White space standards body wants to 'kickstart deployment’

03 April 2012

Weightless, the body behind the Weightless machine-to-machine (M2M) communications standard for white space spectrum, has added its voice to Ofcom's call for a ‘kick start’ of rapid regulatory turnaround, the rapid occupation of the spectrum, and deployment of M2M white space standards and technology in order to demonstrate its applications.

Ofcom CEO, Ed Richards, outlined his views on white space in an EU Policy debate in Brussels on March 7 2012, entitled ‘Towards an EU policy for dynamic spectrum access’. The conference was attended by members of the FCC in the US and Ofcom.

In his speech, described by the conference chair as a “call to arms”, Ed Richards clearly stated that white space is now a priority for Ofcom. He pointed towards the importance of moving regulation to a point where companies can occupy the spectrum as a means of demonstrating the worth of dynamic spectrum access, and of propelling the industry forwards.

Mr Richards highlighted M2M communications as one of the prime and innovative uses of the spectrum, noting the need for wireless collection of data from sensors, (for example from gas, water and electricity meters).

The substance of Ed Richard’s speech can be read here.

For further information on Weightless, or to join as a member and help to develop the Weightless M2M standard, click here.