Expanding 6 GHz Band: Unlocking Future Wireless Innovation

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took an important first step toward unlicensed use enlargement of the 6 GHz band, allowing for new possibilities with very low power (VLP) devices. This decision, detailed in the FCC's Third Report and Order (ET Docket No. 18-295, GN Docket No. 17-138), makes VLP device use available throughout UNII-5 and UNII-7 bands (5.925-6.425GHz and 6.525-6.875 GHz), offering greater flexibility while still safeguarding licensed services. This final rule will take effect on May 5, 2025.

What This Means for the Industry?

While wireless demand continues to grow, the FCC ruling provides the avenue for high-speed, low-latency applications that are reliant on having access to unlicensed spectrum. By allowing VLP devices access to the 6 GHz band, the ruling enhances opportunities for augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and other future-proof technologies. 
 
VLP gear will now operate at the same Frequency bands but with lower power levels (14dBm EIRP) than other technology requirements already established for the U-NII-5 (5.925-6.425 GHz) and U-NII-7 (6.525-6.875 GHz) bands. The rules will prevent harmful interference to already licensed services, such as fixed microwave links, mobile services, and fixed satellite services (FSS), with the aim of efficient management of the spectrum.

Advantages of Expanded 6 GHz Use

 1. Enhanced Wireless Connectivity – The added availability of spectrum provides enhanced support for next-generation applications such as body-worn technology, smart manufacturing, and medical advancements. 
2. More Data Throughput & Lower Latency – With up to 850 MHz of spectrum, VLP devices are able to employ wider channel bandwidths, facilitating high-speed data transfer with less latency. 
3. Efficient Spectrum Use – The use of unlicensed VLP operations provides for more intensive spectrum use without compromising the protection of incumbent services from interference. 
4. Enabling IoT and AR/VR Use Cases – Unlicensed access to 6 GHz will facilitate IoT installations in smart cities, low-latency AR/VR applications, and wireless industrial automation. 
 
Technical Parameters and Protections

The 6 GHz band consists of four sub-bands: U-NII-5, U-NII-6, U-NII-7, and U-NII-8. The Commission has implemented certain technical and operational protections against interference risks, such as: 
- Retaining power constraints at 14 dBm EIRP and −5 dBm/MHz EIRP power spectral density. 
- Using a contention-based protocol to prevent conflicts with licensed service operation. 
-Enforcing Standard Power Access Points and Fixed Client Devices to operate only on channels provided by an Automatic Frequency Coordination System AFC) 

Moreover, the Commission also considered issues of concern for licensed incumbents like broadcasters, public safety organizations, and energy companies. Technical reports presented by industry pioneers like Apple, Broadcom, and Google established that the likelihood of harmful interference is negligible with adequate protection. 
 
Real-World Applications and Industry Impact 

The extended 6 GHz unlicensed band opens up significant opportunities for wireless innovation: 
 - Healthcare: Ultra-reliable low-latency networks (URLLC) for real-time patient monitoring and telemedicine innovation. 
- Smart Manufacturing & IoT: Wireless industrial automation, robotic control, and predictive maintenance with 6 GHz IoT deployments. 
- AR/VR & Entertainment: Immersive gaming and virtual collaboration tools with low-latency 6 GHz connectivity. 
 
Compliance Navigating with Nemko

As more companies adopt unlicensed 6 GHz spectrum, companies need to keep up with changing RF testing and wireless certification regulations. Nemko offers expert advice on: 
- Wireless device compliance & certification for worldwide market approvals. 
- RF spectrum testing & interference mitigation solutions. 
- Compliance ensuring FCC, ISED, CE, and other worldwide compliance for wireless products. 
 
Start with Nemko Today! Make sure your 6 GHz wireless products meet the new FCC spectrum regulations. Reach out to our experts for customized RF testing and certification services