FCC Opens Entire 6GHz Band for Very Low Power (VLP) Devices

FCC Opens Entire 6GHz Band for Very Low Power (VLP) Devices

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced its decision to open the entire 6GHz frequency band for use by very low power (VLP) devices.

This move enables these devices to operate across a broader frequency range, potentially enhancing the performance of many everyday technologies such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) devices, portable internet hotspots, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

FCC Opens Entire 6GHz Band for Very Low Power (VLP) Devices

VLP devices are typically compact gadgets designed for short-range data transmission, consuming minimal energy. Their low power operation ensures they can connect quickly and efficiently without causing significant interference with other devices. As a result, these devices are particularly well-suited for applications like wearable technology, AR systems, and even in-vehicle tools.

Previously, VLP devices primarily operated within certain segments of the 5GHz spectrum: 5.925–6.425GHz (U-NII-5) and 6.525–6.875GHz (U-NII-7). These bands were also used for several unlicensed applications, including Wi-Fi 6E and the upcoming Wi-Fi 7 standards. By opening the entire 6GHz band, the FCC now allows VLP devices to operate in the 6.425–6.525GHz (U-NII-6) and 6.875–7.125GHz (U-NII-8) bands, further streamlining connectivity and expanding the available frequency range for these devices.

Under the new regulations, VLP devices will have access to a specific 350MHz section of the 6GHz band, with other portions of the spectrum also approved for use. The unrestricted access to the entire frequency band means these devices will no longer face geographic limitations or require complex frequency management systems. Instead, they will follow straightforward rules designed to minimize interference with existing services.

VLP devices operating in the 6GHz band must adhere to specific guidelines. These include implementing contention-based protocols, which allow multiple devices to share the same frequency by taking turns in data transmission. Additionally, VLP devices must use power control mechanisms to adjust their transmission power based on surrounding environmental conditions, ensuring signals are not stronger than necessary.

In its statement, the FCC emphasized that this spectrum expansion will have positive economic implications. Unlicensed technologies such as Wi-Fi could generate significant economic activity in the coming years by encouraging the development of new devices capable of seamless interconnectivity and communication.

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FCC OPENS ENTIRE 6 GHz BAND TO VERY LOW POWER DEVICE
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