What is narrowband?
Narrowband refers to a communication channel that can carry only a small range of frequencies, typically a few kilohertz. Because the bandwidth is limited, only low‑rate data (like voice or simple sensor readings) can be transmitted over it.
Let's break it down
- Bandwidth is the width of the frequency range a signal uses. Think of it like the width of a road: a wider road (more bandwidth) lets more cars (data) travel at once.
- Narrowband = a narrow road. It only allows a few cars per second, so the data moves slowly.
- It is often used for analog voice calls, simple telemetry, or low‑speed IoT devices.
Why does it matter?
Because narrowband uses less spectrum, it can be cheaper to license and easier to manage. It also works well in environments with lots of interference or where power is limited, making it ideal for long‑range, low‑power applications.
Where is it used?
- Traditional telephone voice lines (PSTN)
- Radio communications like walkie‑talkies and VHF/UHF ham radio
- Low‑power wide‑area network (LPWAN) technologies such as NB‑IoT (Narrowband IoT)
- Remote sensor networks (e.g., weather stations, utility meters)
Good things about it
- Low cost for spectrum and equipment
- Low power consumption, extending battery life for devices
- Better penetration through obstacles (walls, foliage) due to lower frequencies
- Simpler hardware and protocols, which can be more reliable in harsh conditions
Not-so-good things
- Limited data speed; not suitable for video, large files, or high‑bandwidth apps
- Can become congested if many devices share the same narrow channel
- Higher latency for some applications because data is sent in small, infrequent packets
- Less flexibility for future upgrades that may require more bandwidth.