Radio Frequency

The term Radio Frequency (RF or rf) refers to the electromagnetic field that is generated when an alternating current is input to an antenna. This field, also called an RF field or radio wave, can be used for wireless broadcasting and communications over a significant portion of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum -- from about 9 kilohertz (kHz) to thousands of gigahertz (GHz). This portion is referred to as the RF Spectrum. As the frequency is increased beyond the RF spectrum, electromagnetic energy takes the form of infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), X rays, and gamma rays.

Many types of wireless devices make use of RF fields -- radio, television, cordless and cellular telephones, satellite communication systems, and many measuring and instrumentation systems used in manufacturing. Some wireless devices, such as remote control boxes and cordless mice, operate at IR or visible light frequencies. The RF spectrum is divided into several ranges, or bands. Each of these bands, other than the lowest frequency segment, represents an increase of frequency corresponding to an order of magnitude (power of ten). The chart at the top of the page depcits the eight bands in the RF spectrum, showing frequency and bandwidth ranges.