ETSI EN 301 893

EN 301 893 is a harmonized European standard published by ETSI that specifies technical requirements for 5 GHz wireless local area network (WLAN) equipment operating in the 5.15–5.35 GHz and 5.47–5.725 GHz frequency ranges. It ensures compliance with the essential requirements of the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), particularly regarding efficient spectrum use and interference avoidance.

Scope and Application

This standard applies to Broadband Radio Access Networks (BRAN) using RLAN (Radio Local Area Network) technologies—most notably IEEE 802.11a/n/ac/ax (Wi-Fi) devices operating in the 5 GHz UNII-1, UNII-2A, and UNII-2C bands.

Covered device types include:

• Access points and routers

• Wi-Fi-enabled clients (laptops, tablets, smartphones)

• Point-to-point or point-to-multipoint wireless bridges

Devices operating under EN 301 893 must:

• Use DFS and TPC mechanisms in DFS-regulated bands

• Comply with channel access rules and maximum output power levels

• Avoid harmful interference to radar and other incumbent systems

Key Technical Requirements

• Transmit Power Control (TPC): Required to reduce power when not needed for link maintenance (minimum 3 dB range).

• Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS): Required in UNII-2A and UNII-2C bands to avoid radar interference. Includes radar detection and channel switch behavior.

• Emission limits: Defined for in-band and out-of-band emissions.

• Occupied Bandwidth: Must align with declared channel bandwidth and fall within regulated limits.

• Medium Access Protocols: Devices must follow Listen-Before-Talk (LBT) and Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) procedures.

Certification and Compliance

EN 301 893 is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) as a harmonized standard under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU.

Conformity with EN 301 893 is a prerequisite for CE marking of 5 GHz WLAN devices in the EU.

Manufacturers must:

• Conduct type testing at accredited laboratories

• Include EN 301 893 in their Declaration of Conformity (DoC)

• Provide technical documentation demonstrating compliance with all relevant clauses

The standard is commonly referenced in Notified Body assessments for 5 GHz Wi-Fi equipment, especially when DFS and TPC are involved.

Note: The latest version is EN 301 893 V2.2.1, officially published in November 2024. It includes expanded support for the 5725–5850 MHz range and updated procedures for newer Wi-Fi technologies, including puncturing and multi-link operation.