ACMA to ease access to spectrum for Internet of Things in Australia

ACMA to ease access to spectrum for Internet of Things in Australia

Operators of machine to machine (M2M) wireless communications links used in the Internet of Things (IoT) will find it easier to access spectrum under proposed changes to regulatory arrangements released today.

Many current generation M2M and IoT devices access spectrum via the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s class licensing regime (similar to a “spectrum commons”).

The proposed changes will remove a technical barrier to the operation of narrowband low powered wireless networks in the Radiocommunications (Low Interference Potential Devices) Class Licence 2015 in the 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz band and 5.8 GHz bands. They support a variety applications such as data telemetry, machine data and monitoring, sensor networks, smart metering, security systems and industrial control—all across a variety of industries.

ACMA Chairman, Chris Chapman, said:

‘The changes should encourage innovations in the M2M and IoT spaces.’

‘The proposals are a part of our work in looking at Australia’s state of readiness for IoT and identifying areas where the ACMA can further assist IoT developments.’

Other proposed changes to current regulatory arrangements include the addition of the new frequency bands for radiodetermination transmitters used as industrial sensors; in-ground ultra-wide bandwidth transmitters used in automated parking management systems; building material analysis devices used for detection of objects in walls ceilings and floors; and to align for European arrangement for short range devices in the frequency bands 122.25-123 GHz and 244-246 GHz.

Related posts