White Spaces: Technological Context & International Outlook

Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione

White Spaces:
Technological Context &
International Outlook

Fulvio Ananasso
Director of Studies, Research & Education

Giornata di studio “White Spaces: dalla TV ad Internet”
Torino, 24 Ottobre 2011
www.agcom.it
F. Ananasso – “White Spaces” - 24 Ottobre 2011

Outline
1. WHITE SPACES IN EUROPE
• Introduction
• Regulatory implications & cognitive functionalities for using white
spaces based on RSPG activities
• Some RSPG activities in progress
• CEPT technical activities
• UK approach and trials
• The Italian scenario – the ISBUL Research Program and “Catasto
delle Frequenze”
2. WHITE SPACES OUTSIDE EUROPE
• U.S. FCC approach and trials
• IEEE
• International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
3. WHITE SPACES – A COMMECIAL INITIATIVE (ASA)
4. CONCLUSIONS
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F. Ananasso – “White Spaces” - 24 Ottobre 2011 2

Outline
• Introduction
delle Frequenze”
• IEEE
4. CONCLUSIONS
www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES: preliminary definitions
“… to allow unlicensed radio transmitters to operate in the broadcast
television spectrum at locations where that spectrum is not being used by
licensed service (this unused TV spectrum is often labeled as „white
Space‟)” [Source: FCC]
“‟White Space‟ is a label indicating a part of the spectrum, which is
available for a radiocommunication application (service, system) at a given
time in a given geographical area on a non-interfering / non-protected
basis with regard to other services with a higher priority on a national
Basis” [Source: CEPT Report 24]
White spaces
power
time

frequency

Spectrum in use
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WHITE SPACES IN EUROPE
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Introduction (1/2)
In the EU2020 growth strategy, and in particular the Digital
Agenda, one of the key objectives for the EU policy is to
enhance the quality of life of European citizens.
This includes lowering access barriers to spectrum for new
uses and users, in so promoting innovation and competition,
strengthening the internal market and fostering digital inclusion
and social cohesion.
Spectrum management can contribute to efforts to bridge the
digital divide through enabling ubiquitous broadband access,
highly contributing therefore to the objectives of smart, inclusive,
sustainable growth envisaged in the EU2020 strategy.
In this context, the RSPG (Radio Spectrum Policy Group),
established by the European Commission, plays a major role.
The possible use of white spaces spectrum has already been
addressed in the RSPG work on Digital Dividend, Cognitive
Technologies, Short Range Devices under the CUS model
(Collective Use of Spectrum), and in general the RSPP (Radio
Spectrum Policy Program).
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Introduction (2/2)
The possible use of white spaces, although a general concept,
has been recently addressed mainly in the frequency band
470-790 MHz (TV band), based on the activities related to the
digital switchover of broadcasting networks.
Some aspects related to the possible use of white spaces were
discussed at European level by the RSPG (Radio Spectrum
Policy Group), chaired by AGCOM in 2010 (presently vice
chair).
Examples are the following RSPG Opinions :
 Opinion on Cognitive Technologies, February 2011
 Opinion on the Radio Spectrum Policy Program, June 2010
 Opinion on the Digital Dividend, September 2009
 Opinion on Collective Use of Spectrum, November 2008
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Cognitive functionalities (1/5)
In its Opinion on Cognitive Technologies (RSPG10-348 Final), RSPG
addressed different methods Cognitive Radio can use to acquire information
about the operating radio environment -- both separately or in combination.
 Sensing is a functionality whereby a scan of (a dedicated part of) the
spectrum is made to provide a real-time “map” of the radio environment.
Sensing is a technology that is still under development
 A Cognitive Pilot Channel (CPC) is a dedicated carrier providing
frequency usage information for the intended band in a given area – e.g.
transmitting beacon signals. CPC as a concept is still in the equipment
research phase. Both technical and business evaluations are currently
ongoing on the implementation of a CPC. Some of these research
activities on the CPC are ongoing in Europe, e. g. in the framework of
FP7 and ETSI TC-RRS.
 Usage of a Data Base seems the most feasible and flexible way forward
to provide reliable real time information updates on spectrum usage.
Manufacturers will have to ensure that the CR device can connect to the
suitable database(s) and provide the appropriate geo-location information
and possibly other information that can be used to classify its use (e.g.
fixed / mobile, indoor / outdoor, master / slave etc.).
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RSPG recommends that (Opinion on Cognitive Technologies):
1. implementing measures to introduce the CR technologies
could be left to Member states as long as border coordination
issues are addressed for each band concerned and the work
of CEPT and standardization bodies, including ETSI, as well
as the following recommendations are taken into account;
2. a platform shall be created to allow researchers, academia,
manufacturers, operators, service providers and regulators to
coordinate research activities; this platform could be built
upon already existing platforms with comparable purposes,
notably COST-TERRA;
3. Administrations and the EC should request ETSI to study the
relevant means that could be implemented in order to secure
the access from CR devices to the relevant database and the
exchange of information between them;
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4. Administrations, when implementing CR technologies that
require to utilize databases should -- possibly with CEPT
indications guidance:
a. indicate how the databases should be certified or accredited,
supplied and updated by national regulatory bodies, and to
supply relevant information to CR systems;
b. provide information to database managers on algorithms (HS);
c. provide information on incumbents -- directly or through a
designated entity;
5. Administrations, in relation with the EC and TCAM
(Telecommunications Conformity Assessment and Market
Surveillance Committee), should give ETSI relevant
information on suitable data elements, equipment behavior
and output signal radio characteristics, in order to allow ETSI
to develop harmonized standards;
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6. where applicable, ETSI-developed Cognitive Radio
harmonized standard should include:
a. instruction for measurement / tests in support of the R&TTE-Directive;
b. relevant information on how CR device could access only certified or
authorized databases;
c. HS (Harmony Search) information that should be given to CR devices
from the database for a given period of time;
d. information to be supplied by the CR device to the database including
appropriate geo-location information;
e. means to secure transmission between the database and CR device;
7. the European standardization bodies should liaise with similar
institutions to foster worldwide coordination; a successful
deployment of CRS will require economies of scale;
8. TCAM should keep updated Notified Bodies regarding specific
requirements under the R&TTE Directive for CR devices;
9. EC should investigate whether research facilities can be made
available to carry out some early stage testing on CR devices.
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Some RSPG activities in progress
Some activities are in progress (e.g. RSPG WG on Collective
Use and other spectrum sharing techniques in WP2011) such as:
 review of innovative sharing arrangements applicable to the
frequency spectrum in general;
 analysis of sharing techniques to facilitate utilization of white space
spectrum (generic approach), including review of progress on white
spaces implementation in the broadcasting bands;
 requirements for further RSPG work on shared access to spectrum.
Particular attention on possible new regulatory approaches to
spectrum sharing by different users (primary users / incumbents
and new users), based on sharing conditions to give, if possible,
some rights to the new users, making it possible for them to
provide services with a predictable quality of service (QoS).
It is now under consideration a new draft concept called ASA
(Authorized Shared Access), recently proposed by an industry
consortium. The new concept needs further investigation.
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione CEPT technical activities (1/4)

In 2007, the European Commission requested the CEPT
(European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications
Administrations) to study technical considerations regarding
harmonization options for the Digital Dividend in the band 470-
862 MHz and to inspect preliminarily the practicability of
implementation of new / future applications within the white
space spectrum in that band.
A project team from the CEPT Electronic Communications
Committee (ECC) Spectrum Engineering Working Group - WG
SE PT43 - is in charge of defining technical and operational
requirements for CR operation in the “white spaces” of the UHF
broadcasting band (470-790 MHz), with the aim at
guaranteeing the protection of incumbent radio systems.
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On 27 June 2008, in response to the EC Mandate, the CEPT Report 24
(Report C) was issued : “A preliminary assessment of the feasibility of fitting
new / future applications / services into non-harmonised spectrum of the
digital dividend (namely the so-called "white spaces" between allotments)”.
Such Report is a preliminary view of the practicability of implementation of
new / future applications in the white space spectrum -- 470-862 MHz band.
 The re-planning activity started after Geneva 06 Agreement and the
WRC-2007, that identified digital dividend at 800 MHz, has reduced the
potential for white spaces availability.
 Any new white space applications should be used on a non protected
and non interfering basis.
In parallel, the Frequency Management Working Group (WG FM) must
cooperate with ETSI to identify possible candidate bands for services
implementing CR technologies. Two categories of bands are considered:
 bands already used by systems evolving towards CR by implementing
cognitive functionalities, and
 bands, already assigned to primary systems, where secondary systems
can be introduced provided that harmful interference is avoided by
means of cognitive technologies.
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In 2011 the CEPT Electronic Communications Committee (ECC) approved
the ECC REPORT 159 on “Technical and operational requirements for the
possible operation of cognitive radio systems in the „white spaces‟ of the
frequency band 470-790 MHz”.
The report identifies a range of
possible deployment scenarios for
white space devices (WSDs)
and, in the absence of specific
system characteristics related to
WSDs, sets up some key
assumptions, such as the use of
OFDM technology for WSDs, in
order to perform first sharing
studies. This resulted in a number
of different recommendations for
the technical and operational
requirements that should be
applied to WSD operating in the
frequency band 470-790 MHz to
protect the various incumbents.
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The main conclusion when dealing with protection of broadcasting
services is that the use of a geo-location database appears to be
the most feasible option. Administrations who intend to authorize the
use of geo-location database to assist WSD use, will have to decide
on the most appropriate parameters and algorithms that are the most
relevant for their own specific national circumstances.
The report also dealt with some aspects about the protection of
Program Making & Special Events (PMSE), Radio Astronomy (RAS) in
the 608-614 MHz band, Aeronautical Radio Navigation (ARNS) in the
645-790 MHz band, and Mobile / Fixed services in bands adjacent to
470-790 MHz band.
However, the methodologies adopted are not fully developed. Some
issues were not fully defined and require further assessment, taking
into account the innovative nature of cognitive techniques, the ongoing
research and industry activities in this field. It is then recognized that
the Report may need to be updated in a relatively short timeframe, in
order to reflect the latest technology developments and to deal with
some aspects not fully defined and developed in the Report.
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione UK road-map (1/3)
Since its launch in 2005, the OFCOM Digital Dividend Review (DDR) has
considered how to make the spectrum freed up by digital switchover (DSO)
available for new uses. This includes the capacity available within the
spectrum that will be retained to carry the national DTT multiplexes after
DSO, and lies between 470 and 790MHz.
In the 2007 statement on DDR, OFCOM considered the use of interleaved
spectrum by license-exempt devices concluding that this should be the
appropriate use as long as it would not cause harmful interference to
licensed uses -- including DTT and PMSE.
February 2009: OFCOM published a consultation entitled “Digital dividend:
cognitive access. Consultation on license-exempting cognitive devices using
interleaved spectrum” -- on the sensing threshold levels that would be
needed for license-exempt devices making use of sensing alone.
July 2009: in a subsequent (the “July 2009 Statement”) “Digital dividend:
cognitive access. Statement on license-exempting cognitive WSDs using
interleaved spectrum” OFCOM concluded that, for use by a license-exempt
devices, the beacon approach was inferior to the other two  appropriate to
proceed with regulation enabling both sensing and geo-location.
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November 2009: OFCOM published a discussion document entitled “Digital
Dividend: Geolocation for Cognitive Access. A discussion on using
geolocation to enable licence-exempt access to the interleaved spectrum”
(the “November 2009 Consultation”).
November 2010: based on the responses received, workshops held with
key stakeholders and further analysis, OFCOM published its Implementing
geo-location consultation, seeking comments from interested stakeholders,
including potential database administrators.
September 2011: OFCOM published a statement which set out OFCOM‟s
intention to allow White Space Devices (WSDs) to access the TV white
space providing that no harmful interference is caused to existing services.
In this document the approach is based on the geo-location database use,
along with the ultimate ability of the regulator to control the emission levels
allowed by databases and to prevent WSDs from transmitting if necessary.
OFCOM also explained the UK‟s preference for a harmonised approach to
WSDs across Europe, which it considered would deliver greatest benefits for
citizens and consumers.
www.agcom.it

OFCOM also plans to work with stakeholders to make information about
existing licensed services that operate in the TV band available to prospective
database providers.
OFCOM will also
specify consult
further on the
database
requirements and
the providers that
wish to be
accredited by
OFCOM.
OFCOM expects
that White Space
technology could
be launched in
the UK in 2013.
www.agcom.it

Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione UK approach (1/2)
White Space technology will work in a similar way to Wi-Fi, which
uses a wireless router to send and receive information to other
wireless devices. The main difference is that the White Space
router – or „master‟ device as it is known technically – will first
need to consult a list of databases hosted online. It will notify one
of these databases of its location and update it on a regular basis.
The database will then return details of the radio-frequencies and
power levels it is allowed to use. This will ensure that the devices
do not interfere with existing licensed users of the spectrum, which
include Digital Terrestrial Television and wireless microphone
users. OFCOM has decided to allow multiple third-party providers
to develop databases, which will create a competitive marketplace
and incentivize operators to provide the best database.
OFCOM has decided to make White Space devices license
exempt. This means that they will be allowed to operate without
the need for an OFCOM license on the condition that they do not
cause harmful interference to existing users of the spectrum.
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione UK approach (2/2)

Database-assisted access to white spaces:
1. WSD consult a list of WSDBs on a website hosted by Ofcom or third party and
selects its preferred WSDB;
2. WSD sends its location and device attributes to a selected WSDB;
3. WSDB returns operating parameters (e.g. Maximum radiated power &
frequency) to the WSD based on protection criteria and requirements defined
by Ofcom; WSDM will take information by a database of incumbent licensed
users and, based on a technical algorithm, will identifies available TV
channels and computes maximum permitted WSD power;
4. WSD radiates according to the operating parameters specified by WSDB.
www.agcom.it

Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione UK Cambridge Trails (1/5)
In the meantime, starting in June 2011, trials are underway in
Cambridge (UK) to explore the use of white spaces in
broadcasting band for other wireless applications.
The trial is attempting to show how this unused broadcasting
spectrum can be used to supplement existing wireless
broadband and cellular networks without impacting on TV
broadcast services in order to meet the increasing demand for
mobile data.
The consortium involved in the trial includes broadcasters,
operators, consultants, software companies and manufacturers.
Some of the applications they are hoping to demonstrate using
white space technology include wireless data services in urban
centres, home networks, mobile broadband in rural areas and
support to an array of intelligent connected devices that
communicate with one another (“Internet of Things”).
www.agcom.it

The Consortium Partners are BBC, BSkyB, BT, Cambridge
Consultants, Microsoft Corp, Neul, Nokia, Samsung, Spectrum
Bridge Inc. and TTP.

www.agcom.it

The biggest TVWS trial in the world, made possible with a multi-site test
licence from OFCOM
 ~14 UHF channels are available for use, in the range 470 to 790 MHz
 in depth test and measurement programme designed to feed into
regulatory framework development
 mix of urban and rural access point locations
 multiple geo-location databases
 multiple use cases

www.agcom.it

Devices being trialled concern WiFi, Rural Broadband and
Machine to Machine communications (M2M).
Enhanced Wi-Fi: The majority of current Wi-Fi devices operate
in spectrum at 2.4 GHz. White Spaces could provide new
capacity, while boosting the range of devices, potentially
enabling Wi-Fi networks that stretch across towns and cities.
This is thanks to the lower frequency of TV White Spaces
(typically between 470 and 790 MHz).
Rural broadband: White Spaces could be used to provide rural
locations with broadband services. In practice, this could be
achieved by building a network of transmitters that use White
Spaces to link remote houses and villages to larger towns that
are already connected to the internet. Trials are currently being
undertaken by industry to test this on the island of Bute,
Scotland.
www.agcom.it


Machine-to-Machine Communications: A relatively new
area of innovation, Machine-to-Machine Communications
allows information to be exchanged between devices. Many
experts believe that in the coming years billions of devices will
be able to connect wirelessly and via the internet for a range
of applications. White spaces could be used to wirelessly
transmit this information, using its additional range to reach
deep inside buildings. This could be especially useful for
wirelessly measuring utility meters in consumers‟ homes –
just one of a wide number of potential applications. Other
examples include using White Spaces to make it easier for
scientists to conduct research by automating the
measurement of different readings.

www.agcom.it

Obiettivi Programma ISBUL
“Infrastrutture e Servizi a Banda
Larga e UltraLarga”
Porre le basi per un presidio permanente dell‟Autorità sulle
tematiche tecnologiche, normative, economiche, … relative agli
aspetti infrastrutturali delle Reti di Nuova Generazione a banda
larga e ultra larga, al fine di ottenere risultati utili alla
promozione e allo sviluppo delle reti, a vantaggio dell‟intera
collettività, relativamente a:
 Accesso “Fiber To The x” (FTTx) nello sviluppo della NGAN
 Broadband Wireless Access (BWA)
 Digital Dividend e uso dello Spettro < 3,5 GHz
 Neutralità della Rete e Sicurezza delle Infrastrutture di TLC
 Contenuti Audiovisivi e Media
 Aspetti normativi / opere civili / condivisione condotti e
infrastrutture
 Aspetti economici, Business Planning e opzioni di
finanziamento, modelli investimenti pubblici / privati (PPP)
 Impatto della Regolamentazione sull‟Economia; ….
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Programma ISBUL
 Il Programma di Ricerca, del valore di 700.000 euro, è
articolato su 3 aree disciplinari (Progetti Tecnologico,
Economico e Giuridico) e 14 sottoprogetti (Work Packages)
completato nel 2009
 numerose Università coinvolte, con i più importanti accademici
della materia -- Milano (Bocconi e Politecnico), Napoli Federico
II, Roma (LUISS, Roma Tre, Sapienza e Tor Vergata), Siena,
Politecnico di Torino, Imperial College (Londra)
 valore aggiunto specifico dalla trasversalità dei temi trattati e
dall‟approccio metodologico che stimola sia gli approfondimenti
“verticali” (all‟interno delle 3 aree disciplinari), sia quelli
“interdisciplinari” -- temi trasversali ai diversi progetti /
sottoprogetti:
 promozione di investimenti efficienti e condivisione dei rischi
 ladder of investment e nuovi modelli di accesso
 gestione della transizione verso le NGN
 mercati geografici e digital divide
 digital spectrum dividend
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Program Management
F.Ananasso
Steering Committee inter-Struttura AGCom (SCom)
WP 0 (Assistenza Program Management) - C.Leporelli
M.Listanti A.Nicita G.Napolitano
PROGETTO 1. Quadro PROGETTO 2. Quadro PROGETTO 3. Quadro
Tecnico Infrastrutturale Economico Regolatorio Giuridico Normativo
(QTI) – A.Milan (QER) – I.Pinto (QGN) A.Vercelli

WP 1.1. WP 2.1. Nuovi Modelli WP 2.1.Semplificazione
Infrastrutture di Rete Interconnessione Amministrativa
Fissa - M.Dècina C.Cambini G. Napolitano

WP 1.2. Accesso Radio WP 2.2. Opzioni WP 3.2. Servizi /
M.Ajmone Marsan Finanziamento NGN Applicazioni di Pubblica
S.Frova Utilità – G. De Minico
WP 1.3. Catasto
Infrastrutture WP 2.3. Fattori WP 3.3.
V. Del Giudice Abilitanti Domanda di Governance di Sistema
Servizi - A. Del Monte A. Nicita
WP 1.4. NGN Service
Layer – L.Paura WP 2.4. Impatto WP 3.4.
Investimenti NGN Obblighi Co-locazione
WP 1.5. Trasmissione sullo Sviluppo Accordi Condivisione
contenuti TV / Economico del Paese Istallazioni – G.Visentini
Multimediali – L.Paura F. Sacco
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AGCOM Research Programs
The ISBUL Research Program (2008-2010) addressed juridical,
technological and economic aspects of Infrastructures and
Services for Broadband and Ultra-Broadband Networks, in
collaboration with several Italian Universities:
- Milan (Bocconi and Polytechnic), Naples (Federico II)
- Rome (LUISS, Roma Tre, Sapienza e Tor Vergata)
- Siena, Polytechnic of Turin and Imperial College (London)
The “SCREEN” Research Program (2012) focuses on Services
and Contents for Next Generation Networks, in collaboration with:
- Universities of Roma (Roma Tre, Sapienza), Bologna,
Urbino, IULM (Milan) and telematic University “Nettuno”
- Fondazione Ugo Bordoni (FUB)
- Bocconi University (Milan)
- Federico II University (Naples)
- Polytechnic of Turin
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Program Management (AGCOM)
WP 1. WP 2. WP 3. WP 4.
La Società La domanda di L‟offerta di servizi I mercati dei
dell‟Informazione: servizi digitali digitali e servizi e contenuti
utenti, contenuti e Future Internet digitali
social networks
Task 3.1. Task 4.1.
I servizi per gli Innovazione nei
Task 1.1. Task 2.1. mercati dei servizi
utenti e le
Gli utenti Il digital divide digitali
imprese

Task 1.2. Task 1.2. Task 3.2. Task 4.2.
I contenuti L‟e-inclusion Le piattaforme La concorrenza
nei nuovi mercati
applicative
Task 1.3.
Task 3.3. Task 4.3.
I social AGCOM Future internet: Internet economy
networks
e motori di ricerca
gli scenari

Programma di Ricerca Task 3.4. Università /
2012 “Servizi e Contenuti Future internet: i Enti di Ricerca
fattori abilitanti
per le NGN” (SCREEN)
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Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione “tag cloud”

Telepresence
Cloud Computing
Net Neutrality
Telemedecine End-User Innovation
Netcitizen Internet of things
Telework
SCREEN E-learning
Persuasive
Content Unlocking
Media
Future Internet
Social Network
Copyright & Copyleft
Web 3.0 Blogs Prosumer
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AN ENABLING TOOL:
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione CATASTO DELLE FREQUENZE (1/12)

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

A Geographic Proximity Query
www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

DVB-T/H transmitters within 500 m
range

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

DVB-T/H transmitters within 1 km range
www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

DVB-T/H transmitters within 10 km range
www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:
CATASTO DELLE FREQUENZE (10/12)

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

www.agcom.it

AN ENABLING TOOL:

The returned
output from the
tool:

A DVB-T / H
coverage DB can be
realized based on
available DB,
showing the effective
occupancy of UHF
channels at a given
time in a given
geographical area.

www.agcom.it

Outline
• Introduction
• The Italian scenario – the “ISBUL” Research Program and “Catasto
delle Frequenze”
• IEEE
4. CONCLUSIONS
www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES OUTSIDE EUROPE
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione U.S. FCC (1/6)
RSPG Opinion on Cognitive Technologies includes also information
on work outside Europe (FCC and IEEE) and list of FCC documents
on Cognitive Radio in U.S. TV White Spaces.
In 2002 the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
established a Spectrum Policy Task Force (SPTF) to identify and
evaluate changes in spectrum policy that will increase the public
benefits derived from the use of radio spectrum.
Based on SPTF‟s report, the FCC issued a Notice of Inquiry in 2002
concerning additional spectrum for unlicensed devices below 900
MHz and in the 3 GHz band. This opened up the possibility of using
the "fallow" UHF TV bands for unlicensed devices. Between 2003 and
2010, a series of exploratory documents were followed by Notices of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRMs) and Reports and Orders.
In November 2008 the FCC unanimously agreed to open up the white
space unused spectrum that sits between TV channels for unlicensed
use. Even so, technical issues to allow device makers and service
providers to use the spectrum still need to be worked out.
www.agcom.it


www.agcom.it

In September 2010 the FCC approved rules for the use of unlicensed
white space spectrum in a move that could pave the way for more
unused wireless spectrum to be released in the future.
FCC-10-174 (Second Memorandum Opinion & Order) expresses their
"final" position on the matter. This document addresses a wide variety
of issues relating to unlicensed use of the TV bands, including:
– Protection criteria for Incumbent Authorised Services
– Technical rules for TV band devices
– Database Requirements for TV band devices
– Channels that can be used by TV band devices (e.g. fixed devices
cannot operate on channels adjacent to occupied TV channels)
– Technical requirements and cognitive capabilities.
In particular, FCC-10-174 approves a number of measures to simplify
co-existence with existing services already using the spectrum.
The Order eliminates the requirement that radios (incorporating geo-
location and database access) must first sense TV broadcast signals.
www.agcom.it

It would not be required to include spectrum sensing technology in
new devices to ensure that these products do not interfere with other
services.
Instead, devices will query a special geo-location database that
makes sure no one is using that spectrum before it transmits. This
database check is requested to prevent white space services from
interfering with broadcast TV signals.
Among these measures, the Order dedicates two vacant UHF
channels for wireless microphones and other low power auxiliary
service devices in all areas of the United States.
In the event where the two reserved UHF channels are unavailable or
insufficient, unlicensed wireless microphone users are required to
register in the TV band databases to receive the same geographical
spacing protections as licensed Wireless Microphone users.
It was also established by FCC-10-174 to select (third party)
companies that will manage the database going forward.
www.agcom.it


Thus, in February 2011 (Order DA 11-131), FCC designate 9
entities as TV bands device database administrators, subject to
FCC conditions.
Entities are: Comsearch, Frequency Finder Inc., Google Inc., KB
Enterprises LLC and LS Telcom, Key Bridge Global LLC, Neustar
Inc., Spectrum Bridge Inc., Telcordia Technologies, and WSdb LLC
The TV bands databases will be used to identify unused channels
that are available at their geographic locations and the designated
administrators will develop the databases that are necessary to
enable the introduction of this new class of broadband wireless
devices in the TV spectrum.
Each database will be subject to a public trial period of not less than
45 days to ensure that the database is providing accurate results
before it is allowed to be made available for regular public use.
www.agcom.it


In September 2011 FCC announced that on September 19,
2011 a 45-day public trial of Spectrum Bridge Inc.‟s TV band
database system would be started.
That was a limited trial mainly intended to allow the public to
access and test Spectrum Bridge‟s database system to
ensure that it correctly identifies channels that are available
for unlicensed TV band devices, properly registers those
facilities entitled to protection, and provides protection to
authorized services and registered facilities as specified in
the rules.
FCC encouraged all interested parties to test the database
and provide appropriate feedback to Spectrum Bridge.

www.agcom.it

Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione IEEE
Standardisation work is underway at the IEEE in a number of areas as a
result of the FCC‟s action on Cognitive Radio.
IEEE 802.22 Working Group on Wireless Regional Area Networks (WRAN)
Enabling Rural Broadband Wireless Access Using Cognitive Radio
Technology in TV Whitespaces is working on the project.
The IEEE has standardised Cognitive Radio techniques as part of 802.22
(WRAN) that was the first WRAN standard to incorporate CR techniques for
use by license-exempt devices on a non-interfering basis in spectrum that is
allocated to the TV Broadcast Service.
Completed Projects
– IEEE 802.22-2011(TM) Standard for Cognitive Wireless Regional Area Networks
(RAN) for Operation in TV Bands was published as Official IEEE Standard on
July 1st, 2011.
– IEEE 802.22.1-2010(TM) Standard for the Enhanced Interference Protection of
the Licensed Devices was published as Official IEEE Standard on November 1st,
2010.
On-going Project: IEEE P802.22.2 (Standard for Recommended Practice for
Installation and Deployment of 802.22 Systems)
www.agcom.it

International Telecom.Union (ITU) (1/2)
In 2007, the ITU World Radiocommunication Conference
(WRC-07) adopted new agenda item 1.19 requiring WRC-12 to
consider regulatory measures for the introduction of Software-
Defined Radio (SDR) and Cognitive Radio Systems (CRS).
In this regard, WRC-07 adopted Resolution 956 (WRC-07),
inviting ITU-R to study the need for regulatory measures related
to the application of SDR and CRS.
RSPG view on WRC-12 agenda item 1.19 is that particular
attention needs to be paid in ensuring that flexibility at
European level to implement such new and innovative
technologies will not be unduly constrained by Radio
Regulations.
WRC-12 will take place in Geneva from 23 January to 17
February 2012.
www.agcom.it

Direzione Studi, Ricerca e FormazioneInternational Telecom.Union (ITU) (2/2)
Analysis of results of the studies and methods proposed for WRC-12
agenda item 1.19 have been reflected in draft text of the Conference
Preparatory Meeting (CPM). 3 methods are proposed for CRS:
 the 1st method consists in making no change to the Radio Regulations
and developing relevant ITU-R Recommendations and Reports;
 the 2nd method proposes to develop a WRC Resolution calling for studies
on CRS with special emphasis on sharing issues. Based on those
studies, ITU-R Recommendations and Reports would be developed;
 the 3rd method proposes the development of a WRC Resolution calling
for studies on CRS. The resolution would also exclude the operation of
CRS in some bands, e.g. those used by space services (Space-to-
Earth) or Radio Astronomy, until the studies have been completed. In
addition, the resolution would oblige CRS to avoid operations in bands
used by safety services. This method reflects the concerns expressed
by some ITU-R working parties that CRS, which dynamically search for a
free channel, may not be capable of detecting low-power signals of other
services or sporadic operation of some radio links – thus causing harmful
interference.
www.agcom.it

Outline
• Introduction
delle Frequenze”
• IEEE
3. WHITE SPACES – COMMERCIAL INITIATIVE (ASA)
4. CONCLUSIONS
www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Commercial Initiative “ASA” (1/5)
Qualcomm and Nokia propose Authorized Shared Access (ASA) to
spectrum as a "third way" with respect to licensed and license-exempt
regimes for freeing up spectrum for commercial mobile broadband.

www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES
ASA entails a dynamic use of spectrum whenever and wherever it is unused by
incumbent users:
– on a shared and non-interference basis
– subject to individual authorization (i.e. licensed)
in bands allocated to the Mobile Service by the ITU (and identified by IMT) using
cognitive radio techniques, i.e. geo-location databases complemented, if required, by
sensing

ASA can unlock prime
bands for 3G / 4G
services requiring QoS

Device use bands (licensed, ASA, unlicensed)
based on apps, QoS, tariff, bandwidth requirements
www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES

from today…

www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES

…to tomorrow !

www.agcom.it

WHITE SPACES
According to Nokia and Qualcomm, relative to license-exempt ASA could
have benefits for sharers and incumbent users:
• The incumbent will not receive harmful interference, and flexibility of
sharer allows evolution of incumbent‟s use
• The sharer (ASA rights holder) can be held responsible for managing
interference according to pre-defined / agreed criteria, giving additional
security to the existing user
• Sharers can receive assurances over the level of capacity and the
operating conditions in the band
 guarantee quality of service, key for mobile broadband
 makes ASA spectrum attractive to future mobile broadband
businesses, potentially diversifying access to spectrum
• Potential for synergies between incumbent user and sharer, e.g.
infrastructure sharing
• Potential for collaboration and compensation – incumbent right holders
can gain from ASA

www.agcom.it

Outline
• Introduction
delle Frequenze”
• IEEE
4. CONCLUSIONS
www.agcom.it

CONCLUSIONS
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Next steps about White Spaces (1/2)
Taking into account the preliminary nature of some elements
related to the white spaces, the innovative nature of cognitive
techniques and the ongoing research and industry activities in
this field, it is recognized that some areas need to be studied
and / or updated in order, for example, to reflect the latest
developments in the technology.
Main issues that will need further studies for implementing WS in
the band 470-790 MHz band are:
1. Areas related to the regulatory framework
2. Areas related to WSD characteristics -- e.g. possible
specification of the minimum required adjacent channel leakage
ratio for the WSDs for use by geo-location databases
3. Technical considerations on the protection of the broadcasting
service -- e.g. maximum permitted EIRP limits for WSDs
www.agcom.it

CONCLUSIONS
Direzione Studi, Ricerca e Formazione Next steps about White Spaces (2/2)
4. Technical and regulatory considerations on the protection of
Program Making & Special Events (PMSE) and other services
5. Protection of services in the bands adjacent to 470-790 MHz
(further studies are needed on the impact from WSD on
services in the bands adjacent to the 470-790 MHz band, e.g.
on mobile service below 470 MHz and above 790 MHz)
6. Specification and implementation of the requirements for the
geo-location database approach
7. Assessment of the consequential spectrum potentially available
for WSD (it must be taken into consideration that in some
cases it could not be possible to plan the use of WSDs in the
UHF bands on a large scale and local assessments should be
made, on a case by case, based on national circumstances)
8. Trials results and further studies are needed to support any
choice about WSDs implementation.
www.agcom.it


Thank you for your attention !!!

f.ananasso@agcom.it

ISBUL Program Final Report:
http://www.agcom.it/Default.aspx?message=contenuto&DCId=416
www.agcom.it

White Spaces: Technological Context & International Outlook

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