The important 600MHz band failed to find a successful bidder in the 2022 5G spectrum auction, but officials say there is now interest from not only broadcasting but also industries such as audio program production and special events (PMSE). said.
As discussions progress on updating the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP), the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has requested from these industries to allocate spectrum in the absence of International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) use cases and spectrum auctions. I received it. .
For example, US-based Shure Technologies has requested the DoT to allocate spectrum between 470 and 694 MHz for audio PMSE. The audio PMSE industry includes the use of audio equipment such as microphones, in-ear monitors, and wireless audio systems for applications such as broadcasting, live events, theater, sporting events, and film production.
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This band of spectrum allows devices to wirelessly transmit high-quality sound over short distances, avoiding interference and ensuring clear audio for performers, presenters, and audience members.
Telcos have expressed concerns about allocating bands above 612 MHz to the audio industry, even though the audio industry is seeking spectrum as a secondary allocation.
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), in its argument to the DoT, has said that the range allocated to the audio industry should be kept below 612 MHz.
Telecom operators also called for a study on potential interference scenarios in bands adjacent to key services such as telecommunications.
However, Shure said the radiated power output from the wireless microphone is only 50mW, so the potential for interference is non-existent.
In 2022, the government was auctioning off the 600Mhz band. However, it was unable to find any bidders due to the lack of a device ecosystem that supported services in that band. The band was also priced at Rs 3,927 crore each, making it one of the most expensive bands at auction.
For carriers, the 600 MHz band is critical to improving wireless broadband coverage.
Recently, Qualcomm said that the smartphone ecosystem is well suited to support enhanced communication services in the 600 MHz band. DoT is expected to re-enter the band in the next spectrum auction.
Prasar Bharati suggested that broadcasting spectrum in the sub-600 MHz band should not be allocated to telecom services. The public broadcaster said in a note to the DoT that the spectrum band between 470 and 582 MHz, among others, is used for terrestrial television (TV) broadcasting, and the frequencies are used by TV transmitters.
Prasar Bharati plans to roll out new-age digital terrestrial television (DTT) and mobile communications (D2M) services across India and says lack of sufficient spectrum could hinder the expansion of these services. It is stated in the memo.
