What is AFC for Wi-Fi 6E outdoor devices?
When the 6 GHz frequency band was permitted for Wi-Fi 6E use in the US, the FCC mandated an automated frequency coordination (AFC) system to regulate access to the 6 GHz frequencies prior to use.
An AFC database will determine the frequencies and power levels with which APs would be allowed to operate without causing interference to incumbent systems already operating in 6 GHz, such as licensed point-to-point fixed services (FS) and radio astronomy observation systems. AFC is required only for outdoor deployments as well as APs operating with standard power in Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) bands 5 (5.925-6.425 GHz) and 7 (6.525-6.875 GHz).
How does AFC work?
- AFC APs must be capable of determining their geolocation automatically.
- APs must request a list of available channels from AFC every 24 hours. Such a request shall include the AP geolocation, FCCID, and serial number.
- AP makes its own decision on the operating channel and power level but must stop transmitting in 6 GHz if it loses contact with AFC.
How does AFC protect incumbent microwave links?
AFC calculates a protection zone in front of every FS receiver and tests whether any portion of the uncertainty region around the AFC AP touches the protection zone. If so, the AFC AP is prohibited from using any channel that overlaps with the FS.
FCC conditionally approved 13 applicants to operate the AFC system and has been testing them to verify that they operate according to FCC rules. The first AFC system administrator will likely be approved soon to operate in the US this year.
To receive FCC’s approval, standard power APs and fixed client devices must pass the AFC Device Compliance Test run via an AFC test harness (AFC simulator). The testing shall be performed by an Accredited and FCC-recognized test lab.
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