Re: Power restrictions on wireless

On Fri, 7 Aug 2009 00:17:05 +0000 (UTC), whomenoway
<whomenoway@whoops.com> wrote:

>Anyone tell me what the law or FCC regs are on power limits for wifi
>client adapters? Is RF Output 4W (36dBm) (including antenna gain) legal?

It's different for PTP (point to point) and PTMP (point to
multipoint). If your client adapter is talking to an access point or
wireless router, it's doing PTMP. There are also some difference
between the 900, 2400, and 5700MHz bands.

<http://www.lns.com/papers/part15/Regulations_Affecting_802_11.pdf>
<http://www.dslreports.com/faq/wisp/3_Radio_power___other_legal_stuff>
<http://www.wifihowto.org/?mo=HowTo;Item=9>
<http://www.wireless-center.net/Building-Wireless/Power-Limits.html>

>Are these regs enforced?

Enforcement by the FCC, not much.
<http://www.fcc.gov/eb/>
The FCC will act on complaints to licensed services and against
manufacturers that sell uncertified or overpowered equipment. They
don't have the resources to chase individuals. However, if you deploy
an overpowered radio in my back yard, I'm going to organize a
transmitter hunt, with the grand prize being your transmitter. Also,
search this newsgroup for the term "alligator".


--
Jeff Liebermann jeffl@cruzio.com
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558