Why do some radios need to be licensed and some dont?

Why do some radios need to be licensed and some dont?

Licensed vs. Unlicensed Frequencies 

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  • Licensed Spectrum: This is allocated and controlled by regulators like the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) in the U.S. Operators must obtain exclusive rights to transmit in specific frequency bands, often through spectrum auctions. Licensed spectrum offers: 

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  • Guaranteed Quality of Service (QoS) due to low interference from other users. 

  • Higher transmission power allowances, enabling wider coverage. 

  • Carrier-grade cellular services like 4G LTE and 5G that require consistent and interference-free operation.

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  • Unlicensed Spectrum: Available for public use without the need for a license (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and some IoT networks). Characteristics include: 

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  • Higher potential for interference because multiple devices can operate in the same frequency band. 

  • Lower transmission power limits imposed by regulations to prevent excessive interference. 

  • More flexibility and lower costs for deployment (e.g., home Wi-Fi or public hotspots). 
     
    CBRS (Lightly Licensed in the U.S., 3.5 GHz Band): 

  • Three-tiered model allows military, priority licensees, and open public use. 

  • Enables private LTE/5G networks without full spectrum licensing 

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