Wireless devices could be a no-no in Europe

Baby monitors, cordless phones, Family Radio Service Devices and wireless routers are  American conveniences that are not hard to come by, but the use of these devices may be illegal if they do not meet host nation standards.

The U.S. Air Forces in Europe area of responsibility restricts equipment that does not meet European conformity and host nation standards.

To find out if the device meets German standards, look for the CE marking located on the back or bottom of the product.

Modifications to the equipment to boost power, such as different antennas or increasing the gain of the current antenna, cancels the CE certification and voids the right to use the item in Europe.

“Using a wireless device such as Ham radios that are not authorized could cause interference with the local police or ambulance radios,” said Tech. Sgt. Bryan Jones, 435th Communications Squadron KMC frequency management office. “The interference you cause could range from being static or a little bit of noise on their radios to possibly blocking out all their communications.”

Illegal use of wireless equipment is subject to confiscation and possible fines by the host nation.

For more information, contact Sergeant Jones at 480-4009 or 06371-47-4009.