Subtel has issued significant changes to Resolution 1985-2017 which regulates operation of short-range radio devices in Chile. Modifications include increase in power limits and addition of frequency bands. The updated Resolution 1985-2017 has changes introduced by Resolution 1517-2018. Sections that were changed are marked with the note “Resolución 1517 EXENTA…” on the right margin.  Please call us for more detailed information on which sections have the margin notes, and how they will apply to your approvals processes.

Below we highlight changes affecting equipment most commonly certified:

Section j.1) (this applies to WiFi, BT and other equipment using digital modulation techniques like DSSS, FHSS, DCS)

– 2.4GHz (2400-2483.5MHz) is now open for indoor and outdoor use up to 1 W of radiated power (previous limit was 150 mW EIRP).
– 5GHz (5150-5250 MHz) is now open for indoor use only up to 200 mW of radiated power (previous limit was 150 mW EIRP). Outdoor use for this band is not permitted.
– 5GHz (5250-5350 MHz) is now open for indoor and outdoor use up to 1 W of radiated power (previous limit was 150 mW EIRP).
– 5GHz (5470-5725 MHz) is now open for indoor and outdoor use up to 1 W of radiated power (previous limit was 150 mW EIRP).
– 5GHz (5725-5850 MHz) is now open for indoor and outdoor use up to 1 W of radiated power (previous limits were 150 mW EIRP inside immovables, and 50 mW EIRP outside immovables).

For all cases the following requirements apply regarding modulation: spread spectrum techniques with direct sequence or with frequency hops, listen-before-talk, dynamic channel selection or other digital modulation techniques which work with a minimum bandwidth of 10 MHz and which permit sharing of frequencies.

These modifications should substantially widen the possibilities for certification of WiFi equipment. Still, for equipment exceeding the indicated power limits, Subtel requires them to be reconfigured to comply with the regulation, and Test Reports for the reconfigured devices need to be submitted to demonstrate compliance.

Section e) (this applies to RFID equipment)

– Limit for 915-928 MHz is now up to 500 mW of radiated power (previous limit was 200 mW).
– The bands of 913-919 MHZ and 925-928 MHz were added, with a limit of up to 1 W of radiated power, if digital modulation techniques are used (like DSSS, FHSS, DCS).
Letter j.10) is added for telemetry, monitoring and/or control equipment

– The band of 169.4-169.475 MHz was added, with a limit up to 500 mW of radiated power.

Please contact LARCG to learn more about how these changes will affect the approval process for your equipment.