On August 15, 2025, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) officially published two documents that redefine the procedures for Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) compliance.
From 5G and foldable phones to the expanding 6 GHz band, for any manufacturer targeting the Canadian market, understanding these changes is critical to ensuring a smooth path to certification.
Measurement Modernized: Key Updates in RSS-102.SAR.MEAS, Issue 2
Here are the updates you need to know:
- Time-Averaged SAR (TAS) is Front and Center: The standard introduces new, detailed requirements for TAS, the technology that allows devices to intelligently manage power over time. This directly impacts devices using WWAN (5G), WLAN, non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and Bluetooth.
- The 6 GHz Band Gets Specific: For the first time, there are new requirements for time-averaged absorbed power density (TA-APD) for WLAN devices operating in the 5925-7125 MHz (Wi-Fi 6E/7) band.
- Complex Devices Get Clear Rules: The update provides clarified test procedures for challenging form factors, including foldable devices and products with protrusions like camera bumps.
- Faster Testing is on the Table: The procedure now officially permits the use of compliant Class 2 fast SAR systems for TAS measurements, a welcome change that could streamline testing processes.
Most importantly, ISED has mandated a 6-month transition period. After this window closes, all new device certifications must comply with Issue 2 of this standard.
Simulation Gets Its Own Standard: Introducing RSS-102.SAR.SIM
In a move to simplify the regulatory framework, ISED has consolidated all simulation-based SAR compliance procedures into a single, dedicated document: RSS-102.SAR.SIM.
Previously, these requirements were spread across other documents. Now, if you leverage computational modeling (FDTD or FEM) to demonstrate SAR compliance for devices operating from 100 kHz to 6 GHz, this is your new, centralized rulebook. It streamlines the process by providing a clear and unified set of requirements for everything from model validation to uncertainty analysis.
What This Means for Your Product Launch
- If your product uses a TAS algorithm, its implementation will be under new scrutiny.
- If you’re building a Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 device, your test plan must now incorporate APD.
- If you rely on SAR simulation, your procedures now have a dedicated home.
The clock is ticking on the transition period. Proactive planning is essential to avoid unexpected testing cycles and delays.
