The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is on the brink of a transformative decision to expand the use of unlicensed Very Low Power (VLP) devices in the 6 GHz frequency band. In a proposal outlined in its Third Report and Order, the FCC aims to enable VLP operations across the entire 6 GHz spectrum (5.925–7.125 GHz), creating new opportunities for advanced technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and wearable devices. This pivotal move could redefine connectivity by unlocking 1200 megahertz of contiguous spectrum for high-throughput, low-latency applications.
What Are VLP Devices?
VLP devices are compact, portable unlicensed devices designed for high data rate, short-range communication. Applications could include AR/VR, body-worn devices, and healthcare monitoring solutions. Unlike traditional unlicensed devices, VLP devices would operate at exceptionally low power levels, ensuring they can coexist with incumbent licensed services without causing harmful interference.
The FCC’s Vision for the 6 GHz Band
The FCC has been progressively increasing unlicensed access to the 6 GHz band since 2020. Initially, rules were established for standard power and low-power indoor devices, followed by the introduction of VLP devices in the U-NII-5 (5.925–6.425 GHz) and U-NII-7 (6.525–6.875 GHz) sub-bands. The new proposal expands VLP operations to the U-NII-6 (6.425–6.525 GHz) and U-NII-8 (6.875–7.125 GHz) sub-bands, thereby extending VLP device operation to the entire band.
By standardizing technical and operational requirements across all sub-bands, the FCC seeks to provide a consistent framework for VLP device deployment. This includes power limits of 14 dBm maximum effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) and a power spectral density of -5 dBm/MHz EIRP. Importantly, VLP devices can operate indoors and outdoors without the need for an Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system but must incorporate transmit power control and a contention-based protocol.
Addressing Concerns of Incumbent Services
The 6 GHz band hosts various incumbent services, including fixed microwave links, satellite uplinks, and broadcast auxiliary services. These services are vital for critical operations such as public safety communications, utility management, and live news broadcasting. Consequently, stakeholders representing these services have voiced concerns about potential interference from VLP devices.
To address these concerns, the FCC commissioned extensive technical studies and conducted a detailed evaluation of interference risks. The findings suggest that VLP devices operating under the proposed rules pose an “insignificant risk” of harmful interference to incumbent operations. Notably:
• ENG Central Receive Sites: Studies indicate that the likelihood of VLP devices causing interference to electronic news gathering (ENG) sites is extremely low, with an average exceedance probability of just 0.0005%.
• Fixed Microwave Links: Monte Carlo simulations and real-world data affirm that VLP devices can coexist with fixed microwave systems without degrading their performance.
Challenges and Opposition
Despite the FCC’s assurances, some stakeholders remain skeptical. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has raised concerns about interference with ENG central receive sites and pointed to historical challenges in resolving interference issues in other bands. NAB also questioned the assumptions and methodologies used in the FCC’s interference studies.
The FCC’s decision on expanding VLP operations is expected during its December 2024 open meeting.
Key Takeaways
• Expanded Access: The FCC’s proposal will make 1200 MHz of spectrum available for VLP devices, offering a significant boost to AR/VR, wearable technology, and short-range wireless applications.
• Balanced Approach: The FCC has designed its rules to ensure efficient spectrum use while minimizing interference risks for incumbent services.
• Future-Proof Connectivity: By unlocking the full potential of the 6 GHz band, the FCC is paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in consumer technology and industrial applications.
In 2019, Qualcomm, along with other tech companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft, petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a new VLP category for portable devices in the unlicensed 6 GHz band. Additionally, Qualcomm’s whitepaper, “Unlocking 6GHz Wi-Fi’s Full Potential,” outlines the regulatory operating classes for 6 GHz band license-exempt use, including VLP. The document describes VLP as supporting mobile indoor and outdoor operations with maximum power levels around 14 dBm
