Certifications for custom nRF52840 PCB use nRF52840 modules OR make complete own PCB?

Question

Hello, 
 We are going start custom PCB design by using nRF52840 chip and SDK 15.0, but confused for use 3rd party nRF52840 modules or design complete custom PCB using componenets. Related to this we have bellow ques: 
 
 What is benefit of using 3rd party certified module in custom PCB instead of using each components? 
 If we used 3rd party FCC/CE/other certified nRF52840 module is any advantage at the time of certifiaction of our product interns of Cost, certification time, testing layer benifits or if any? 
 If we design PCB complete basis of each components is any more challenges related to antenna and BLE range matter as compare to ready-mate nRF52840 modules? If yes what are those challenges and need to take care during PCB design? 
 What is process of certifications to get FCC/CE certified our custom PCB product? 
 
 Thanks in advanced....

WestCoastDaz · Accepted Answer

I have answered your questions below. 
 
 The main benefit is you aren't responsible a large portion of the regulatory certifications. You also have a known qualified RF design. Depending on your volumes using a RF module will be lower cost and generally allows you to get to market faster. 
 Yes, your certifications costs and lab time for FCC and CE will be a lot lower than if you design your own. You also don't have to perform RF PHY testing with the SIG. This is especially true if you are trying to sell into other countries besides North America and Europe. 
 Yes, if you design the PCB your self the RF design is yours alone and in my experience can take several rounds of prototyping to achieve optimal results, esspically if this isn't something you do on a daily basis. 
 Find a lab in your area that performs RF testing and engage with them to determine the process. 
 
 In my opinion if you are new to RF design or it's not a core competency then I would suggest going with a module for the first designs. The module manufactures generally have great resources within to support this. If you decided you want to design your self then you may want to look at hiring a consultant to help you.

Certifications for custom nRF52840 PCB use nRF52840 modules OR make complete own PCB?

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