Ofcom Mulls BFW Spectrum 627800Ofcom Mulls BFW Spectrum 627800

Ofcom proposes opening up new spectrum bands to enable broadband fixed wireless services

May 24, 2006

1 Min Read

LONDON -- Ofcom today published proposals to increase the opportunities for broadbandfixed wireless services, by opening the 71-76GHz and 81-86GHz bands forlicensed use.

At present these spectrum bands are not in commercial use. However, newtechnology offers the possibility of new applications for these higherfrequency bands.

These applications could include very high capacity, point to point wirelessnetworks, which could potentially be used as alternatives to fibre opticcable. Possible data speeds range from 1Gb per second to 10Gb per secondover distances of 1-2 km. In comparison, copper loops typically enableconnection speeds of between 1 and 24 Mbps.

Section 3(2) of the Communications Act 2003 requires Ofcom to secure theoptimal use of the spectrum and Section 154 of the Act requires Ofcom tohave regard to the extent to which the spectrum is available for use.

LIGHT LICENSING PROCESS

Ofcom proposes to adopt a flexible, light licensing approach to making thisspectrum available.

Ofcom is proposing that the band should be licensed on a first come, firstserved basis, rather than auctioned, as the band's unusual properties - highbandwidth, narrow beam - mean that a very large number of users couldco-exist without interference. Demand for the spectrum is therefore veryunlikely to exceed supply.

The consultation runs until 2 August 2006.

Ofcom

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