3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Background Spectrum Information
3605
3600
3689
3641
5 Guard Band
9
36 MHz
3925
50 MHz
39 MHz
F
S
S
P-MP,FSS
3875
3650
186 MHz
Guard Band
P-P, FSS
P-P, FSS
P-MP Extension
P-MP Central Station
Core Allocation
3925
3920
3961
5
3970
36 MHz
P-MP,FSS
4195 4200
4009
9
5
39 MHz
F
S
S
Guard Band
186 MHz
P-P, FSS
P-P, FSS
P-MP Extension
P-MP Terminal Station
Core Allocation
Figure 1: UK Frequency Allocations in the Frequency
Figure 1: UK Frequency Allocations in the Frequency
Range 3600 MHz to 4200 MHz (from 1st July 2000)
Range 3600 MHz to 4200 MHz (from 1st July 2000)
EIRP
Point-to-Multipoint
P-MP
<+3 dBW/MHz
Point-to-Multipoint
P-MP
<+14 dBW/MHz
Point-to-Point
P-P
<+43.3 dBW/MHz
Statement
Co-ordination and site clearance considerations may impose
additional restrictions on the maximum radiated power
allowed on specific frequencies, directions and locations.
Will be considered on a case by case basis.
Abbreviations
P-MP
Statement
Point-to-Multipoint transceivers which form part of a Fixed
Wireless Access network
Fixed Satellite Service which are comprised of receive only
earth stations (ES) operating over potentially the entire band
Point-to-Point transceivers which form part of a Terrestrial
Fixed Link network
FSS
P-P
Will be considered on a case by case basis.
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 1 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Incumbent National FWA Licensee (Firstnet formerly Liberty / Tele2)
Firstnet is authorised to operate in the following frequency bands:
Description
Core Frequency Band
(Point-to-Multipoint is subject to coordination with Earth Stations)
Extended Frequency Band
(Point-to-Multipoint is subject to coordination with Terrestrial Fixed Links and
Earth Stations)
Base Transmit
Frequency
Base Receive
Frequency
3605 – 3641 MHz
3925 – 3961 MHz
3641 – 3689 MHz
3961 – 4009 MHz
3.6 – 4.2 GHz co-ordination is outlined in Draft RA 371, which is available
from the RA web site’s Satellite Earth Station Consultation & Review section.
In accordance with the technical requirements as notified by the
Radiocommunications Agency:


Co-ordination with Earth Stations is required between 3605 – 3689 MHz
paired with 3925 – 4009 MHz.
Co-ordination with terrestrial fixed links is required between 3641 – 3689
MHz paired with 3961 – 4009 MHz.
In order to facilitate sharing, the frequency band 3605 - 4009 MHz is
segmented within the UK as follows:

The frequency ranges 3605 - 3641 MHz and 3925 - 3961 MHz (i.e. 2x36
MHz) is allocated on a co-primary basis between the Fixed Satellite
Service (space-to-Earth) and P-MP Fixed Services only. This frequency
range is the “core” P-MP Fixed Service frequency allocation;

The frequency ranges 3641 - 3650 MHz and 3 961 - 3970 MHz (i.e. 2x9
MHz) is an “extension” of the core band, and is allocated to the Fixed
Satellite Service (space-to-Earth) and P-MP Fixed Services. P-MP Fixed
Services, in these frequency ranges, will be assigned on a primary basis
only by specific agreement by the Agency on a case-by-case basis. In all
other cases, the assignment will be on a non-interference, unprotected
basis;

The frequency ranges 3650 - 3689 MHz and 3970 - 4009 MHz (i.e. 2x39
MHz) is an “extension” of the core band, and is assigned to the P-P Fixed
Service, Fixed Satellite Service (space-to-Earth) and P-MP Fixed services.
P-MP Fixed Services, in these frequency ranges, will be assigned on a
primary basis only by specific agreement by the Agency on a case-bycase basis. In all other cases, the assignment will be on a noninterference, unprotected basis.
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 2 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Aims and Key Issues
Our aim is to identify further spectrum in the 3.6 to 4.2 GHz band for reallocation as National Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) spectrum.
Key issues identified with the re-organisation of the spectrum in this band are
as follows:




Co-existence with fixed satellite services (FSS) which are comprised of
receive only earth stations (ES) operating over potentially the entire
band;
Displacement costs of existing point to point (P-P) transceiver links;
Sensitivities of incumbent FWA (Firstnet formerly Tele2) to changes in
their existing configuration;
Management of interference and co-ordination (due to co-channel or
adjacent frequency block interference between FWA & P-P and
between FWA & FSS).
The worst case working assumption (#1) is that FWA will cause FSS more
interference than P-P because they are potentially deployed in higher
densities with relatively less selective antennas than P-P.
The worst case working assumption (#2) is that FWA will cause P-P more
interference than another P-P because they are potentially deployed in higher
densities with relatively less selective antennas than P-P.
The key mitigation to these statements is that the localised clutter for both
FWA & FSS will severely reduce the impact from interference compared to PP which are normally clear of clutter.
Management of interference and co-ordination will most likely be devolved to
the licensee(s) once the key stakeholders have produced the relevant
guidelines for co-ordination. The key stakeholders are the FWA, FSS and P-P
licensees.
Note – the RA currently performs management of interference and coordination between FSS & P-P, however this may change subject to the
conclusion of this consultation.
Note – P-P in this band is normally used for very long distance links >30 km
across difficult terrain where fibre is not readily available. Hence normally well
away from urban or suburban areas.
Any subsequent displacement of existing P-P is likely to be borne by the New
FWA licensee, however this will be confirmed by the consultation.
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 3 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Analysis of Seven Spectrum Options
The RA has carried out some analysis and proposes seven spectrum options
(see overleaf for options in detail) for consideration:
Option 1 (Duplex Spacing = 320 MHz; New FWA = 2 x 30 MHz)
This has minimal negative impact on the current FWA, FSS and P-P
allocations compared to the other options. However it offers the least amount
of new FWA spectrum (2 x 30 MHz).
Option 2 (Duplex Spacing = 320 MHz; New FWA = 2 x 30 MHz)
This is possibly the joint least complex option. It does not alter the current
FWA allocations, will impact on the FSS allocation and will require some
displacement of the P-P links. However it offers the least amount of new FWA
spectrum.
Options 3,4,5 (Duplex Spacing 320 MHz; New FWA = 2 x 90 MHz)
Options 3, 4 and 5 are very similar. None alter the current FWA allocations.
Proposes additional FWA spectrum (possibly for allocation to more than one
operator) and has a major negative impact on P-P links by halving the
allocation. FSS will also be more severely impacted by the increased FWA
allocation.
Options 6 (Duplex Spacing 100 MHz; New FWA = 2 x 260 MHz)
This is the most complex option to engineer but it does standardise the whole
band to 100 MHz duplex spacing. It also allows for an allocation of 20 MHz (2
x 10 MHz) for exclusive TDD operation. It requires considerable reduction and
re-configuration of the current FWA allocations. Has a major negative impact
on P-P links by halving the allocation. FSS will also be more severely
impacted by the increased FWA allocation.
Option 7 (Duplex Spacing = 320 MHz; New FWA ‘Overlay’ = 2 x 180 MHz)
This is possibly the joint least complex option. It does not alter the current
FWA allocations. It will impact on the FSS allocation. The new FWA will have
equal access to the same spectrum as the current P-P allocation. Due to coordination there may be some displacement of the P-P links. However it offers
a significant increase in the amount of new FWA spectrum. The ‘Overlay’
Option is defined as 'Using the same spectrum (i.e. co-channel or cofrequency block) as a P-P for FWA but in a different region with interference
co-ordination achieved by an ‘adequate’ amount of distance separation (and
or frequency separation if available).
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 4 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Provisional Timetable of Events – Milestones in bold
1. Post a general statement of intent on the RA web site with a
provisional date for the consultation – completed 28th January 2003 –
consultation due ‘shortly’ most likely 3rd Quarter and to be completed
by 4th Quarter (normally twelve weeks is the minimum period for a
consultation).
2. Present synopsis of work to-date on the RA web site and to various
interested parties (3, 4, 5, 6 & 7) over the next four months:
3. PFWACC (Public Fixed Wireless Access Consultative Committee - FWA
interests @ 3.4, 3.6 & 10 GHz chaired by the RA hence the lead group)
4. FLCC (Fixed Links Consultative Committee - P-P interests chaired by the
RA)
5. SCC (Satellite Consultative Committee - FSS interests chaired by the RA)
6. BFWA (Broadband Fixed Wireless Access Consultative Group – FWA
interests @ 28 & 40 GHz chaired by the RA)
7. WAG (Wireless Local Area Network Advisory Group – WLAN & FWA @
2.4 & 5 GHz interests chaired by industry)
8. BSG (Broadband Stakeholders Group – Broadband interests chaired by
industry).
9. The need for the RA to study current and future competing demands
for spectrum.
10. Although our aim is to release more spectrum, the market may need
a ‘breather’ to digest the recent significant release of spectrum for
FWA & WLAN:
11. Is there still demand for more spectrum i.e. 3.6 – 4.2 GHz?
12. If so what market sector is to be addressed?
13. Why has it not been addressed so previously?
14. Economic analysis will be central to the RA decision process. Hence
as with earlier releases of spectrum (3.4, 5 & 28 GHz) and changes in
use of spectrum (2.4 GHz), some form of economic demand study /
studies will be required by the RA.
15. Highlight and or post on the RA web site the earlier technical studies
and background information which comprise of:
16. Technical studies on P-P (victim) vs P-MP (interferer)
17. Technical studies on FSS (victim) vs P-MP (interferer)
18. Draft RA371 – co-ordination guidelines for 3.6 – 4.2 GHz
19. RA353 - Frequency Assignment Criteria - Fixed Point-to-Point Radio
Services with Digital Modulation operating in the Frequency Range 3.6 to
4.2 GHz (November 1999)
20. Solicit feedback from the above groups or individuals in writing.
21. Initiate further studies subject to feedback on earlier studies.
22. To take on board what other countries are doing in this band prior to
issuing the consultation.
23. The feedback from the following questions will help shape the
consultation:
24. What do you want?
25. Do you agree with the Aim?
26. Is it achievable?
27. Is there equipment available?
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 5 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
Should it be licence exempt - if so how?
Will extensiveness and competition be enhanced?
What other spectrum options could we consider?
Is co-ordination possible / practicable?
Send all correspondence to PTNFWA@ra.gsi.gov.uk or in writing to:
Elton Young Licensing Officer 10G/6F Radiocommunications Agency
Wyndham House 189 Marsh Wall London E14 9SX Telephone: 020
7211 0478
33. Issue the Consultation Document (normally twelve weeks is the
minimum period for a consultation) in accordance with the Code of
practice on written consultation.
34. Post on the RA web site the responses unless otherwise advised by
the respondent.
35. Post on the RA web site, the Government response.
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 6 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
3.6 GHz – 4.2 GHz FWA National Licence Spectrum Options
270 MHz
270 MHz
6
40
40
40
10
40
10
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
50
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
50
36
48
30
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
50
36
48
30
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
50
36
48
50
36
48
40
40
40
40
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
5
36
48
30
36
48
30
36
48
36
48
30
30
30
30
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
4
60
60
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
3
90
90
90 (1x90) (3x30) (6x15)
2
30
150 (1x90) (5x30) (10x15)
30
150 (1x90) (5x30) (10x15)
1
60
30
180 (2x90) (6x30) (12x15)
3600
50
3875
Guard Band
Tele2
New National FWA (FDD)
Tele2 Extended
60
30
180 (2x90) (6x30) (12x15)
3925
4200
Point to Point (P-P)
New National FWA (TDD)
Options 1-5 = 320 MHz Duplex
Option 6
= 100 MHz Duplex
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 7 of 8
3.6 – 4.2 GHz Spectrum Re-organisation
For Another National FWA Licence
Spectrum Option 7 ‘Overlay’ coupled with the Overview of the Entire Spectrum
Option 7
FSS
P-P
FWA
5
5
5
5
36
275 MHz
48
6
180
270
36
48
6
6
180
180
50
50
50
50
36
36
325 MHz
48
6
270
6
48
6
Guard Band = 5 MHz or 6 MHz or 50 MHz
Old FWA Firstnet Core = 2 x 36 MHz (n x 0.25)
Old FWA Firstnet Extended = 2 x 48 MHz (n x 0.25)
New FWA over-laid onto the P-P allocation = 2 x 180 MHz
FSS = 2 x 270 MHz
P-P = 2 x 180 MHz (4 x 90) (12 x 30) (24 x 15)
New FWA = 2 x 180 MHz (n x 0.25)
Author: Rick Donnegan (RA2/PWN – FWA <11 GHz)
e-mail: rick.donnegan@ra.gsi.gov.uk Phone: +44 20 7211 0524 Fax: +44 20 7211 0252
Page 8 of 8
180
180
180
5
5
5
5