Guidance Notes for Exhibitors of Wireless Telegraphy Apparatus

It is recognised that exhibitors may display equipment other than that solely intended for the UK market. Radio equipment under the law is, however, considered to fall under four general headings and accordingly requires different actions to allow its representation at exhibitions. Listed below are the four categories and the requirements which must be met:

1. Radio apparatus which is licensable in the UK

This equipment can be installed and demonstrated only after authority from the Radiocommunications Agency has been granted.

2. Radio apparatus which cannot be used in the UK

This type of product cannot be installed or demonstrated but may be shown without the need to obtain authority from the Agency. In view of the fact that it cannot be legally used in the UK a statement to this effect should be placed next to the product in accordance with Regulation 6(2) of the Radio Equipment and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Regulations 2000.

3. Radio apparatus restricted by Order

Possession of radio equipment subject to an Order made under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1967 is an offence and would normally be seized by the Agency. Presently there are Orders in place in respect of Citizens' Band and Cordless Telephone equipment which does not comply with UK frequency planning and Videosenders. Consequently exhibitors who show products of this type must first obtain prior permission from the Agency enclosing a technical specification with their application. Such radio equipment can only be brought into the UK under a restricted import order ensuring copies of this paperwork are readily available for inspection by Agency staff. Under no circumstances can restricted radio apparatus be used, installed or connected to any power source including batteries. Only visual display can be authorised and ideally each radio should be labelled "cannot be legally used in the UK".

4. Equipment exempt from licensing

Only selected low power radio devices which have passed UK type approval, as explained in the Radiocommunications Agency information sheet RA 114 Short Range Radio Devices, can be used without further contact with the Agency as these devices are already authorised for use.

For more information about licensing and technical standards applicable please contact:

The Information and Library Service
Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House
189 Marsh Wall
London
E14 9SX

Tel: 020 7211 0502/0505
Fax: 020 7211 0507

Applications for authority to exhibit Restricted apparatus should be made to:

RA3/EPU
Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House
189 Marsh Wall
London
E14 9SX

Tel: 020 7211 0463

Further information about services offered by the Agency contact the 24 hour Telephone Enquiry Service on

Tel: 020 7211 0211

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RA 144 (Rev 4) August 2000