The Internet Service Providers` Association (ISPA) yesterday welcomed the Independent Communications Authority of SA`s (ICASA`s) stated intention that the lower frequencies (20MHz-3GHz) be unregulated and available for wireless networking provision (WiFi).
The association spent two hours discussing its submissions to the body on that and related issues, in a video conference between UUNet`s Johannesburg office (overrun with members from Internet Solutions) and a decidedly under-supported Cape Town participation.
"Most importantly," said Ant Brooks, head of ISPA`s regulatory committee, "ISPA is pleased that the authority saw fit to have the lower frequencies available for use by WiFi providers. That deserves our whole-hearted support, since it keeps the local regulatory landscape in line with international standards."
However, he says the 5.8GHz band should similarly be freed up for use for WiFi provisioning. There are two reasons for this.
The first is that equipment operating in that frequency band is being manufactured and is already available. The second is that the 2.4GHZ range is quite saturated already "and so, for reasons of capacity, it would be a good idea to free that up".
As a third recommendation, ISPA suggests that WiFi providers operate freely or with a class-based licence, which would further bring the local regulatory framework up to speed with international conditions, such as in evidence in the UK.
"Currently, you need a radio-frequency licence, and your equipment has to be type-approved, which makes this quite difficult for community networking. We propose that the unregulated spectrum either be used freely for WiFi, or that, as long as one`s equipment adheres to a maximum power output and a certain number of channels (again in line with international standards), a licence is granted."
Share
