Iceland’s telecoms watchdog the Post and Telecom Administration (PTA) has opened a public consultation on the prospective allocation of spectrum resources in the 2500MHz-2690MHz frequency band. According to a press release, the 23 channels, each with a bandwidth of 8MHz, are currently utilised for Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (MMDS) as follows:
• Vodafone Iceland (Fjarskipti hf.) is licensed to operate in the 2508MHz-2564MHz, 2572MHz-2644MHz and 2652MHz-2668MHz frequency bands until 27 June 2014;
• Broadcasting PLC: can operate in the 2564MHz-2572MHz frequency band until 27 June 2014; and
• The Christian Missionary Church hf. (Omega): has been authorised to use the 2668MHz-2676MHz frequency band until 27 June 2014.
MMDS, also known as wireless cable, can be used for general-purpose broadband networking, but is more commonly utilised as an alternative method of cable television broadcasting. The regulator, however, pointed out that Vodafone Iceland has requested an extension of its concession until 2020; the company has previously indicated that part of the 2.6GHz frequency band could be utilised for next generation access (NGA) broadband services, including 4G mobile services. The published consultation document also outlines the historical use of the frequency band and the European Union (EU) legislation on the topic. The PTA invites all interested parties to submit their comments on the topic by 31 October 2013.