FCC Considers Reorganizing UHF RAIN RFID Band

A recent survey and comments from the FCC chairman suggest potential changes to the bandwidth currently designated for UHF RAIN RFID users and other Part 15 devices.

In April 2024, NextNav filed a rulemaking petition with the FCC to realign the 902-928 MHz band, which is used by RAIN RFID, LoRa transmissions, and Z-Wave. The proposed rule would allow 5G transmissions within this spectrum, potentially affecting existing UHF RAIN RFID and other Part 15 device operations. The FCC accepted public comments on the proposal last summer.

If approved, the changes could lead to increased congestion in the 902-928 MHz band, according to a joint statement from RFID industry groups RAIN Alliance and AIM Global.

Earlier this month, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr announced a broad deregulatory initiative to review all agency regulations, including broadcast ownership caps. On March 27, the FCC will explore alternatives to GPS in a Notice of Inquiry. While the notice mentions NextNav, it extends beyond the company and its petition.