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Narrow Band vs. Spread Spectrum
Two types of RF technology exists today that are
common in the Automatic ID industry: Narrow Band and
Spread Spectrum. Narrow Band systems have been around
for many years. These systems have a range of about
a one mile line-of-site radius and can approximately
cover an 800,000 square foot warehouse with a single
antenna. Narrow band systems do require an FCC site
license which guarantees that no system will use the
same frequency within the same area. The license will
require a 60-90 day approval and is approximately $200.
Spread Spectrum (SS) systems have a less transmission
power (approximately 100 mW) and typically cover between
a 100 and 500 radius (40000 sq. ft - 750000 sq. ft).
Repeaters can be added to extend the range. These systems
have a higher tolerance to interference and do not
require an FCC license. The frequency band for spread
spectrum is 902-928 MHz and 2.4-2.483 GHz. Data rates
can be as high as 1.6 Mbps.
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