Any database-driven approach to spectrum sharing will hinge on the accuracy of the databases, it goes without saying. Citing errors in the databases, the U.S. National Association of Broadcasters has asked for an immediate halt to TV white spaces operations in the United States.
“The current database design allows–and may encourage–users of TV white space devices (also known as TV Band Devices or TVBDs) to falsify information they are required to enter into the database when they register certain fixed and mobile devices,” NAB argues. “This information includes, among other things, the location information upon which the Commission premised the entire concept for spectrum sharing in the TV band.”
NAB says it has conducted multiple analyses of the TVWS database in 2014, and, that at various points, more than a third of the devices in the database contained “patently inaccurate” location information.
The problem, NAB says, is greater risk of interference to licensed users. NAB asks for several corrective measures, including a requirement that all devices using TV white spaces include geolocation sensors.
“Given that many policymakers view spectrum sharing via database-centered interference safeguards as critical to future U.S. spectrum policy, it is essential that the Commission correct these fundamental flaws now,” NAB argues.
The skirmishing is not terribly unusual. Struggles over allocation of spectrum often pit broadcasters against communications interests or satellite interests against mobile interests.
