Regulatory Updates, Events & Insights
Welcome to the January 2026 edition of the Washington Laboratories Newsletter!
This month, we’re kicking off the new year with Episode Three of our EMC video series, “The Bruce is Loose at Washington Labs.” Bruce Archambeault, PhD, tackles one of the most fundamental yet misunderstood components in the lab: Capacitors.
We’re also highlighting critical FCC and ISED actions—including the transformative “GVP” rules for 6 GHz outdoor devices and new federal transparency requirements—plus a look ahead at our 2026 Academy training schedule.
In This Issue:
- The Bruce is Loose: EPISODE THREE: Bruce Archambeault, PhD, Discusses Capacitors:
- Key FCC & ISED Updates: January 2026
- 2026 Washington Laboratories Academy Webinar Series
FEATURED VIDEO
The Bruce is Loose: EPISODE THREE: Bruce Archambeault, PhD, Discusses Capacitors:
In this episode, Dr. Bruce Archambeault, EMC Consultant and IEEE Fellow, breaks down the myths surrounding capacitance. He explains why “size matters” when it comes to frequency and how the evolution from big electrolytic cans to modern surface mount technology has changed the way we handle inductance.
Bruce highlights why those legacy capacitors won’t cut it for today’s high-speed signals and explains the real secret to performance: it’s all about how you put it on the board.
Be sure to subscribe to the Washington Labs YouTube channel for more EMC tips. Also, check out our latest updates on Instagram: @washington_labs
KEY FCC AND ISED UPDATES
6 GHz Expansion: Higher Power for Outdoor “GVP” Devices
The FCC has moved to supercharge high-speed outdoor connectivity by permitting a new class of Geofenced Variable Power (GVP) unlicensed devices in the 6 GHz band. These devices can operate at significantly higher power than previous portable classes, provided they utilize geofencing to protect existing licensed microwave links.
Source: FCC 6 GHz Band Fact Sheet
National Security: New “Foreign Adversary Control” Disclosures
Effective immediately, the FCC has adopted new attestation requirements for all authorization holders. Manufacturers must now report any ownership or control (5% interest or greater) by a “foreign adversary” entity. This is a major update to the integrity of the equipment authorization process.
Source: FCC Foreign Adversary Control Order
ISED Canada: New ITS On-Board Unit Standard (RSS-252)
ISED has officially published RSS-252, Issue 3, setting out the new certification requirements for license-exempt radio apparatus operating in the 5895–5925 MHz band. This standard specifically targets Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) applications, clarifying channel allocation and transmitter power requirements.
Source: ISED RSS-252 Standard
UPCOMING EVENTS
Washington Laboratories Academy – 2026 Webinar Series
Kick off your 2026 professional development with the Washington Laboratories Academy. Our mission remains focused on delivering practical, engineering-driven training for real-world compliance challenges.
Our upcoming webinar series will feature sessions such as:
- EMC & RF Testing Essentials: Fresh insights into emissions, immunity, and wireless performance.
- MIL-STD-461 Deep Dive: Troubleshooting failures and setting up test configurations for defense and aerospace.
- Environmental Testing with MIL-STD-810: Qualifying products for harsh environments including shock, vibration, and altitude.
- Wireless Certification Pathways: A comprehensive look at FCC, ISED, and global approval routes for 2026.
- Product Safety Fundamentals: Streamlining evaluations for major safety standards and risk considerations.
Stay tuned for full dates and registration details.
