Ensuring OFCA Compliance for 5G NR Base Stations in Hong Kong

The introduction of 5G technology has revolutionized mobile communications worldwide, and Hong Kong is no exception. To ensure the integrity and reliability of its telecommunication infrastructure, the Hong Kong Communications Authority (OFCA) regulates very rigorous standards applicable to all radiocommunications equipment. HKCA 1082 is one of the key specifications that stipulate the performance and evaluation requirements for 5G NR (New Radio) Base Stations deployed in Hong Kong.

HKCA 1082 exclusively deals with technical requirements for 5G NR Base Stations to ensure they function safely, efficiently, and without generating harmful interference against other users of the spectrum. Adherence to this standard is mandatory for equipment vendors, importers, and telecommunications network operators seeking regulatory approval to install 5G equipment in Hong Kong.

HKCA 1082 is modelled on global standards, specifically 3GPP TS 38.104, which specify the radio reception and transmission requirements of NR Base Stations. Conformance with HKCA 1082 ensures that 5G base station operating in Hong Kong is compatible with international networks as well as local regulatory requirements. The standard covers most of the technical specifications, including operating frequency bands, output power limits, emission masks, spurious emission, Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio (ACLR), and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements.

For instance, HKCA 1082 prescribes frequency bands permitted for NR Base Stations in Hong Kong, e.g., n78 (3300–3800 MHz) and n79 (4400–5000 MHz), to restrict deployments within OFCA's holdings of licensed spectrum. It also makes provision for maximum power outputs by deployment scenario, e.g., macro or small-cell base stations, to restrict emissions higher than and beyond what can impact other services. Emission standards are essential for spectrum hygiene, and extremely low limits apply on out-of-band and spurious emissions to ensure that they do not interfere with adjacent bands or services such as radar and satellites.

Another essential requirement of HKCA 1082 is the Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio (ACLR), which indicates the degree to which a base station confines its signal within its allocated channel without leaking energy into adjacent channels. Mandatory minimum ACLR levels are imposed to minimize interference and ensure high-quality network performance. HKCA 1082 also defines occupied bandwidth limits and mandates receiver performance testing, such as sensitivity and blocking behavior, to ensure robust operation even in challenging radio environments.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing is also required under HKCA 1082 to verify whether base stations produce unwanted electromagnetic interference that would interfere with other electronic devices. EMC requirements are met through testing consistent with international standards such as CISPR or IEC guidelines.

The process of testing and certification for HKCA 1082 conformity is thorough but necessary. Equipment needs to be tested in a suitable test laboratory such as ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories. The testing is usually conducted in accordance with elaborate procedures defined in 3GPP TS 38.141 to ensure high-quality, reproducible measurements of RF performance, spurious emissions, ACLR, and other essential parameters.

After completion of the testing, manufacturers or importers prepare a detailed package of documentation, such as test reports, specifications of equipment, and a Declaration of Conformity. All these documents are the foundation for the application that is made for regulatory certification. OFCA inspects the submission to ensure compliance with HKCA 1082 and then issues the required Type Approval or Equipment Certificate, enabling the base station to be lawfully installed in Hong Kong.

Non-compliance with HKCA 1082 is a serious offense. OFCA can decline to approve non-conforming equipment, which cannot then be sold or rolled out. Violation of regulations can lead to fines or enforcement proceedings. In addition to legal sanctions, installation and use of non-compliant equipment can lead to interference that causes network performance to deteriorate or disrupt other vital services, compromising the reliability of Hong Kong's 5G infrastructure.

Since HKCA 1082 testing and certification involve many complex considerations, manufacturers and operators typically seek to associate themselves with companies that have expertise in compliance services. Nemko provides turnkey assistance to ease this process, covering accredited laboratory testing according to HKCA 1082 and 3GPP standards, as well as regulatory know-how and assistance for preparing and filing applications with OFCA. Nemko can help reduce the lead-time for placing equipment into the market because of extensive experience in testing and compliance management. Nemko’s expertise provides certainty that equipment is following the regulations thereby avoiding unexpected costs arising due to delay or rework.

In the fast and furious mobile 5G rollout world, the business utility of HKCA 1082 compliance extends beyond mere regulatory adherence. OFCA technical compliance ensures interference-free, safe, and stable 5G NR Base Station operation in support of Hong Kong's ambition for world-class mobile connectivity. If manufacturers and network operators team up with the right testing and certification body, they will confidently have in place next generation 5G technology that is certified and assured to be compliant with local regulations and international standards.