Terminology » Q-Band vs. V-Band : Difference between Q and V band

Q-Band vs. V-Band : Difference between Q and V band

q band v band microwave difference between

Introduction: The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into different frequency bands, each with unique properties and applications in wireless communication, satellite systems, and radar. Among these, the Q band (33 to 50 GHz) and the V band (40 to 75 GHz) fall within the millimeter (mmwave) wave region and are gaining increasing importance with the rise of next generation technologies such as 5G, 6G and high capacity satellite communication. While both bands overlap in part of their frequency range, they differ in terms of propagation characteristics, bandwidth availability and practical use cases.

Difference between Q and V band

FeatureQ-BandV-Band
Frequency Range33 to 50 GHz40 to 75 GHz
BandwidthModerateVery high bandwidth
Spectrum OverlapLower part of V band overlaps Q bandIncludes part of Q band but extends higher up to 75 GHz
AttenuationLess atmospheric loss compared to V bandHigher attenuation
LicensingMostly licensedIncludes both licensed and unlicensed spectrum
Typical Use caseLong-range space/radar linksHigh-speed short-range wireless & 5G/6G systems

Conclusion: Both the Q band and V band play a vital role in advancing high frequency communication technologies. The Q band is more widely used in satellite links and radar applications due to its relatively lower atmospheric losses, while the V band provides very high bandwidth, making it ideal for short range, high speed wireless communication in 5G/6G networks.