The Electronic Communications Committee (ECC) of the CEPT has approved a package of regulatory documents on digital dividend. Most important is the new ECC Decision ECC/DEC/(09)03 on 'Harmonised conditions for mobile/fixed communications networks (MFCN) operating in the band 790-862 MHz'. This ECC Decision is based on the results of the compatibility studies published in the new CEPT Reports 30 and 31.
| Why 790-862 MHz?
This frequency band is often called 'the sweet spot' in the radio spectrum because it is suitable for a variety of services. It corresponds to TV channels 61-69 which have traditionally been used for terrestrial TV services across Europe. In some countries TV services have to share the band with other services. Compatibility between digital TV and these other services is ensured in the GE06 Agreement and Plan. The ITU World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-07) in November 2007, has allocated this frequency band to mobile services, in addition to broadcasting, with the intention to implement IMT services. |  |
The European Commission advocates new uses of this band, such as electronic communications services including broadband services in rural areas. Furthermore, the Commission calls for a coordinated action, although non-mandatory, to avoid a fragmented situation emerging among the Member States.
The ECC approach
The ECC has adopted a flexible approach which leaves it to national administrations to decide how the band 790-862 MHz is used. However, if this frequency band is to be used for mobile/fixed communications networks, administrations shall adopt the harmonized technical conditions specified in the Decision ECC/DEC/(09)03. This is consistent with the regulatory approach currently adopted by the European Commission. ECC/DEC/(09)03 also provides flexibility for national administrations to adapt the harmonised conditions to their specific national circumstances. This is particularly important since all TV receivers are potentially vulnerable to interference caused by future mobile networks and terminals. The ECC has recognised 'that the protection of broadcasting may require adoption of additional measures at the national level to mitigate the possible remaining interference cases'. Broadcasters should thus be involved in the process of implementing this ECC Decision at the national level. Furthermore, the general public needs to be properly informed about the interference issues and adequate mechanisms should be implemented for detection, reporting and resolution of interference incidents.