ACA earmarks spectrum for regional wireless

The Australian Communications Authority (ACA) has set aside a band of spectrum for future regional  wireless broadband systems.

An embargo has been placed on new spectrum assignments in the 3575–3710MHz spectrum band. It was designed to preserve spectrum options for further planning, such as possible introduction of regional broadband wireless access systems in that band, according to an ACA statement.

Bob Horton, acting chairman at the ACA, said no further spectrum assignments would be made Australia-wide in the 3575–3710 MHz band.

“The embargo is part of early technical and regulatory planning work, which will include public consultation, for further flexible spectrum access arrangements for the delivery of broadband communications services in regional areas,” Horton said. 

“The ACA’s planning also takes account of international developments, including the development of the WiMax standards and developments earlier this year in this band in the US.”

Dr Horton said the spectrum under embargo was in the band used for space-to-Earth satellite communications.

The ACA said the embargoed spectrum also overlapped with the 3.8GHz band used for long haul, point-to-point fixed communications services.

Any applications for allocations within the band would be considered individually, it stated.