Telecoms regulator Ofcom plans to open up new spectrum
bands to allow service providers to offer ultra high-speed wireless
broadband services.
Ofcom intends selling relatively cheap licences to cover fixed
wireless broadband services in the 71-76GHz and 81-86GHz bands.
At present, these spectrum bands are not in commercial use, but
new technology offers the possibility of applications for these
higher frequency bands, said Ofcom.
These applications could include very high capacity,
point-to-point wireless networks, which could potentially be used
as an alternative to fibre optic cable.
Potential data speeds range from 1gbps to 10gbps over distances
of up to 2km. In comparison, copper loop broadband networks
typically enable connection speeds of between 1mbps and 24mbps.
Ofcom is proposing that the spectrum bands should be licensed on
a first come, first served basis.The aim is to offer high bandwidth
that lets a large number of users use the service without
interference, said the regulator.
A consultation is being run by Ofcom on the proposal until 2
August.