450 MHz in Germany and Austria
The 450 MHz frequency band is of particular importance in Germany and Austria, especially for the expansion of communication networks in critical infrastructures. The frequency is ideal for applications that require high area coverage and deep penetration into buildings. In both countries, the 450 MHz band is increasingly being used for the expansion of secure communication networks.
Utilisation of the 450 MHz band in Germany
In Germany, the 450 MHz band is mainly reserved for communication in critical infrastructures, such as energy suppliers. Since 2021, the use of this frequency range has been awarded to a consortium led by 450connect, which has set itself the goal of creating nationwide network coverage for critical infrastructures.
The main areas of utilisation of 450 MHz in Germany include
Critical communication networks:
Energy, water and gas suppliers and transport infrastructure operators in particular use the 450 MHz band for secure, reliable and comprehensive communication networks.
Smart Grids:
The band enables the networking of smart grids in order to drive forward the energy transition. The frequency provides reliable communication between energy producers, distributors and end consumers and supports the control and monitoring of the electricity grid.
IoT applications:
With the increasing spread of the Internet of Things (IoT), the 450 MHz band plays a key role in networking sensors and actuators in remote and hard-to-access areas, such as agriculture or public safety.
Emergency and disaster communication:
Due to its range and penetration capability, the band is ideal for use in emergencies or disasters where communication is needed in rural areas or deep inside buildings.
Utilisation of the 450 MHz band in Austria
In Austria, the rights of use for the 450 MHz band have been awarded by the regulatory authority RTR (Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH) has been awarded. Here, too, the focus is on utilisation for critical infrastructures, with the emphasis on the energy industry.
The most important areas of application in Austria include:
Energy supply:
Similar to Germany, the frequency band is used for the development of smart grids and for communication between energy suppliers. This supports the expansion of renewable energies and the stabilisation of the grid.
M2M communication:
The 450 MHz band is also increasingly being used for machine-to-machine (M2M) communication in various industries. This allows machines and devices to communicate with each other and be monitored even in remote areas.
Comprehensive networks:
Austria uses the 450 MHz band to enable nationwide communication solutions, especially in rural regions that are difficult to access for many mobile communications technologies.
Summary - 450 MHz
To summarise, the 450 MHz frequency band in Germany and Austria plays a central role in the expansion of secure and reliable communication networks for critical infrastructures. It offers many advantages, especially for energy suppliers, IoT applications and emergency communications, while at the same time enabling cost-efficient network coverage in rural areas.