Government Consults on Proposals to Extend Licensing of Radio Fixed Access Services at 2.4 GHz

DTI Press Release - 11 August 1998

The Government today issued a consultative document which outlines proposals for extending licensing of Radio Fixed Access (RFA) services using the radio spectrum at 2.4 GHz.

The 2.4 GHz frequency band is designated as an Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band. ISM applications include industrial processes such as rubber vulcanisation, specialist scientific and medical equipment, as well as high density use for domestic appliances - such as microwave ovens. It is estimated there may be 10,000,000 domestic microwave ovens in use across the UK. The 2.4 GHz frequency band is also used for a variety of self-provided radio systems, short range devices , broadcasting links and non-radio applications such as industrial heating.

The document seeks views from industry on the future requirements for Radio Fixed Access licences in the 2.4 GHz band and proposes that further licences will be awarded by the Radiocommunications Agency on a regional basis. The document invites comments and expressions of interest from industry on this proposal.

Since 1996, the band has been used by one Radio Fixed Access operator, Atlantic Telecommunications Limited, who currently operate a regional service covering Strathclyde and the East of Scotland. The consultative document considers the basis on which further regional licences may be issued in the 2.4 GHz band for regions across England and Wales.

Notes to editors

1. Comments on the consultative document are sought by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Radiocommunications Agency by 1 October 1998. A copy of the document may be obtained from the Agencies Library and Information Service on 020 7211 0211 or from the Agency's website on www.radio.gov.uk

2. The Scottish based company, Atlantic Telecommunications Limited were licensed by the Government in 1996 to operate a regional Radio Fixed Access service in Strathclyde. Its licence was extended in 1997 to cover the East of Scotland. Its system operates using frequency hopping spread spectrum technology, which enables it to co-exist with other radio applications in the band.

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