FCC Frequency Allocation Tool

Look up FCC frequency allocations, find band usage information, and understand radio spectrum regulations.

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FCC Frequency Allocation Chart: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allocates different frequency bands for specific services including broadcasting, mobile communications, satellite, and government use.

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Frequency allocations vary by region

Select a frequency band to view allocations and usage information.

VLF
LF
MF
HF
VHF
UHF
SHF
EHF

Radio Spectrum Visualization: The radio spectrum is divided into bands based on frequency. Higher frequencies generally have shorter range but can carry more data.

Search for frequencies allocated to specific services or applications.

Service Allocation: The FCC allocates specific frequency bands for particular services to prevent interference and ensure efficient use of the radio spectrum.

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Understanding FCC Frequency Allocations

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the use of the radio frequency spectrum in the United States. Frequency allocation is the process of dividing the radio spectrum into bands and assigning them to specific services.

Key Concepts in Spectrum Management:

  • Allocation: Designation of a frequency band for use by one or more services
  • Allotment: Designation of a frequency channel for use in a specific geographical area
  • Assignment: Authorization for a specific station to use a particular frequency
  • Primary vs. Secondary: Primary services have protection from interference; secondary services must not cause interference

Radio Spectrum Bands

Band Name Frequency Range Wavelength Common Uses
VLF (Very Low Frequency) 3-30 kHz 10-100 km Submarine communications, time signals
LF (Low Frequency) 30-300 kHz 1-10 km Navigation, time signals, AM longwave broadcasting
MF (Medium Frequency) 300-3000 kHz 100-1000 m AM radio broadcasting, maritime communications
HF (High Frequency) 3-30 MHz 10-100 m Shortwave broadcasting, amateur radio, aviation
VHF (Very High Frequency) 30-300 MHz 1-10 m FM radio, television (VHF), two-way radios, air traffic control
UHF (Ultra High Frequency) 300-3000 MHz 10-100 cm Television (UHF), cellular phones, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
SHF (Super High Frequency) 3-30 GHz 1-10 cm Satellite communications, radar, wireless networks (5G), microwave links
EHF (Extremely High Frequency) 30-300 GHz 1-10 mm Radio astronomy, satellite communications, advanced radar systems

Frequency Allocation Process

1

Spectrum Planning: The FCC and international bodies (ITU) plan spectrum use based on technological developments and societal needs

2

Rulemaking: The FCC publishes proposed rules for public comment before making allocation decisions

3

Allocation: Specific frequency bands are allocated to services (broadcasting, mobile, satellite, etc.)

4

Licensing: Entities apply for licenses to use specific frequencies in specific locations

5

Enforcement: The FCC monitors spectrum use and enforces rules to prevent interference

Important Frequency Allocations

  • AM Radio: 535-1705 kHz (10 kHz channels)
  • FM Radio: 88-108 MHz (200 kHz channels)
  • TV Broadcast: VHF: 54-72, 76-88, 174-216 MHz; UHF: 470-608, 614-698 MHz (6 MHz channels)
  • Cellular Bands: 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1900 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2500 MHz, etc.
  • Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g/n), 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), 6 GHz (802.11ax)
  • GPS: 1575.42 MHz (L1), 1227.6 MHz (L2), 1176.45 MHz (L5)
  • Amateur Radio: Multiple bands throughout HF, VHF, and UHF spectrum
  • Aviation: 108-137 MHz (communications), 978 MHz, 1030/1090 MHz (ADS-B)

Regulatory Note: Unlicensed use of radio frequencies is generally prohibited except in specific bands designated for unlicensed operations (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other Part 15 devices). Always check current FCC regulations before transmitting on any frequency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Allocation designates a frequency band for use by one or more services. Allotment designates a frequency channel for use in one or more geographical areas. Assignment authorizes a specific station to use a particular frequency under specified conditions. Allocation is the broadest category, while assignment is the most specific.

The FCC continuously reviews and updates frequency allocations through rulemaking proceedings. Major reallocations often occur to accommodate new technologies (like 5G) or to address spectrum shortages. The World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC), held every 3-4 years, also leads to international allocation changes that the FCC implements.

No, using frequencies without proper authorization is generally illegal, even if you're not causing noticeable interference. There are limited exceptions for very low-power devices in specifically designated unlicensed bands (like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth). Unauthorized transmission can result in significant fines and equipment seizure by the FCC.

Spectrum auctioning is the process by which the FCC sells licenses to use specific frequency bands to commercial entities (like wireless carriers). Auctions are competitive bidding processes that allocate spectrum to those who value it most highly. The proceeds go to the U.S. Treasury. Since 1994, the FCC has conducted dozens of auctions, raising over $200 billion.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN agency, coordinates global spectrum use. The world is divided into three regions: Region 1 (Europe, Africa, Middle East), Region 2 (Americas), and Region 3 (Asia-Pacific). The ITU Radio Regulations provide the international framework, but each country implements its own rules within that framework. The FCC's allocations for the U.S. must be consistent with ITU agreements for Region 2.