User Manual

Mini-RFM - Reference Guide November ’00

6.1 FCC / Telecommunications Regulations

The TIRIS RF Module generates RF emissions at 134.2 kHz. The radiation of the

fundamental and the harmonics will vary with the type of antenna and other devices

or functions connected to the RF module.

The required FCC or Telecommunications approvals must be obtained prior to oper-

ating the TIRIS RF Module with antenna(s), power supply and a control module or

other devices.

Sale, lease or operation in other countries may be subject to prior approval by the

government or other organizations.

6.2 Important Note to Purchasers/Users of the Mini-RFM in the USA

The TIRIS RF Module product is considered by the Federal Communications Com-

mission (FCC) to be a “subassembly”. As such, no prior approval is required to im-

port, sell or otherwise market the RF Module in the United States. In order to form a

functioning radio frequency RF device, the RF Module must be connected to a suit-

able antenna, power supply, and control circuitry. A radio frequency device may not

be operated unless authorized by the FCC nor may a radio frequency device be mar-

keted (i.e. sold, leased, imported, or advertised for sale or lease) without the prior

grant of an FCC equipment authorization.

FCC authorization to operate an RF device may take one of two forms: first, the FCC

may grant the user an experimental license; second, the FCC may issue an equip-

ment authorization permitting use of the RF device on an unlicensed basis. TI can

assist the user in obtaining an experimental license that will cover a specific installa-

tion of the RF Module in a specific site or sites. Experimental authorizations are ap-

propriate to cover operations during the development of an RF device. A grant of

equipment authorization (known as “certification”) must be obtained from the FCC

before RF devices are marketed or operated on a nondevelopment basis.

An equipment authorization has already been issued for use of the RF Module and

other TIRIS equipment (including antennas) in certain configurations. This authoriza-

tion does not cover all possible combinations of equipment and, in particular, covers

only specific antenna configurations. Should a user desire to use the RF Module in

a configuration not yet approved, TI can assist that customer to obtain the necessary

equipment approval.

6.3 Warning

Care must be taken when handling the RF Module. High voltage across the antenna

terminals and tuning connector could be harmful to your health. If the antenna insu-

lation is damaged it should not be connected to the RF Module.

6.4 Cautions

The RF Module might be subject to damage by electrostatic discharge (ESD) and

should therefore only be handled by ESD protected personnel at ESD secured work-

places.