This is the Licensing Manual for 31 GHz and complements the more general licensing policy and procedures described in the overarching Licensing Policy Manual of the Radiocommunications Agency (RA or the Agency).

These documents have been written to comply with the European Directive 97/13/EC, which sets a common framework for general authorisations and individual licences, in the field of telecommunications services. Directive 97/13/EC has been enacted into UK legislation by Statutory Instrument 1997 No. 2930, which amended licensing provisions in both the Telecommunications Act 1984 and the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949. The specific aim of Directive 97/13/EC is to ensure that Member States use fair and transparent procedures for issuing licences which allow licensees to provide telecommunications services or networks.

This Manual provides information specifically relevant to the licensing of 31 GHz fixed terrestrial (point-to-multipoint) links. In so doing, the manual highlights RA's cross-checks to the RA8 Application Form. It further illustrates in graphical form the key algorithms for processing new applications, renewals, amendments, cancellations and revocations.

Fixed Terrestrial and Satellite Links Unit

The Fixed Terrestrial and Satellite Links Unit (FTSLU) is the lead Business Unit within the RA dealing with licensing, assignment and spectrum management issues pertaining to the administration of the following services in geographical areas administered by RA:

• fixed (point-to-point) terrestrial links;
• fixed 31GHz (point-to-multipoint) terrestrial links;
• scanning telemetry and telecontrol systems; and
• satellite links.

Further information on the following topics is available in the Agency's Licensing Policy Manual:

• Amendments/additions to licences and schedules
• Take-overs and transfers
• Licence revocation
• Licence exemptions
• Accounts procedures
• R&TTE Directive
• Enforcement
• Complaints procedure.

The above manual is available from:

Information and Library Service
Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House
189 Marsh Wall
London
E14 9SX

Tel: 020 7211 0502/0505
E-mail: library@ra.gsi.gov.uk

Alternatively, the manual is available on the Agency's website at: www.radio.gov.uk

How to change the licensee name

To change the licensee name in any of the circumstances described above, please write to RA enclosing supporting documentation such as a copy of the certificate from the Registrar of Companies changing the company name.

Co-ordination with other services and organisations

The National Frequency Approval Panel (NFAP) agrees the day-to-day detailed frequency assignments and ensures that these are made in accordance with the UK peacetime frequency allocation table and the interests of the UK spectrum users. A significant period of turnaround time (see Section D) is required for obtaining NFAP approval since this panel only meets every three weeks.

Site clearance

Licensees must ensure that their systems (i.e. equipment with antennas) and masts meet current planning requirements and where the antennas and masts may constitute a hazard, particularly to aircraft, then it is the applicant's responsibility to obtain approval through the Site Clearance Procedure.

Site clearance permits a range of compatibility issues to be assessed such as blocking, inter-modulation, obstruction, etc. 31GHz systems are only exempt from site clearance procedures under the following conditions:

• the Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) is less than 45dBW;
• the antenna height above ground level (AGL) is less than 30 metres; or
• if mounted to an existing site cleared structure, then the new installation's height should not be increased by more than 5 metres.

Handling Agents

Handling Agents are authorities with delegated responsibility from RA to process 31GHz radio licence requests from the utilities industry. They are the main user interface for processing new applications to the provisional frequency assignment status. Also, for making technical amendments to, and cancellations of, licences already issued to customers. They provide expert advice on radio matters to the utilities industry and can offer assistance in completing or amending applications and facilitating licensing problems with RA.

RA still remain as the authority for issuing licences, licence schedules, processing cancellations, initiating revocations and renewals. All licences will be issued subject to the provisional assignments made by the Handling Agent meeting (a) any mandatory/necessary frequency co-ordination with other services and (b) site clearance restrictions. RA retains the discretion to liase with the customer on any licensing matter through the appropriate Handling Agent.

Currently the recognised Handling Agent serving the 31GHz band is:

• Ogier Electronics Limited

Full contact details for the Handling Agent is given in Section M.

Description of Licence Product

Purpose

The 31 GHz frequency band is used for analogue video security systems.

Structure of Frequency Band

The channel arrangement permits 32 x 28 MHz duplex channels with 500.5 MHz separation. The limits of the band range from 31.0 to 31.29 and 31.5105 to 31.8, respectively for the go and return portions of the band.

The Licence

The licence, see example shown in Section D, details the terms, provisions and limitations of the licence for operation in the frequency ranges described in Section D. The licence will also detail further conditions of use, which are usually covered on the back pages.

In addition you should expect to see the following blue sections completed by RA:

• On page 1 you should see printed on your licence - "This licence ('the licence') is granted on _- Day, Month Year - _(the 'Date of Issue') by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (the 'Secretary of State') to - Your Legal Entity - (you ' the Licensee') of - Your Registered Address of the Legal Entity -_ (the 'Registered Office')"

• On page 3 you should see printed on your licence —

Quality of Service

On receipt of the licence application it is RA's aim to meet the following Quality of Service targets for point- to-multipoint links licensed in the 31 GHz band:

For 31 GHz assignments (Category C): Fixed Links (other than 58 GHz) that require frequency assignment and site clearance and/or international co-ordination. 90 % of licence applications to be processed and dispatched within 40 working days and the remainder processed and dispatched within 60 working days, or an explanation for the delay provided to the applicant.

Customer Responsibilities

Making your Application

Before making an application, you should remember that no matter who applies on your behalf, you are still legally responsible for all actions carried out on your radio system. Any false information may lead to the granting of the licence being refused or revoked. Also, the licence application form does carry legal status from an evidential point of view and applicants are therefore asked to sign the declaration.

The RA8 can be used for both fixed terrestrial (point-to-point) links, or 31GHz fixed terrestrial (point-to-multipoint) links, that are deployed in geographical areas administered by RA.

The RA8 (GN) Guidance notes that accompany the RA8 form can be used to help an applicant answer the relevant questions with the correct information.

An acknowledgement from RA will be sent prior to the issue of the licence.

Where to get your application form

You may obtain a copy of the RA8 application form by post from the RA Library, or you can download the form from the RA website and print it out.

How to complete the Application form

It is essential that all the relevant questions are answered as fully as possible. Incomplete forms will be returned to the applicant. Detailed guidance for completing the RA8 licence application form is given in the separate RA8 (GN) information sheet.

More generally you should be aware that for a new application, all optional questions in the RA8 start with "If…" and where more than one option is given then the questions start with "Or, if…". Otherwise, you should consider the question mandatory, referring to Section D within this manual for further advice.

If you have any doubts about answering the RA8 then please contact the FTSLU Helpdesk, or the Handling Agent, before submitting the application. Remember that your RA8 application may be returned if it is not legible, complete or accurate. If the RA8 is returned then you should expect to see a brief explanation on the RA8 acknowledgement slip (section G). All contact details are given in Section M of this document.

New Customers

If you are a new customer, it is particularly important that you include all contact details on your application form, so that RA can set up a new customer account.

Existing customers

If you are an existing customer, you must ensure you include your RA Customer Number on the application form, so that details of the new or amended link may be added to your existing licence.

Amendments and Cancellations

When making such a request RA will assume you are an existing customer with a file reference number for the link(s) you wish to amend or cancel. Amendments and cancellations should be submitted in writing, using the RA8 application form, to RA. RA will file the original copy.

Checking your Application

Please ensure that you fill in the licence application legibly, completely and accurately. Any missing information may require the form to be returned with the Quality of Service targets negated, or (at the Secretary of State's discretion) invalidate the licence after it has been granted.

Section F of this manual contains a table detailing all mandatory questions, which RA will use to validate your application. You can use this as a final check for completeness before submitting your form.

Payment method

New customers will be billed after the successful completion of their first licence application and issue of the final licence. Subsequent applications will be billed at the end of the financial year with the cost appropriately apportioned for the period of use within that year. Payments should be made payable to the "Radiocommunications Agency". Permitted methods of payment include:

• Cheques;
• Bank Automated Credit System (BACS) and Clearing House Automated Payment System (CHAPS) transfer; and
• Credit card (if less than £1000).

Where to send your form

Please send your completed form to the Handling Agent detailed in Section M.

Checking your Licence

When receiving your licence you should check that RA has correctly completed the following blue entries:

• On page 1 you should see printed on your licence - "This licence ('the licence') is granted on _- Day/Month/Year format (e.g. 18/04/2001) - _(the 'Date of Issue') by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (the 'Secretary of State') to - Your legal entity taken from the answer provided to RA8 Question B.2 - (you ' the Licensee') of - Your registered address taken from your answer to RA8 Question B.4 -_ (the 'Registered Office')"

• On page 3 you should check that RA have responded to the following entries:

Following the grant of the licence, you "the licensee" have 28 days in which to raise any objections to the conditions contained therein.

You should read any correspondence from RA accompanying your licence. Normally this is just a covering letter, but sometimes it may contain additional conditions or restrictions applying to the use of the system.

Making an Application

Before making a licence application you should be clear about to whom the application form should be sent. The processes administered by the Handling Agent are New Licence Applications and Amendments. Licence Renewals, Cancellations and Revocations are administered by RA.

Making a provisional assignment

The Handling Agent, on receipt of the application form, will initially check that the information is complete, accurate and legible. The Handling Agent will attempt, in most circumstances, to address any irregularities with the applicant by telephone. The Handling Agent reserves the right to return any application form that, for any reason, prevents them from processing the transaction. The Handling Agent, during the technical appraisal, may contact the applicant on various matters, e.g. to resolve technical irregularities or provide the applicant with options.

A successful application will result in the Handling Agent forwarding a provisional assignment for confirmation by RA.

Confirming the assignment

RA, on receipt of the provisional assignment from the Handling Agent, will undertake certain administrative and technical checks. For example, RA will ascertain whether the installation(s) will be subject to frequency and site clearance procedures.

Licence issue

A licence, (with licence schedule), will be issued by RA when all Handling Agent and RA validation is completed successfully. The applicant should expect to receive this documentation direct.

Supporting Information

The information sheets that the applicant may find useful for 31 GHz applications are as follows:

• RA 143: Frequency Allocations for Scanning Telemetry, and Fixed Terrestrial (point-to-point) Links administered by the Fixed Terrestrial and Satellite Links Unit
• RA8 (GN): Fixed Terrestrial (point-to-point) Link licence application guide
• UK Radio Interface Requirement 2000: point-to-point radio-relay systems operating in fixed service frequency bands administered by the Radiocommunications Agency (98/24/EC Notification Number: 2000/522/UK)
• UK Voluntary National Specification 2125: Performance parameters for fixed (point-to-point) terrestrial security video equipment operating in the 31GHz band (98/24/EC Notification Number: 2000/65/UK)
• RA 164: General Information on Fixed Terrestrial (point-to-point) Links

These information sheets can be obtained from the RA information and library service, and from the RA website at www.radio.gov.uk.

FTLSU will also ensure that any information provided on the website is accurate and up-to-date. However, any paper information sheets will only be accurate at the time of writing. RA will periodically update paper information sheets when changes are felt substantive enough to warrant updating. These may not be as accurate as those presented on the website

Step/Check		Description	Responsibility	Activities covered by Quality of Service targets (see Section D)
1		Applicant submits RA8 licence application to the Handling Agent.	Customer
2		The Handling Agent acknowledges the receipt of the licence application form.	HA
3		The Application Form is checked to verify that all the necessary details are complete, accurate and legible in accordance with Section E. If any details are missing, the Handling Agent will attempt to contact the applicant by telephone, fax or e-mail.	HA
	Pass	The Handling Agent will only continue to process the application when the applicant responds with the necessary information. Proceed to step 4.	HA
	Fail	If the applicant fails to respond then the Handling Agent will return the application to the applicant with an explanation for the return.	HA
4		The Handling Agent forwards the application to RA.	RA
5		RA creates a Customer (Registry) File for the customer. With this, copies of the application are attached.	RA
6		If necessary, RA instigates frequency and site clearance procedures with appropriate organisations and authorities.	RA
7		RA sends the invoice to the Applicant.	RA
8		The Applicant pays the licence fee directly to RA.	Customer
9		RA's licence database includes the licensee's details, licence renewal date and licence fee. In the fee payment entry, "paid" must be entered so that the licence rolls around for renewal the following year.	RA
10		Upon payment clearance of the licence fee the licence is forwarded to the Applicant.	RA
11		RA informs the Handling Agent that the licence fee has been paid.	RA

Click on table to download PDF

Figure G.1: 31GHz LICENCE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step/Check		Description	Responsibility	Activities covered by Quality of Service targets (see Section D)
1		RA initiates the licence renewal process at least six weeks in advance of the licence renewal date.	RA
2		RA issues the customer six weeks in advance a licence renewal notice (see Section M) and associated licence fee request. A copy of the fee request is sent to RA Finance so the debt can be added to the customer account. The transaction proceeds to step 3.	RA
3		RA then awaits customer's payment / response within four weeks.	Customer
	Payment/ response received	When RA receives the customer's payment the transaction proceeds to step 4	RA
	Response only	If RA receive a response then the transaction proceeds to step 4.	RA
	No payment/ response	If RA fails to receive both response and payment from the customer two weeks before the renewal date then RA will automatically issue a licence renewal notice reminder (see Section N) and associated licence fee request. Failing to respond or provide satisfactory answers will mean RA initiates the licence revocation process.	RA
4		RA receives response from the customer.	Customer
	Pass	If the response is satisfactory and timely then RA proceed the transaction to step 6. Also the renewal date for the forthcoming year is automatically set at this stage.	RA
	Fail	If the response is not acceptable to RA then the transaction will proceed to the licence revocation process.	RA
5		RA processes the payment. RA confirm that the cheque is made payable to 'Radiocommunications Agency' before forwarding to the bank.	RA
	Payment clears	The transaction now proceeds to step 6.	RA
	Payment fails to clear	If the cheque is incorrect in anyway, or fails to go through RA Finance, then RA contacts the customer to resolve any problems. Should the customer not make a valid payment before the renewal date then the transaction proceeds to step 7.	RA
6		RA updates the customer's file.	RA
7		Begin the licence revocation process one-day after the licence renewal date (see Section H).	RA
8		On the licence database, details of the customer, the renewal date of the application (the date the licence was first issued) and the amount paid is updated. "Paid" must be entered so that it rolls around for renewal next year. The registry file is placed in the folder and placed in the 58GHz store. If for any reason the transaction was unsuccessful or terminated then this will also be recorded in the customer records.	RA

Click on table to download PDF

Figure H.1: 31GHz LICENCE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step/Check		Description	Responsibility	Activities covered by Quality of Service targets (see Section D)
1		The customer should submit any amendments, to the Handling Agent, using either the RA8 application form or as a written request. Note that any written customer correspondence will be put on the Customer File. Any amendment requests sent to RA in error will be forwarded to the relevant Handling Agent.	Customer
2		The Handling Agent will distinguish whether the request is technical or administrative.
	Administrative	If administrative (i.e. change of contact details etc.) the appropriate records are updated and the transaction proceeds to step 8.	HA
	Technical	If technical or technical and administrative in nature then the transaction proceeds to step 3.	HA
3		The Application is first checked against the existing licence schedule and then checked to verify that all the necessary details are complete, accurate and legible.	HA
4		If any details are missing, the Handling Agent will attempt to contact the Applicant by telephone or e-mail, giving the customer five working days to respond with the necessary information.	HA
	Pass	The Handling Agent only processes the request if the customer responds in time with the necessary information. The transaction proceeds to step 5.	Customer
	Fail	If the customer fails to respond in time then the Handling Agent will return the request to the customer with an explanation for the return.	HA
5		The Handling Agent now performs system planning, co-ordination and frequency assignment and attempt to accommodate technical request.	HA
	Feasible	Solution established and transaction proceeds to step 7.	HA
	Not feasible	The Handling Agent may be able to suggest an alternative set of amendments (e.g. amending two systems so that coverage can be attained). If applicable, the Handling Agent will contact the customer with a feasible alternative proposal.	HA
6		Customer assesses the alternative proposal.	Customer
	Accepted	Customer accepts proposal and transaction proceeds to step 7.	HA
	Not accepted	Alternative solution cannot be found and the request is returned to the customer with the Handling Agent taking no further action.	HA
7		The HA notifies RA of amendments
8		RA confirms the revised schedule and updates the registry file and database.
9		If necessary, RA instigates frequency and site clearance procedures with appropriate organisations and authorities.	RA
10		RA returns the revised schedule and invoice to the licensee.
11		RA licence database, including the licensee's details, licence renewal data and licence fee, is updated. The registry file is stored in the 31GHz store.

Click on table to download PDF

Figure I.1: 31GHz LICENCE AMENDMENT PROCESS

Step/Check		Description	Responsibility	Activities covered by Quality of Service targets (see Section D)
1		The customer should submit a cancellation request, in writing, to the Handling Agent or RA. The cancellation process should be used when a complete system is being de-commissioned. If only one, or a few, links are being cancelled, then the amendment process should be followed.	Customer
2		The cancellation form is checked to verify that all the necessary details are complete, accurate and legible. If any details are missing, the Handling Agent or RA will attempt to contact the applicant by telephone, fax, or e-mail.	RA/HA
	Pass	The Handling Agent forwards the cancellation request to RA. The transaction proceeds to step 3	HA
	Fail	If the applicant fails to respond by the five working day deadline then the Handling Agent or RA will return the cancellation request to the applicant with an explanation for the return.	HA
3		RA cancels all the customer links and closes the customer file and issues the customer with a letter of confirmation. A copy of this letter is put in the registry file and the file is closed.	RA
4		RA issue letter to Handling Agent to confirm that the cancellations have been completed.	RA

Click on table to download PDF

Figure J.1: LICENCE CANCELLATION PROCESS

Step/Check		Description	Responsibility	Activities covered by Quality of Service targets (see Section D)
1		The diagram associated with this process description assumes that the licence revocation is a result of non-payment of the licence fee and the section above the dotted line has been included for clarity. A licence can also be revoked for other reasons e.g. the conditions of that licence are not complied with. In such cases the Licensee will be sent a proposed notice of revocation and allowed a period of 28 days in which to lodge an appeal. If the appeal is unsuccessful then a notice of revocation will be sent at the end of the 28 days period.	Overview
2		Prior to the licence revocation process the customer can choose between the following possibilities:	Customer
	Send payment	Customer acknowledges intent to renew licence and sends payment to RA. The process now proceeds to step 4.	Customer
	Send response	Customer acknowledges their intent to renew licence subject to making some alterations to the licence schedule. Revocation is temporarily suspended for five days only. The customer is required to settle payment within this time period, in which case the revocation process proceeds to step 4; otherwise the transaction proceeds to step 3.	Customer
	No response/ payment	Failing any acknowledgement and/or payment the revocation process proceeds to step 3.	Customer
3		A proposed notice of revocation (see Chapter Q) is sent to the customer one day after the licence renewal date.	RA
	Sends payment	Customer acknowledges their intent to renew licence and sends payment to RA. The process now proceeds to step 4.	Customer
	Sends response	Customer acknowledges their intent to renew licence subject to making some alterations to the licence schedule. The revocation process is now deferred to allow for the changes to be made following the amendment process. Revocation will be reinstated should this process fail. Otherwise the customer is required to settle payment in which case the revocation process proceeds to step 4; else the transaction proceeds to step 5.	Customer
	No response/ payment	Failing any acknowledgement(s) and/or payment the revocation process proceeds to step 5.	Customer
4		Is the payment processed successfully?	RA
	Successful	The customer's files are updated. The licence and link schedule is sent to the customer.	RA
	Un-successful	If the payment fails to clear then RA will inform the customer. If the customer fails to make a valid payment in that time then the transaction will proceed to step 5.	RA
5		Revocation of licence notice (see Chapter R) is issued 28 days after the renewal date.	RA
6		The Radio Investigation Service (RIS) is informed of the revocation.	RA

Click on table to download PDF

Figure K.1: LICENCE REVOCATION PROCESS

This document is designed to provide details of the Agency's licensing procedures relating to 31GHz applications made to FTSLU. However, it should not be taken as giving exact policy for all areas of licensing undertaken by FTSLU and should in any event be read in conjunction with the Agency's Licensing Policy Manual.

Therefore the Agency accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this document.

Please contact the appropriate business unit directly if you have any queries or concerns, which can be found on page 28.

Revisions to this document will be done periodically or when there is a substantive need to update the document.

For information regarding a Telecommunications Act 1984 licence contact:

Communications and Information Directorate (CII)
151 Buckingham Palace Road
London
SW1 9SS

Telephone: 020 7215 5000

FTSLU Helpdesk:

Fixed Terrestrial and Satellite Links Unit (FTSLU)
Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House
189 Marsh Wall
London
E14 9SX

Telephone: 020 7211 0300
Fax:020 7211 0113
RA FTSLU website: www.radio.gov.uk/topics/fixedlnk/index.htm

Handling Agent:

Ogier Electronics
Ogier Electronics Limited
Sandridge Park
Porter's Park
Porters Wood
St. Albans
Hertfordshire
AL3 6PH

Telephone: 01727 853 521
E-mail:Len.Ogier@OgierElectronics.com
Fax:01727 852186
Ogier website: www.OgierElectronics.com

RA library:

The Information and Library Service
Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House
189 Marsh Wall
London E14 9SX

Telephone: 020 7211 0502 or 0505
Fax: 020 7211 0507
E-mail:library@ra.gsi.gov.uk
RA website: www.radio.gov.uk

Click on pic to view a pdf of "Radiocommunications Agency Fixed Microwave Link Licence"