Radio Spectrum Management

Development of Spectrum Management Policy

As users increasingly demand anywhere, anytime connectivity, the use of wireless technologies has become more and more widespread inevitably forcing an increase in demand for the radio spectrum, particularly at UHF frequencies which support the high bandwidths as well excellent propagation characteristics enabling cost effective network roll-out. However, conflicting requirements from many different users can make it difficult to manage the spectrum efficiently unless there is a policy which a regulator or administration can use to inform critical decisions.

The spectrum management policy, therefore, is a key instrument. It documents the basis on which spectrum managers will take decisions concerning which uses of the radio spectrum to permit, which uses and users of the radio spectrum to give priority to over others and, very importantly, what mechanisms will be used in charging for access to radio spectrum. Its core objective should be to create a predictable environment for current and future use of the radio spectrum, and to enable spectrum to be used in a manner which will bring the greatest benefits to society. This may be achieved through policy elements which:

Encourage efficient spectrum use;
Encourage the introduction of more spectrally efficient technologies;
Support the development of rural communications;
Support the spectrum needs of the emergency and security services; and
Encourage technological innovation and competitiveness.

Developing such policies requires analysis of a number of key factors, notably government policies towards the different sectors which require access to radio spectrum, the future demand for spectrum from the various potential users, the availability of spectrum and international and regional agreements, regulations and restrictions. Policymakers must also understand and take into account the views of many disparate (and often conflicting) users and, where appropriate, international best practice.

Reconciling all these requirements and restrictions in creating a policy which can be used in practical circumstances to inform decisions on spectrum often requires an independent party to work with all interested agencies, providing an unbiased approach to reaching reasonable and workable solutions. InterConnect Communications has extensive experience in working with regulators, administrations and other interested parties worldwide to produce robust, useable policies either for the whole of the radio spectrum or for specific services (such as mobile, broadcasting, maritime, aviation or governmental). Our core areas of expertise cover:

Spectrum Allocation;
Spectrum Assignment;
Spectrum Pricing.

Key Service Areas:

Spectrum Management Policy

28 Feb 2008InterConnect News

Spectrum Master Class

The first Spectrum Master Class of 2008 will take place on 14 - 18 July 2008.

More Information?

For more information about InterConnect's Spectrum services, please contact Phil Harris by phone on +44 (0) 1291 638400.