On February 8, 2025, the Mexican Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFETEL) officially issued the “IFT-016-2024 Technical Specification,” establishing comprehensive technical standards for low-power radio communication devices (LPD) operating in the frequency range of 30MHz to 3GHz. The specification covers device parameter limits, testing methods, and compliance requirements, marking a new phase of refined spectrum regulation in Mexico.
Key Highlights of the Technical Specification
Optimized Certification System: Establishes a dual-layer certification network consisting of IFETEL-affiliated laboratories and authorized third-party agencies.
Stricter Frequency Band Control: Dynamic monitoring across the 30MHz-3GHz spectrum, requiring Type B CoH devices to comply with new technical parameters.
Upgraded Testing Standards: Introduces multi-scenario electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing and real-time radiation power density monitoring.
Scope of Application and Exemptions
The regulation applies to four categories of low-power devices:
- General-purpose non-specific short-range communication devices
- Wireless microphones
- Hearing aids
- Wireless alarm systems
The following scenarios are explicitly excluded:
- Frequency bands allocated for emergency communications, public safety, and search-and-rescue in the National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT)
- Spectrum resources already protected under NFAT
- Devices using frequency-hopping and digital modulation technologies (those operating in the 902-928MHz, 2400-2483.5MHz, and 5725-5850MHz bands under the IFT-008 standard)
Implementation Timeline
- February 8, 2025: Certification bodies (CBs) and testing laboratories may begin applying for accreditation.
- November 4, 2025: The technical specification officially takes effect, and laboratories recognized by IFETEL or its authorized agencies may conduct compliance assessments.