Sub-THz Bands and Frequencies Explained

This article discusses Sub-THz Bands and Sub-THz Frequencies used in various sub-terahertz (Sub THz) systems.

Introduction: About Terahertz (THz)

The term “terahertz” refers to frequencies in the range of 101210^{12} Hz. One THz equals 101210^{12} Hz (Hertz).

The frequency spectrum from 100 GHz to 10 THz (10,000 GHz) is considered the terahertz spectrum.

The terahertz wavelength ranges from 3 mm to 30 µm. Terahertz radiation is non-ionizing and has lower photon energy compared to X-rays.

About Sub-THz

The frequency spectrum between 90 GHz and 300 GHz is known as the sub-THz spectrum.

Terahertz in EM sepectrum

The sub-THz spectrum enables very high data rate (~1 Tbps) wireless communication systems. It provides higher bandwidths, often several tens of GHz. The sub-THz radio spectrum has been used in scientific applications like satellite services, astronomy, earth exploration, and meteorology.

Currently, sub-THz is being explored for wireless communication systems to achieve higher data rates. The sub-THz frequency range from 90 to 275 GHz is used in fixed and mobile radio communication services.

Sub-THz Frequencies and Sub-THz Bands

The following are the sub-THz bands covering various sub-THz frequency ranges for different applications:

  • W-Band: The sub-THz frequency range from 92 to 115 GHz is referred to as W-Band.
  • D-Band: The sub-THz frequency range from 130 to 175 GHz is referred to as D-Band.