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."
