ReutersRelated
Satellite communications companies are seeking exclusive use of spectrum in the 27.5-28.5 GHz frequency range, which is also sought after by 5G service providers. The 28 GHz band - 'millimetre wave band' - carries telecom signals over shorter distances but at very high speeds.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has, in its submission to GoI on upcoming 5G spectrum auctions, recommended coexistence of satellite and 5G mobile services in the 28 GHz band. This, argue space broadband service providers, will hobble a technology that has a key role to play in rolling out internet services across the country.
Satellites in and others in the making use this crucial millimetre wave band and have licensed antennae in operation on these frequencies. Satellite communications providers make two arguments to support their claim on the particular chunk of airwaves.
One, the 'nascent industry' case. They want the satellite industry to evolve into a more robust state before any allocation in this band. Two, the dual-use technology involved. The strategic demands of communications and imagery would gain from private enterprise in this ecosystem. Against this, terrestrial mobile telecom providers are laying their claim on this band because of the specific attributes that would come in handy for the Internet of Things (IoT).
Both sides have cited international experience to back their claims. Space broadband service providers point out that a host of nations have reserved this frequency band for communications with satellites, while terrestrial cellular companies cite another list of countries that have allowed hybrid use. Trai has sought a decision on the issue from the department of telecommunications.
The competing claims on the natural resource highlight differing technology trajectories vital for a Digital India. Both represent platforms on which hi-tech stacks can be built. Terrestrial and satellite communications are complementary services and competition over spectrum should not be at the cost of one or the other.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has, in its submission to GoI on upcoming 5G spectrum auctions, recommended coexistence of satellite and 5G mobile services in the 28 GHz band. This, argue space broadband service providers, will hobble a technology that has a key role to play in rolling out internet services across the country.
Satellites in and others in the making use this crucial millimetre wave band and have licensed antennae in operation on these frequencies. Satellite communications providers make two arguments to support their claim on the particular chunk of airwaves.
One, the 'nascent industry' case. They want the satellite industry to evolve into a more robust state before any allocation in this band. Two, the dual-use technology involved. The strategic demands of communications and imagery would gain from private enterprise in this ecosystem. Against this, terrestrial mobile telecom providers are laying their claim on this band because of the specific attributes that would come in handy for the Internet of Things (IoT).
Both sides have cited international experience to back their claims. Space broadband service providers point out that a host of nations have reserved this frequency band for communications with satellites, while terrestrial cellular companies cite another list of countries that have allowed hybrid use. Trai has sought a decision on the issue from the department of telecommunications.
The competing claims on the natural resource highlight differing technology trajectories vital for a Digital India. Both represent platforms on which hi-tech stacks can be built. Terrestrial and satellite communications are complementary services and competition over spectrum should not be at the cost of one or the other.
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com.)
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