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European Commission ruling in favor of mobility in 3.5 GHz is a win for WiMAX
Limitations of fixed-only services lifted in May ruling. Spectrum holders throw support behind decision.
A late May decision by the European Commission has breathed life into the future of the 3.5 GHz frequency band. The Commission issued a decision on May 21st to harmonize spectrum in Europe across the 3400~3800 MHz region. Restrictions on the bands in most cases have relegated use to fixed wireless services. This limit has become an increasing concern to spectrum holders as global markets push for greater mobile use. The decision encourages Member States to quickly move and allow mobility in these frequency bands.
Spectrum holders appear pleased with the Commission's decision. "The Decision is meaningful for Clearwire's European operations, where we widely utilize 3.5GHz spectrum," said Benjamin G. Wolff, chief executive officer of Clearwire. "With extensive holdings in Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Poland, Romania, and Spain, and our affiliate's holdings in Denmark, our licenses cover more than 200 million people throughout Europe."
There has been long-standing support by the Commission for the flexible use of wireless spectrum, with technical and service neutrality. In the decision, the Commission specifically acknowledges that the "designation of the 3400 - 3800 MHz band for fixed, nomadic and mobile applications is an important element addressing the convergence of the mobile, fixed and broadcasting sectors and reflecting technical innovation."
Mobile devices are not expected immediately. While the Commission's decision removes the restrictions from operators for portable and mobile services, vendor product designed for 3.5 GHz portability and mobility are rare. Signal propagation at 2.5 GHz is more useful than at the higher 3.5 GHz band for indoor/outdoor coverage. Operators who hold licenses at both frequency bands will have great flexibility to provide fixed, portable, and mobile access across their service area.
By Jeff Orr
ORR Technology, LLC
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