Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has released the much-anticipated Issue 3 of the Radio Standards Specification RSS-216. This updated standard regulates Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) devices and replaces Issue 2, published in January 2016 and amended in September 2020. The new issue introduces several significant changes designed to improve clarity, enhance safety, and expand the scope of regulations governing wireless power transfer technologies.
Overview of RSS-216 Issue 3
The updated RSS-216 Issue 3 is a comprehensive standard that outlines the technical and operational requirements for wireless power transfer devices. These regulations are crucial for ensuring that WPT devices, such as those used in electric vehicles and medical implants, operate safely and without causing interference with other electronic devices. This latest revision by ISED consolidates various standards under one umbrella, providing a more streamlined approach to compliance and testing.
Key Changes in RSS-216 Issue 3
Expanded Separation Distances for WPT Systems
One of the most notable changes in RSS-216 Issue 3 is the increase in the maximum separation distance for wireless power transfer (WPT) systems. The maximum allowable distance has been increased from 10 cm to 50 cm for systems used in electric vehicles. For all other WPT devices, the separation distance has been expanded from 10 cm to 20 cm. This change allows for greater flexibility in device design and installation while maintaining compliance with safety standards (Section 1(b)/(c)).
Increased Operational Frequency for WPT Devices
The new standard significantly increases the maximum operating frequency for WPT devices from 400 MHz to 40 GHz. This change, coupled with the addition of limits for radiated emissions above 1 GHz, reflects the growing use of higher frequencies in wireless technologies and ensures better control of potential interference (Sections 1(d) and 5.3.3.3).
Updated Requirements for Medical Equipment
RSS-216 Issue 3 removes the condition requiring additional instructions from ISED for WPT devices categorized as medical equipment. Instead, specific requirements have been introduced for WPT devices that can operate while implanted in or worn on the human body. This change simplifies the compliance process for medical device manufacturers (Section 5.2.2).
Adoption of ANSI C63.30-2021 with Deviations
The updated standard adopts ANSI C63.30-2021 for measurement methods, with specific deviations outlined to ensure proper application to WPT devices. These deviations are detailed in sections 4.3, 5.2.1, and Annex A, allowing for consistent and reliable testing protocols.
Clarifications on Use with Other Standards
The new issue clarifies that RSS-216 must be used in conjunction with RSS-Gen and/or ICES-Gen for general requirements. This integration ensures that all aspects of wireless power transfer device operation are covered under a unified set of standards (Section 4.4).
Guidelines for Multiple Power Voltages
The revised standard includes detailed requirements for WPT devices that operate with multiple power voltages or across a wide range of power voltages. This update is particularly important for devices designed to work in various environments or with different types of power sources (Section 5.1).
Definition of Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) Equipment
RSS-216 Issue 3 provides a clearer definition of what constitutes Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) equipmentin the context of WPT devices. This clarification helps manufacturers determine whether their products fall under specific categories, ensuring accurate compliance with the relevant standards (Section 5.3.1).
Incorporation of Limits Within RSS-216
To simplify the compliance process, emission limits are now directly included within RSS-216 rather than referencing ICES-001. This inclusion makes it easier for manufacturers to understand and apply the requirements without cross-referencing multiple documents (Sections 5.3.2 and 5.3.3).
Alternative Emission Limits Based on RSS-210
The new standard permits alternative emission limits based on RSS-210 under specific conditions. This flexibility allows for tailored compliance strategies for certain types of WPT devices, provided they meet the necessary criteria (Section 5.4).
New RF Exposure Requirements Referencing RSS-102
The standard now refers to RSS-102 for radio-frequency (RF) exposure requirements. This update ensures comprehensive coverage for WPT devices concerning RF exposure, a critical aspect of device safety and regulatory compliance (Section 5.6).
Benefits of the Consolidated RSS-216 Standard
While RSS-216 continues to follow the numbering convention for license-exempt radio apparatus, it applies to devices categorized as either interference-causing equipment or license-exempt radio apparatus (category I or II). ISED’s decision to consolidate all WPT devices under a single standard—rather than dispersing them across the ICES, RSS-200 series, and RSS-300 series—offers greater convenience, clarity, and regulatory cohesion for manufacturers and stakeholders.
Conclusion
The publication of RSS-216 Issue 3 marks a significant step forward in the regulation of wireless power transfer devices in Canada. With expanded operational parameters, updated compliance requirements, and clearer guidelines, this standard ensures a safer and more efficient integration of WPT technology across various industries. Manufacturers and stakeholders should review the full RSS-216 Issue 3 document on the ISED website for comprehensive guidance on the updated technical requirements, measurement methods, and compliance procedures.
For more information on compliance with RSS-216 or to learn how these changes may affect your products, feel free to contact us or subscribe to our newsletter for ongoing regulatory updates.