An authorization certificate known as a WPC license enables Indian importers to purchase radio and wireless equipment from foreign countries. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is the entity that issues it. Before being imported into India, any radio equipment, such as walkie-talkies, RC vehicles, boats, drones, UAVs, Bluetooth devices, etc., must have WPC ETA clearance. Customs officers will confiscate radio equipment smuggled into India at the border if they don’t get prior WPC clearance.
Who can apply for a WPC license?
The following devices can get a WPC certification:
| Bluetooth headphones | Mobile phones |
| Bluetooth speakers | Wireless mouse and keypads |
| Wireless remotes | Wireless music players |
| Wireless auto radio | Wireless water heaters |
| Wireless watches | Wireless medical products |
| Laptops | Any device having Bluetooth or Wifi features. |
What is an ETA License?
Before electronic equipment may be marketed or used lawfully in a particular location, the certification process known as Equipment Type Approval (ETA) confirms that it meets all relevant technical standards, specifications, and regulatory restrictions. National or regional regulatory bodies frequently demand ETA in order to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of electronic equipment with regard to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio frequency (RF) emissions.
To encourage the import of wireless devices into India, the WPC department must get the Equipment Type Approval (ETA). An ETA certificate is required if a product operates in the de-licensed frequency range and isn’t WPC-approved.
As part of the ETA process, the device’s features and performance are carefully evaluated, recorded, and put through their paces. Included are evaluations of radiofrequency emissions, susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, electrical safety, and compliance with certain technical specifications. An ETA certificate, indicating compliance with relevant legislation, is granted to equipment upon satisfactory completion of all criteria.
Key benefits of ETA and WPC License
Some of the key benefits of a WPC license are:
- Developing Client trust:
Consumers’ concerns about the quality and safety of the goods they buy are growing. Businesses may gain customers’ trust by proving to them that their products adhere to strict safety and quality requirements through the use of an ETA certificate.
- Risk mitigation:
Interference risk will go down due to WPC-ETA Approval in India, which guarantees that wireless devices used their stay inside the permitted frequency band and don’t interfere with one another. It also aids in enhancing the quality and performance of wireless gadgets.
- Assurance of product quality:
The ETA and WPC certification entails a series of examinations and evaluations to guarantee that wireless devices satisfy quality requirements that contribute to raising the overall calibre of that specific wireless gadget.
- Access to markets on a global level:
Businesses may reach a wider audience of consumers with ETA and WPC-certified products, which boosts their market share. Additionally, the brand’s reputation grows and draws in new clients.
- Competitive advantage:
The ETA and WPC license can be used to sell certified products, giving them a competitive edge and demonstrating compliance and quality to partners and customers.
- Steer clear of penalties:
By earning the certification, you can protect your company from the costly and detrimental consequences and fines that come with non-compliance.
Key Difference between ETA and WPC License
Many difference between ETA and WPC licenses can be seen. The key difference between ETA and WPC licenses are:
1. Primary Goal
The first and main difference between ETA and WPC licenses is the primary goal for which they are given.
| ETA License | WPC License |
| The purpose of Equipment Type Approval (ETA) is to attest to the compliance of electronic equipment with EMC and RF emission regulations and requirements. It ensures that devices are safe and functional and don’t interfere with other technology. | The radio frequency spectrum allocation and management for wireless communication devices is the primary goal of the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) License. It guarantees that wireless equipment operates within authorized frequency bands and conforms with defined technical criteria. |
2. Usage and Requirement
The next difference between ETA and WPC licenses is their purpose of utilization and the requirements of the license.
| ETA License | WPC License |
| A WPC license is needed in order to import wireless gadgets into India. | An ETA certificate is required for any product operating in the de-licensed frequency band that isn’t WPC-certified. |
3. Jurisdiction
The third main difference between ETA and WPC licenses is that they are given for different jurisdictional needs.
| ETA License | WPC License |
| ETA certification may be required by several national or regional regulatory agencies, depending on the country or market. There can be differences in ETA policies and processes between countries. | The wireless planning and coordination wing of the Department of Telecommunications is in charge of the WPC license, which is unique to India. It is applicable to wireless communication equipment used in India and guarantees compliance with Indian legislation and spectrum management rules. |
4. Purpose of the license
The next difference between ETA and WPC licenses is the purpose of the license. Both the licenses have different purposes, which is the main difference between ETA and WPC licenses.
| ETA License | WPC License |
| Ensuring the quality, assurance, and compliance of electronic equipment is the primary objective of ETA, with a particular emphasis on electromagnetic compatibility and radio frequency emissions. It concentrates on the item itself and how well it complies with technical standards. | Controlling the use of wireless communication devices within particular frequency bands as well as geographical regions is the main goal of the WPC License. Its objective is to ensure adherence to certain legal and technological criteria in order to minimize interference and maintain efficient spectrum management. |
ETA and WPC License with Corpbiz
There are many difference between ETA and WPC licenses, but both hold the same amount of importance. Corpbiz consists of a team of reliable experts who have experience in the ETA and WPC license process. Our consultants will ensure a seamless and fast ETA and WPC certification process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does an ETA License play?
The ETA License certifies that electronic equipment complies with EMC and RF emission rules, guaranteeing its operation, safety, and the least amount of interference with other technologies.
What is the impact of the WPC License on wireless communication in India?
WPC License is mainly concerned with radio frequency spectrum management and allocation for wireless communication devices, making sure they function within permitted frequency ranges and meet specified technical requirements.
What devices are covered by a WPC license, and who may apply for one?
A WPC License may be obtained by devices like Bluetooth headphones, cell phones, computers, and other wireless gadgets. This license is required for Indian importers to buy radio and wireless equipment from outside.
What function does an ETA Certificate serve in the process of certification?
The Equipment Type Approval (ETA) process includes the ETA Certificate, which attests to the compliance of electronic equipment with technical requirements, regulatory constraints, and specifications with a focus on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio frequency (RF) emissions.
Why are WPC and ETA licenses so important to companies?
These licenses help companies gain the trust of customers, reduce the danger of interference, ensure the quality of their products, open up international markets, keep a competitive edge, and avoid fines for non-compliance.
What is the jurisdictional difference between ETA and WPC licenses?
One of the difference between ETA and WPC licenses is jurisdiction. Different national and regional regulatory bodies may demand ETA certification, but the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) License is exclusive to India and is overseen by the Department of Telecommunications' Wireless Planning and Coordination division.
Is it permissible for a product to function in India without an ETA or WPC certification?
No, in order to operate legally, both certificates are essential. Importing wireless devices into India requires a WPC license, while items operating in the unlicensed frequency range without a WPC certification need an ETA certificate.
What is the main difference between ETA and WPC Licenses?
Ensuring that electronic equipment complies with EMC and RF emission rules is the main objective of the ETA License, with an emphasis on both functioning and safety. Conversely, the WPC License focuses on spectrum management and ensures that wireless equipment complies with specified technical requirements while operating within permitted frequency ranges.
Read Our Article: WPS Certificate: Who Needs It And Why?
