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Working with TWS·January 10, 2025·5 min
Choosing an RF Consultant: Seven Questions That Cut Through the Pitch
Not every consultant who claims RF expertise has touched a spectrum analyzer this decade. Here's how to filter signal from noise.
Hiring an RF consultant is a high-stakes decision. The wrong choice can mean a failed product launch or a coverage system that never passes commissioning. Use these questions to vet candidates.
- Show me your last cascade analysis. Real RF engineers have these on hand. Vague answers are a red flag.
- What test equipment do you own and operate? Renting on a per-job basis is fine for occasional needs, but core capability requires owned, calibrated gear.
- Walk me through a project that went badly. Anyone with real experience has scars. Candidates who claim only successes are either inexperienced or untruthful.
- What standards do you regularly work to? NFPA, FCC Part 90, 3GPP, IEC — the answers should be specific to your domain.
- Will you put your name on the design package? Stamped, signed engineering deliverables carry liability. Consultants who won't sign theirs aren't accountable.
- Who actually does the work? Some firms sell senior engineers and deliver juniors. Insist on knowing.
- Can I talk to a recent client? A confident consultant will offer references without prompting.