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GPS or GNSS signal repeaters

GPS repeaters are active devices designed to re-transmit Global Positioning (GPS) or other Radionavigation Satellite system (RNSS) signals. These can be described as simple re-broadcast systems, whereby the GPS (RNSS) signals is received, amplified and re-transmitted on the same frequency into an area where there are no GPS (RNSS) signals, thereby allowing GPS (RNSS) receivers to derive a position. This type of apparatus is subject to the provisions of the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Regulations 2000 SI 730 as amended (R&TTE Regulations). See Related Items for additional information.

With certain exceptions, radio apparatus must comply with the provisions the R&TTE Regulations. It is a criminal offence to place non-compliant apparatus on the market. It is one of Ofcom’s responsibilities to enforce this legislation.

In addition under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 a licence is required to operate radio transmitting equipment in the UK. However Ofcom may provide in legislation that users of particular categories of apparatus are exempt from licensing. To date Ofcom has not licensed use of GPS repeaters and they are not exempt from licensing.

Ofcom has concluded that the uncontrolled operation of this type of apparatus presents a risk of interference to a number of critical services. Ofcom is currently working to establish the potential (if any) for authorising these GPS repeater type of apparatus and any relevant conditions of use. However currently, the use of this radio apparatus is not licensed or licence exempt and is therefore likely to constitute an offence under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006.

Any person who places GPS repeater type of apparatus on the market or uses it in the UK is likely to be committing an offence.

Clarification on use of GPS Receivers

A licence exemption exists for receive-only equipment. Ofcom is aware that the MOD and emergency services use GPS receivers extensively to assist in vehicle and personnel location-based information services. GPS repeaters are not used for this purpose but some controlled trials to investigate their potential use by the emergency services have occurred where instances of interference were observed.

Currently some mobile phones are embedded with GPS receivers. The operation of a GPS receiver at locations deep inside buildings where there is no GPS (RNSS) signal coverage at all would require some equipment to be installed in the building. Various techniques to achieve a location-based information service inside buildings are being investigated by industry, not necessarily based on the use of technology such as GPS repeaters.

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