24 September 2007 - The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) today proposes a regulatory framework for devices using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. The framework seeks to give greater business certainty for UWB players as it will facilitate the entry of such devices in Singapore, so that businesses and consumers may enjoy the benefits of this nascent technology. The framework is expected to be gazetted by the end of the year.
Singapore, 24 September 2007 | For Immediate Release
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) today proposes a regulatory framework for devices using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. The framework seeks to give greater business certainty for UWB players as it will facilitate the entry of such devices in Singapore, so that businesses and consumers may enjoy the benefits of this nascent technology. The framework is expected to be gazetted by the end of the year.
UWB is a wireless technology that works by broadcasting signals over a large spectrum. This allows for very high-speed data transfer - up to 480 Mbps - a rate that surpasses all the consumer wireless technologies available today. UWB is also valued for its low power consumption, thus making it particularly suited for diverse applications, from portable wireless consumer electronics like digital cameras, mobile phones and laptops. Commercially, it can also be used in asset tagging and tracking, and for anti-collision systems for vehicles.
IDA Deputy Chief Executive and Director-General (Telecoms) Leong Keng Thai said, “The proposed framework will enable UWB players to deploy this emerging technology in Singapore easily. It will open up new avenues of growth for our infocomm sector. We can expect the introduction and eventual proliferation of UWB applications to bring about greater benefits for consumers and businesses, with its qualities of fast data transfer at low power and cost.”
Singapore recognised the potential of UWB as early as 2003, and the IDA has been supporting compatibility studies and trials for it, locally and internationally.
Today’s regulatory framework comes after a public consultation in March this year, which sought industry feedback on the licensing approach, emission limits, and frequency bands for the use of ultra-wideband devices. Fourteen industry players made submissions, and generally supported IDA’s proposals.
Key Features of the Proposed Regulatory Framework
In developing the UWB regulatory framework, IDA strives to balance facilitating adoption of this emerging technology with the need to ensure that it does not interfere or disrupt existing radio-communication services. As such, a set of technical specifications and operating conditions for UWB devices has been defined, to be aligned with international standards such as those set by Europe’s Electronic Communications Committee.
Henceforth,
- UWB devices that comply with IDA’s technical specifications and emission limits will be exempted from licensing. This will allow keen industry players to develop and commercialise UWB devices with greater ease. Generally, most UWB consumer products from places like Japan and Europe can enter the Singapore market without the need for a licence.
- Users of UWB devices that operate out of the emission limits will be allowed, but only by exception on a case-by-case basis and is subject to IDA’s licence approval, so as to safeguard existing radio-communication services.
More details on the upcoming regulatory framework for devices using ultra-wideband technology can be found at IDA’s website, in the sections “Policy and Regulation”, “Consultation Papers & Decisions”.
ISSUED BY CORPORATE & MARKETING COMMUNICATION DIVISION
INFOCOMM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE
Related Links:
- Industry Briefing on Singapore's Proposed UWB Regulatory Framework
- Regulatory Framework For Devices Using Ultra-Wideband Technology
About Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) is committed to growing Singapore into a dynamic global infocomm hub. IDA uses an integrated approach to developing info-communications in Singapore. This involves nurturing a competitive telecoms market as well as a conducive business environment with programmes and schemes for both local and international companies. For more news and information, visit https://www.imda.gov.sg/.
For media clarification, please contact:
HO Ka Wei (Mr)
Manager, Corporate and Marketing Communication
Fax: +65 6211 2227
Email: info@imda.gov.sg
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