PTCRB and GCF Testing
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2G, 3G, 4G-LTE and 5G testing and certification capability

Mobile technology is subject to voluntary standards set by PTCRB and GCF – organisations which develop certification programmes based on the wireless industry’s evolving needs.

Designed to complement regulatory standards, these programmes ensure that smartphones, data
cards and other devices comply with 3GPP standards for 2G (GSM), 3G (WCDMA), 4G (LTE) and 5G.

PTCRB certification mainly focuses on North America bands, while GCF certification mainly verifies
the devices working in bands elsewhere. They recognise one another's certification testing data.

OUR APPROACH TO PTCRB AND GCF TESTING

Bureau Veritas can assist with PTCRB and GCF certifications via conformance testing, radiated
performance tests (OTA), interoperability testing, field trials, smartphone testing and more. Our
tests address all technologies, including Cat-M, NB-IoT, LTE, 3G, 2G, MMS, DM, SUPL and UICC.

We obtained the PTCRB Award of Excellence in 2019 (following the same success in 2018, 2015
and 2013); and have the largest network of suitably equipped laboratories in North America,
Europe and Asia.

Our GCF certification competencies

We operate the only international network of GCF Recognised Test Organisations for cellular technologies providing conformance, field and interoperability testing services on multiple continents. We have been a member of GCF since it was founded and we actively participate in all GCF working groups, such as the GCF Steering Group and the GCF Agreement Groups. We also have GCF ACE (Assessment Capable Entity) status, which qualifies us to provide GCF-recognised consultancy services. Take advantage of our many years of experience and up-to-the-minute know-how for your GCF certification. The GCF experts at our accredited test laboratories will help you complete the GCF certification process as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Certification obligation

Binding
Region

Europe
Wireless / Non-Wireless

Wireless
Organisation / authority

GCF

What is the purpose of GCF?

The purpose of the GCF’ is it to provide the certification framework for devices with integrated cellular technologies such as GERAN (GSM), UTRAN (UMTS) and E-UTRAN (LTE) and which work within the global frequency bands (GSM 900/1800, FDD I and FDD VIII).
Which products benefit from GCF certification?

All devices with integrated 3GPP modules such as net-books, consumer electronic devices, smart meters etc., but also handsets, PDAs, smartphones, USB modules and many more benefit from GCF certification.
Why is GCF certification beneficial for my products success?

Network operators have to be sure that devices work well in their networks. However testing all new devices for conformance and interoperability is hardly feasible. By relying on GCF certification operators can be sure that the core functionalities of new devices fulfil their requirements. Having achieved GCF certification is a plus if you are selling devices to operators or retailers especially in Europe and Asia.
How are the basic rules of GCF certification defined?

GCF has set up an independent certification program, which is continuously updated. It is based on technical requirements as specified within dedicated test specifications provided by the 3GPP, OMA, IMTC, the GSM Association and others. Test cases from these test specifications are selected in order to verify the correct technology behavior of mobile devices. Testing takes place in independent, ISO 17025 accredited and GCF-qualified test laboratories, such as those of 7layers.
Due to the continuous technological development of both the innovative mobile devices entering the market and the development of the networks themselves, GCF is constantly updating its requirements for GCF certification.
Does GCF cover LTE technology also?

Yes, GCF has been continuously developing and extending its certification program for LTE devices since 2008. It covers FDD bands applicable in the USA, Japan, Europe, China and more recently in South Korea. 7layers has been first in achieving GCF certification for LTE devices for its clients.

Our PTCRB certification competencies

We have many years of wireless and PTCRB experience. We operate our own PTCRB-accredited laboratories and we also attend and chair PTCRB meetings. The PTCRB Test Case Database is based on components of our Interlab EVO Test Management System. These competencies make us your first-choice partner for PTCRB certification.

Certification obligation

Binding
Region

USA
Wireless

Wireless
Organisation / authority

PTCRB

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PTCRB and GCF TestingConnect with Confidence

OUR APPROACH TO PTCRB AND GCF TESTING

Our GCF certification competencies

Certification obligation

Region

Wireless / Non-Wireless

Organisation / authority

What is the purpose of GCF?

Which products benefit from GCF certification?

Why is GCF certification beneficial for my products success?

How are the basic rules of GCF certification defined?

Does GCF cover LTE technology also?