Maximum licensed power meaning

Maximum licensed power is the highest radiated power a licensee is permitted to transmit from a single antenna on a given radio channel under its spectrum licence. It is typically expressed as equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) in dbw per channel. The cap applies per antenna, per channel, and in practice most transmitters operate below this limit. The expression is a technical licensing parameter rather than a statutory definition. In the UK, it appears in Ofcom spectrum licences and interface requirements made under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006; in Ireland, it appears in ComReg licences and related technical conditions. Some licences may instead refer to ERP, or specify alternative measurement assumptions; the governing schedule or technical annex should be checked for the defined channel bandwidth and any averaging or duty-cycle assumptions. The limit is central to radio network design, interference management and regulatory compliance for mobile, fixed wireless, microwave and satellite services. Exceeding the authorised maximum licensed power is a breach of licence conditions and may lead to enforcement action. Usage and legal effect are broadly consistent across England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland.