The radio spectrum
Wireless communication is based on radio waves and bands of frequencies within the overall radio spectrum. We will cover long-range communication in the next chapter for cellular and other long-range mediums, here we focus on the 1000 meter range or less. Here, we will look at the spectrum allocation process as well as the typical frequency uses for WAN devices.
Governing structure
The spectrum ranges from 3 Hz to 3 THz, and allocation within the spectrum is governed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). A band is considered a portion of the spectrum that can be allocated, licensed, sold, or freely used depending on the frequency. From an ITU perspective, the bands are categorized as follows:
Within the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) control the frequency spectrum usage rights. The FCC administrates the non-Federal spectrum usage, while the NTIA administers...
