Communications regulator Ofcom is proposing to open up new spectrum bands to enable broadband fixed wireless services.
The proposal calls for the opening of the 71-76GHz and 81-86GHz bands for licensed use on a first come, first served basis.
The applications could include very high capacity, point-to-point wireless networks, which could potentially be used as an alternative to fibre optic cables. Possible data speeds range from 1Gb per second to 10Gb per second over distances of between one and two kilometres.
Copper loops typically enable connection speeds of between 1 and 24 Mbps.
The spectrum bands are not currently in commercial use, but new technology offers the possibility of new applications for these higher frequency bands. Ofcom proposes to adopt a flexible, light licensing approach to making this spectrum available.
It chose a first come, first served basis, rather than auction, as the band's unusual properties, including high bandwidth and narrow beam, mean that large numbers of users could co-exist without interference.
Consultation runs until 2 August 2006.
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