International interference analysis for future use of 1452-1492MHz range

Consultants' Report

Analysys Consulting and Mason Communications have prepared a report “International interference analysis for future use of 1452-1492MHz range” for Ofcom which gives general guidance on implications of international constraints on the future use of the frequency range 1452-1492 MHz, particularly given the opportunities and constraints represented by the Maastricht 2002 Special Arrangement (“the Maastricht Plan”).

As with any study of this type, the results depend significantly on the assumptions applied, and it is recommended to read these carefully. In particular it is worth noting:

• The parameters for satellite DAB (S-DAB) used for calculation are based on a notional system considered in the Maastricht Plan: the systems coordinated under ITU procedures will have different characteristics (although the overall conclusion will probably be similar).
• The extent to which Frequency Block LP is constrained by the likely need to avoid adjacent channel interference to satellite radio reception (above 1479.5 MHz) in neighbouring countries is particularly sensitive to the calculation input assumptions.
• Radio propagation calculations do not take account of the effect of actual terrain (this is usual for calculations involving signals which travel over the sea), which may make the real ability to reuse frequencies more favourable, or less.

It is notable that for services using conventional broadcast transmitter topology, the use of directionally sensitive transmitting aerials significantly improves the ability to use a given frequency. The use of more dense transmitting networks (as may be required in any case for reasons of preferred network design) will also improve the ability to use a given frequency.

The report is available below: