ComReg launches consultation on NGN rollout

The Irish telecoms regulator ComReg has launched a public consultation on high capacity point-to-point radio links as part of its efforts to kick-start the country’s next generation network (NGN) rollout. SiliconRepublic reports that ComReg has tested radio links in the 71GHz-76GHz and 81GHz-86 GHz spectrum band and found that between 1Gbps and 10Gbps could be delivered over relatively short distances ranging from 1km to 3km. The regulator sees the technology as a viable alternative to fibre-optic deployments ‘particularly where speed and ease of installation are key factors.’ The public consultation document will allow for commercial licensing of the spectrum. It closes on 22 November at which point ComReg will consider the submissions and decide on availability of the radio spectrum.