What is the E Band?

E-Band Frequency

The E band represents the frequency range from 60 GHz to 90 GHz. Signals in this frequency range have very short wavelengths from 3.33 mm to 5 mm. The short wavelengths give signals at these frequency directional properties and thus this band is widely used for RF/Microwave backhaul links. One of the disadvantages of this frequency band is that atmospheric gasses oxygen and CO2 absorb signals at these frequencies resulting in significant attenuation. Due to this the E-Band can not be used for long range signal transmission.

Most countries have freed up large chunks of bandwidth from 60 GHz to 86 GHz for ultra-high capacity backhaul applications. The FCC has made spectrum from 71 to 76 GHz and 81 to 86 GHz available for high-density fixed wireless services in the United States. Similarly, the International Telecommunication Union allows allow amateur radio satellite operations in the E-Band from 76 to 81 GHz.

The E-Band is a licensed or lightly licensed band in most countries, used for ultra-high capacity backhaul applications with a range up to around 3 km. It can be used for longer range transmission as well (10 km in certain cases) however due to atmospheric absorption of waves at these frequencies such systems require very high power levels.

Note: This frequency band is not part of the IEEE Radar frequency bands and is usually known as a waveguide frequency band.