Thailand’s National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) set up the new regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting that was published on October 31, 2024.
The new procedure of NBTC BS 3004-2567 introduces conformity requirements for digital receivers to improve product quality and ensure compatibility with Thailand’s broadcasting standards.
The new regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting notification introduces specific guidelines for manufacturers, ensuring compliance with technical and user accessibility standards.
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Focal Points of the New Regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting
Conventional FM/AM receivers
Conventional FM/AM receivers without computerized (Dab) capabilities are not required to look for endorsement. These gadgets will proceed to work without the requirement for endorsement once the new standard takes impact.
FM/AM/DAB receivers
FM/AM/DAB receivers do not as of now require endorsement. In any case, once the specialized standard is in impact, these gadgets will require NBTC SDoC (Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity) certification.
The Impact of New Regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting
The standard pertains to digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio receivers that utilize MPEG-4 high-efficiency advanced audio coding version 2 (MPEG-4 HE-AAC v2). It outlines the specifications for the following types of receivers:
- Automotive receivers and replaceable modules
- Domestic or portable receivers
- DAB receivers used with adapters for analog in-vehicle systems
This standard does not include integrated digital receivers like those connected to computers via dongles, PCI cards, and similar devices.
Dual Certification Under the NBTC Standard
Products with numerous functionalities (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and DAB radio receivers) must get isolated endorsements for each work from diverse divisions:
- Telecommunication Department: For telecommunication highlights, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, and WWAN.
- Broadcasting Department: For advanced broadcasting highlights, counting DAB receivers.
Products with combined capacities (e.g., DAB receivers with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi) will require two isolated SDoCs:
- One SDoC for the telecommunication functions (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth).
- One SDoC for the broadcasting functions (DAB receiver).
Key Compliance Dates for New Regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting
The execution timeline for the new regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting is as follows:
- For Other Digital Broadcasting Radio Receivers: Compliance is required within 120 days (effective February 28, 2025).
- For Digital Broadcasting Radio Receivers in New Vehicles: Compliance is required within 1 year (effective October 31, 2025).
Getting Ready for Compliance with NBTC BS 3004-2567
To adhere to the new technical standard, manufacturers and importers should take the following actions:
- Review Product Specifications: Verify that your products meet Thailand-specific requirements, including Thai Profile language compatibility and user manual translation.
- Obtain Comprehensive Test Reports: Prepare detailed test reports covering all aspects of the NBTC standard, ensuring they address both telecommunication and broadcasting functionalities if applicable.
- Prepare for Dual SDoCs: For multifunctional devices, plan to obtain separate approvals from both relevant NBTC departments.
- Stay Informed: Keep track of NBTC updates and ensure compliance timelines are met to prevent delays in market access.
The New Regulation of Digital Audio Broadcasting of course impacts type approval and market access requirements, imports, customs, trade, market surveillance, and technical standards.
If you find a difficult to arrange the testing process and the NBTC certification for the Digital Audio Broadcasting Radio Receiver products just contact the great Type Approval Certification Services for ICT Products in Thailand to help with your problem.
