Brussels hosted last 11-12 July the 64th meeting of the RSC of the European Commission (EC).
The following stand out among the issues considered:
1. Internet of things (IoT) in the 874-876 MHz and 915-921 MHz bands
The EC presented a revised draft implementing decision on harmonisation of radio spectrum for use by short-range equipment in the 874-876 and 915-921 MHz frequency bands, as well as the corresponding explanatory document.
Much progress had already been made on the decision’s previous version and all changes made were based on feedback from member states or the result of the legal verification process. After discussion it was put to vote.
The Committee issued its positive opinion based on a qualified majority and the draft implementing decision will be adopted in due time by the EC. The measure harmonises spectrum for short-range equipment for advanced IoT applications, including radio frequency identification (RFID), and also establishes a spectrum strategy for future use of bands, avoiding more band fragmentation and therefore balancing all the different interests expressed by the member states and stakeholders (IoT, RFID, railway and military communities).
2. 5G systems in certain harmonised bands in the European Union
The EC services presented a draft mandate for CEPT to develop appropriate harmonised technical conditions for use of 5G in the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and paired 2 GHz and 2.6 GHz frequency bands, based on less restrictive technical conditions (block edge mask – BEM).
The text was agreed on at the meeting and will be subject to the written approval procedure, to be launched in late August with a two-week response deadline.
3. Mandate on spectrum for the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS)
The EC services presented a revised text of the draft mandate for CEPT whose aim is to identify and harmonise the spectrum bands appropriate for the FRMCS (the successor of GSM-R).
The following are indicated as priority bands:
- 874.4-880 MHz and 919.4-925 MHz;
- 1900-1920 MHz.
Other bands, such as, for example, the 2290-2400 MHz band, as well as the use of commercial networks, will also be considered. The draft mandate was put to vote and unanimously approved by the members states present at the meeting.
4.3.6 GHz band
The EC presented a first draft implementing decision amending Decision 2008/411/EC on harmonisation of the 3400-3800 MHz frequency band for terrestrial systems able to supply electronic communication services in the Community, with respect to technical conditions for the next generation of terrestrial wireless systems (5G).
Most member states approved the change and requested rapid approval, since most have already actioned or are amid the auction phase for the band. The member states should send comments in writing with a view to achieving a stable text at the next RSC meeting.
The next RSC meeting is scheduled for this coming 17-18 October in Brussels.
