About the Spectrum Information System (SIS)

04 June 2014

What is the Spectrum Information System?

The Spectrum Information System (SIS) is an internet based resource to help Ofcom's stakeholders find information on spectrum use and rights of use in the UK.

What information can I find on the Spectrum Information System?

There are three inter-related online registers available on the system:

  • The UK Plan for Frequency Authorisation (UKPFA) provides information on which frequencies are available for assignment by Ofcom, for what purposes the different frequencies have been allocated and whether these can be traded.
  • The Wireless Telegraphy Act Register (WTR) provides information about who is licensed to operate services in specific frequencies or geographical areas. It provides information such as contact name and address details, class of licence, band(s) of frequencies, geographic areas of operation, transmission parameters including power and antenna characteristics.
  • The Transfer Notification Register (TNR) provides information on licences which have been traded or are the process of being traded. The publication of trading information will enable interested parties to find out about the number of transactions that have taken place and details of the spectrum that is being or has been traded

Whilst each of these registers may be accessed independently, you may find that the best way to use the SIS is to access the UKPFA first and then link to the other registers as appropriate.
We have also provided links from the SIS to three further sources of useful information:

  • The UK Frequency Allocation Table (UKFAT) identifies responsibilities for the management of frequency bands or services showing whether they are managed by Ofcom, the Ministry of Defence, or another Government department or Agency.
  • The Interactive Spectrum Map is an easy way to browse and search how different spectrum bands are used in the United Kingdom. Use the dashboard to find out how spectrum is being used, by sector and by product/application. This map covers spectrum from 8.3 kHz to 275 GHz.
  • The ECO Frequency Information System (EFIS) is an on-line tool provided by The European Communications Office (ECO) which enables users to search and compare spectrum allocations, frequencies assigned for applications and technical radio interface information across European Countries. It also provides links to European spectrum decisions, recommendations, reports and equipment standards.

How does Ofcom update the Spectrum Information System?

The Spectrum Information System is updated daily and the information is gathered from our spectrum management systems. Should you notice an inaccuracy in our data please send an email to spectruminformation@ofcom.org.uk. Your information will help us with our ongoing programme to ensure that the data we present is as accurate as possible.

Will SIS be improved in the future?

We continue to develop and improve the information that we provide to users of SIS in order to ensure that it is easily accessible and relevant.