The convergence of wireless telecomm. technology and Internet protocols is fostering new generations of mobile technologies. This transformation has created new demands for advanced commun. infrastructure and radio frequency spectrum capacity that can support high-speed, content-rich uses. Wireless technologies support public safety commun., sensors, smart grids, med. and public health, intelligent transport. systems, etc. This report considers the possibility of modifying spectrum policy: (1) to support broadband deployment by placing more emphasis on attracting new providers of wireless broadband services; and (2) to accommodate the wireless broadband needs of industries that are considered to be the economic drivers of the future. Illus.

What debates have caused spectrum policy to change course and which will determine its future direction? This book examines these issues through a series of chapters from a range of notable experts. The backdrop is a period of turbulent change in what was once a quiet backwater. The past quarter century has seen wireless connectivity go from nice-to-have luxury to the cornerstone of success as nations battle for leadership of the digital economy. The change has been reflected in the crucial role now played by market's mechanisms in a field once dominated by administrative decisions. Spectrum policy’s goals have moved far beyond the efficient use of the airwaves to include encouraging economic development, investment, innovation, sustainability and digital inclusivity. Are historic procedures still appropriate in the face of this multiplicity of demands? Are market mechanisms like auctions still the best way to deliver what has become essential infrastructure? Does the process of international coordination need to change? Is spectrum policy’s effectiveness limited by the power of global economic forces? Can it reduce rather than add to global warming? Where does 6G and AI fit in? Is public perception the new spectrum policy battle ground? These are all issues examined in The Debates Shaping Spectrum Policy.

This book presents the fundamentals of wireless communications and services, explaining in detail what RF spectrum management is, why it is important, which are the authorities regulating the use of spectrum, and how is it managed and enforced at the international, regional and national levels. The book offers insights to the engineering, regulatory, economic, legal, management policy-making aspects involved. Real-world case studies are presented to depict the various approaches in different countries, and valuable lessons are drawn. The topics are addressed by engineers, advocates and economists employed by national and international spectrum regulators. The book is a tool that will allow the international regional and national regulators to better manage the RF spectrum, and will help operators and suppliers of wireless communications to better understand their regulators.

Special edition of the Federal Register, containing a codification of documents of general applicability and future effect ... with ancillaries.

In 2003, the Department of Commerce's Spectrum Policy Initiative was established with the objective of promoting a more efficient and beneficial use of the spectrum. As part of that Initiative, a series of public forums about spectrum management policy was held. The Computer Science and Telecommunications Board was asked to organize one of these forums, a public forum to gather the views of a variety of government and private sector stakeholders about the impact of spectrum policy on their activities. This report presents a summary of those views. Among those included are those representing national defense, homeland security, aviation, science, public safety, amateur radio, cellular voice and data, and terrestrial broadcast uses of the spectrum. Although prepared by the NRC, the report does not present NRC findings or recommendations. A broader study of spectrum policy, including findings and recommendations, will be issued in early 2005.