What Frequency can I use for VOICE?
The use of voice for a wireless transmission in the USA is divided
into two(2) different catagories; unlicensed devices and licensed
devices. Unlicensed devices are those that are regulated under the
FCC rules Part 15. Licensed devices are regulated under FCC rules
Part 74 & Part 90. A licensed device is a device that requires
that the end-user obtains(gets) a license from the FCC licensing
division, this is in addition to the manufacturer must get the device
TYPE ACCEPTED so that it can be licensed.
Examples of unlicensed wireless devices are radio controlled toys,
cordless Telephones, Wireless LAN's, & Walkie-Talkies.
For unlicensed devices under FCC Part 15;
These device are cover by FCC Rules Part 15 and intentional
radiators that can have voice transmission are limited to the
frequency bands of 26.96-27.98MHz, 49.82-49.90MHz, 88-108MHz,
902-928Mhz, and 2400-2483,5MHz. the power is limited to the levels
in Part 15. These devices generally have a range of less than
250 Meters. Some have less than 10 meters, like the 88-108MHz
devices. The range is a function of several factors.
For licensed devices are covered under both FCC rules Part 74 &
Part 90. Part 74 is generally considered to be BROADCAST
EQUIPMENT. This is the Part 74;
Under Part 74.801, Low Power Auxilary stations are: An auxilary
station authorized and operated pursuant to the provisions set
forth in this subpart. Devices aurthoirxed as low power auxiliary
stations are intended to transmit over distances of approximately
100 meters for uses such as wireless microphones, cue and control
communications, and synchronization of TV camera signals. These
types of units are generally considered to be broadcast quality
units. Their approval is a type acceptance and the technical
requirements are stated in FCC Rules Part 74.861. The frequency
ranges as stated in 74.802 are;
26.1-26.4MHz,
54-72MHz,
76-82MHz,
161.625-161.775MHz,
174.00-216MHz,
450-451MHz,
455-456.00MHz,
472-608MHz,
614-806MHz, (764-776MHz & 794-806MHz is being realocated
to public safety FCC Docket 98-191) Note 1
944-952MHz.
The Power output for the most part is limited to 50 milliwatts.
Due to the realocation of the frequencies in the 614-806MHz band
I am recommending the 764-776MHz & 794-806MHz be avoided. Either
use the 614-764MHz or 944-952MHz bands.
For devices that are approved under FCC rules Part 90.265 the
technical requirements are also covered in 90.265. The frequency
range is 169-172Mhz(20 specific frequencies) & 406-413MHz(8 specific
frequencies) and the power is limited to 50milliwatts. The spec's
are covered in 90.265.
The FCC rules do not limit the type of devices that can be used
under either Part 15 or Part 74 or part 90 as long as they meet
the decribed function and the technical requirements.