nRF91 End Device Certification

[Doug K]

Hello, 

I am looking to use the nRF9151 module.

I spoke with my wireless provider and asked what certifications they require to use their service. They said that they do not require any additional certification or "end device certification" as long as I am using their SIM.

Does that mean I am good to go? I can slap an NRF9151 on my product and go to market as long as I stick with my MVNO carrier?

Also, for clarification, is having the device "end device certified" mostly a Verizon and global cert meaning the customer can connect it to any network?

Does Fanstel's LN60E module have its own "end device certification"? The Skywire Nano is mentioning that they do. 

nRF9160 LTE with BLE 5.2 modules, LN60G840F — Fanstel 

4G LTE-M Skywire Nano | Airgain

Thanks,

Doug Kadrmas

[Doug K]

I have spoken to a few manufacturers and carriers and their responses are in agreeance that end device certification is only required if the carrier you plan on using requires it. Meaning if you are working with Verizon, you need to get your device "end device" certified. If you are using an MVNO SIM, you will not need it.

Thanks,

Doug Kadrmas

[Michal]

Hello Doug,

Just to confirm, are you looking to use the nRF9151 SiP, or use some kind of third-party module?

In general our SiP is precertified, as long as your design is compliant with our hardware design guidelines. You can find our certifications here:

https://www.nordicsemi.com/Products/Wireless/Low-power-cellular-IoT/nRF91-Series-certifications/nRF9151-Global-and-regulatory

I think that FCC requires you to get your own IMEI though, but probably best to contact your RSM and/or FCC about that.

Best regards,

Michal

[Doug K]

Thanks, I found this document for the nRF9161 module which has information pertaining to the IMEI. I'm assuming there are many similarities that carry over to the nRF9151 module which is the module I plan on using. 

Programming IMEI

I also found this table at: nRF Cloud IMEI services 

What does it mean for the nRF9151 module for "Modules contain a ready-programmed Nordic IMEI"?

[Michal]

Doug K said:

What does it mean for the nRF9151 module for "Modules contain a ready-programmed Nordic IMEI"?

nRF9161 SiPs (also nRF9131) don't have an IMEI programmed (except for the DKs). You have to always order your own (via for example nRF Cloud).

nRF9151 (and nRF9160) by default have IMEI programmed. Those IMEIs are registered under Nordic Semiconductor's TAC range, so they are ready to use out of the box.

Best regards,

Michal