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Wireless power limit raised to bridge
digital divide June 05, 2007 Ofcom has allowed fixed broadband internet providers
to double the power of their signals in a move that the UK telecoms regulator says will help bridge the digital divide.
The new rules apply to the 5.8GHz frequency, which is used by fixed WiMax radio technology for wireless internet connections.
The frequency is subject to light regulation from Ofcom which allows the registration of terminals at its website.
The power of base stations in the spectrum is limited, though. They will now be able to increase the power they emit from
two to four watts. This will extend the reach of each base station.
The regulator said in its announcement of the
change that this will allow providers to extend the coverage areas and bridge the digital divide.
"Concern
has been raised that a so-called digital divide exists in the availability of services, particularly broadband, in rural and
urban areas in the UK," said an Ofcom statement. "Ofcom's Communications Market Report: Nations and Regions
showed that the gap is closing and 41% of adults in rural areas have broadband internet at home compared to 45% of adults
in urban areas. Changing regulation in this band, enabling greater geographical coverage, could help to increase access to
wireless broadband in rural areas."
The decision is the result of a consultation into the rise in power limits.
Ofcom has also said that it will soon change its regulations so that users of equipment that communicates via ultra
wide band (UWB) technology will no longer need licences. The very short range systems are commonly used for video wireless
or camera wireless systems.
The rule change will bring the UK into line with an EU Directive which demands that
regulations be changed by 21st August.
"Globalisation of the marketplace and increased interest from businesses
in the potential of UWB technology has led to a growing need for more international solutions which utilise spectrum in a
harmonised manner for UWB technology," said Ofcom. "UWB solutions now have the advanced technical characteristics
necessary, for example, to allow for the co-location of multiple devices in a small area which is a requirement of the Short
Range Device, consumer electronics, retail and logistics industries. Implementation of the Decision on UWB will go some way
towards addressing these requirements and enable the benefits of this new technology to be realised."
Source:
out-law.com
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