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Minutes of the 2nd WGRA Meeting, 24-27 May 2004, Mainz, Germany
1. Reports of other meetings
1.1 Report of the 7th ECC meeting
The report of the last ECC meeting was introduced. A number of issues were highlighted that were of interest to WGRA, including the report of ECC PT6. informing of the changes to the ECC Rules of Procedure and Working Methods. These will be formally adopted in the ECC in July and the Project Team Chairmen were asked to note these when developing ECC deliverables.
1.2 ETSI Co-operation
ETSI gave an update on their work and underlined that they were happy with the current co-operation with WGRA.
1.3 Report from EFIS Maintenance Group
ERO gave a presentation on the latest developments within the EFIS Maintenance Group. There are now 22 Administrations featuring on EFIS enabling applications such as “search and compare” so that Administrations and industry can compare band plans in other Administrations. Phase two of the EFIS system, comparing radio interfaces, will be presented in the September WGRA meeting.
2. New technologies
2.1 Ultra Wide Band (UWB) Devices
ERO introduced a liaison statement and report from ECC TG3 who have been set up to concentrate on UWB issues. They have asked WGRA to look at the regulatory implications of the introduction of UWB technologies in Europe and advise them on the outcomes. It was suggested that RA6 look at the licensing issues involved, and that RA11 look at any potential interference problems and market enforcement. Mr Yurdal reported that TG1/8 is meeting shortly and will provide WGRA with more information on what is expected from the project teams.
It was agreed that WGRA should study these regulatory issues, and it was decided that this would be placed on the RA6 and RA11 work programmes, for work to start at their next meetings.
2.2 Automotive Radar Devices
The RA11 Chairman introduced a liaison statement from RA11 to WGFM, highlighting the enforcement concerns with Short Range Radar devices in the 24 GHz band. This liaison statement was taken into account at the last WGFM meeting and an ECC report was produced by WGFM. Some of the recommendations mentioned in the liaison statement should be discussed in detail in RA11, to provide guidance to Administrations when enforcing these devices.
The German Administration made the following statement:
Germany supports the recommendation to create harmonized enforcement guidelines as mentioned in points 1 to 4 of the related document (04)039).
Concerning point 5, dealing with the matter of automatic deactivation in certain areas, Germany expressed the concerns, that,
• the technology for automatic deactivation is not ready yet and the rather late introduction of this technology by CEPT would be an obstacle for market introduction of this new technology.
• automatic deactivation might be in conflict with national law and rules, concerning car and road safety
• even the Committee on Radio Astronomy Frequencies (CRAF) recommends on their web-site, that “… radio observatories could place signs along nearby roads requesting that vehicular radars be turned off,…”.
Therefore manual deactivation methods should be the basis for Automotive Radar.
WGRA noted the German Administrations statement.
The WGFM report on automotive radar devices was briefly presented. The report has been circulated for public consultation and the comments will be discussed at the next WGFM meeting.
2.3 Report of SRD/MG
ERO introduced a report of the last meeting of SRD/MG explaining the work that the group are currently undertaking; a topic discussed which is of interest to WGRA were the illegal short range devices in the FM broadcasting band. It was agreed in WGFM that a statement would be placed on the ERO website stating that use of this equipment is illegal. The statement should be prepared in cooperation with WGRA before being placed on the website; therefore RA11 and SRD/MG will prepare a statement in order to inform the industry that the placing on the market and use of this equipment is forbidden.
WGRA were notified that Mr Yurdal will take over the Chair of the SRD Maintenance Group, and hoped for good liaisons with RA11.
3 Maritime work issues
3.1 Report of RA2
The RA2 Chairman introduced the report of the last RA2 meeting and informed WGRA of the project teams current work items which include discussion on arguments in relation to possible exemption of licensing for maritime equipment, GMDSS coast radio station and MRCC radio operators certification, WRC-07 matters, ITU-R WP 8B, IMO and EU matters as well as an update on SRC/LRC certification within CEPT. There were no outputs for this meeting.
4 Work items on licensing and free circulation
4.1 Report of RA6
The RA6 Chairman introduced the report of the last RA6 meetings. There have been two meetings since WGRA last met, part of them jointly held with RA5 to discuss the items of ESV and AES.
4.2 Electronic Licensing
A draft ECC report on e-enablement was presented. It was reported that five Administrations responded to the request to provide updated national information for the final draft of the report. The content of the report was explained. RA6 proposed to stop work on e-enablement for the time being and to remove this item from the work programme of RA6. If proved necessary at a later stage, the subject could be taken up again.
The draft report was adopted by WGRA and will be forwarded to the ECC as final report. Much of the evidence of progress being made by administrations is also available on the dedicated e-licensing link from ERO.
4.3 Regulation of ESV and AES
This subject has been reported in Agenda item 6.3.
4.4 Revision of ERC Recommendation 01-07
A proposal to revise this Recommendation and bring it up to date was introduced, in particular references to the “use of equipment” were replaced by the “use of frequencies”. A “considering” referring to the EU Directive was also added.
WGRA agreed with the proposed changes, and adopted the Recommendation for publication.
4.5 ERC Recommendation 21-15
A proposal from RA6 to abrogate ERC Recommendation 21-15 was explained. This Recommendation is based on the old type approval regime. It refers to CEPT-marking and the possible use of circulation cards. The Recommendation also allows for non-CEPT administrations to join the agreement and it recommends that administrations should inform ERO on how they plan to implement free circulation arrangements. ERO did not receive any information at all, in addition, the equipment mentioned in the Recommendation has in the meantime been covered by free circulation Decisions.
Based on these facts, RA6 proposed to abrogate this Recommendation.
WGRA agreed with the proposal by RA6. It was agreed that the WGRA Co-Chairman would contact the ECC Chairman and the ERO to inform them of this action.
Finland informed WGRA that Recommendations 21-16 could be abrogated as it deals with type approval of land mobile terminals. RA6 will investigate this during their next meeting.
5 EU Matters
5.1 Spectrum Decision, Radio Spectrum Committee
The EU Commission reported on the recent developments in this committee. It was pointed out that the committee was pleased with the work of the ECC but must make sure that the work is in line with the EU Directives.
5.2 TCAM
The progress of the R&TTE Directive discussed in the TCAM 15 meeting was highlighted. Topics of discussion in TCAM were the safeguard clause procedures, appropriate measures to prevent the theft of mobile phones, the OSS notification of the use of non-harmonised radio equipment in EEA countries as mentioned in article 6.4 of the R&TTE Directive, Software Defined Radio issues, the legislation of some aeronautical equipment and improvements to class 1 equipment in EEA countries.
Furthermore, WGRA was informed of the first progress report on Directive 1999/5/EC from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament.
6 Work of RA5
6.1 Report from RA5 Chairman
The Chairman of RA5 introduced a report of the last RA5 meetings. It was noted that there have been three meetings since the last WGRA meeting, with the last two meetings have been jointly held with RA6 to discuss the issues with ESV and AES.
Other topics of discussion in the RA5 meetings have been the implementation of free circulation and use of satellite Decisions and the OSS and ERO regulatory databases
In the case of a corrigendum to an ECC Decision being appropriate with free circulation Decisions for satellite, the question was raised whether Administrations need to give their acceptance for this. RA6 have been given the task of looking into this.
6.2 OSS and regulatory database update
ERO introduced a document explaining the history behind the OSS database and highlighting the OSS and regulatory databases developments since 1994. This document relates to the question by the ECC on the consequences of maintaining the database without investing any further resources into software development.
WGRA agreed to endorse the ERO proposal to simplify the service categories to make the database compliant with the EU regulations. WGRA also noted that the ERO budget has sufficient resources for the maintenance of this database and therefore no additional budget is needed.
The ERO also mentioned that the Common Application Form (COM) requires software development which would mean that this would not be implemented in the future.
Finland introduced a proposal to reconsider the contents of the ERC and ECTRA Decisions relating to the establishment of the ERO regulatory database. Finland proposed that these Decisions be withdrawn, causing the database to close, allocating the resources of the ERO to more valuable work.
The Netherlands, Luxembourg, Portugal, UK, Switzerland and MSUA supported the proposal to keep the regulatory database. The Czech Republic are waiting for new Telecommunications policy to be implemented and are presently not in a position to give a view on this.
Finland, Sweden and Norway proposed that this item be postponed until the next WGRA meeting.
WGRA agreed to continue to maintain the regulatory database and will inform the ECC at their next meeting.
6.3 Draft Decisions on the operation of Aircraft Earth Stations and ESVs
A preliminary draft Decision for AES operating in the bands 14-14.5 (Earth-to space), 10.7-11.7 and 12.5-12.75 (space-to-Earth) was introduced. This Decision is intended to provide non-safety related broad-band data communication services. The Netherlands and UK support the ongoing production of this work item. The UK proposed that this version is mature enough to be sent to WGFM to examine the frequency aspects.
Germany asked why there was no free circulation and use for use of these systems on the ground, and encouraged RA5/RA6 to look at this.
The preliminary draft Decision for ESV in the 11-14 GHz band was also presented. This Decision is for the installation of terminals on ships which operate in the fixed satellite services bands. There are also plans to have a further Decision in 4-6 GHz band.
The Netherlands stated that they thought it would be difficult to get a harmonised result for this Ku-band Decision. The UK informed WGRA that they have concerns over the maximum EIRP and proposed that this is looked at again during the next RA5/RA6 meeting.
WGRA agreed that the Draft Decisions for AES and ESV should be sent to WGFM for information.
6.4 Revision of S-PCS Decisions
The ToR for the joint project team created at the last ECC meeting, reporting to both WGRA and WGFM, dealing with 2 GHz MSS issues were discussed. WGRA delegates were encouraged to attend the joint project team to discuss the many regulatory issues involved.
7 Matters concerning fees and charges
7.1 Report of RA8
The RA8 Chairman introduced the report of the last RA8 meeting. Discussions took place during the meeting on developments within Administrations, on the cost allocation and accounting report, and on the topic of auctions and beauty contests.
The RA8 Chairman also asked WGRA to have a think about future work items for the project team.
7.2 Draft Report on Cost Allocation and Accounting Systems
The draft report on cost allocation and accounting systems was introduced by means of a presentation on this report, highlighting the main results of the study including changes made to the first draft presented at the previous WGRA meeting.
Some amendments were made to the report. It was decided that this should be an ECC Report, and not just information for Administrations. The Netherlands also suggested that this should also be presented to WGFM as some of the issues addressed in the report relate to the work done in WGFM. A liaison statement to WGFM was drafted.
7.3 Auctions and Beauty Contests.
The questionnaire sent to Administrations to collect information on the issue of auctions and beauty contests was introduced. The aim of this questionnaire is to gather information in order to help other administrations when planning auctions and beauty contests. The results of the questionnaire will be placed on the ERO website. Administrations were urged to respond to the questionnaire.
8 Enforcement
8.1 Report of RA11
RA11 Chairman introduced the report of the last RA11 meeting.
ERO introduced the report of the market surveillance campaign. A workshop jointly held between R&TTE ADCO and RA11 was held to discuss the findings of the campaign. The campaign report and the presentations of the event are available on the ERO enforcement website.
Mr Fatih Yurdal, ERO is appointed as chairman SRD/MG, therefore he will not participate the RA11 meetings. His work will be taken over by Mr. Brinkerink.
8.2 Feasibility study on mobile phone interceptors
ERO introduced the third progress report on mobile phone interceptors. The questionnaire sent to Administrations produced 19 responses. These results were analysed and it highlighted that most Administrations were unsure whether these interceptors could be used. It was also reported that the GSM association has been in close liaison with the group, who are firmly opposed to Jammers being placed on the market.
It was decided that RA11 will need to further study the possibilities of using interceptor devices and other technical solutions and their respective conditions of use.
WGRA suggest RA11 to consider inviting GSM Association Europe and other relevant organisations to attend RA11 meetings for discussion this issue.
RA11 will report back on the progress made at the next WGRA meeting.
8.3 Wire-line telecommunication networks
The liaison statement to WGSE regarding an ECC Recommendation on the criteria for the assessment of radio interference by unwanted emissions from wire-line telecom networks in conformity with the provisions of harmonised EMC standards. Such a Recommendation should be developed to achieve a common European guideline on how to solve these special scenarios.
WG SE identified that this new work item contains several regulatory aspects, which should be brought to the attention of RA 11.
WGSE has prepared a first draft for a new ECC Recommendation, which could be used as a start for a first discussion by RA11. WG SE is seeking for the support of RA 11 in the process of drafting the ECC Recommendation and requests RA 11 to highlight this co-operation between WG SE and RA 11. This new work item will be put on the work programme of RA11.
RA11 will report back on the progress made at the next WGRA meeting.
8.4 Draft ECC report on (O)R-LANS
A draft report on (O)RLANS operating in the frequency band 2.400-2.4835 GHz was introduced. This report investigates the mis-use of the equipment and provides guidance for enforcing the regulations including recommendations for market enforcement actions against the proliferation of illegal ORLANS or possible adaptation of the regulations. WGRA was informed that 15 Administrations responded to the questionnaire and provided information for this report.
A liaison statement from RA11 will be forwarded to WGFM for discussion at their next meeting requesting them to consider creating a separate frequency band for un-coordinated point-to-point installations. It was also suggested that the SRD/MG also looks at this during their next meeting.
WGRA adopted the draft ECC Report 57 and agreed that the amended liaison statement, along with the report, would be forwarded to the WGFM Chairman.
8.5 Draft report on illegal FM broadcasting
The draft Report on illegal FM broadcasting was introduced. WGRA were informed that the results of the survey show that greater co-operation and exchange of information is needed between Administrations to help stop illegal FM broadcasting, eliminate the supply of broadcasting equipment and to take appropriate action to seize non-compliant equipment.
It was agreed that this report will be looked at further during the next RA11 meeting, where a decision as to the direction of this report is taken.
8.6 Short range devices in the FM broadcasting band
The meeting was informed of the outcome of the discussion concerning micro power radio FM-transmitter in combination of a MP3 player for provision of music via the car FM-receiver. In Europe, the FM band 87–108 MHz is exclusive allocated to licensed broadcasting in all CEPT member countries. Other use of the FM band is prohibited in the European countries. Enforcing of this ‘illegal’ micro power transmitter is very difficult.
Furthermore, the EC take the view that it is wiser to ensure that conditions of use of such equipment and their conditions be established. That would prevent a grey market in Europe from developing and enable effective surveillance against products that would not comply with relevant regulations.
RA11 concluded that Micro power FM transmitters transmit in a FM broadcasting band that is already licensed to broadcasting operators and at present, the use of micro power FM transmitters by the public is general not allowed in Europe. Enforcement Authorities have great difficulties in taking measures because of the sales volume of these items and because of the minimal radiated power.
The next meeting of SRD/MG has this item on the agenda and SRD/MG will liaise with RA11. Germany commented that the solution will need to be a harmonised one.
WGRA agreed that RA11 and SRD/MG should study the possibilities of legalizing micro FM transmitters, identify applicable standards and develop the necessary technical conditions for use.
RA11 will report back to WGRA at the next meeting after examining the level of enforcement needed.
9 Flexibility in the spectrum regulatory framework
9.1 Report from RA12
ERO introduced the report of RA12 on behalf of the RA12 Chairman, which was the report of the last RA12 meeting. A number of topics were discussed during the meeting in the area of introducing more flexibility.
WGRA participants are invited to respond to the request from the RA12 Chairman to provide information on national developments or studies in the area of flexibility such as investigating further possibilities for licence exemption, technical studies on methods for measuring the noise floor and studies on the developments in frequency use. It was reported that unfortunately only three Administrations have responded so far.
10 Radio Amateurs
10.1 Update of Amateur matters
ERO introduced an update on Radio Amateur matters in CEPT. Administrations are urged to provide the ERO with updated information for the table of equivalence between the CEPT licence and national licences, and the national licence classes equivalent to the CEPT examination level.
A magazine article had been written by the IARU, informing readers of the changes to T/R 61-01 since WRC-2003. It was noted that this document is useful for radio amateurs.
10.2 CITEL application to join T/R 61-01
Despite contacting CITEL, they have yet to provide any information on the progress of the instruments allowing the signature of the MoU with CEPT.
11 Implementation of ECC Decisions
11.1 Implementation of ECC Decisions
ERO introduced charts showing the implementation of ERC/ECC Free circulation and Use and Licensing Decisions in CEPT member states. The charts will continue to be updated.
The implementation of Satellite Decisions in CEPT member states was also reported.
Cyprus informed WGRA that they have recently adopted 36 Decisions, and will be adopting a further 32 Decisions in the coming month. Croatia announced that they have implemented 90% of the ERC/ECC Decisions and will be notifying the ERO.
12 RA Work programme
12.1 RA Work Programme
The Co-Chairmen of WGRA introduced the draft WGRA work programme.
SITA introduced a proposal for a new work item to develop an ECC Decision to permit the use of GSM transceiver stations on-board aircraft (MPAX). This service would be for short haul services in Europe using existing frequencies and allocations in the GSM band.
WGRA expressed an interest in examining the regulatory aspects of these systems and proposed that a liaison statement is sent to WGSE at a later date to examine the compatibility issues. It was agreed that RA6 would study this at their next meeting, and report back their findings and recommendations at the next WGRA meeting.
A proposal by the UK for the creation of an ECC Decision covering free circulation of CDMA-PAMR terminals was also presented. It was agreed that this would be added to the RA6 work programme for discussion at the next project team meeting. Sweden proposed to change the acronym to make the work item more generic by changing the title of CDMA to digital wideband. ETSI suggested that RA6 look at ECC Decisions (99)02 and (99)03 that deal free circulation of with narrow band equipment, and update as necessary. Germany reported that a WGFM Report dealing with wide band PMR has been produced. This work item was agreed in principal upon discussions in RA6.
It was reported that the French Administration would like RA11 to start work on an item investigating EMF on base stations. Finland, Sweden and ETSI could not support this work item. It was agreed that the RA11 Chairman would ask the French Administration to present this work item at the next WGRA meeting. This should assist consideration in WGRA whether further assistance from the ECC is required.
On the request of ECC, WGRA is requested to investigate if problems such as PMR 446 will also be applicable when combining different types of operation in one type of equipment, and whether this had been experienced in other bands. It was agreed that this issue should be taken onboard by RA11.
Further amendments were made to the document and the work programme was adopted.
13 Any other business
There was no other business.
14 Minutes of 2nd WGRA Meeting
The draft minutes were agreed.
15 Date and place of next meeting
The next meeting will be held in Dublin, 27 September – 30th September 2004.
16 Closure
The Co- Chairmen thanked the Secretary and Project Team Chairmen for their work prior to and during the meeting, and delegates for participating in all the activity which had enabled a number of deliverables to be produced. They also thanked the German Administration for the excellent meeting facilities and hospitality provided during the meeting. The Chairmen closed the meeting and wished delegates an enjoyable summer and a safe journey home.
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