August 8, 2024
Guidance on the scope and application of RSS-135 – Digital Scanner Receivers (Issue 2), and RSS-215 – Analogue Scanner Receivers (Issue 2)
This notice provides clarifications regarding the applicability and limitations of the scope of RSS-135, Issue 2, for digital scanner receivers as well as for RSS-215, Issue 2, for analogue scanner receivers. Please note that:
- Any radio apparatus that has been certified to RSS-135 or RSS-215 must not be capable of transmitting a radiocommunication signal. For clarity, this means that devices certified under RSS-135 or RSS-215 must not incorporate any transmitting capabilities on any frequencies.
- No person shall install, operate or possess a digital scanner receiver without first obtaining a licence. For more information on how to obtain a licence, please contact your ISED regional district office (see: RIC-66) or by emailing ISED at spectrumsupport-soutienduspectre@ised-isde.gc.ca.
- Drone detection systems and equipment which utilize frequency scanning and signal interception for the purposes of locating, tracking or identifying remotely piloted aircraft systems (also known as uncrewed aerial systems and drones) do not fall under the intended scope of RSS-135, issue 2, as digital scanner receivers. While these systems do not require certification, they are still subject to the general receiver requirements of RSS-Gen — General Requirements for Compliance of Radio Apparatus and to licensing requirements pursuant to subsection 4(1) of the Radiocommunication Act.