The European Union’s Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU lays the groundwork for ensuring radio equipment is safe, functional, and interoperable within the EU market. If you're a device manufacturer targeting the EU, this blog will break down what you need to know and do, to comply.
A: The EU RED is a mandatory regulatory framework that ensures all radio and telecommunications equipment sold in the EU meets essential requirements in the following categories:
Health and Safety: Devices must not pose health risks.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Devices should not interfere with other devices and must tolerate expected interference.
Efficient Use of the Radio Spectrum: Devices must use spectrum efficiently to avoid harmful interference.
A: The RED applies to manufacturers, importers, and distributors of radio equipment — this includes:
Smartphones and IoT devices
Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices
Drones, RFID readers, and wireless alarm systems
Any equipment that emits or receives radio waves for communication or localization
A: To market products in the EU, manufacturers must:
Prove compliance with the essential RED requirements.
Conduct risk assessments and maintain a technical file.
Affix the CE mark and draft an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Failure to comply can result in market withdrawal, fines, and reputational damage.
A: EN 18031 is a European harmonized standard used to test compliance with RED. It provides structured methods for evaluating:
Radio performance
Interference mitigation
Safety criteria
Testing to EN 18031 demonstrates that your device meets RED requirements — streamlining CE marking and reducing regulatory risk.
A: The EN 18031 testing process typically includes:
Pre-compliance assessment
RF performance analysis
EMC and safety evaluations
Environmental condition simulations
Documentation review
Testing can be done in-house (if accredited) or outsourced to a certified testing lab, such as Palindrome Technologies.
A: Palindrome Technologies is a trusted lab offering:
Expertise in RED and EN 18031 standards
Fast turnaround and cost-efficient services
Detailed reporting and compliance documentation
Their experience helps OEMs move from development to market faster, with less risk of non-compliance.
Here’s a checklist for RED compliance:
Navigating EU compliance can be complex, but understanding RED and leveraging tools like EN 18031 testing simplifies the journey. Partnering with experienced labs ensures your product enters the market safely, legally, and confidently.
Need help with RED testing?
Connect with Palindrome Technologies — your compliance partner in innovation.