Attention | The US FCC provides new application scenarios for the unlicensed frequency band of 57GHz-71GHz
On July 24, 2023, the U.S. FCC published Federal Register Volume 88, No. 140. In this document, the FCC amends its rules to provide new use cases for unlicensed field interference sensor (FDS) devices, such as radar, in the 57GHz-71GHz band; while ensuring compatibility with other devices in the band. Coexistence of unlicensed technologies. The Commission's decision is an important step in the ongoing expansion and evolution of its rules and will promote the development and deployment of innovative radar operations, including valuable safety applications for detecting unattended children in vehicles, which were previously only licensed through the exemption process.
Field interference sensor/radar equipment sold or operating in the 57–64 GHz band that is approved by a telecommunications certification body and complies with a previously adopted rule or (six months after the effective date of the rule) a previous exemption may continue to be sold under its certification and run. All other on-site interference sensor/radar equipment shall comply with the requirements of §15.255.
Important updates
15.255(b)(2)(iii)
When installed in a passenger's personal portable electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet computer), on-site interference sensor/radar equipment may only operate within the frequency band 59.3-71.0 GHz and shall Comply with the related requirements of paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section and paragraphs (c)(2) and (c)(4) of this section.
15.255(b)(3)
Field interference sensors/radar equipment deployed on unmanned aircraft can operate in the 60-64GHz frequency band, with a maximum peak EIRP not exceeding 20dBm. The sum of consecutive transmitter off times of at least 2 ms during any consecutive interval of 33 ms shall equal at least 16.5 ms. Operation should be limited to 121.92 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
