Frequency bands

Written on 10:33 AM by ooe

Allocations made for narrowband wireless local loop applications vary from country to country but in most cases they are in the 2 to 4 GHz band. Individual operators have been granted spectrum allocations of approximately 10 to 50 MHz within these bands, which is relatively small. There is increasing interest in using these frequencies for mid-band systems offering data services as well as voice. The advantage over higher frequencies is that these systems can work over greater distances and use less sophisticated and hence less expensive components. However, there is inherently less spectrum available and it is in demand for future wide area mobile systems.

Broadband systems require more spectrum and the allocations that have been made, or are being considered, lie within the 10 to 40 GHz band. indicates the major allocations in the US and Europe. Shown are both issued and proposed licences, with the UK shown separately from Europe to illustrate that even within one region there are still national differences. It can be seen that a number of past licences issued for fixed wireless access in the UK are under consideration for reallocation, due to lack of use.