3.3 Summary

Analysis of the current spectrum allocations in the 806-960 MHz band as described in the previous sections indicates the following principal problems:

• Congestion in the spectrum available for STLs in high-use areas;

• Increasing risk of interference to STLs in the 915-921 MHz band from SRDs designed for use in the US and Australian markets;

• Insufficient bandwidth in the 900 MHz band for SRDs such as RFID systems and mesh networks, which are increasingly in demand;

• Lack of harmonisation with the SRD allocations of the US (902-928 MHz), Australia (915-928 MHz) and Europe (862-870 MHz), precluding some SRDs from use in New Zealand;

• Discrepancies between the power permitted in US and Australian SRD bands and the New Zealand band.

Over the long term, key impacts will include the supply of spectrum for STLs falling short of the quantity demanded resulting in the need to use higher cost options; reduced availability to New Zealand of new technology where there is lack of spectrum harmonisation and the consequent loss of economic opportunities; and increased risk of potential interference if licence-exempt equipment designed for other markets, but which is non-compliant with New Zealand’s GURL, is imported into New Zealand.

The Ministry would welcome feedback on the current 806-960 MHz spectrum allocations and impacts on your organisation, or future issues that may affect your organisation.

Question 8

Does your organisation suffer from insufficient spectrum in the 806-960 MHz band at present, or do you see a future need for spectrum in this band that is not currently allowed for? If so, please provide details.