TV White Space (TVWS) technology utilizes the unused portions of the UHF and VHF television bands, which typically range from 54 MHz to 698 MHz. The propagation characteristics of these frequency bands allow signals to travel over long distances and penetrate through obstacles such as trees and buildings, making TVWS technology a promising solution for providing wireless broadband connectivity in rural and underserved areas.

The actual range of TVWS connections can vary depending on several factors including the transmission power, the sensitivity and height of antennas, the terrain, and the specific frequency being used.

Here are some general figures:

  1. Typical Range:
    • The typical range for TVWS connections can be between 10 to 30 kilometers (6 to 18 miles), but this can be extended with the use of high-gain antennas and optimized network designs.
  2. Extended Range:
    • In some cases, with ideal conditions and specialized equipment, TVWS connections can potentially cover distances of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) or more.
  3. Non-Line-of-Sight (NLoS) and Near-Line-of-Sight (nLoS) Connections:
    • One of the major advantages of TVWS technology is its ability to provide non-line-of-sight (NLoS) and near-line-of-sight (nLoS) connections, which can significantly extend the effective range in challenging environments compared to other wireless technologies that require a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver.
  4. Urban vs Rural Range:
    • In urban settings, the range might be reduced due to interference from other signals and the higher density of obstacles. In contrast, rural settings may allow for longer range connections due to fewer obstructions and less interference.
  5. Channel Width and Modulation:
    • The range can also be affected by the channel width and modulation scheme used. Narrower channels and more robust modulation schemes can provide longer range but at the expense of data rates.

TVWS technology, with its long-range and NLoS capabilities, presents an attractive option for broadband connectivity in diverse environments, especially in rural or remote areas where traditional wired or other wireless solutions are not practical or cost-effective.