WHAT RADIO FREQUENCIES ARE AUTHORIZED?

Radio frequency fundamentals

A radio frequency represents the number of oscillations per second of an electromagnetic wave, measured in Hertz (Hz).

The radio frequency spectrum is divided into several bands:

• very low frequencies VLF,
• LF low frequencies,
• MF mid-range frequencies,
• high HF frequencies,
• very high VHF frequencies,
• UHF ultra-high frequencies.

Certain frequency ranges are reserved for critical uses (military, aviation, emergency), while others are accessible to civil applications (telecommunications, broadcasting, aeronautics, etc.). This distribution of frequency bandsprevents interference and ensures efficient use of the spectrum.

For access control and automation systems, we mainly use the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands, which lie between 300 MHz and 3 GHz on the radio spectrum. These frequencies are distinguished by their propagation characteristics:

• The lower the frequency, the greater the distance the wave can travel, and the easier it is to cross obstacles.
• Higher frequencies, on the other hand, have a shorter range, but are more resistant to interference and can transmit larger amounts of data.

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Authorized frequencies by geographical area

Frequency distribution in Europe

The 868 Megahertz band is the frequency of choice for access control and automation systems. This frequency offers an excellent compromise between range and resistance to interference. It is specifically reserved for industrial applications, and has the advantage of being less congested than other bands.

The 433.92 MHz frequency is also widely used in Europe. Older but still authorized, it remains popular for gate remote controls and alarm systems. Its longer wavelength enables better penetration of obstacles.

Frequency allocation in the United States

American regulations differ significantly from those in Europe. The 868 MHz band is not authorized in the USA, where manufacturers must use the 922 MHz band. This difference is explained by different historical allocations of the radio spectrum.

433 MHz is authorized in the USA, but with stricter restrictions than in Europe, notably in terms of transmission power. Manufacturers must therefore adapt their products accordingly.

Regulations and restrictions

In France, the use of frequencies is managed by bodies such as the Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques et des postes (ARCEP) and the Agence nationale des fréquences (ANFR). In the United States, this role is fulfilled by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). International organizations such as the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) set global standards for radio frequency management and use.

These bodies set not only the authorized frequencies, but also the maximum transmission powers.

These restrictions are designed to ensure the harmonious coexistence of different radio systems, and to avoid interference that could disrupt critical services such as emergency communications or air navigation.

➡️En find out more about the standards applied to radio products

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Recommendations for professionals

To choose the right frequency for your installation, first consider the geographical area of use. Make sure products are approved for the target market and comply with local standards. Prastel products comply with European and American standards to guarantee optimum reliability.

For complex installations, use the 868 MHz band in Europe or the 922 MHz band in the U.S., which offer greater immunity to interference. Also check for the presence of other radio systems nearby to avoid potential interference. The use of certified equipment that complies with current standards is essential to guarantee proper operation of the system.

Choosing the right radio frequency is crucial to the success of your installations. By complying with current regulations and understanding the specifics of each frequency band, you can guarantee high-performance installations that comply with legal requirements.

For more information on products compatible with these frequencies, please consult Prastel technical documentation or contact our support department.

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