Unlocking the potential of Terahertz spectrum
Ofcom is seeking opinions on how to maximise the long-term value of Terahertz spectrum. Terahertz spectrum is between around 100 GHz and 3 THz – at the very top of the spectrum range currently authorised for use. It’s currently used for limited scientific applications – including to deliver high-sensitivity measurements for weather forecasting and climate change predictions. Nonetheless advances in technology are starting to open up further opportunities.
Terahertz spectrum could, for example, enable:
• Terabit-speed downloads for very short-range computer communication
• Robotic controls
• Autonomous vehicles
• High-definition holographics and high-speed wireless data distribution
• Applications likely to evolve in 6G networks
To help realise the full advantages of Terahertz, Ofcom intend to ensure their approach to managing spectrum is as flexible and efficient as possible – both to enable existing services to grow as well as supporting innovative new ones.
The unique properties and capabilities of new technologies mean the rules and approaches to spectrum authorisation that apply at lower frequencies need not dictate the way we approach the authorisation and use of Terahertz spectrum. Greater collaboration and cooperation between the different types of emerging spectrum users in these bands will be essential in underpinning an alternative approach. More details can be found here.
Qualcomm, TIM and Ericsson claim the new long-distance mmWave 5G world record
The Italian carrier TIM, Ericsson and Qualcomm have collaborated on a project to push millimeter-wave 5G reception beyond its current limits. This work has resulted in the ability to pick this signal up at high speed from 6.5 kilometers away. Then again, this was not done with smartphones, but rather with equipment for potential next-gen wireless broadband. Read more on this article here. Published by: Notebookcheck
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) enables network providers to deliver ultra-high-speed broadband to residential and rural areas, supporting home and business uses where fibre is prohibitively expensive to provide and maintain.
5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) employs standardised 3GPP architectures and common mobile components to deliver ultra-high-speed broadband services to residential and business customers.
In the lower bands of the wireless spectrum 5G Fixed Wireless Access can be used to quickly and cheaply deliver another option instead of wired broadband. In the millimetre wavelengths, 5G FWA can provide a level of service bandwidth capacity comparable to fibre optics.
RN Electronics Receives EN 302 567 Accreditation for 60 GHz Testing
19th June, 2020
RN Electronics, a leading wireless and EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) testing laboratory, have announced that they have received EN 302 567 accreditation for IEEE 802.11ad testing services from the UKAS accreditation body. EN 302 567 covers multiple-gigabit per second radio equipment operating in the 60 GHz band (57 to 66 GHz).
The 60 GHz millimetre band has many advantages over lower RF frequencies; it allows for considerably increased transmission rates of data, with speeds up to multiple gigabits per second that previously have only been possible using fibre optic cables. Oxygen absorption allows for more 60 GHz radio links to be established in a vicinity than would be the case for other bands and improves the security of the communication. Also, in Europe, USA and other countries, the band is ‘unlicensed’ so can be used as long as the device meets the relevant regulations.
Paul Ray, Managing Director said: “RN Electronics are excited to be working with industry-leading companies to deliver compliant millimetre wave devices that are transforming wireless communication.”
The IEEE 802.11ad and 802.11ay standards support emerging networks including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Small Cells as well as point-to-point communication. RN Electronics specialise in the testing of these devices and is one of the few laboratories able to provide accredited testing to EN 302 567.
Contact us to discuss your 802.11ad and 802.11ay device testing requirements.
Ofcom publishes latest spectrum measurement results
Ofcom has published the latest results from there spectrum measurement programme. They have measured the electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from equipment used to transmit mobile signals and other wireless services for a number of years. With all four UK mobile networks launching 5G services in the last year, they have extended their measurement programme to cover the frequencies being used for 5G.
We measured EMF emissions at 16 5G sites in 10 cities across the UK, focusing on areas where mobile use is likely to be highest. At every site, emissions were a small fraction of the levels included in international guidelines– set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). And the maximum measured at any site was approximately 1.5% of those levels.
They will continue their measurement programme, including at further 5G sites, and publish data regularly.
Proposed licence conditions
Manufacturers, installers and operators of wireless equipment should already be aware of the ICNIRP guidelines, and factor them in to how they plan their services.
To ensure this always remains the case, Ofcom are proposing new licence conditions for spectrum licensees using equipment that can transmit at power levels above 10 Watts. These proposals would mean licensees must operate within the ICNIRP guidelines as a condition of their Ofcom licence – including keeping data and records of any testing to demonstrate their compliance.
Ofcom welcome responses to this consultation by 15 May 2020.
Published by: Ofcom
Releasing airwaves for mobile services next year
Ofcom has announced updated proposals to release crucial airwaves to meet growing demand for mobile broadband and support the rollout of 5G.
To help improve mobile services and enable more people and businesses can access 5G networks, we are planning to release more mobile airwaves through an auction in spring 2020. Following our consultation in December last year, we have published updated proposals for how the auction will work.
Airwaves opened up to support wireless revolution
Farmers, factories and business parks are some of the groups that could benefit from a revolution in wireless technology, following a decision by Ofcom today to open up airwaves to enable innovation and support new services.
Read more: Airwaves opened up to support wireless revolution
