Frequency allocation (or spectrum allocation) is the division of the electromagnetic spectrum into radio frequency bands. This spectrum management is regulated by governments in most countries.Radio propagation does not stop at national boundaries. Giving technical and economic reasons, governments have sought to harmonise the allocation of RF bands and their standardization.
The International Telecommunication Union – defines frequency allocation as being of "a given frequency band for the purpose of its use by one or more terrestrial or space radiocommunication services or the radio astronomy service under specified conditions".
Frequency allocation is also a special term, used in national frequency administration. Other terms are:
A number standards bodies work on standards for frequency allocation, including:
In order to improve harmonisation in spectrum utilisation, the majority of service-allocations stipulated in this document were incorporated in national Tables of Frequency Allocations and Utilisations which is with-in the responsibility of the appropriate national administration. The allocation might be primary, secondary, exclusive, and shared.
However, military usage, in bands where there is civil usage, will be in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations. In NATO countries military mobile utilizations will be in accordance with the NATO Joint Civil/Military Frequency Agreement (NJFA).