Ofcom explores potential of 'white space' wireless broadband

Regulator says technology could be used to deliver fast broadband to remote areas

White space services could be available as early as 2011

Ofcom has launched a consultation on a new form of wireless communication called white space technology, which could be used to offer enhanced broadband access in rural areas.

Spectrum frequencies between 500MHz and 800MHz are typically used for broadcast TV. However, TV transmissions do not take up the entire spectrum, and Ofcom believes the gaps, or "white spaces", can be used by low power unlicensed devices such as a router designed to pick up these transmissions.

White space signals travel further and more easily through walls and barriers than other forms of wireless communications technology, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Ofcom’s discussion document focuses on the issues that need to be addressed for this solution to work.

One issue is that white space devices must first prove they can operate without interfering with TV broadcasts and other wireless technologies that share these frequencies, such as wireless microphones. One solution, according to Ofcom, is for devices to be able to consult a “geolocation database” that contains live information about which frequencies are free to use at their current location.

A Statutory Instrument will also be published by Ofcom exempting appropriated devices from the need for a licence when using white spaces.

“The airwaves that wireless devices depend on are becoming increasingly congested,” said professor William Webb, director of technology resources at Ofcom.

“Using the white spaces between TV channels is a good example of how we can both use spectrum more efficiently and provide opportunities for new applications and services,” he added.

The closing date for responses to the consultation is 7 December, and it is estimated that interested companies will be able to host the geolocation databases by the end of 2011.