Factory Acceptance Tests for CCTV Systems

Factory Acceptance Tests for CCTV Systems

Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) for CCTV systems are a crucial process conducted at the manufacturer's site to verify that the system meets all specified requirements and functions as intended before installation. Key aspects include checking hardware and software functionality, validating video quality and recording, ensuring network connectivity, and verifying that all components and licenses are correct, all before the system is delivered to the customer site. This comprehensive testing identifies and addresses issues early, ensuring the system's reliability, quality, and compliance with contractual specifications.

Key components of a CCTV FAT

A comprehensive FAT ensures that all parts of the CCTV system perform as expected. An effective FAT protocol will include the following elements: 

1. Documentation review

Before any physical testing, a thorough review of all project documentation is performed to ensure compliance with the contract. This includes:

·        Drawings: Confirming that all system layouts, wiring diagrams, and equipment locations match the approved "as-built" documentation.

·        Bill of Materials (BOM): Verifying that the delivered equipment, including camera models, lenses, and recorders, matches the specified list.

·        Certifications: Checking that all necessary certificates for materials, calibration, and industry standards are available.

·        Specifications: Ensuring all technical specifications and customer requirements are clearly documented. 

2. Hardware and visual inspection

This stage involves a physical examination of the equipment to check for proper assembly, damage, and labeling. 

·        Physical condition: Inspecting cameras, recorders (NVR/DVR), servers, and storage for any visible signs of damage, defects, or poor craftsmanship.

·        Mechanical integrity: For Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras, testing the smooth mechanical movement of the pan, tilt, and zoom functions.

·        Labeling and nameplates: Verifying that all equipment is properly labeled according to project specifications.

·        Cabinet and console check: For rack-mounted systems, checking that cabinets, consoles, and terminals are correctly arranged, wired, and labeled. 

3. System functionality and performance testing

Functional tests verify that all hardware and software components of the CCTV system are operating correctly. 

·        Power-up test: Powering on all system components, including cameras, recorders, and workstations, and checking all status indicator lights.

·        Camera functionality: Testing all cameras individually to confirm they are online and transmitting video. For PTZ cameras, testing all control functions from the monitoring station.

·        Image quality: Evaluating video streams for clarity, resolution, color accuracy, and proper field of view as specified in the contract. This may involve checking night vision or infrared (IR) capabilities under low-light conditions.

·        Recording and playback: Testing that the system records video continuously or based on specified triggers (e.g., motion detection). Verifying that recorded footage can be played back correctly.

·        Storage check: Confirming that the storage capacity (Hard Disk Drives) and redundant storage options function as intended.

·        Redundancy testing: If the system is configured for redundancy (e.g., dual Network Video Recorders or power supplies), testing the failover process to ensure it works seamlessly. 

4. Software and network configuration

This step focuses on the software setup and network communication of the CCTV system. 

·        Software version: Verifying that the correct software and firmware versions are installed on all components, as per specifications.

·        Network connectivity: Testing all network connections to ensure reliable communication between cameras, recorders, and monitoring stations.

·        User interfaces: Checking that all graphical user interfaces (GUIs) on operator workstations are functioning and allow for proper system control and monitoring.

·        Alarm and event logging: Verifying that the system correctly logs events and triggers alarms for specified incidents.

·        Access control and user permissions: Testing different access levels and user permissions to ensure that only authorized personnel can access certain functions or cameras. 

5. Integration and security testing

If the CCTV system is part of a larger security network, it must be tested for proper integration. 

·        System integration: Verifying seamless communication and data exchange with other systems, such as access control, fire alarms, or building management systems.

·        Cybersecurity check: Depending on project requirements, conducting basic security tests to ensure all necessary security controls and encryption protocols are properly implemented. 

6. Improved Installation and Commissioning:

·        Smooth transition: A successfully passed FAT paves the way for a smoother and less error-prone installation and commissioning process. You can expect fewer surprises and disruptions at your site, leading to faster operational readiness.

·        Reduce installation costs: By minimizing the need for post-installation troubleshooting and adjustments, the FAT can help lower your installation costs.

The FAT report

Upon completing the FAT, a formal report is created to document the test results and obtain sign-off from all stakeholders. The report typically includes: 

·        Checklist: The completed checklist from the test procedure, with clear pass/fail criteria.

·        Test data and results: A summary of all tests performed, including any observations or deviations.

·        Corrective actions: A log of any identified non-conformities and the corrective actions taken by the manufacturer.

·        Signatures: Formal approval and sign-off by the manufacturer, customer, and any third-party inspectors involved. 

Factory Acceptance Test Checklist?

A good factory acceptance test checklist should enable quality managers to make sure that no aspects are overlooked when it comes to performing factory acceptance tests. A comprehensive FAT checklist should include the following:

1. Documentation Review

·        Verify technical specifications, design drawings, and manuals.

·        Ensure calibration certificates and material certificates are available.

·        Confirm compliance with regulatory standards and customer requirements.

·        Check the bill of materials against delivered components.

2. Pre-Test Preparation

·        Ensure test procedures and acceptance criteria are clearly defined.

·        Confirm availability of required tools, instruments, and test rigs.

·        Assign responsibilities to test personnel.

·        Review risk assessments and safety protocols before starting.

3. Mechanical & Structural Inspection

·        Verify equipment dimensions and physical condition.

·        Check welding, joints, and finishes for defects.

·        Ensure proper installation of moving parts, bearings, and fasteners.

·        Confirm correct labeling, tags, and nameplates.

4. Electrical & Control Systems

·        Inspect wiring, grounding, and connections.

·        Test protective devices (fuses, circuit breakers, relays).

·        Verify control panels and interfaces are functional.

·        Confirm software/firmware versions match the specification.

5. Functional Testing

·        Operate equipment under different modes (manual, automatic).

·        Test alarms, interlocks, and emergency stops.

·        Verify startup, shutdown, and restart sequences.

·        Simulate fault conditions where feasible.

6. Safety & Compliance

·        Check compliance with OSHA, CE, ISO, or other relevant standards.

·        Inspect safety guards, light curtains, and lockout/tagout devices.

·        Verify safety signage is visible and accurate.

·        Review hazardous material handling protocols (if applicable).

7. Performance & Reliability Testing

·        Run performance tests against agreed KPIs.

·        Measure vibration, noise levels, and thermal behavior.

·        Test endurance and repeatability under simulated load.

·        Confirm energy efficiency or environmental compliance metrics.

8. System Integration & Connectivity

·        Verify interfaces with upstream/downstream systems.

·        Test communication protocols

·        Check integration with MES, ERP, or SCADA systems.

·        Confirm data logging and reporting functions work correctly.

9. Documentation & Reporting

·        Record all test results and deviations.

·        Ensure calibration records and certificates are attached.

·        Include photos/videos of critical test steps where useful.

·        Compile the FAT report in the agreed template.

10. Post-Test Review

·        Conduct a debrief session with stakeholders.

·        Document corrective actions and retest results if needed.

·        Prepare recommendations for commissioning and site acceptance test (SAT).

·        Store all records in a traceable, accessible system.

Cybersecurity Factory Acceptance Test (CFAT)

Together with one of the largest providers of industrial automation, a representative for the Canadian end-user, ASaP, successfully passed a Cybersecurity Factory Acceptance Test (CFAT). The CFAT was used to structurally prove the security and functionality of all IT assets. Amongst these critical assets were the PLC, HMI, switch, and maintenance laptops.

Secure your process critical assets!

A big part of the CFAT is the LNG Sampler system hardening. System hardening is a collection of techniques and best practices to reduce vulnerability in applications, systems, infrastructure and firmware. The goal of system hardening is to reduce security risk by eliminating potential attack vectors and reducing the LNG Sampler’s attack surface. By removing unused functionalities, user accounts, applications, ports and permissions, potential attackers and viruses have fewer opportunities to enter your process domain.  

The scope of the CFAT

·        System, application, and operating system hardening

·        Network management

·        Switch configuration

·        Verifying application functionality while the antivirus software is performing a full system scan

·        Modbus mapping verification

·        Back-up and restore of all devices and applications

Factory Acceptance Test Standards

While not a single, universal standard governs Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), several industry-recognized standards and guidelines shape best practices and ensure quality, safety, and compliance. Here’s a closer look at three crucial standards:

ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems:

·        Foundation for Quality: This comprehensive standard establishes a framework for quality management across all aspects of an organization’s operations, including FATs

Key Requirements for FATs: 

·        Clear documentation of FAT procedures and expectations.

·        Controlled testing environment with calibrated equipment.

·        Traceability of test results for thorough documentation.

·        Corrective actions for identified defects.

·        Continuous improvement of FAT processes.

IEC6oo68 – Environmental Testing

·        Ensuring Environmental Resilience: This standard specifies test methods for assessing equipment’s ability to withstand various environmental conditions, often included in FATs.

·        Common Tests Covered:

a)   Temperature and humidity extremes

b)   Vibration and shock resistance

c)   Corrosive atmospheres

d)   Sand and dust exposure

e)   Other relevant environmental factors

IEC 61010 – Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment:

·        Protecting Personnel and Property: This standard focuses on electrical safety requirements for equipment, ensuring protection against electrical hazards during FATs and subsequent operation.

·        Key Safety Aspects Addressed:

A.   Grounding and insulation

B.   Protection against electrical shocks

C.   Fire and explosion prevention

D.   Electromagnetic compatibility

Additional Considerations:

·        Industry-Specific Standards: Alongside these general standards, certain industries often have additional standards or guidelines for FATs, tailored to their specific equipment and risks.

·        Contractual Requirements: Specific FAT requirements and standards might be stipulated in contracts between manufacturers and buyers, ensuring alignment with their quality and safety expectations.

The STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification) test process for CCTV systems is a mandatory regulatory framework in India, governed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). From 1 April 2026, only CCTV cameras that are STQC-certified and comply with the Essential Requirements (ER) can be sold in the Indian market.

Local content (LC) for CCTV systems is calculated based on the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order (PPP-MII), which measures the value added in India as a percentage of the total product value.

The DPIIT's formula for calculating local content is:

·        Total Value: The sale price of the item, excluding net domestic indirect taxes.

·        Imported Content: The landed cost at the factory, including all customs duties and clearing charges.

·        Exclusions: Services like transportation, insurance, installation, and after-sales support (AMC/CMC) cannot be claimed as local value addition if the product itself is imported

Specific CCTV Weightage Caps

For CCTV cameras (specifically analog), MeitY's gazette notification defines maximum weightage limits for certain local components within the Bill of Materials (BOM): 

Component Category	Requirement for Local Content	Max Weightage in BOM
Housing & Mount	Domestically manufactured inputs	Up to 15%
Cables & Connectors	Domestically manufactured inputs	Up to 5%
Final Assembly & Testing	Domestically assembled in India	Up to 10%
PCBA	Mandatory SMT process in India	Required for compliance

Supplier Classification

Your calculated percentage determines your eligibility for government tenders: 

·        Class-I Local Supplier: Local content 50%. Eligible for purchase preference.

·        Class-II Local Supplier: Local content 20% to 49%. Eligible to bid but generally without price preference.

·        Non-Local Supplier: Local content 20%. Generally ineligible for local-preference tenders.

Core Phases of the STQC Test Process

The process follows a structured path from technical preparation to final certification issuance: 

1.   Preparation of Technical Construction File (TCF):

A.   The manufacturer prepares a TCF documenting the product's architecture, Bill of Materials (BOM), and compliance with ER.

B.   This must include a detailed entity relationship diagram of the supply chain for critical chips and components.

2.   Application & Initial Review:

A.   A formal application is submitted to the STQC Directorate along with the TCF.

B.   The Certification Body (CB) evaluates the documents for a prima facie review and may schedule a technical presentation by the manufacturer.

3.   Laboratory Testing:

A.   Product samples are sent to one of the 21 STQC labs across India.

B.   Cybersecurity Testing: Verifying "secure-boot" code, unique cryptographic keys per device, and ensuring debugging ports (like UART, JTAG) are disabled.

C.   Functional & Environmental Testing: Checking image resolution, power consumption, and endurance against temperature/humidity.

4.   Manufacturing Facility Audit:

STQC officials conduct a process audit at the manufacturing unit to verify that security controls are properly implemented during production.

5.   Final Validation & Issuance:

A.   A Certification Committee reviews the lab reports and audit findings.

B.   Successful products receive an STQC Certificate, typically valid for 3 years (subject to surveillance audits). 

Key Technical Requirements (ER:01)

CCTV cameras must meet specific security benchmarks to pass the STQC evaluation: 

·        No Hardcoded Credentials: Every device must have unique passwords/keys.

·        Secure Boot & Updates: Only digitally signed firmware can be loaded or updated.

·        Data Encryption: Use of modern protocols like TLS 1.2+ for video streams and management data.

·        Local Content: For government procurement, cameras must meet a minimum "domestic value addition," currently set at 35% for FY 2025-26. 

Critical Deadlines

·        1 April 2026: Final deadline for all CCTV cameras sold in India to have STQC and BIS certification.

·        Existing License Holders: Must have submitted their ER:01 test reports via the BIS Portal to avoid license cancellation

Government-Operated Laboratories

These primary labs are divided by region and are the main hubs for electrical and electronics testing. 

• North Region:
• ERTL (North): New Delhi (Okhla Industrial Estate).
• ETDC Ajmer: Ajmer, Rajasthan.
• ETDC Jaipur: Jaipur, Rajasthan.
• ETDC Mohali: Mohali, Punjab.
• ETDC Solan: Solan, Himachal Pradesh.
• East & North-East Region:
• ERTL (East): Kolkata, West Bengal (Salt Lake City).
• ETDC Agartala: Agartala, Tripura.
• ETDC Guwahati: Guwahati, Assam.
• West Region:
• ERTL (West): Mumbai, Maharashtra (Andheri East).
• ETDC Goa: Bambolim, Goa.
• ETDC Pune: Pune, Maharashtra.
• South Region:
• ERTL (South): Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• ETDC Bengaluru: Bengaluru, Karnataka (Peenya Industrial Estate).
• ETDC Chennai: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• ETDC Hyderabad: Hyderabad, Telangana. 

REF:
https://www.tuv.com/bosnia-and-herzegowina/en/factory-acceptance-test.html
https://carelabz.com/what-factory-acceptance-testing-how-fat-done/
http://coolshotfilms.com/v3b/factory-acceptance-test-checklist.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgwHIpQkaK8&t=220s
https://www.stqc.gov.in/sites/default/files/2024-05/IoTSCS-P01-Procedure-for-CCTV-Testing-Evaluation-and-Certification.pdf

STQC Certification and CCTV

 STQC Certification and CCTV

CCTV is everywhere now, in metro stations, campuses, warehouses, and housing societies. With that spread comes a tougher question: can you trust what’s on the pole? The government wants a clear “yes”, which is why it’s pushing the market towards standardized, secure-by-design products. The big lever is STQC security certification. It’s not a nice-to-have anymore; it’s the new gate. Manufacturers, integrators, buyers, everyone’s playbook changes in 2025.

STQC, short for Standardization Testing and Quality Certification, is overseen by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY). Think of it as a seal that says, “This device was built properly and hardened against common attacks.” For surveillance, that covers cameras, DVRs, and NVRs. It looks at product quality, cybersecurity controls, and how data is handled. In other words: fewer soft spots, fewer nasty surprises once the kit goes live.

The Mandatory Requirement

Two dates matter. First, in June 2024, government buyers started insisting on STQC-aligned equipment. Only STQC-certified CCTV products are meant to be sold and integrated in India. No carve-outs for OEMs or import labels. No “we’ll update it later”. If it isn’t certified, it shouldn’t be on the invoice. Simple as that.

As of April 9, 2025, STQC certification is mandatory for all CCTV cameras manufactured, imported, or sold in India. 

·        Government Procurement: Mandatory since June 6, 2024. Any "Made in India" CCTV procured for government projects must strictly adhere to STQC-certified standards.

·        General Market: All IP-based CCTV cameras must comply by the April 2025 deadline to remain legally available for sale.

·        Full Enforcement: From April 1, 2026, no sale of non-compliant CCTV cameras will be allowed, as the previous transition relaxations have been formally withdrawn

Why STQC is mandatory for CCTV?
The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) made STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification) mandatory for CCTV systems to ensure:
🔹 Quality & Safety: Cameras must work well and be safe for public use.
🔹 No Spying Risk: To avoid hidden risks like data leaks or spying through poor-quality or foreign-controlled cameras.
🔹 Trusted Performance: STQC checks that the camera meets Indian government standards before it’s used in sensitive places.

✅ STQC = Government-approved safety and quality check for CCTV.

Key Requirements for STQC Certification

This mandate pulls the industry toward “secure by default”. Expect the following to show up in specs and test reports:

·        Secure boot and firmware verification so tampered code can’t sneak in.

·        No default or hardcoded passwords; each device has its own credentials.

·        TLS 1.2+ is a modern way to encrypt streams and management communications.

·        Access restrictions that are quite specific for local and remote logins, together with roles and logs.

·        BIS safety compliance (IS 13252 / IEC 60950-1) where applicable.

·        Chinese-origin OEMs are not eligible for STQC certification.

·        Independent testing at STQC-recognized labs, with proper documentation.

Yes, it’s technical. But it’s also practical. Locked ports. Signed updates. Patch paths that don’t open new holes. That’s how fleets stay healthy.

Who Needs to Comply with This Mandate?

Short answer: the entire chain.

·        Manufacturers, Indian and international, are bringing models to market.

·        OEM partners and importers are rebranding or expanding their ranges.

·        Distributors, retailers, and system integrators are selling or installing systems.

·        Buyers in public projects, smart cities, critical infrastructure, and enterprise.

If you touch CCTV in India, compliance isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of the offer.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Doors close. Non-STQC products become out of bounds for sale and use. You risk being tossed out of tenders. Licenses and approvals can be questioned. Private buyers, especially corporate security teams, will quietly pass. And the reputational hit from a failed audit? That lingers. Why roll the dice when the rules are crystal clear?

Benefits of Using STQC-Certified CCTV Products

In short, here’s what that certification delivers in everyday operations.

·        Stronger cybersecurity out of the box; fewer field incidents, fewer emergency call-outs.

·        Buyer confidence, procurement checks get easier, especially in regulated sectors.

·        Policy alignment with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat priorities.

·        Lower legal and operational risk, plus a smoother path through audits and renewals.

Certification Process for Manufacturers

To obtain the STQC Certificate for CCTV, companies must follow a structured procedure: 

1.   Technical Construction File (TCF): Submit a dossier detailing architecture, firmware versions with hash values, and Bill of Materials (BoM) down to the SoC level.

2.   Lab Testing: Samples are sent to BIS-approved or STQC-recognized labs for functional and cybersecurity stress tests.

3.   Factory Audit: STQC authorities may inspect manufacturing facilities to verify quality control and secure engineering processes.

4.   Labeling: Certified products must display: “This CCTV camera complies with Essential Requirement(s) for Security” on their packaging.

Essential Security Requirements (ER 01:2024)

The Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate validates cameras against Essential Requirements (ER). These are not optional features but mandatory engineering controls: 

·        No Hardcoded Passwords: Each device must have unique credentials; "admin/admin" defaults are prohibited.

·        Secure Boot & Firmware: The camera verifies its own software integrity every time it starts up. Only cryptographically signed firmware can run, so nobody can inject malicious code.

·        Encryption: Mandatory use of TLS 1.2+ for streaming and management data to prevent interception.

·        Physical Security: Requirements for tamper-resistant enclosures and locked physical ports (like UART or JTAG).

·        Data Sovereignty: Prevents sensitive surveillance data from being transmitted to unauthorized foreign servers. Manufacturer debugging interfaces must be shut down before the camera leaves the factory. Open debug ports are one of the most common entry points for hackers.

·        Vulnerability disclosure policy – Brands must maintain a formal process for reporting and patching security flaws. This means ongoing accountability, not just a one-time test.

·        Supply chain transparency – Manufacturers must declare the origin of chipsets, PCBs, and processors. Think of it like ingredient labelling on food; now the government checks where your camera's brain comes from.

Impact of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet these standards results in significant market restrictions:

·        License Cancellation: Existing BIS licenses may be suspended or cancelled.

·        Customs Delays: Imported units lacking certification are often stalled at ports.

·        Tender Disqualification: Non-compliant brands are excluded from lucrative smart city and public infrastructure projects

How to Verify a Specific Model

Certification is awarded at the model level, not just the brand level. You can verify a specific camera by: 

1.   Checking the Packaging: Look for the mandatory text: "This CCTV camera complies with Essential Requirement(s) for Security".

2.   Official Portal: Visit the STQC Certified Products List and search by manufacturer name or certificate number.

Understanding BIS ER Approval

Until recently, a CCTV camera only needed to pass a basic electrical safety test (IS 13252) to be sold in India. That test checked whether the camera was safe to plug in: protection against electric shock, insulation, and fire hazards. That's it.

Alongside STQC, BIS ER (Bureau of Indian Standards – Electronics Registration) approval is another essential regulatory requirement for electronic surveillance equipment sold in India. 

The BIS ER approval indicate strengthens trust among distributors, channel partners, and enterprise buyers who prioritize regulatory compliance during vendor evaluation.

What BIS ER Approval Ensures

·        Conformity to Indian safety standards

·        Electrical safety compliance

·        Product testing through recognized labs

·        Mandatory registration before market sale

Key Aspects of BIS-ER-01 Certification

·        Objective: Adds a mandatory cybersecurity layer to existing electrical safety standards for IP cameras and security equipment.

·        Mandatory Status: Essential for legal sale or import of surveillance products in India.

·        Testing Focus: Evaluates debug interfaces, password complexity, and access controls.

·        Deadline/Timeline: The deadline for implementation was April 9, 2025.

·        Application: Often involves collaboration with BIS-designated labs for testing and submission through official channel

BIS guidelines are listed below to comply with the Essential Requirements for CCTV Cameras. 

While some of it may sound complicated, not to worry, we are here to simplify it for you.  Email us or call us – we are happy to discuss and guide you 

·        Existing licensees of ‘CCTV Cameras’ as per IS 13252 (Part 1) : 2010/ IEC 60950-1 : 2005 

o   Existing licensees of CCTV Cameras shall apply online through the “Apply for Standard Revision/ Amendment/ Essential Requirement” module along with test report for ER: 01.

o   Applicable Fees: 

§  Inclusion test report: INR 30,000/- + applicable taxes per test report 

§  Additional test report: INR 20,000/- + applicable taxes per test report 

o   All non-compliant models shall be deleted from the scope of License and registration shall be liable for cancellation after 09 April 2025.  

·        New Applicants of CCTV Cameras: 

o   Applications for CCTV Cameras may be submitted along with test report for ER: 01 in addition to test report as per IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010. 

o   Processing of Applications without test report for ER: 01 shall be permitted only upto 09 April 2025. 

o   In case of above point no. 3 (B) (ii), a declaration from the applicant will also be required to submit that they will implement the revised Standard by 09 April 2025. 

o   Beyond 09 April 2025, above point no. 3 (B) (ii) will not be valid and registration will not be granted to such applications which are not complying with ER: 01 

·        Change in Scope of License:

o   Inclusion applications for CCTV Cameras may be submitted along with test report for ER: 01 in addition to test report as per IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010. 

o   Processing of Applications without test report for ER: 01 shall be permitted only upto 09 April 2025. 

o   In case of above point no. 3 (C) (ii), a declaration from the applicant will also be required to submit that they will implement the revised Standard by 09 April 2025. 

o   Beyond 09 April 2025, above point no. 3 (C) (ii) will not be valid and registration will not be granted to such applications which are not complying with ER: 01. 

o   Existing Licensees shall not use the Inclusion module to apply for implementation of Essential requirements of registered models. Instead, they may use the module as already mentioned in 3 (A)(i). 

·        Models complying with the above Order may display the following on the packaging: “This CCTV camera complies with Essential Requirement(s) for Security”.  

·        Provision for generating Test Request for ER for Security of CCTV– ER: 01 has been made live on BIS Portal. 

STQC vs BIS ER – Which One Do You Need?
In today’s regulatory environment, certifications are not just about compliance—they’re about trust, credibility, and market access. Two certifications that often create confusion are STQC (Standardisation Testing & Quality Certification) and BIS ER (Bureau of Indian Standards – Essential Requirements). While both deal with product quality and safety, their application areas and target customers differ significantly.

STQC (Standardisation Testing & Quality Certification)
 • Primary Customers: Government departments, PSUs, and organizations working on e-Governance, IT infrastructure, and software/hardware systems.
 • Focus: IT systems, biometric devices, smart cards, e-sign, and other digital infrastructure components.
 • Why It’s Needed: Many government tenders and projects mandate STQC certification to ensure reliability, interoperability, and adherence to national security/quality standards.

BIS-ER ( Bureau of Indian Standards – Essential Requirements)
 • Primary Customers: Private manufacturers, importers, and businesses selling electronic/IT products in the Indian market.
 • Focus: Consumer electronics, IT equipment, household gadgets, and other electronic products listed under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
 • Why It’s Needed: BIS ER is mandatory for commercial sale in India—without it, businesses cannot legally sell or market their products.

In simple terms
 • Government Projects → STQC Certification (trust + compliance in IT/e-governance ecosystem).
 • Market Access (Retail/Commercial) → BIS ER Certification (legally required for selling electronic products in India).

From Today onwards (April 1, 2026): what changes

The government gave the industry time to prepare. New BIS licences without ER-01 compliance stopped being issued from April 9, 2025. Brands that didn't get certified could sell existing warehouse stock for a while, but that grace period is now over.

From April 1, 2026, selling a non-compliant camera in India carries fines of up to 10× the product's value and up to 2 years in prison. BIS is already raiding warehouses.

Existing cameras already installed in your home or office are unaffected. The rule targets new sales, not existing use. And analog cameras are exempt; this applies only to IP (network-connected) cameras.