NetStumbler

Ofcom Spectrum Auction To Spark UK Mobile WiMax Scramble

Kristin Abraham — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 07:16:39 +0000

Mobile WiMax is set to begin a battle with Wi-Fi and 3G networks in the UK. Nortel is pairing with Urban WiMax and Macropolitan to lead the way in this new venture.

The companies recently held a conference between the UK, Canada and the US using this technology on their laptops. Other trials are expected to follow.

In this situation timing is everything as the British Office of Communications is currently planning an auction of spectrum which could be used to convey mobile WiMax and other wireless technologies.

The first products to hit the market may come as early as the end of 2007 but a greater influx is expected by the end of 2008.
Via [computerworlduk.com]

Ofcom Auction Opens Door To Mobile WiMAX, TV

Eliza Villarino — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 11:40:00 +0000

Ofcom is due to auction frequencies that will enable a range of services such as mobile WiMAX, mobile TV, and alternative 3G networks. The British communications regulator plans to put up three bands — 2500-2690 MHz, 2010-2025 MHz and 2290-2300 MHz and in total 215 MHz — for public sale and has sought proposals from industry and interested parties for the event. The period for consultation will last through March 9, 2007. The agency also revealed it is retaining the services of consulting firms DotEcon and Analysis for the auction.

The consultation document states plans to release the spectrum through two separate auctions. The agency looks to package bands 2500-2690 MHz and 2010-2025 MHz into several lots and would allow bidders to make an offer for multiple lots in an online auction, which will use a secure server. Auction for bands 2290-2300 MHz will be bundled into a single lot and will be carried out through a sealed bid process.

The move forms part of a broader program to free some 400MHz of spectrum in the next few years, which, according to Ofcom CEO Ed Richards, “will create new opportunities for innovation in wireless technologies, promoting competition and driving convergence.” The agency also proposed to auction spectrum freed up by the analog-to-digital television switchover. It is expected to announce a consultation on this soon.
Via [eetimes.com]

Ofcom Loses The 4G Signal

Eliza Villarino — Thu, 07 Sep 2006 08:50:00 +0000

Ofcom is exploring the possibility of auctioning off radio spectrum that could be utilized for 4G mobile services. At the moment, no one can define 4G and the adoption of 3G in the U.K. remains minimal. Since the Â£22.5 billion auction in 2000, 3G has only attracted 4.5 million users or equivalent to Â£5,000 per user. Such situation is a result of the technology’s failure to meet industry expectations. HSDPA does allow for faster downloads, but acquiring the techology is too costly, thus driving away average users.
Via [comment.zdnet.co.uk]