BIS Registration for USB Type External Solid-State Storage Devices (SSDs) IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
USB Type external solid-state storage devices (SSDs) under IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 are categorized as regulated information technology equipment that must comply with mandatory safety standards before being marketed in India. These high-speed storage solutions, widely used for data transfer, backup, and portable computing applications, rely on advanced flash memory architecture and continuous electrical connectivity. Given their compact design and intensive data processing functions, ensuring electrical safety, thermal efficiency, and operational reliability is essential.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), mandates certification for external SSDs to mitigate risks such as electric shock, overheating, insulation failure, and fire hazards. Compliance with IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 ensures adherence to prescribed safety and quality benchmarks, enabling lawful sale while enhancing device durability and user confidence.
Who Needs BIS Certification under IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010
BIS certification under IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 is mandatory for entities involved in the manufacturing, importing, or sale of USB type external solid-state storage devices (SSDs) in India. Compliance under the CRS scheme is required before these products can be legally introduced into the market.
Applicable to
- Manufacturers – Domestic and foreign manufacturers must obtain BIS certification prior to sale
- Importers – Importers must ensure that external SSDs are BIS-certified before entering the Indian market.
- Brand Owners – Companies selling under their own brand must ensure compliance, even if manufacturing is outsourced.
BIS CRS Registration Important For USB Type SSDs
BIS CRS for USB Type SSDs is crucial for multiple reasons:
- Consumer Safety: Ensures the device meets electrical safety standards to prevent hazards like over-voltage, thermal damage, and data corruption.
- Product Reliability: Confirms that SSDs operate efficiently, meeting the necessary speed, durability, and data integrity benchmarks.
- Market Access: Without BIS registration, USB Type SSDs cannot be legally sold in India.
- Consumer Trust: A BIS-certified product ensures compliance with Indian regulatory standards, increasing credibility and brand trust.
Basic Requirements
There are four key factors on which a BIS Licence is based. Without fulfilling these requirements, an applicant cannot apply for BIS Certification/Registration in India. To obtain BIS registration, the following conditions must be met:
- Manufacturer: The BIS license is issued only to the manufacturer, not to traders, importers, or distributors. However, in the case of foreign manufacturers, an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) can submit the application on their behalf. The final license is always granted in the name of the manufacturer.
- Manufacturing Location:The exact manufacturing address must be clearly mentioned in the application and supporting documents. If a manufacturer operates multiple production units for the same product, a separate BIS licence is required for each manufacturing location.
- Product:BIS registration is granted product-wise. Each product category requires a separate licence. However, if a product has multiple models under the same category, one licence can cover all those models .
- Brand or Trademark: Every brand name or trademark must have its own BIS licence. If the same product is sold under different brands, separate licences are required for each brand or trademark.
Indian Standard IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 for USB Type External SSDs
Indian Standard IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 specifies essential safety and performance criteria for USB Type external solid-state storage devices and is mandatory for BIS Certification for USB Type External Solid-State Drives. It ensures that these devices deliver high-quality performance while minimizing risks related to electrical safety and data integrity. The standard includes specifications for electrical safety, performance requirements, and testing procedures. By adhering to IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010, manufacturers demonstrate their commitment to quality and safety, enhancing product credibility and ensuring regulatory compliance required for BIS Registration for USB Type External SSD.
Tests Performed
To obtain BIS certification, USB Type SSDs must undergo a series of rigorous tests:
| Electrical Safety Testing | This test assesses risks related to voltage fluctuations and insulation. |
| Protection of Equipment Users | It refers to safety measures and standards designed to protect people from potential hazards while using electrical, electronic, or mechanical equipment, ensuring the products are safe and reliable for use. |
| Environmental Testing | This ensures the SSD's resistance to physical damage and adverse environmental conditions. |
| Data Integrity Testing | This validates the SSD's ability to store and retrieve data without errors. |
These assessments ensure that the SSDs meet the necessary safety and performance standards.
BIS Registration Process for USB Type External SSDs
The BIS registration process differs slightly for domestic and foreign manufacturers but broadly follows these steps:
| Foreign Manufacturers | Domestic Manufacturers |
| Nominate an Indian Representative: A foreign manufacturer must appoint an Indian Representative with a valid business presence in India to handle the registration process for CRS Registration | Submit Online Application: Domestic manufacturers directly apply on the BIS portal to begin the registration process. |
| Online Application Submission: The representative submits an application via the BIS portal, ensuring all details are accurate. | Sample Testing: Like foreign manufacturers, samples are tested at a BIS-recognized lab. |
| Sample Testing: External SSD samples are tested in a BIS-approved laboratory for compliance with IS 13252 (Part 1) : 2010. | Submit Application: A complete application, including test reports, is submitted to the BIS. |
| Submit Complete Application: The application, along with test reports and required documents, is submitted online or in hard copy. | BIS Verification: The BIS reviews technical and KYC documents. |
| BIS Verification: The BIS reviews technical and KYC documents. | License Grant: After successful verification, the BIS issues a license for using the BIS CRS mark. |
| Grant of License: Upon successful verification, the BIS grants a license, allowing the use of the BIS CRS mark. |
Documents Required for BIS CRS Registration
Below is a comprehensive checklist of documents needed for BIS registration:
General Documents:
- BIS application form.
- GST Certificate
- MSME certificate
- Authorized person Aadhaar
- Company PAN Card
- Contact Details
- Trademark Certificate (Class 9, 11)
Additional Documents for Foreign Manufacturers:
- AIR (All India Representative) Details
- Trademark Certificate (Class 9, 11)
- Application form 1.
- Authorized representative's photo ID.
- Business license (original + English translation).
Technical Documents:
- CCL (Critical Component List)
- CDF Form
- Product Marking Plate
- Product Manual
- Product Diagram
Timeline and Validity of BIS CRS Registration
Timeline:The timeline for obtaining BIS Registration for USB Type External SSD under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) generally ranges from 20 to 30 working days, depending on factors such as product testing, documentation accuracy, and application verification. The process begins with testing the product in a BIS-recognized laboratory, followed by online application submission, document verification, and approval from BIS authorities.
| Domestic Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
| 30 Days | 45 Days |
Validity:The BIS CRS registration certificate is typically valid for 2 years. After this period, manufacturers or importers must apply for renewal of the BIS License for USB Type External SSD to continue manufacturing, importing, or selling the product in the Indian market. Renewal can be granted for up to 5 years, provided the product continues to comply with IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 and other BIS regulatory requirements.
Conclusion
Compliance with IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 is essential for businesses dealing in USB external solid-state drives in India. BIS CRS registration ensures adherence to critical safety standards, reducing risks such as electric shock, overheating, and electrical faults while improving device reliability and performance. In a data-driven digital ecosystem, certification not only fulfills regulatory requirements but also strengthens consumer trust and brand credibility.
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS consultants in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. With expert assistance, businesses can streamline certification processes, ensure compliance accuracy, and achieve faster approvals, enabling smooth and efficient market entry.
End-to-End Assistance from EVTL India
rom legal compliance and product testing to training, research, product development, and complete conformity assessment, EVTL India provides a single-window solution for all product certification needs. We are among the leading BIS consultants for USB Type External SSD and CRS Consultant for USB Type External SSD, offering both mandatory and voluntary certification consultancy services to manufacturers and importers across India and globally.
- Complete paperwork, testing, and guidance related to BIS registration.
- Creation of samples in accordance with requirements for 100% sample conformity in the testing facility.
- Liaison with the Bureau, which includes detailed application preparation, submission, and response to occasional queries with clarifications.
- Informing businesses about changes in rules, standards, and regulations
- Representing companies before government authorities when needed.
- Giving guidance for product registration under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), including the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
FAQs
1. Is BIS certification mandatory for external SSDs?
Yes, BIS CRS registration is mandatory before selling or importing these devices in India.
2. Which standard applies to USB external SSDs?
IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 governs safety requirements for IT equipment, including storage devices.
3. Who can apply for BIS registration?
Only manufacturers can apply; foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR.
4. What risks are covered under this standard?
It addresses risks like electric shock, overheating, insulation failure, and fire hazards.
5. How long does the BIS registration process take?
Typically 20–30 working days, depending on testing and documentation.
6. What is the validity of BIS certification?
The certification is valid for 2 years and renewable thereafter up to 5 years.