TV white space technology, an emerging technology in wireless communications has the potential to enable home broadband networks, intelligent peer-to-peer devices, and small communications networks. This technology promises more efficient spectrum utilisation through the deployment of intelligent TV Band Devices ("TVBDs"). TVBDs are able to operate in the unused spectrum of the TV VHF/UHF bands due to their ability to sense the radio environment and its dynamic spectrum sharing capabilities. TVBDs could allow for the delivery of wireless services over this untapped source of spectrum, known as 'white space', which could help meet increasing demand for bandwidth.
IDA recognises the potential of white space and will be conducting trials for white space technology. On 7 April 2010, IDA announced the 'White Space Technology Information Package and Test Plan' at the IEEE International Dynamic Spectrum Access Networks (DySPAN) 2010 symposium held in Singapore, where organisations were requested to indicate their interest in participating in white space trials.
The upcoming trials, named Cognitive Radio Venues ("CRAVE"), will assist IDA in developing the regulatory framework for the use of TVDBs. From the trials, participants would be able to obtain real-world measurements, which would facilitate in the development of white space devices.
With CRAVE, Singapore is taking a leading role in the region in white space technology. IDA hopes to generate more awareness of this emerging technology in the industry and to encourage the industry to explore the possibilities of creating feasible commercial applications and solutions.
CRAVE will commence in the fourth quarter of 2010 and the finalised dates will be announced in September 2010. Currently, the following organisations have been confirmed as CRAVE participants:
- Institute for Infocomm Research (I2R)
- National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)
- Huawei International Pte Ltd (Huawei)
For any enquiries/feedback, please refer to the White Space Technology Information Package and contact Mr Henry Foo at henry_foo@ida.gov.sg.
