License-free walkie-talkies are two-way communication devices operating on specific frequency band exempted from licensing requirements by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing. License-Free walkie talkies operating on 446–446.2 MHz band with a Maximum effective radiated power (ERP) of 0.5W are classified as License Free. It is mandatory for License- Free Walkie Talkies to have Equipment Type Approval Certificate (ETA) from the WPC.
Licensed Radios in India are communication devices that operate on specific frequency bands regulated by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). These radios are primarily used for commercial, government, and private networks, ensuring clear, interference-free communication over large distances.
VHF Band (30 MHz – 300 MHz):
- Commonly used for public safety, fire services, police communication, and industrial operations.
- Typical ranges include:
- 136–174 MHz for commercial and government use.
- 150–170 MHz for emergency services and industrial networks.
UHF Band (300 MHz – 3 GHz):
- Ideal for urban environments due to better penetration through buildings and obstacles.
- Widely used in:
- 403–470 MHz for commercial and private networks.
- 450–470 MHz for critical infrastructure and logistics.
- 865–867 MHz for RFID and telemetry, but requires a license for high-power applications.
Microwave Bands (Above 1 GHz):
- For point-to-point communication, trunking networks, and satellite links.
- Common frequencies:
- 1.4 GHz, 2.3 GHz, 5.8 GHz for backhaul and high-capacity communication.
Licensing Process
To obtain a license, applicants must:
- Register: On the Saral Sanchar portal for online application submission.
- Submit Documents: Including identity proof, address proof, technical specifications of the equipment, and RF test reports from accredited laboratories.
- Pay Fees: Applicable licensing fees as specified by WPC.
- Await Approval: Processing times can vary
Licensed Radios (including walkie talkies) are communication devices that operate on licensed frequency bands. To obtain a license, applicants must apply on the Saral Sanchar portal. Licensed band walkie talkies including Repeaters, Base/Mobile Radios which require higher transmit power output and have a coverage area much larger than the License-Free walkie talkies. It entails a payment of a recurring WPC statutory fees. Customer cannot buy or operate Licensed radios without prior approval from the WPC.
In the License-Free segment in India, the ETA Number stands for Equipment Type Approval Number. It is a mandatory certification provided by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
- An ETA Number certifies that wireless equipment (like walkie-talkies, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi routers) operating on de-licensed frequency bands (e.g., 865–867 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz) complies with Indian regulatory standards.
- It ensures that the equipment does not interfere with other licensed or critical communication networks.
Common equipment needing ETA:
- License-free walkie-talkies.
- Wi-Fi routers and Bluetooth devices.
- RFID readers and IoT devices.