the assessment when the product facts no longer match the evidence. A module test report or certificate is strongest when the host uses the same radio configuration, antenna conditions, software assumptions, installation limits, and intended environment that were assessed. - Review after changes to antenna, enclosure, shielding, power supply, ports, cables, grounding, firmware, radio settings, accessories, installation instructions, intended use, market restrictions, or applicable standards. - Review when a supplier replaces the module, changes the module firmware, changes allowed installation conditions, or updates the module declaration or test report. - Review before private-labelling, importing, or modifying a module-based product in a way that may shift manufacturer responsibility or affect conformity. 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 source for manufacturer responsibility to ensure radio equipment is designed and manufactured in accordance with Article 3 and for technical documentation and declaration duties. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance used for changes that affect integration assumptions, instructions, intended use, and final-product responsibility. ### [What SAR and RF exposure evidence is needed under RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md#what-sar-and-rf-exposure-evidence-is-needed-under-red) *Module: [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md)* The RED does not treat SAR or RF exposure as a separate marketing claim. It is part of the Article 3(1)(a) health and safety essential requirement, assessed through the conformity assessment and documented in the technical documentation. - Use Article 10(8) data as a starting point: instructions for intentional transmitters must include frequency bands and maximum radio-frequency power. - For devices used next to the ear or close to the human body, check whether OJEU-listed exposure standards such as EN 50360 and EN 50566, as amended, cover the product and operating scenario. - Keep the RF exposure or SAR test report, standard-selection rationale, antenna drawings, radio settings, software version, accessory assumptions, separation-distance assumptions, and engineering judgement with the RED technical documentation. 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 Article 3(1)(a), Article 10(8), Article 17, and Article 21 evidence requirements. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2669](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2669/oj?ref=sorena.io) - OJEU source for EN 50360:2017/A1:2023 and EN 50566:2017/A1:2023 references for next-to-ear and close-to-body wireless communication devices. - [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 checking the current RED harmonised-standard references before relying on presumption of conformity. ### [How do Article 3(1)(a), Article 10(8), Article 17, and Article 21 fit together?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md#how-do-article-31a-article-108-article-17-and-article-21-fit-together) *Module: [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md)* Article 3(1)(a) is the obligation: radio equipment must protect health and safety. Article 17 is the assessment rule: the conformity assessment must cover intended operating conditions and, for Article 3(1)(a), reasonably foreseeable conditions. Article 10(8) supplies key transmitter facts for intentional emitters. Article 21 is where the supporting technical documentation is anchored. - Record the frequency band and maximum RF power used for each intentional transmitter and operating mode. - State whether users can hold, wear, mount, carry, or operate the product next to the ear, close to the body, at a fixed distance, or in an installation. - Include the standard edition or alternative specification used, and explain any exclusions, partial application, or product differences from the tested configuration. 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 manufacturer obligations, conformity assessment, instructions, and technical documentation. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2669](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2669/oj?ref=sorena.io) - OJEU source showing the amended EN 50360 and EN 50566 references for body-proximity exposure scenarios. ### [What records should stay in the technical documentation?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md#what-records-should-stay-in-the-technical-documentation) *Module: [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md)* The exposure file should be reviewable without project history. A market-surveillance reviewer should be able to see what was assessed, what transmitter configuration was tested or analysed, which standard or specification was used, and why the conclusion still matches the product placed on the EU market. - Keep product identifiers, hardware revision, antenna layout, enclosure material, radio module data, transmitter power settings, and software or firmware versions that can affect RF output. - Keep SAR, RF exposure, or engineering assessment reports with the tested modes, channels, antennas, accessories, duty cycles, and separation distances clearly tied to the marketed configuration. - Reopen the assessment when the antenna, enclosure, radio module, maximum power, firmware, accessory set, user instructions, intended body position, harmonised standard, or market restriction changes. 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 technical documentation, conformity assessment, instructions, and the 10-year retention obligation for technical documentation and the EU declaration of conformity. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2669](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2669/oj?ref=sorena.io) - OJEU source for the amended EN 50360 and EN 50566 references relevant to next-to-ear and close-to-body wireless communication devices. - [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 verifying current RED harmonised-standard references before relying on a standard in the evidence file. ### [Implementation checklist for SAR and RF exposure](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md#implementation-checklist-for-sar-and-rf-exposure) *Module: [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md)* Use the checklist to produce a documented yes, no, or needs-escalation answer for the specific radio equipment, not for a generic product category. - Confirm whether the product intentionally emits radio waves and list every transmitter, antenna, operating band, and maximum RF power setting. - Classify the use scenario: next to ear, hand-held, body-mounted, close proximity to the body, fixed installation, remote from users, or multiple configurations. - Select the current OJEU-listed harmonised standard where it covers the product; if using another specification, document why it is adequate and whether notified-body involvement is triggered for the relevant RED requirement. - Tie each SAR or RF exposure test report to the marketed hardware, software, antenna, accessory, and user-instruction configuration. - Update instructions and safety information so users understand the intended use conditions relied on in the exposure assessment. 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 radio equipment definition, frequency and power instruction data, intended-use assessment, and technical documentation. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2669](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2669/oj?ref=sorena.io) - OJEU source for exposure-related harmonised-standard references for wireless communication devices used near the ear or body. - [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 checking current harmonised standards drafted in support of RED. ### [Common SAR and RF exposure documentation mistakes](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md#common-sar-and-rf-exposure-documentation-mistakes) *Module: [RED SAR and RF Exposure Evidence](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/sar-and-wireless-exposure.md)* The main failure mode is mismatch: the evidence exists, but it does not match the product, antenna, firmware, accessory, frequency band, power setting, or use distance being sold in the EU. - Do not reuse a module, supplier, or lab report unless the host-product antenna, enclosure, RF settings, installation, and user-position assumptions still match. - Do not cite an old standard reference without checking whether the OJEU listing has been amended, withdrawn, restricted, or replaced for the exposure scenario. - Do not bury separation-distance or body-position assumptions in engineering notes if the user instructions need those conditions for the assessment to remain true. - Do not let a firmware or power-table change ship without checking whether it changes the Article 3(1)(a) exposure conclusion. 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 requiring technical documentation to contain relevant data and to be continuously updated. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2669](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2023/2669/oj?ref=sorena.io) - OJEU source showing amended exposure-standard references and deferred withdrawal of earlier EN 50360 and EN 50566 references. - [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 checking the current RED harmonised standards list before relying on a standard citation. ### [Short answer: can you use a RED standard that is not OJEU-cited?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md#short-answer-can-you-use-a-red-standard-that-is-not-ojeu-cited) *Module: [RED standards not cited in the OJEU: can you use them?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md)* Yes, but use it carefully. An uncited standard, a draft standard, a withdrawn standard, or a standard cited for a different scope can support the technical rationale, test plan, or design file. It should not be described as giving RED presumption of conformity unless the relevant reference, or relevant part of the reference, has been published in the Official Journal for the essential requirement you are claiming. - Separate the standard's engineering value from its legal effect under RED. - Check the exact OJEU reference, version, date range, restrictions, and the Article 3 requirement covered. - Do not copy an old declaration, certificate, or supplier claim that cites a non-current or differently scoped standard without explaining the gap. - If the gap affects Article 3(2) spectrum use or Article 3(3) activated requirements, document the Article 17 route decision before release. - Keep the uncited standard, test reports, design rationale, risk analysis, and any notified-body records in the technical documentation. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A32014L0053&ref=sorena.io) - Article 16 ties RED presumption of conformity to harmonised standards whose references are published in the OJEU, and Article 17 sets the conformity-assessment route when OJEU-cited standards are not applied for Article 3(2) or Article 3(3). - [European Commission - radio equipment harmonised standards](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/radio-equipment_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission RED standards page identifying the OJEU publication source and explaining that its summary list is informational, not itself legally effective. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/2191 on RED harmonised standards](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L%5F2022.289.01.0007.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AL%3A2022%3A289%3ATOC&ref=sorena.io) - OJEU implementing decision listing harmonised standards for radio equipment and notices where only limited or conditional presumption of conformity is available. ### [How to document the OJEU citation gap](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md#how-to-document-the-ojeu-citation-gap) *Module: [RED standards not cited in the OJEU: can you use them?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md)* Start with the requirement, not with the standard number. Identify whether the point is Article 3(1)(a) safety, Article 3(1)(b) EMC, Article 3(2) efficient spectrum use, or an activated Article 3(3) requirement. Then map each requirement to the OJEU-cited standard used, the parts applied, and any missing coverage. - Record the exact standard reference and version used by engineering, the OJEU reference checked, and the date of the check. - Say whether the standard is not cited, cited for another requirement, cited with limitations, withdrawn, or applied only in part. - For each gap, attach the alternative evidence: test report, design review, calculations, supplier module data, risk analysis, or notified-body certificate. - Keep a clean distinction between Article 3(1), Article 3(2), and Article 3(3) because Article 17 treats missing harmonised standards differently for those requirements. - Update the standards list when the product, firmware, radio module, antenna, intended use, or OJEU citation status changes. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A32014L0053&ref=sorena.io) - Article 3 defines the essential requirements that the standards map must cover, while Article 21 requires technical documentation to contain the means used to ensure compliance. - [Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/2191 on RED harmonised standards](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L%5F2022.289.01.0007.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AL%3A2022%3A289%3ATOC&ref=sorena.io) - Shows that RED harmonised-standard citations can include notices limiting the presumption of conformity for specific clauses, tests, or parameters. - [European Commission - radio equipment harmonised standards](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/radio-equipment_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission page for RED OJEU publications, amendments, RSS feed, and summary list context used to check current harmonised-standard references. ### [When the notified-body route becomes relevant](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md#when-the-notified-body-route-becomes-relevant) *Module: [RED standards not cited in the OJEU: can you use them?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md)* For Article 3(2) and Article 3(3), Article 17 is explicit: if the manufacturer has not applied OJEU-cited harmonised standards, has applied them only in part, or no such standards exist, the equipment is submitted to either EU-type examination followed by conformity to type or full quality assurance for those essential requirements. - Use internal production control only where the selected Article 17 path allows it for the requirements being assessed. - Escalate Article 3(2) spectrum-use gaps early because they commonly affect radio test planning and market release evidence. - Escalate Article 3(3) gaps where a delegated act has activated the requirement for the product category or class. - Keep the notified-body certificate, annexes, scope, and any conditions with the RED technical documentation when EU-type examination is used. - If Annex IV full quality assurance is used, keep evidence for the notified-body identification number that follows the CE marking. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A32014L0053&ref=sorena.io) - Article 17 specifies the RED conformity-assessment procedures and the notified-body-triggering conditions for Article 3(2) and Article 3(3) when harmonised standards are missing, partial, or not applied. - [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) - General EU product-law guidance supporting manufacturer responsibility for choosing and documenting the applicable conformity assessment before CE marking. ### [Common wording mistakes in declarations and reports](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md#common-wording-mistakes-in-declarations-and-reports) *Module: [RED standards not cited in the OJEU: can you use them?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/standards-not-cited-in-ojeu.md)* The risky wording is usually not the use of the standard; it is the claim attached to it. A file can say that an uncited standard informed the test method or design rationale. It should not say that the product is presumed compliant under RED because of that standard unless the relevant OJEU citation supports that claim. - Avoid: presumed compliant with RED based on EN X, when EN X is not OJEU-cited for the claimed requirement. - Use instead: EN X was used as supporting technical evidence; presumption of conformity is claimed only for the OJEU-cited standards and parts listed in the standards matrix. - Avoid: all RED requirements covered by module test report, unless the report covers the finished equipment configuration and every applicable Article 3 requirement. - Use instead: module evidence supports the listed radio characteristics; the host product file separately addresses integration, antenna, software, instructions, and remaining essential requirements. - Avoid: standards list current, unless the record names the OJEU source checked and preserves the citation status behind the release decision. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX%3A32014L0053&ref=sorena.io) - Article 10 requires manufacturers to ensure radio equipment is designed and manufactured according to Article 3, draw up technical documentation, perform conformity assessment, and keep records that demonstrate conformity. - [European Commission - radio equipment harmonised standards](https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/radio-equipment_en?ref=sorena.io) - Commission source for checking RED OJEU publication status instead of relying on a supplier or legacy standards list alone. ### [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md#when-do-red-cybersecurity-requirements-apply-to-connected-radio-equipment) *Module: [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md)* Start with Article 3(3)(d): it applies to any radio equipment that can communicate itself over the internet, whether directly or through another device. That trigger is about the equipment's own capability to exchange data with the internet, not merely whether the product is used near a network. - Apply Article 3(3)(d) to internet-connected radio equipment for network protection and prevention of network-resource misuse. - Apply Article 3(3)(e) when the covered category and data-processing trigger are both present. - Apply Article 3(3)(f) when internet-connected radio equipment enables transfers of money, monetary value, or virtual currency. - Check the derogations in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 before concluding that an adjacent medical, vehicle, aviation, or electronic road-toll regime is also covered by the same RED cybersecurity points. 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 Article 3 essential requirements and the legal basis for delegated acts activating Article 3(3)(d), (e), and (f). - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 on RED cybersecurity](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/30/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Delegated source specifying the radio-equipment categories and classes for Article 3(3)(d), (e), and (f). - [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) - Amending source that changes the 2022/30 application date and corrects the Article 3(3)(e) data wording. ### [What facts decide RED cybersecurity applicability?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md#what-facts-decide-red-cybersecurity-applicability) *Module: [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md)* The first fact is whether the item is radio equipment under RED and can communicate itself over the internet. Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 treats direct and indirect internet communication as relevant, so a device that reaches the internet through a phone, hub, gateway, or other intermediate equipment can still be internet-connected for this assessment. - Record the communications path: direct internet access, phone bridge, hub, cloud gateway, or another intermediate path. - List the data types the equipment can process, including personal data, traffic data, and location data where relevant. - State whether the product is intended for childcare, is a radio toy, is wearable, or supports payment or value-transfer flows. - Keep any exclusion or derogation analysis explicit; do not bury it in a generic RED checklist. 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 underlying essential requirements and Article 3(3) delegation mechanism. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 on RED cybersecurity](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/30/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Delegated source for the internet-connected, childcare, toy, wearable, and payment-transfer applicability triggers. - [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) - Amending source confirming the current application date and corrected data-processing wording for Article 3(3)(e). ### [Implementation checklist for RED cybersecurity applicability](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md#implementation-checklist-for-red-cybersecurity-applicability) *Module: [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md)* Use a short applicability record before choosing standards, tests, or notified-body routes. The record should answer which Article 3(3) point applies and why, rather than saying only that the product is connected or cyber-relevant. - Confirm the product is radio equipment and identify the radio function, software version, and market-placement scenario. - Test the Article 3(3)(d) trigger: can the equipment communicate itself over the internet, directly or indirectly? - Test the Article 3(3)(e) trigger: is the equipment internet-connected, childcare, toy, or wearable radio equipment, and can it process personal, traffic, or location data? - Test the Article 3(3)(f) trigger: can the holder or user transfer money, monetary value, or virtual currency through the internet-connected equipment? - Record the 1 August 2025 application date and the evidence source used for each yes, no, or escalation answer. 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 Article 3 essential requirements used in the applicability record. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 on RED cybersecurity](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/30/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Delegated source for mapping Article 3(3)(d), (e), and (f) to covered equipment categories. - [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) - Amending source for the 1 August 2025 application date. ### [Common mistakes in RED cybersecurity scope decisions](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md#common-mistakes-in-red-cybersecurity-scope-decisions) *Module: [When do RED cybersecurity requirements apply to connected radio equipment?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/cybersecurity-applicability.md)* The biggest error is compressing all RED cybersecurity into a single yes/no label. The delegated act applies different Article 3(3) points to different equipment categories, so the record needs to show which point applies and which product fact triggered it. - Do not assume that every radio product with wireless connectivity is covered by every cybersecurity point. - Do not miss indirect internet communication through another device when applying Article 3(3)(d). - Do not apply Article 3(3)(e) without checking both the covered category and the personal, traffic, or location-data trigger. - Do not treat payment capability as only a software or service issue when the internet-connected radio equipment enables the transfer flow. - Do not use the original 1 August 2024 date after the 2023 amendment; use 1 August 2025. 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 essential-requirement framework behind the delegated cybersecurity act. - [Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 on RED cybersecurity](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_del/2022/30/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Delegated source for avoiding over-broad or under-inclusive cybersecurity applicability decisions. - [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) - Amending source for the current 2022/30 application date. ### [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by the Radio Equipment Directive?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md#which-receivers-and-transmitters-are-covered-by-the-radio-equipment-directive) *Module: [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md)* A product is radio equipment under Directive 2014/53/EU if it is an electrical or electronic product that intentionally emits and/or receives radio waves for radio communication or radiodetermination. The definition also covers an electrical or electronic product that must be completed with an accessory, such as an antenna, so it can intentionally emit or receive radio waves for those purposes. - Include transmitter-only, receiver-only, and transmit/receive equipment when the intended radio function is communication or radiodetermination. - Include products that need an accessory, such as an antenna, or software before they can intentionally emit or receive radio waves. - Do not treat every electromagnetic product as RED equipment; the radio waves must be used for radio communication or radiodetermination. - After the scope answer is yes, map the product to Article 3 requirements, applicable harmonised standards or other technical specifications, conformity assessment, user information, and technical documentation. 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 2 defines radio equipment by intentional emission or reception of radio waves for radio communication or radiodetermination, including products completed with an accessory such as an antenna. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance explaining the RED definition, receiver examples, accessory-completed products, and products that use electromagnetic waves for non-radio purposes. ### [What is outside RED receiver and transmitter scope?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md#what-is-outside-red-receiver-and-transmitter-scope) *Module: [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md)* A product is not brought into RED scope merely because it involves electromagnetic phenomena. The Commission RED Guide says products that use electromagnetic waves exclusively for purposes other than radio communication or radiodetermination are not covered by RED, and gives pure wireless power transfer without communication or radiodetermination as an example. - Exclude electromagnetic products only where the intended use is not radio communication or radiodetermination. - Check Annex I before relying on an exclusion for amateur radio, marine, airborne, or custom-built professional R&D evaluation equipment. - For mixed products, separate the radio equipment assessment from non-radio functions instead of using one broad product label. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Annex I lists radio equipment categories excluded from Directive 2014/53/EU scope. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance distinguishing RED radio functions from products that use electromagnetic waves exclusively for other purposes. ### [Evidence to keep for a receiver or transmitter scope decision](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md#evidence-to-keep-for-a-receiver-or-transmitter-scope-decision) *Module: [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md)* The technical file should show why the product was treated as RED radio equipment or why it was excluded. Keep the scope decision close to the product description, intended use, radio technology, frequency information, accessory and software dependencies, and any exclusion analysis. - Record whether the product emits, receives, or both, and whether the function is radio communication, radiodetermination, or neither. - Identify the radio waves involved as electromagnetic waves below 3 000 GHz propagated in space without artificial guide. - List antennas, software, firmware, modules, accessories, or configurations needed for the intended radio function. - Keep the Article 3 matrix, standards list, test reports, EU declaration of conformity, and notified-body evidence where the selected conformity route requires it. - Revisit the scope record when the radio function, antenna, firmware, intended use, market configuration, harmonised standard, or exclusion basis changes. Sources for this answer: - [Directive 2014/53/EU on radio equipment](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2014/53/oj?ref=sorena.io) - Annex V lists the technical documentation elements used to evidence RED conformity for the radio equipment type. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance that harmonised standards can provide presumption of conformity where their references are published in the OJEU, and that other means require technical justification. ### [Common mistakes when classifying receivers and transmitters](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md#common-mistakes-when-classifying-receivers-and-transmitters) *Module: [Which receivers and transmitters are covered by RED?](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/receivers-and-transmitters.md)* The main mistake is asking whether the product is a familiar radio category instead of applying the Article 2 definition. RED scope turns on the intentional emission or reception of radio waves for radio communication or radiodetermination, not on marketing labels such as smart device, sensor, accessory, module, or consumer electronics. - Do not exclude receiver-only equipment just because it does not transmit. - Do not include pure wireless power transfer or other electromagnetic uses unless the product also uses radio waves for communication or radiodetermination. - Do not rely on a module or component claim without checking the final product configuration and intended use. - Do not cite a harmonised standard as full RED coverage unless the standard, OJEU citation, product configuration, and covered Article 3 requirement all line up. 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 2 is the binding scope test for receiver-only, transmitter-only, and transceiver products. - [European Commission RED Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/23321?ref=sorena.io) - Commission guidance supporting receiver examples, non-radio electromagnetic exclusions, and accessory-completed radio equipment analysis. ## 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: 2 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) [Previous page](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items.md) | [Next page](/artifacts/eu/radio-equipment-directive/faq/items/page/3.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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