The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new recommendations effective August 21st, focusing on the use and regulation of the Terahertz (THz) spectrum. This spectrum, spanning frequencies from 100 GHz to 3 THz, holds transformative potential for various industries due to its unique attributes.

Key Insights from the Recommendations:

1. Importance of THz Spectrum

   • The THz spectrum offers exceptionally wide bandwidths essential for high-speed data transfer and improved communication quality. Its lower susceptibility to interference enhances reliability, making it vital for advancing wireless connectivity across cellular networks, Wi-Fi, and satellite communications.

2. Challenges and Technological Advances

   • Despite its benefits, the THz spectrum faces challenges such as high propagation losses and power limitations. Advances in optical, electronic, and plasmonic technologies are crucial for overcoming these hurdles. An experimental licensing regime is proposed to foster innovation and technological development in the THz range.

Key Recommendations:

1. Unlicensed Operations

   • Frequency Bands: Unlicensed operations are recommended in the 116-123 GHz, 174.8-182 GHz, 185-190 GHz, and 244-246 GHz bands.
   • Objective: To encourage innovation and the development of new wireless technologies, subject to technical parameters to prevent interference.

2. Automotive Radar Applications

   • Frequency Band: Deregulation of the 77-81 GHz band is suggested to support automotive radar applications such as adaptive cruise control and advanced safety sensors.
   • International Alignment: This recommendation aligns with practices in Japan, China, and Singapore.

3. Experimental Licensing

   • New Category: Introduction of the ‘Spectrum-Terahertz Applications License’ (STAL) for experiments and demonstrations in the 95 GHz to 3 THz range.
   • Objective: To promote research and development in the THz spectrum.

4. Protection of Passive Services

   • Necessity: Emphasis is placed on protecting existing passive services, including radio astronomy and Earth observation.
   • Conditions: New technologies must avoid interference with these critical passive services.

These recommendations aim to harness the THz spectrum’s potential while balancing innovation with the protection of existing services.

Regulatory Impact:

• Top Priority: Yes
• Type Certificate: No
• Spectrum Bands: Yes
• Import Changes HS Codes: No
• Standard Changes: No
• Product Changes: Yes
• Label Changes: No

Link to Source - https://www.trai.gov.in/notifications/press-release/trai-releases-recommendations-tera-hertz-spectrum