Thailand: NBTC Proposes New DECT and Wireless Standards

Thailand’s NBTC is consulting on new technical standards for wireless microphones and DECT equipment, with potential impacts on certification.

On 15 January 2025, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) distributed three draft declarations that overhaul technical regulations and controls for wireless communication devices.

The three draft notifications cover technical requirements for wireless microphones, the use of radio frequency and radio communication equipment for public use, and technical standards for Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) technology.

Why Is NBTC Introducing These Changes?

The rapid development of telecommunications technology must be matched by updated technical requirements. This ensures that regulatory requirements remain aligned with industry needs and technological developments.

This update represents the NBTC’s effort to modernize the technical standards used to assess the safety and performance of devices. For example, currently proposes replacing the outdated IEC 60950-1 safety standard, which has long been obsolete for audio, video, information technology, and communication devices.

Currently, the NBTC is proposing to replace this safety standard with IEC 62368-1, which has now been widely adopted internationally. Additionally, the proposed changes reflect Thailand’s efforts to align its national regulations with applicable international standards.

By adopting globally recognized technical requirements that are more consistent with the global market. As a result, manufacturers may benefit from a more consistent compliance framework and streamlined market access requirements.

Through this regulatory update, the NBTC also aims to provide greater clarity regarding the requirements that will apply to wireless microphones and DECT devices in the future. This will help, manufacturers, importers, and distributors will be able to carry out the certification process and meet market requirements more efficiently and transparently.

Key Changes to Thailand NBTC’s New Standards of Wireless Microphones and DECT

1. Specialized Guidelines for Wireless Microphones

Updates electrical safety standards:

• Clarifies that the requirements apply to devices not utilizing battery-powered  control sources
• Replaces the IEC 60950-1 standard with the more current, broader IEC 62368-1 standard
• Updates Thai Industrial Standard (TIS) from TIS 1561-2548 to TIS 62368-1-2563

2. General Requirements for Radio Frequency and Radio Communication Equipment

Adds DECT operation in the 1880-1900 MHz frequency band for public use.

• Requires a permit to import, exchange, or make DECT devices.
• Sets the maximum EIRP for DECT devices at 250 mW.
• Includes DECT in the list of device categories and incorporates a reference to the declaration of related technical standards.

3. Technical Standards for DECT

Sets the maximum EIRP for DECT devices to 250 mW.

• Indicates the technical characteristics of DECT transmitters and receivers.
• Requires compliance with one of the following standards:

1. ETSI EN 301 406 V2.2.1 or newer
2. ETSI EN 301 406-1 V3.1.1 or newer
3. ETSI EN 301 406-2 V3.1.1 or newer

• Indicates electrical safety prerequisites based on either IEC 62368-1 or TIS 62368-1-2563.
• Requires compliance with the NBTC’s controls for human exposure to radiation from radio communication devices.
• Classifies DECT devices as Type A for conformity assessment under the NBTC’s declaration on the assessment and certification of telecommunications equipment standards.

The public consultation period is from 15th January to 17th March 2025. The thing to note is that this declaration is a public consultation and has not yet been officially published. It is expected that NBTC will make an official declaration around the end of 2025.

What Do the New Requirements Mean for Manufacturers?

The changes proposed by the NBTC may require manufacturers to review their wireless microphone and DECT devices intended for sale in Thailand. One of the most significant changes is the plan to replace the IEC 60950-1 safety standard with IEC 62368-1.

Manufacturers who previously used test reports or compliance documents based on IEC 60950-1 will need to review their technical documentation, test reports, and applicable certification requirements. This is necessary to ensure that their products continue to meet the safety standards that the NBTC will implement in the future.

For DECT devices, manufacturers must also pay attention to the proposed technical requirements. These technical requirements may affect product design, testing strategies, and the technical documentation used in the certification process.

By preparing early, manufacturers, importers, and distributors can reduce the risk of non-compliance. This will facilitate the certification process and market access once the new NBTC requirements are officially enforced.

What Should Companies Do Next?

Although the proposed requirements are still under public consultation, companies may benefit from reviewing their compliance strategy at an early stage. That way, companies that manufacture, import, or distribute wireless microphones and DECT devices can reduce the risk of noncompliance once the new requirements officially take effect.

• Review your product portfolio for the Thai market: Identify whether any products will be affected by the implementation of the IEC 62368-1 safety standard or the new technical requirements applicable to DECT devices.
• Review radio (RF) parameters: For DECT products, this includes verifying the use of permitted frequency bands, maximum transmit power limits (EIRP), and compliance with the ETSI standards referenced in the draft regulations. 
• Prepare technical documentation: Test reports, declarations of conformity, technical specifications, product safety documents, and other supporting documents may need to be updated for certification purposes.
• Continue to monitor official NBTC announcements: Understanding regulatory developments early on will facilitate more effective compliance strategies and market access for the Thai market.