2.4 GHz Band vs 868 MHz Band

Introduction

The frequency bands are the portions of the radio spectrum, that are reserved internationally for industrial, medical and scientific purpose. The example of applications for the frequency bands includes Radio remote controls for cranes , radio-frequency process heating, microwave ovens, and medical diathermy machines.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth use the 2.4 GHz frequency band. The 2.4Ghz Band is used globally for communication. However, the 868 MHz frequency band is also used in Europe, Africa, and other parts of Asia. The regulations may slightly vary, but both have many similarities.

For choosing the right frequency there are some factors:

• 868 MHz Frequency

  It is easier to broadcast through the multi-floor house.

• 2.4 GHz Frequency Band

  It has more frequencies as compared to 868 MHz, and also it requires a small antenna for transmission and reception. As Antenna size reduces when frequency is increased.

868 MHz Frequency Band

The transmission operates on free frequency band i.e. 868 MHz in Europe. The ISM band can be used free of charge and without any authorization for the industrial, scientific, and medical applications.

Advantages of 868 MHz Frequency Band

• It requires ¼ wavelength antenna, and its range is up to 800 meters.
• Radio frequencies can go throughout concrete walls.
• The transmission is not disturbed by the obstacles.
• Due to excellent propagation characteristics at the sub-GHz frequencies, it can have a greatly extended range with lower power consumption than 2.4 GHz frequency band.

Applications of 868 MHz Frequency Band

• Home Automation
• Security
• Industrial Control
• Industrial IOT
• Remote Sensing System
• Wireless Speech and Video
• Alarms
• Automatic Meter Reading
• Toys
• Weather Stations and Many Other Consumer Applications

2.4 GHz Frequency Band

2.4 GHz frequency band is globally being used for wireless communication. All wireless communication takes place at 2.4 GHz frequency.

There are many frequencies that qualify for the unlicensed but only a few are used in mobile phones, routers, walkie talkies, etc.

The typical range of the Wi-Fi transmitter is up to 50 meters indoors and 100 meters outdoor applications. Bluetooth has a shorter range, typically 10 meters (30 feet) indoor.

2.4 GHz has higher data rates as compared to the 868 MHz frequency band.

Applications of 2.4 GHz Frequency Band

• Baby Monitors
• Wireless Microphones, and Speakers
• Video Devices
• Wi-Fi networks
• Radio controls
• Car Alarms
• Radars
• Satellite Service
• Radiolocation
• Mobile Phones
• Wireless Power Meters and many more applications

Conclusion

2.4 GHz ISM frequency band is very effective as it has been adopted globally for the wireless communication purpose. 2.4 GHz band also requires less power for transmission. 2.4 GHz frequency has a wide range of applications in the industry, e specially in the telecommunication industry.

While the European regulation has imposed a specific requirement of 863 MHz to 870 MHz band for over-the-air protocol. Whether a system uses single channel protocol, FHSS or DSSS, these range of frequency is required for communication.