The ACMA have clarified their position regarding FemoCells and their approval requirements.  FemtoCells are not classified as a telecommunications device under the Telecommunications Labelling Notice (TLN) and therefore should not be marked with the A-Tick.

FemtoCells fall under C-Tick requirements for intentional emissions, unintentional emissions and EME (electromagnetic Exposure, often known as SAR).

Here is the logic, extracted from the TLN : Category A Items are defined as those designed for direct connection to a telecommunications network or facility operated by a carrier or a carriage service provider for the purposes of communication.

Given the above, a FemtoCell cannot be classified as a “Category A” Item as it is not an “Item designed for direct connection to a telecommunications network or facility…” –it connects via an Ethernet router and an ADSL modem or via an ADSL modem incorporating an Ethernet port or to an ADSL modem via a 2.4 GHz wireless access point.

Logically this would then make a FemtoCell either a Category B or C Item.

Extract from the TLN,

Category B Equipment are those items that will function only with Category A items and is therefore supplied with Category A items.

Category C Equipment are those items that is connected to, or is part of, a Category A item of customer equipment but which is not necessarily supplied with Category A customer equipment.

None of the current Category B or C Items would scope a FemtoCell and as such the TLN would not be applicable to these devices and A-Tick labelling
would not be applicable.

As mentioned above, EME and Radiocommunications compliance as applicable would still be required and the device would have to carry the C-Tick compliance mark.

Note that separate to the ACMA requirements, any electrical item must meet the essential safety requirements of AS/NZS 3820.  The relevant product specific standard for FemtoCells is AS/NZS 60950.1 while external power supplies (ELV PSU) are in most cases considered prescribed items, requiring mandatory safety testing and certification.