Spectrum and Standardization for THz Communications

Spectrum aspects and standardization efforts for wireless communications in the frequency range 252–450 GHz have been observed since 2008. These activities have yielded already one wireless standard and a revision at around 300 GHz published by IEEE 802 (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) in 2017 and 2023 as well as the identification of additional 137 GHz of spectrum for terahertz (THz) communications by the World Radio Communication Conference (WRC) in 2019. Moreover, THz communications are seen as one candidate for the standardization of the upcoming sixth generation of mobile wireless system (6G) at 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project). This chapter provides an overview of the current status and ongoing activities in spectrum aspects and standardization for THz communications. Furthermore, the chapter includes a detailed description of the regulatory situation in the 252–450 GHz frequency range. Finally, a summary of the already existing IEEE standard and ongoing further efforts toward new standards is provided.