LTE EARFCN Calculator
Convert between EARFCN and frequency per 3GPP TS 36.101. F_DL = DL_low + 0.1 × (EARFCN − nOffsDL)
Quick examples
3GPP · ITU-R · Okumura-Hata · COST-231
EARFCN Formula (3GPP TS 36.101 §5.7.3)
Each LTE band defines a downlink low frequency (DLlow), an uplink low frequency (ULlow), and EARFCN offsets. The carrier frequency is:
FDL = DLlow + 0.1 × (NDL − nOffsDL)
FUL = ULlow + 0.1 × (NUL − nOffsUL)
Frequencies are in MHz. The 0.1 multiplier gives a 100 kHz channel raster. For FDD bands, the UL EARFCN is the DL EARFCN offset by a fixed per-band constant defined in Table 5.7.3-1 of TS 36.101.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LTE EARFCN?▾
EARFCN (E-UTRA Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Number) uniquely identifies an LTE carrier frequency. Each LTE band is assigned a range of EARFCNs for its downlink, and a separate range for its uplink. EARFCNs are defined in 3GPP TS 36.101 and range from 0 to 65 535.
How do I find the LTE band from an EARFCN?▾
Each LTE band has a defined DL EARFCN range. To find the band, check which range your EARFCN falls into. For example, Band 3 (1800 MHz) covers DL EARFCNs 1200–1949. This calculator performs that lookup automatically.
What is the difference between FDD and TDD bands?▾
FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) uses two separate frequencies — one for downlink and one for uplink. TDD (Time Division Duplex) uses a single frequency shared between DL and UL in alternating time slots. SDL (Supplemental Downlink) bands carry downlink only and have no paired uplink.
What is the LTE channel raster?▾
LTE uses a 100 kHz channel raster, which is why the EARFCN formula multiplies by 0.1. This means consecutive EARFCNs differ by 100 kHz. The centre frequency of any LTE carrier is always a multiple of 100 kHz.