Ofcom is making the wireless bandwidth used by radio frequency identification (RFID) equipment available free of charge.

The move is part of a Europe-wide recommendation by the Conference of Communications and Postal Administrations (CEPT) to make RFID technology easier to implement.

The bandwidth is already in use by RFID systems, but this move means that companies will no longer have to apply or pay for licences.

‘Ofcom is satisfied that RFID devices pose no threat of interference to other spectrum users so we propose to allow their use in the 865-868MHz band on a licence-exempt basis,’ said Ofcom spokesman Simon Bates.

‘RFID technologies have already shown how useful they can be for consumers and businesses, so it is no surprise that there have been calls for more spectrum to be made available for their use.’

As communications regulator, Ofcom is responsible for how radio bandwidth is shared out in the UK. Under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949, it grants licences for use of frequencies. 

David Lyon, business manager of RFID standards body EPCglobal welcomed the move, saying that it will help businesses who are looking into installing RFID systems.  

‘The move by Ofcom means that this bandwidth is going to be licence and cost exempt, making it less expensive for businesses who want to pilot RFID, and making the whole process a lot smoother,’ he said.