Ofcom, the UK telecommunications regulator, has launched a consultation on updating its spectrum sharing framework. The framework proposes a more flexible management approach to improve local spectrum availability, especially for 5G (mobile/wireless broadband), and associated releases of more shared frequencies. Most frequently used frequencies in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band.
The existing spectrum sharing framework (here), first introduced in 2019, allows large numbers of small mobile and fixed wireless broadband networks to provide local coverage (via 4G, 5G, and other wireless technologies). paved the way for the construction of The shared access license covered spectrum in four specific bands: 1800 MHz, 2300 MHz, 3800-4200 MHz, and 24.25-26.5 GHz (the latter is only available with indoor low-power licenses).
Since then, Ofcom has seen increasing interest in this form of access. 1,500 licenses is currently being published, and many other countries have adopted a similar approach. Demand is expected to continue to grow, and given its success, regulators are now proposing more flexible management approaches to improve local spectrum availability, particularly in the busiest 3.8-4.2 GHz band. Suffice it to say there is.
Ofcom currently offers two main types. shared access license (Mainly differentiated by permitted power level) To accommodate different types of use, we have summarized them below.
shared access license
• Low power license (per area license): This allows users to deploy as many base stations as they want in a circular area with a radius of 50 meters without additional permission from Ofcom. For large sites, you can apply for multiple license areas to achieve the required coverage area.
• Medium power license (per base station license): Given the higher transmit power and wider potential interference area, this license is issued per base station and generally only for deployment in rural areas where it is less likely to constrain low-power users.
The core changes proposed for this are listed below.
Ofcom’s proposal
We identified the following opportunities to update our approach, particularly in the popular 3.8-4.2 GHz band.
We are proposing to update our rules to support new opportunities for our users, while making various process improvements to improve the user experience.
• We propose to allow an additional 3 dB EIRP for our “low power” products to support wider coverage and reduce deployment challenges, especially in urban environments.
• Remove the requirement that users keep certain records for mobile devices connected to low-power indoor base stations in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band to enable a more “neutral host” style solution. I suggest that.
• We propose new steps for additional user input into adjustment decisions, including an option for users to collectively agree that additional deployments can proceed.
• As part of general operational improvements, we will also provide an updated spectrum availability map and progress plan to bring applications online in the first half of 2024.
We update our coordination approach and propose to reduce the separation distance between users to at least about 75% (low power) to 90% (medium power) to support more sharing in the long term. We will continue to consider further improvements.
• We propose to update the technical assumptions that apply when coordinating users in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, with emphasis on base station transmissions and coordinating other users’ terminal receivers. Using updated building penetration loss numbers. Fixed adjacent band coordination with UK Broadband.
We are also considering adjusting our pricing approach for the 3.8-4.2 GHz band.
• We want to explore with stakeholders how we can make spectrum more efficient for everyone by moving to a more incentive-based pricing approach. We will further consult on specific proposals for rate revisions based on stakeholder feedback.
Eagle-eyed people may notice that there is no mention of adoption at all. dynamic spectrum access The (DSA)-based approach described above would have been supported by a fully automated central database of available bands. This was something that Ofcom had considered, but then for the vast majority of shared access users.Maintain a more reliable, less dynamic form of spectrum allocation”
The regulator is now planning to remove this clause from shared access license products, which will put licensees on notice of Ofcom’s intention to move to a DSA approach. However, we intend to maintain license conditions that allow licensees to notify licensees of changes in transmission frequencies for broader spectrum management purposes.
Otherwise, Ofcom is currently seeking feedback on the new consultation and responses will be accepted until the next deadline. February 2, 2024.
