Ultra-Wideband (UWB)

• Broad Frequency Range: UWB broadcasts over a wide range of frequencies simultaneously, not limited to a fixed bandwidth.
• Low Power: Uses very low power levels, minimizing the risk of interference with other sources operating on the same frequencies.
• Speeds: Can achieve speeds up to 100 Mbps, typically for short distances such as in wireless LANs.

Advantages and Disadvantages

• Proponents’ View:

  • UWB is seen as beneficial for sharing frequencies with other sources without causing significant interference.
  • Claims of “getting something for nothing” due to efficient use of shared frequencies.

• Opponents’ Concerns:

  • Cell Phone Industry: Concerns about UWB’s interference with CDMA technology, which is sensitive to such interference.
  • GPS: Potential for UWB to affect GPS signals.

• Potential Solutions:

  • Dual Systems: Implementing two types of UWB systems:
    • Indoor: Higher power levels.
    • Outdoor: Reduced power (about 1/10 of indoor power) to minimize interference.