I'm considering buying a new HT radio (Hong Ying HX-860UV Handheld) from China. The company says the model is approved by the FCC. Since I can't see it in person (only a photograph), I can't confirm. How can I be sure they are telling the truth?
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$\begingroup$ Are you intending to use the device under Part 97 rules, i.e. as an amateur radio operator? If so the FCC approval of the device shouldn't matter as far as using the device. For your station it doesn't matter whether the device was homebrewed, repurposed from a commercial rig, or actually FCC-tested for approval with a Part 97 sticker — the actual emissions are really what counts. (Part 97 device "approval" is for manufacturers, not operators. However, the act of importing it may be another story, not sure there….) $\endgroup$– natevw - AF7TBCommented Apr 4, 2016 at 20:19
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1$\begingroup$ Unless you want to test the emissions yourself, FCC approval could be useful for ensuring it meets the qualifications for Amateur Radio use. $\endgroup$– PearsonArtPhotoCommented Apr 5, 2016 at 18:18
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The FCC provides a good summary of their authorization process on their website. The manufacturer must get the device tested at an FCC Recognized Accredited Testing Laboratory. The results are then filed with FCC, and the device must be appropriately labeled and documented. If you can get a look at that documentation you will find an FCC compliance statement and an FCC ID.
If you can get the FCC ID of the device, then you can search for it in the FCCs database. In addition to demonstrating that the device has been tested and registered with the FCC, you can also see the test results which includes some interesting performance data about the device.
All FCC IDs are prefixed by an FCC Registration Number which indicates the organization making the filing. For well-known companies, it's usually easy enough to find the FRN by a bit of searching. For example, Apple's FRN is BCG.
Unfortunately in your case of a cheap Chinese manufacturer, this information is more difficult to find, especially if it is not in fact registered with the FCC. I did a bit of searching, and while I was able to find a few "Hong Ying" registered companies, none of them seemed to be the manufacturer of your radio. Perhaps with a bit more searching, or by obtaining the relevant documentation, you will be able to find the registration.
answered Apr 4, 2016 at 11:32
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$\begingroup$ Great information. I'm looking into importation rules for these devices. I know without an authorization # the product(s) won't make it past Customs. Thanks. $\endgroup$ Commented Apr 5, 2016 at 3:16