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Minutes of the 3rd WGRA Meeting in Dublin, Ireland, 27-30 September 2004
1. Reports of other meetings
1.1 Report of the 8th ECC meeting
The report of the last ECC meeting was introduced. A number of issues were highlighted that were of interest to WGRA.
It was reported that RA12 has been moved from WGRA and has now become ECC PT8. At the last ECC meeting it was agreed to transfer the work on Dispute Resolution Settlement Procedures to WGRA. This work originated in the ECC PT4/APRII which was dissolved at the last ECC meeting.
The report of the background of the ECC PT4/APRII activities focusing on the outcome was also introduced, i.e. the 2003 ECC report 43: “Dispute Resolution Settlement Procedures”. A brief description of the current situation concerning dispute settlements procedures and a proposal concerning the possible way forward within WG RA were also discussed.
WGRA agreed to create a new project team to deal with these issues. It was noted that Administrations would be urged to attend this project team as the sharing of experiences and information would be very important when producing the report.
1.2 Report from EFIS Maintenance Group
A presentation on Phase Two of the EFIS system showed the comparison of radio interfaces across countries. Several CEPT Decisions and EU regulations have stipulated the obligation of member states to publish national frequency allocation tables and information on the use of frequencies. The ERO Frequency Information System (EFIS) has now been modified in such a way as to also provide radio interface specifications. The new EFIS 2.0 software is currently under test and will be ready to use before the end of 2004. Phase one has been implemented, resulting in radio interface information being available for certain applications as a document. Phase 2 implementation aims at providing comparable information about the details of a single radio interface. This phase has also been incorporated and tested. However, a number of details still have to be corrected before EFIS 2 can go live.
The results of an EFIS query, zooming in on radio frequency interface information for short range devices in a particular frequency band, were presented to the meeting. This presentation showed the elements of the radio interface separately and ready to be compared with other national interfaces when those become available in the database.
Many countries have uploaded national data as an XML file, exported from a national database. This is the most efficient way of updating EFIS information and takes very little time, once the XML file can be automatically generated from an existing database.
All countries are invited to join the EFIS maintenance group and to upload information into the EFIS database.
1.3 Report of ECC TG3 on UWB
An extract of the ECC minutes dealing with ECC TG3 on UWB was introduced.
It was mentioned that the ECC has asked WGRA not to start work in the UWB area, as ECC TG3 has been specifically set up to deal with this issue. It was suggested that WGRA should in the future look at the report sent from TG3 to the ECC.
1.4 Report of JPT 2GHz MSS
The report of the last JPT 2 GHz MSS meeting was introduced. Some topics discussed were the consideration of the operational requirements for MSS in the 1980-2010 / 2170-2200 MHz bands, the opportunity of categorisation of MSS systems, and the possible authorisation of terrestrial repeaters.
The questionnaire sent to Administrations, industry and operators on the 1980-2010 / 2170-2200 MHz band was discussed. After noting a liaison statement from FM to RA commenting that they have completed their review of the questionnaire and that it was now passed on for consideration to WGRA, WGRA approved the questionnaire, and the ERO will now send this to Administrations and other interested parties.
1.5 Report of ECC PT7
The report of the last ECC PT7 meeting was introduced. PT7 has developed 11 policy goals and a number of these directly relate to the work of WGRA such as the harmonised use of frequency bands, free circulation and licence free operations. Flexibility and co-operation with the EU Commission were also other goals of the group. PT7 had investigated the implementation of the ECA table in those countries that had made frequency information available in EFIS.
1.6 Liaison statement from SE19 regarding the proposed light licensing regime for fixed links in the frequency band 64-66 GHz
A liaison statement from SE19 to WGRA proposing a light licensing regime for fixed links in the frequency band 64-66 GHz was discussed. It was agreed that this issue would be given to RA6 to examine.
1.7 Report of SRD/MG
In the last SRD MG meeting, one of the topics discussed was an investigation to find out the technicality of micro FM transmitters to make sure that existing transmitters would fall under the same regulations. The SRD MG had invited WGSE to work on compatibility issues.
2. Maritime work issues
2.1 Report of RA2
The report of the last RA2 meeting was introduced. It was reported that some topics of discussion at the meeting were IMO matters, WRC-07 issues, unrestricted use of SRD onboard vessels, the issue of listening watch on VHF channel 16, evaluation of the R&TTE Directive, SRC/LRC certification within CEPT and TU-R WP 8B matters. It was also noted that RA2 is happy with the liaison between CPG PT4 and RA2.
As a follow up on the EC’s “First progress report” on the R&TTE Directive, the project team would like to approach the EU Commission asking them to start work on the establishment of a separate Equipment Directive for non-SOLAS vessels. RA2 commented that they would be prepared to take the necessary initiative. WGRA agreed that RA2 will report back at the next meeting in February, with a proposed letter to be sent to the Commission, for approval by WGRA and then by the ECC.
2.2 Licence exemption of maritime equipment
An RA2 questionnaire on the arguments / reasoning behind maritime licensing which was sent to Administrations asking for their views, and more specifically to present a status update on national maritime licensing requirements was introduced. The aim is to further present an overall view on all relevant aspects of the issue, that might give Administrations the basis for considering a possible lighter regulatory regime.
3. Work items on licensing and free circulation
3.1 Report of RA6
The report of the last RA6 meetings was introduced. There have been two meetings since WGRA last met, part of them jointly held with RA5 to discuss the items of ESV and AES. There was also an RA6 meeting that discussed the SITA MPAX system, licence of exemption of CDMA/PAMR terminals and the abrogation of Recommendation 21-16.
No comments regarding the ECC Report on e-enablement from the public consultation had been received. WGRA adopted the Report. It will be published on the ERO web site.
3.2 Abrogation of Recommendation 21-16
A document which proposes that the Decision on conformity assessment for land mobile satellite service terminals is abrogated was discusssed. Due to the introduction of the RTTE Directive, this Decison is not needed any more. It was noted that it will still be possible for Administrations to look at this Decision once it has been abrogated. WGRA agreed with this proposal.
3.3 Licence exemption and free circulation of CDMA/PAMR terminals
A draft Decision for the licence exemption and free circulation of CDMA/PAMR terminals was discussed.
ECC Decision (04)06 allows the introduction of Wide Band Digital Land Mobile PMR/PAMR in the 400 MHz and 800/900 MHz bands. This covers the CDMA/PAMR technology. ECC is invited to note that a number of administrations are licensing CDMA/PAMR networks. Furthermore other administrations are licensing CDMA 450 cellular networks according to ECA common allocation table footnote 34 that accepts such use on a national basis. It is the view of WGRA that an ECC deliverable complimentary to this Decision enabling licence exemption and free circulation of CDMA/PAMR network user terminals would assist the development of the market. The Decision will cover terminals that can only transmit under the control of a licensed network.
In meeting these existing and future requirements, WGRA through PT6 has begun to give some initial thought on the scope of a future Decision or licence exemption, free circulation and use which would be of a generic service type for wide band terminals in the 400 MHz and 800/900 MHz bands to include PMR/PAMR and cellular. WGRA seeks the agreement of ECC to continue this work.
3.4 MPAX – Personal passenger communications
The preliminary draft Decision for GSM terminals onboard aircraft was discussed. It was agreed that this draft Decision would be sent to WGFM and WGSE for their views. It was reported that further issues need to be looked at before this Decision is ready to go for public consultation.
The meeting also noted that work will start to develop a Decision for GSM onboard ships. WGSE will also be informed of the proposed work item.
A presentation regarding the GSM system on board aircraft was given, noting that RA6 had produced a draft Decision which addressed two issues: first, which Administration controlled the licensing of the system; and secondly the issue of controlling interference with both the ground and on-board avionic systems. The presentation updated the meeting with the results of the first RF testing, showing the proposed on-board system does not extend beyond the wingspan, and did not interfere with external networks.
On the question whether what the required bandwidth for the operation of the base station inside the aircraft would be it was indicated that the limiting feature was the satellite capacity.
3.5 Development of a regulatory framework for free circulation of WiMAX terminals
A proposal to develop a regulatory framework for free circulation of WiMAX terminals was tabled. It was agreed that this would be discussed in RA6 where further information on this subject will hopefully be available. It was agreed that WGRA will forward this document to WGFM.
4. EU Matters
4.1 Spectrum Decision, Radio Spectrum Committee, Radio Spectrum Policy Group
A report of the last Radio Spectrum Committee meeting was introduced. The meeting dealt with SRDs, under utilised spectrum, SRR, RLANS and power line technology.
4.2 TCAM
The report of the last TCAM meeting was introduced.
There were no comments on the EU matters.
5. Work of RA5
5.1 Report from RA5 Chairman
The report of the joint RA5/RA6 meetings was introduced. It was noted that there have been three meetings since the last WGRA meeting, where two meetings have been jointly held with RA6 to discuss the issues of ESV and AES.
It was noted that a liaison statement was received from ETSI at the last RA5 meeting regarding the operation of ESV in the shared and non shared bands. RA5 decided that they could not deal with the more technical aspects and proposed to contact WGSE to ask for advice. After discussion, WGRA were of the view that this item should not go back to WGSE.
The proposal from RA5 that WGRA should comment on the new “standard clauses” for ECC Decisions was not followed at this time.
The report of the last RA5 meeting was discussed. This meeting report included a proposal for changes to ECC Decisions on licensing of low power satellite terminals and an answer to the ECC request regarding the OSS and Regulatory Database. WGRA noted these proposals.
5.2 Draft Corrigendum for ERC Decisions (95)01 and (97)05
ECC PT6 had developed a procedure, subsequently adopted by ECC, for correcting errors and anomalies in existing Decisions without the need for abrogation of the Decision and the provision of a new Decision. ERC Decisions (95)01 and (97)05 were in need of change and have been discussed in past WGRA meetings. The text in the Decision (95)01 was changed to further emphasise and clarify the meaning and intent of this Decision.
Decision (97)05 was amended to remove the text “originating in the CEPT” and other related editorial changes.
The amendments to these Decisions were agreed. These documents will be forwarded to the ECC.
5.3 Draft Decisions on the operation of Aircraft Earth Stations and ESVs
The draft Decision for AES operating in the bands 14-14.5 GHz (Earth-to space), 10.7-11.7 GHz and 12.5-12.75 GHz (space-to-Earth) was discussed. Some comments were made to the draft Decision which were merged into the text.
It was agreed that as the annex to the Decision was not yet developed, it was not possible to adopt this for public consultation. Further progress will be made on this Decision at the RA5/RA6 meeting, where it will be sent to WGRA in February for approval to go for public consultation.
The meeting noted that different terminology was used in the Decisions when mentioning licensing. It was agreed that this would be looked at during the next RA5/RA6 meeting to get the text in line.
The preliminary draft Decision for ESV in the 11-14 GHz band was introduced. This Decision is for the installation of terminals on ships which operate in the fixed satellite services bands. The Decision was looked at in detail and some editorial changes were made. It was agreed that the body of the Decision was complete but there were some concerns that the annex to the document was not yet complete and that further work is needed to get information from Administrations onto the ERO website.
The preliminary draft Decision for ESV in the frequency band 5925 – 6425 MHz and 3700 – 4200 MHz was discussed.
There were some concerns that this band was used extensively for fixed links and that further study was needed to decide whether a Decision is needed in 4/6 GHz band. It was noted that Administrations need to find common spectrum to facilitate ESVs in 4/6 GHz band, possibly the guard bands, and also asked that the operators provide information on their spectrum requirements.
It was agreed that RA5 and RA6 would take these comments on board and examine the possibility of using the guard bands in 4/6 GHz band. The project teams will report back to WGRA in February.
5.4 SAT OSS and the ERO Regulatory Database
The response from RA5 to the questions asked at the last ECC meeting on the need for the database was discussed. These questions were:
1. Who is using the database?
2. What are the financial implications?
In addition to answering the two questions from the ECC, RA5 underlined that the resources needed to run the OSS shop itself amount to: - 17 countries with 1.5 man days work: 25.5 man days. The current status of the OSS shop is that following the July 2004 ECC meeting ERO has removed the link to the OSS shop from the ERO web site. It was noted that this link was removed as the data was not up to date. Some unhappiness was noted about the link being removed from the website because the ECC decisions referred to cessation of work on the Regulatory database not the operation of the OSS.
It was agreed that the document would be forwarded to the ECC for discussion at their next meeting.
A proposal to reconsider the contents of the ERC and ECTRA Decisions relating to the establishment of the ERO regulatory database was discussed. These Decisions could be withdrawn, causing the database to close, allocating the resources of the ERO to more valuable work.
It was noted that the abrogation of the ERC Decisions for the regulatory database does not preclude the operation of the OSS SAT.
WGRA agreed that this proposal should be postponed until the next WGRA meeting where further information from the ECC will be available.
6. Matters concerning fees and charges
6.1 Report of RA8
The report of the last RA8 meeting was introduced. Discussions took place during the meeting on developments within Administrations and on the topic of auctions and beauty contests.
The comments received on Draft ECC Report 53 – Cost allocation and accounting systems were discussed. Three comments were received, all supporting the report.
WGRA adopted the report and it will be sent to the ERO for publication.
RA8 will start work on how licence exemption impacts on Administrations where there is a consequent reduction in revenue. This was added to the RA8 work programme.
The issue of how non-commercial and passive services are dealt with was also raised and the rationale behind the fact that no fees are raised for such services could be investigated. It was also proposed to investigate the current situation and expected developments with fees for broadcasting. These items were added to the RA8 work programme.
6.2 Draft report on Auctions and Beauty Contests.
A presentation on the draft report was given. The objective of the work was to provide an overview to assist Administrations when planning Auctions and Beauty contests. 20 responses were received from Administrations which were taken into account when producing the draft report.
It was noted that RA8 would like to ask industry for their views and will hope to include this information in the final draft. It was also proposed to contact the broadcasting community in order to receive their views. Administrations are urged to provide any further information they have.
The final draft report will be available at the next WGRA meeting in February 2005.
7. Enforcement
The report of the last RA11 meeting was introduced.
7.1 Feasibility study on mobile phone interceptors
A progress report on mobile phone interceptors was discussed. This has been enhanced since the last meeting as more information has been received from Administrations. It was concluded that most countries do not yet have a mechanism in place to deal with these interceptors. In co-operation with the GSM industry, ways need to be devised to enable areas where phones are silent or not turned on.
More time is needed to contact the GSM Association to inform them fully of the issues with mobile phone interceptors.
Work will continue on developing this report and RA11 will report back with the completed report in February. It was also suggested that an ECC Recommendation may need to be produced to deal with this equipment. This will be discussed at the next meeting.
A letter to the GSM Association asking for support and ideas in how to identify the issues involved with interceptors was introduced. RA11 are awaiting a response from GSM Association as to whether they would like to participate in the project team.
RA11 will report back to WGRA at the next meeting.
7.2 Wire-line telecommunication networks
The Recommendation on criteria for the assessment of radio interferences caused by unwanted emissions from wire-line telecommunication networks conforming with the provisions of harmonised EMC standards was introduced. WGSE had contacted RA11 to improve this recommendation and deal with the interference aspects. In order to resolve such individual interference cases to the best interests of both parties involved, it is useful to have a set of criteria for the assessment of radio interferences caused by unwanted emissions from wire-line telecommunication networks.
This Recommendation along with a liaison statement from RA11 has been sent to WGSE for comments. RA11 are expecting further work from WGSE before the Recommendation can be considered and adopted by WGSE and possibly WGRA. Some Administrations made some editorial comments which were taken onboard by the RA11 Chairman, who will inform the WGSE Chairman.
It is expected that WGSE will need further co-operation on this issue. Therefore the improved Recommendation will be forwarded to WGSE for consideration. RA11 will inform WGRA about the progress of this deliverable at the next WGRA meeting.
7.3 Draft report on illegal FM broadcasting
RA11 has discussed this topic and has agreed that the preparing of the draft report will stop. The reason is that the collected information between 2000 and 2004 is out dated and therefore the report will not contain the correct information. WGRA agreed that the work item will remain on the RA11 work programme and may start again in 2006. It was reported that this exercise is useful for the exchange of information between Administrations.
7.4 Short range devices in the FM broadcasting band
A liaison statement to SRD MG explaining the interference issues involved with short range devices was discussed and it was explained that the enforcement of this equipment is very difficult, although no complaints have been received. This has also been discussed in the SRD MG and WGFM. WGRA’s attention was drawn to a statement from FM to SE asking them to start studying the compatibility issues with other services, in order to legalise this type of equipment.
It was commented that it will be difficult to enforce these devices if the equipment originates from outside Europe.
It was also mentioned that micro FM transmitters in the broadcasting band are strictly forbidden in most countries. This equipment will continue to be used regardless of the regulations as it is very difficult to enforce these items.
7.5 Draft ECC report on (O)R-LANS
The draft ECC Report on (O)RLANS operating in the frequency band 2400 – 2483.5 MHz which has been circulated for public consultation was introduced as well as the results of the public consultation. A number of comments were taken into account when amending the report.
ECC Report 57 was adopted by WGRA and will be forwarded to the ERO for publication.
The report and liaison statement was sent to WGFM for consideration of the Report. WGFM has considered the statement and report and concluded;
1. That the use of T/R 22-03 was not suitable because the recommendation will shortly be abrogated by WGSE;
2. Regarding the 2.4 GHz frequency band, no modification should be made in annex 3 of the ERC Recommendation 70-03;
3. As for the growing demand for un-coordinated Fixed Service links, the ongoing work in WGSE on the 5.7 GHz band was well as 3.6 GHz and the 64-66 GHz should be noted.
WGRA noted the opinion of WGFM; however there were concerns that the decision for the 2.4 GHz band was not explained fully.
RA11 will consider the response from WGFM and report back to WGRA. Furthermore, the response of RA11 will be forwarded to WGFM.
7.6 Guidance for enforcement officials when dealing with SRR in 24 GHz band
An explanation was given on the issues involved when dealing with the enforcement of Short Range Radars in 24 GHz band. RA11 has prepared guidance for the enforcement authorities in case of interference, and also finding solutions for placing on the market and use after 2012.
In case of interference, a central database, likely to be held at the ERO, will be set up in order for Administrations to share information when dealing with interference.
The draft guidance will be forwarded to WGRA for considering and approval at the next meeting.
8. Radio amateurs
8.1 Update of Amateur matters
An update on Radio Amateur matters in CEPT was introduced. 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.
An application from New Zealand to join T/R 61-01. WGRA noted the participation from New Zealand.
A new entry level licence class was proposed. It is created to encourage more people to take up amateur radio. Some countries would have problems with this class, other countries would be ready to introduce it.
It was agreed that this would be added to the RA6 work programme. This work item will be discussed at the next project team meeting. RA6 was suggested to look at ERC Report 32. This was agreed by WGRA.
8.2 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.
8.3 Hong Kong application to join T/R 61-02
An application from Hong Kong to join T/R 61-02 had been received. It was noted that a letter was sent by the ERO to Administrations asking for comments on this application. The consultation had resulted in all respondents approving the application.
It was agreed that the ERO would contact Hong Kong to inform them of this decision. It was also suggested that they should also be encouraged to join T/R 61-01.
8.4 Thailand application to participate in T/R 61-01 and T/R 61-02
An application from Thailand to join T/R 61-01 and 61-02 had been received. A drafting group was set up on request by the ERO to look at this application and a letter asking clarification from the Thai Administration was drafted.
9. Implementation of ECC Decisions
The implementation of ERC/ECC Free circulation and Use and Licensing Decisions in CEPT member states was tabled. The charts will continue to be updated.
Also, the implementation of Satellite Decisions in CEPT member states was highlighted.
The documents will be forwarded to the ECC.
10 RA Work programme and schedule of meetings
The draft WGRA work programme was introduced.
A new work item relating to the bench marking of resources across Administrations in dealing with enforcement related activities was proposed. This was considered to be especially important with the introduction of new initiatives arising from spectrum liberalisation. Additional information on the exact nature of the work which will help establish which RA project team is the most appropriate to deal with this work will be provided to the next meeting of WGRA.
It was suggested studying whether WGRA could modify the ECC Decisions concerning free circulation and licence exemption for inductive applications. It was agreed that an input document for discussion at the next WGRA meeting will be produced.
Some amendments were made to the document and the work programme was adopted and.
Administrations are also urged to contact the Chairmen or Secretary if they are interested in hosting a future WGRA meeting.
11. Any other business
11.1 CEPT Conference
The draft CEPT conference programme will be available on the ERO website soon. The conference will be held in Barcelona on 13-14 April 2005. Administrations are urged to participate in this conference.
12. Date and place of next meeting
The next meeting will be held in ERO, Copenhagen on 31 January-4 February 2005.
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