Impact of Spectrum Allocation
Radio spectrum is the essential resource for all GSM and 3G/WCDMA (mobile) networks; without it the wide range of growing mobile services available today simply would not exist.
However, spectrum is a finite resource and as such must be managed effectively across all technologies and every region of the world.
It is crucial that operators and manufacturers can develop and innovate in a defined and stable environment, confident in the security of spectrum allocations.
The development of GSM and 3G/WCDMA networks, handsets and services requires significant investment by the industry and, therefore, regulators need to consider all the implications of spectrum-related decisions to design consistent long-term spectrum policies.
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KEY FACTS
- The best spectrum for rural areas is in the lower frequency bands:
- Operators need fewer cells at lower frequencies; 3G at 700 MHz needs about 30% of cells to offer the same coverage as 3G at 2100 MHz
- Supports wide geographic coverage
- Provides economies of scale in equipment
- Frequency Harmonisation can drive down terminal costs by 50% (as well as offering better performing phones and more choice)
- If mobile operators don't have enough spectrum then they need more, smaller cells
- In city centres the consumer demand can drive operators to deploy smaller and smaller cells, which drives up costs
- Spectrum can halve the costs of covering urban areas - or delay capex
