Law Summary
Type Acceptance Definition
- Type acceptance is allowing CPE use without established interface standards for its specifications.
- Evaluations are based on foreign test reports and certifications.
- Equipment conforming to standards receives type approval certificates; non-standard equipment may receive type acceptance certificates case-by-case.
Connection Restrictions and Requirements
- No CPE without Type Approval or Type Acceptance Certificate may connect to public networks, except some overseas personal use cases.
- Type approval is required for new CPE types/models, modifications to previously approved CPE, and changes in trade/model name (may require new approval certificate).
- Type approval is not required for terminal equipment for leased-line connections.
Allowed Customer Premises Equipment Connecting to Public Networks
- Includes PBXs, Key Telephone Systems, Corded/Cordless phone sets, special terminal equipment (e.g., alarm dialers, traffic recorders, multiplexers), automatic dialers/answering machines, call distributors, data communication equipment, facsimile machines, teleprinters, wireless paging receivers, cellular and satellite terminals, fixed wireless access units, VSAT equipment, POS devices, Caller Line Identification devices, and advanced CPEs.
Universal Application of Type Approval
- Type approval requirements apply uniformly across all public telecommunications network operators.
Scope and Limitations
- Type approval covers interface parameters (physical, electrical) as defined in the law.
- Does not guarantee full operational compatibility concerning signalling, transmission quality, or system features.
- Public Telecom Operators may require additional interface approval to ensure operational compatibility.
- Non-type approved CPEs brought by individual subscribers may bypass type approval but must undergo interface approval by the network operator.
- Importation subject to Customs and NTC rules.
Interface Parameters and Testing
- CPE must comply with defined interface parameters.
- Testing is conducted following specified test procedures outlined in the law.
Connection Means
- Single connections must use standard USOC RJ11C jacks/plugs.
- Plugs must be designed to prevent interference or disruption upon withdrawal.
Administrative Procedures for Type Approval/Acceptance
- Applicants file requests with NTC or accredited labs including relevant documents (imports clearance, technical specs, foreign reports, conformity declarations).
- Payment of fees is required.
- Installation of demo unit for testing, with tests limited to 30 working days for large equipment and 15 days for others.
- For new models in a series, testing may be waived if interface circuits are identical, with reduced fees.
- Test results and documents are forwarded to NTC for certification.
- Approved equipment must bear NTC-approved tamper-proof labels.
- NTC maintains and publishes a quarterly master list of approved/accepted CPE.
Grandfathered Equipment Provisions
- Previously approved CPEs remain approved unless interface parameters change.
- CPEs connected prior to this Circular may remain connected without new approval.
- Subscriber-imported previously approved equipment require no new type approval but must pay import duties.
Repealing Clause
- Conflicting rules and regulations are superseded, amended, or repealed.
Amendatory Clause
- Procedures and standards may be revised or revoked as technology advances or public safety demands.
Effectivity Clause
- The circular takes effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation and remains valid unless amended or revoked.
- Certified copies are furnished to the UP Law Center.