Exploring FM Frequencies Not in Use in Any Country

Identifying FM frequencies that are completely unused in any country can be challenging due to the complex nature of frequency allocations that vary widely by region and country. This article explores some general examples of less commonly used or non-widely adopted frequency ranges, and discusses the challenges and considerations in identifying such unused frequencies.

General Examples of FM Frequencies

Low FM Band 87.5 MHz - 88.0 MHz

In many countries, this range is often reserved for non-commercial or low-power FM stations. However, it may have limited use in certain regions. This range could be less utilized due to the preference for mid-band and high-band frequencies that offer better transmission characteristics.

Specific Frequencies within the FM Band 88.0 MHz - 108.0 MHz

Certain frequencies within this range may not be allocated in specific countries due to local regulations or lack of demand. For example, in the United States, there are specific frequencies in this range that are not used, such as those near 107.75 MHz, which is part of the allotted FM band but remains unused.

Reserved Frequencies

Some countries reserve certain frequencies for future use, emergency services, or other specific applications that may not currently be operational. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reserves certain frequencies, such as 91.6 MHz, for special uses, and they are currently not in active use for broadcasting.

Band Segments for Experimental Use

Frequencies allocated for experimental broadcasting or temporary use may not be widely utilized. These segments are often used by universities, research institutions, and other organizations for testing new broadcasting technologies and techniques. However, due to their experimental nature, they may not be in continuous use.

For precise and accurate information, it is best to consult the frequency allocation tables published by national regulatory authorities like the FCC in the United States or Ofcom in the UK, or international organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). These documents provide detailed insights into which frequencies are assigned, reserved, or available in various regions. The ITU, for instance, maintains a global database of frequency allocations that can be accessed online.

No Assignments of Unutilized FM Frequencies for Broadcast

While some specific frequencies may not be allocated or utilized, it is important to note that the radio spectrum as a whole, which has a fixed amount, is being used to its maximum capacity. No countries use the original United States FM broadcast band with carrier frequencies from 42.1 MHz to 49.9 MHz for broadcast services. This band was phased out in the years immediately following World War II and has not been used by any country for broadcast services ever since. At one time, frequencies near 46 and 49 MHz were used for a variety of toys and consumer products, but these may now be licensed to governmental two-way radio services.

The demand for radio spectrum is continually increasing, and a lot of work is being done to stuff more into the spectrum space we are using. Advances in technology, such as digital broadcasting and cognitive radio, allow more efficient use of the available frequencies. However, the fixed amount of the radio spectrum means that there is constant pressure to find new ways to allocate and use these frequencies effectively.

Conclusion

In summary, while specific FM frequencies may not be filled with active broadcasting, the broader FM band is fully utilized across most countries. For those interested in exploring unused or underutilized frequencies, consulting the frequency allocation tables and regulations from regulatory bodies such as the FCC, Ofcom, or the ITU is the best approach.

Key Takeaways:

Low FM Band 87.5 MHz - 88.0 MHz is often reserved for non-commercial or low-power FM stations in some regions. Certain frequencies within the FM band 88.0 MHz - 108.0 MHz are not allocated in specific countries due to local regulations or lack of demand. Some countries reserve certain frequencies for future use, emergency services, or other specific applications. Band segments allocated for experimental use may not be widely utilized. The original United States FM broadcast band with carrier frequencies from 42.1 MHz to 49.9 MHz was phased out in the years immediately following World War II and is no longer used for broadcast services.

Keywords: FM frequencies, unused frequencies, radio spectrum