Radio Spectrum Management

Spectrum Monitoring Systems

Spectrum monitoring systems are the ears of any spectrum management organisation, providing real-time information on radio usage as well as on-the-spot measurements of new and existing radio installations to ensure that all conform to licence conditions. In conjunction with spectrum management systems, they play a key role in policing the use of the radio spectrum and making sure that effective and efficient use of this valuable resource can be controlled.

Spectrum Monitoring Systems

In its most basic form, spectrum monitoring can be conducted with a simple hand-held measuring tool (and indeed even in more sophisticated systems, hand-held units especially for measuring microwave frequencies are very useful). In an advanced form, monitoring systems can comprise a network of remote, automated monitoring stations connected to a central control centre via the telecommunications infrastructure, from where activities are co-ordinated or initiated and the results analysed.

With such a wide range of options potentially available, specifying the right system in any given situation requires careful consideration of the objectives that the system is intended to address. Questions such as:

What geographic coverage is required?
What range of frequencies is to be covered (HF/VHF/UHF/SHF)?
Is operation to be 24/7, office hours or some other mix?
Is control centralised or regionalised?

need to be discussed with interested parties along with broader issues concerning the usage and users of the system. Furthermore, integration with a spectrum management system can provide significant enhancements in functionality and allow the licence database to be compared against actual usage to better identify both unlicensed use and inactive licensees.

InterConnect Communications has worked with numerous regulators and administrations to design, specify and procure spectrum monitoring systems from various manufacturers in many countries around the world. Examples of work to date include:

Advising an Asian government on the design, procurement and commissioning of a spectrum monitoring system, including:
- An appraisal of national needs and a review of international best practice;
- The creation of suitable system specifications and tender documentation;
- Assisting in the evaluation of supplier bids in line with pre-determined criteria
- Assisting during the delivery, installation, acceptance testing and initial operation of the new systems;
Assisting an East European government with the specification and purchase of mobile monitoring systems and the establishment of a centre for training monitoring personnel.

We have also conducted reviews and audits of existing systems to identify upgrade paths, as well as defining the staff and procedural structures which need to be in place to support the operation of such systems.

Key Service Areas:

Spectrum Management & Monitoring Systems

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.