UK – Increase in Unlicensed Spectrum Available for 5GHz WLAN (5725-5850MHz)

united_kingdomIn conclusion to its earlier consultation on opening further unlicensed spectrum in the 5GHz band and publishing of a draft Interface Specification, the UK has now updated its regulations to allow unlicensed WLAN use in the 5725-5850MHz band.

With these changes the full band from 5470-5850MHz is available including channels that overlap the 5470-5725MHz and 5725-5850MHz bands. This change is effective from August 7, 2017.

Manufacturers should note that even though this spectrum allocation is not EU-wide, the Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU) still applies to products planning to use this new allocation. Even with a harmonised standard EN 301 893 used for conformity assessment, this new band is outside of its scope. As in other situations where a harmonised standard is not available a Notified Body will need to be involved.