Pico Reef Board - UKCA/CE/Fcc Certification?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: Polymate3D
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 25, 2025, 09:27:46 pm
content: Hello everyoneI have been doing a fair bit of research into this, but still unsure where I stand. I will start with the project.It is a small PCB with a small heating module on board (SMD Resistors + Heatsink- Approx 4W), along with MOSFETs for controlling LED lighting and DC Pump. I currently use a AtTiny13 IC, but could honestly use anything. 5V DC Power is supplied currently through USB-C (2A maximum).The board is then fitted underneath the small aquarium (up to 5L is the target) in a 3D printed housing. What DC motor / Pump, and LED lights would vary based on the setup. So my board would be setup slightly differently depending on the aquariums intentions.On top of this, the board is seated underneath the aquarium, so the 'case' is open to base of aquarium. I can design it so the heating is done on a separate board and the main one fitted in the lid.If sold, it would be both as a separate piece, and as a kit, where the end user has to screw it into the 3D printed base, connect the DC motor and LED wires. So a kit that is built to a specific spec.I wouldn't be supplying a power supply, and if I did it would be a separate, pre certified PSU. Most likely the 27W Raspberry Pi one. I would be using a IC above 9Khz, but I could use a Raspberry Pi Pico SMD mounted as a module if this makes any difference.So before I go further asking companies for there advice, is there anyone here who would give guidance? I don't mind if it is a 'you have to certify and it will cost thousands', I am just trying to see what routes there are to bringing it to people safely, but cost effectively. I would love to just do it, but Finances being as they are, I can push it towards a kickstarter campaign and if successful, get testing done if it is required.I am UK based, so its UKCA, but I also want to know on the CE and Fcc side of things.Thanks for your time!- Paul

author: jc101
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2025, 08:59:23 pm
content: If you place a device on the market, you will need to sign a declaration of conformity and put the CE label on your product. This is backed up by a technical file, which is your evidence to support that you believe you meet the standards you have said you do, they are listed on the declaration of conformity. It's a self certification system for the majority of products. You have to be confident enough it meets the required regulations. Formal testing at a certified test house is a solid way to evidence your compliance. How long that takes, and how much it costs, varies a lot between test houses. I have a local one (dB Technology just outside Cambridge) who are very helpful.There are lots of threads on here over this, just search for "CE Marking" in the box above.As for UKCA, just go with CE. The need to use UKCA was kicked back to 1 January 2028, it may get bumped again. For goods put on the market in the UK, a CE is perfectly fine (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-the-ukca-marking).It doesn't matter if you make something made up entirely of CE certified modules, CE + CE != CE compliance. Have a read through the search results, you will almost certainly find way more detailed answers you seek.Oh, and it can cost thousands. To easiest way to save costs is to design the product to be compliant with the regulations from the outset. It can save on design iterations and repeat testing.

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2025, 09:07:22 pm
content: Quote from: jc101 on May 26, 2025, 08:59:23 pmunless, you are in China and selling your dothat on one of the big online marketplaces, then such expensive red tape isn't needed

author: Polymate3D
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 27, 2025, 10:15:45 pm
content: Thanks for the sight and links. I am searching now for additional information.A real shame but looks like it will have to keep the work to myself. I can completely respect the concern on safety grounds, but the expense to cover your back for a simple project just doesn't make it worth it. Also makes you wonder how all the Kitronik and Velleman stuff avoid or get around all this.But thank you again. The information is helpful. I was hoping to dive deeper into the world of PCB and electronics. Will go back to focusing my efforts elsewhere.- Paul