Key Updates in Canada’s RSS-247 Issue 4: What You Need to Know

On July 24, 2025, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) officially released Issue 4 of the Radio Standards Specification RSS-247. This version includes various technical and editorial changes.

Key Technical Changes in the New RSS 247 Standard

1. Removal of 5600–5650 MHz Restrictions

The prohibition on device operation within the 5600–5650 MHz meteorological band has been lifted. This change enables the full utilization of the U-NII-2C band (5470–5725 MHz), aligning Canadian regulations with those of the FCC in the United States.

2. Clarified Definition of Hybrid Devices

Section 6.4 has been revised to clearly define hybrid devices and distinguish them from combined devices using both Frequency Hopping Systems (FHSs) and Digital Transmission Systems (DTSs).

3. Vehicle-Mounted Equipment Requirements

New explanations and technical requirements have been added for vehicle-mounted devices operating in the 5150–5250 MHz and 5250–5350 MHz bands.

4. Refined Unwanted Emission Limits

Clause 7.3.1.3 b) has been modified to specify unwanted emission requirements for devices operating in the 5150–5250 MHz band.

Section 7.3.2.1 now includes labeling requirements for indoor products regarding unwanted emissions.

Section 7.3.2.3 has been updated to better distinguish between unwanted emission limits for devices operating in the 5150–5250 MHz band.

5. Transmit Power Control (TPC)

Section 7.1 now includes general descriptive reporting requirements for devices implementing TPC mechanisms.

TPC requirements for OEM vehicle-installed equipment have been updated in sections 7.3.1.2 (5150–5250 MHz) and 7.3.2.2 (5250–5350 MHz).

Understanding the Latest RSS 247 Key Technical Changes

1. The RSS 247 standard’s title now includes the frequency range.

2. Section 6 has been restructured to group frequency hopping device requirements by band: 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.8 GHz.

3. Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) requirements have been clarified in section 7.3.6.3, specifically for client devices without radar detection capabilities.

4. Numerous formatting and structural improvements have been made to enhance readability and clarity.

Effective Date and Transition Period

1. Effective Date: RSS-247 Issue 4 came into effect upon its publication on the ISED website on July 24, 2025.

2. Transition Period: A six-month transition period will last from July 24, 2025, to January 24, 2026.

During this time, certification applications could be submitted under either Issue 3 or Issue 4.

After the transition period, only applications based on Issue 4 will be accepted. All devices manufactured, imported, distributed, leased, offered for sale, or sold in Canada must comply with Issue 4 requirements.

Implications for Certification

The updates in RSS-247 Issue 4 focus primarily on clarifying ambiguous requirements and improving the document’s structure for better usability. Key technical aspects to note include:

• The removal of restrictions in the 5600–5650 MHz band.

• Updated TPC requirements for OEM vehicle-installed equipment.

Manufacturers and stakeholders are encouraged to review the new specifications to ensure timely compliance with the updated standard. The experts at Huak Testing provide comprehensive technical support to help brands interpret these changes and maintain the highest safety ratings for your products.