U.K. regulator looks to create two additional 80-megahertz channels in the 5 GHz band for Wi-Fi
U.K. telecom regulator Ofcom has proposed opening up additional unlicensed spectrum in the 5 GHz band to support Wi-Fi services in a move to create two additional 80-megahertz channels for Wi-Fi to reduce pressure on the unlicensed 2.4 GHz band. Ofcom said the initiative would improve the quality of service, especially for applications that need more Internet capacity, like high-definition video.
The regulator issued a consultation paper proposing the use of two additional 80-megahertz channels for Wi-Fi within the 5 GHz band. The extra subband is said ti increase the number of 80-megahertz channels available from four to six. Ofcom said these extra channels could be opened up in a few years.
“People are placing greater demands on their broadband, so we need to ensure they aren’t let down by their wireless connection,” said Philip Marnick, group director of spectrum for Ofcom. “We also want to close the gap between advertised speeds and the wireless performance that people and businesses actually receive. So we’re exploring ways to open up more airwaves for Wi-Fi.”
The move is set to focus specifically on the 5725 MHz-5850 MHz subband, which is used for Wi-Fi in a number of countries, but not in Europe, Ofcom said. Interested parties have until July 22 to respond to the proposal.
Nokia, Saudi Telecom test MulteFire technology
In other EMEA news, Nokia and Saudi Telecom conducted a test of MulteFire technology, which combines LTE with Wi-Fi in unlicensed spectrum bands such as 5 GHz without the need for an anchor tenant deployed in licensed spectrum.
The test, which used Nokia’s FlexiZone small cells together with MulteFire software, showed how MulteFire can co-exist with Wi-Fi to deliver service in a densely populated environment. The test showed up to 120 megabits per second of total download and upload throughput.
MulteFire is said to complement heterogeneous networks, which use a mixture of macro and small cell radios, allowing operators to meet the increased connectivity demands of smart cities and the “Internet of Things.”
