The RF Spectrum -- An Overview

The term Radio Frequency (RF or rf) refers to the electromagnetic field that is generated when an
alternating current is input to an antenna. This field, also called an RF field or radio wave, can be
used for wireless broadcasting and communications over a significant portion of the electromagnetic
radiation spectrum -- from about 9 kilohertz (kHz) to thousands of gigahertz (GHz). This portion is
referred to as the RF Spectrum. As the frequency is increased beyond the RF spectrum,
electromagnetic energy takes the form of infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), X rays, and
gamma rays.

Many types of wireless devices make use of RF fields -- radio, television, cordless and cellular
telephones, satellite communication systems, and many measuring and instrumentation systems used
in manufacturing. Some wireless devices, such as remote control boxes and cordless mice, operate at
IR or visible light frequencies. The RF spectrum is divided into several ranges, or bands. Each of these
bands, other than the lowest frequency segment, represents an increase of frequency corresponding to
an order of magnitude (power of ten). The chart at the top of the page depcits the eight bands in the
RF spectrum, showing frequency and bandwidth ranges.

Internationally, the RF spectrum is allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to

various classes of service according to different regions of the world. Within the United States and its
possessions, the RF spectrum is further allocated to non-Government and Government users. The
Federal Communications Commission (FCC), acting under the authority of Congress, is responsible
for the allocation and assignment of frequencies to non-Government users. The National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is responsible for the allocation and
assignment of frequencies to departments and agencies of the U.S. Government.

NTIA performs its functions through the assistance of the Interdepartment Radio Advisory
Committee (IRAC). The IRAC is also responsible for maintaining the National Table of Frequency
Allocations. Coordination between non-Government and Government users of the RF spectrum is
accomplished by joint meetings of the FCC and the NTIA. The NTIA is also responsible for
maintaining the National Table of Frequency Allocations. Coordination between non-Government
and Government users of the RF spectrum is accomplished by joint meetings of the FCC and the
NTIA.