Guidance Notes

Guidance Notes

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland Guidelines concerning the licence requirements for the operation of radio equipment on a temporary basis, in particular at special events

Document No:

08/08R1

Date:

13th December 2010

Document Revision History

1

Document version 08/08

8

th

Date January 2008

Nature of Revision Original Document

An Coimisiún um Rialáil Cumarsáide Commission for Communications Regulation 1 Dublin 1 Ireland Abbey Court Irish Life Centre Lower Abbey Street Telephone +353 1 804 9600 Fax +353 1 804 9680 Email [email protected] Web www.comreg.ie

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland

Contents 1

Introduction................................................................................................. 4

2

Licence Requirements & Equipment Technical Standards ................................... 6 2.1 TYPES OF LICENCES ............................................................................................... 6 2.1.1 Temporary Business Radio Licences ............................................................... 6 2.1.2 Satellite Earth Station Licences ..................................................................... 6 2.1.3 Temporary Point-to-Point Radio Link Licences ................................................. 6 2.1.4 Temporary Radio Broadcasting Licences ......................................................... 7 2.2 OTHER OPTIONS ................................................................................................... 7 2.2.1 Third Party Business Radio Licensing ............................................................. 7 2.2.2 Licence-Exempt Operation............................................................................ 7 2.3 TYPES OF EVENTS ................................................................................................. 8 2.3.1 Large-Scale Events...................................................................................... 8 2.3.2 Nationwide / Regional Events ....................................................................... 8 2.3.3 Cross-Border Events .................................................................................... 8 2.3.4 Operation adjacent to border with Northern Ireland ......................................... 8 2.3.5 Airborne Operation ...................................................................................... 8 2.4 EQUIPMENT INTERFACE REQUIREMENTS AND R&TTE EQUIPMENT COMPLIANCE .......................... 9

3

Spectrum Availability .................................................................................. 10 3.1 3.2

CHANNELS AVAILABLE FOR TEMPORARY LICENSING ......................................................... 10 CURRENT AND FUTURE SPECTRUM AVAILABILITY ............................................................. 10

Appendix 1 - Private Mobile Radio (Two-way Radio) Channels ............................... 12 A1.1 SIMPLEX CHANNELS ............................................................................................... 12 A1.1.1 VHF High Band 164 MHz ............................................................................... 12 A1.1.2 VHF High Band 169 MHz ............................................................................... 13 A1.1.3 UHF 441 MHz .............................................................................................. 14 A1.1.4 UHF 444 MHz .............................................................................................. 15 A1.1.5 UHF 445 MHz .............................................................................................. 16 A1.1.6 UHF 446MHz ............................................................................................... 17 A1.1.7 UHF 465MHz ............................................................................................... 18 A1.2 DUPLEX CHANNELS ................................................................................................ 19 A1.2.1 VHF Low Band ............................................................................................. 19 A1.2.2 VHF High Band ............................................................................................ 20 A1.2.3 UHF 442/447 MHz........................................................................................ 21 A1.2.4 UHF 443/448 MHz........................................................................................ 22 A1.2.5 UHF 456/461MHz ........................................................................................ 23 A1.2.6 UHF 455/469MHz ........................................................................................ 24 A1.3 LICENCE-EXEMPT CHANNELS ..................................................................................... 25

Appendix 2 - Wireless Microphone / In-ear Monitor Channels ................................ 26 A2.1 LICENSED CHANNELS.............................................................................................. 26 A2.1.1 VHF Channels .............................................................................................. 26 A2.1.2 UHF Channels ............................................................................................. 26 A2.2 LICENCE-EXEMPT CHANNELS ..................................................................................... 26

Appendix 3 - Wireless Camera Channels ............................................................. 27 A6.1 A6.2 A6.3 A6.4

1980 2025 2170 2200

– – – –

2025 2110 2200 2300

MHz ........................................................................................... 27 MHz ........................................................................................... 28 MHz ........................................................................................... 29 MHz ........................................................................................... 30 2

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A6.5 2300 – 2400 MHz ........................................................................................... 31 A6.6 10.3 – 10.5 GHz ............................................................................................. 32

Appendix 4 - Wireless CCTV Link Channels ......................................................... 33 A4.1 LICENSED CHANNELS.............................................................................................. 33 A4.2 LICENCE-EXEMPT CHANNELS ..................................................................................... 33

Appendix 5 - Data / Telemetry Channels ............................................................ 34 A5.1 VHF Channels ................................................................................................ 34 A5.2 UHF 12.5 kHz Channels ................................................................................... 35 A5.3 UHF 25 kHz Channels ...................................................................................... 36

Appendix 6 – Useful Contacts ............................................................................ 37 Appendix 7 – Links to Application Forms and Other Relevant Documents ................ 39

3

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland 1

Introduction The possession and use of radio equipment in Ireland is governed by the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926, (Act No 45 of 1926), (as amended), which requires, amongst other things, that an appropriate Wireless Telegraphy licence must be held, unless the relevant apparatus is exempt from licensing. The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is the statutory body responsible for the management of the radio frequency spectrum in Ireland. ComReg has put in place a number of licensing regimes appropriate to the various radio technologies and their uses. This document is a revision to ComReg’s “Guidelines for Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland” (ComReg Document 08/08). In April 2010, ComReg consulted on future spectrum availability for wireless cameras and wireless microphones. This was followed by publication of a response to consultation in September 2010. This document reflects the changes adopted as a result of this consultation process in relation to Programme Making & Special Events or Temporary Business Radio licensing in Ireland. Radio spectrum is used by many devices employed at modern special events. Examples of wireless devices employed at events include wireless microphones (for concert performers and sports commentators), “walkie-talkies” (for stewarding, event coordination etc.), wireless cameras (typically for sports coverage) and wireless closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras (for surveillance), many of which are integral to state-of-the-art coverage of major special events. When planning events, organisers are advised to apply for a licence at the earliest possible stage as: spectrum available for temporary licensing is limited and, as such, it may not be possible to find appropriate spectrum at short notice; it may take time to determine if adequate spectrum is available, particularly for large events and/or if co-ordination is required with the UK for events close to the border with Northern Ireland; there may be strong demand for spectrum from the various parties involved in the event and, as such, it is necessary to try and meet everybody’s requirements as far as is practicable; and technical and regulatory constraints may mean that a particular type of equipment which is suitable for operation in another country may not be suitable for use in Ireland1.

1

For example a wireless camera which transmits in the 3.5 GHz band for which a licence may be procured in the UK or another European Country may not be licensable in Ireland. This is because wireless broadband systems are licensed in that particular band and therefore wireless cameras might cause detrimental interference to such systems and vice-versa. Early application allows the operator sufficient time to procure alternative equipment suitable for the Irish band plan.

4

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland ComReg recognises the importance of special events in the economic, social and cultural life of Ireland, and is aware of the important role which large high profile events, such as the Ryder Cup in 2006 and the Special Olympics in 2010, play in the promotion of Ireland’s image internationally. Consequently, ComReg regards it as critical that stakeholders have access to the latest and most up-to-date information concerning the availability of radio spectrum for temporary use. This document focuses on all those involved with special events, such as event organisers, sporting organisations, broadcasters, radio equipment suppliers, and organisations concerned with the promotion of special events in Ireland. These guidelines also provide information to the applicant on ComReg’s Temporary Business Radio licensing scheme. Amongst other things, these guidelines provide information on: licence regimes appropriate to temporary operation of radio equipment; equipment technical standards; current and future spectrum availability; and the application process. ComReg advises all prospective event organisers to make their technical staff and radio suppliers aware of the information contained in this document in order that they may select appropriate radio equipment for operation at special events in Ireland and comply with the relevant licensing requirements. Queries regarding these guidelines or on the licensing process can be directed to ComReg’s Licensing Operations Team: via telephone to 01 8049600, or via e-mail to [email protected]. ComReg may revise these guidelines from time to time.

5

ComReg 08/08


Licence Requirements & Equipment Technical Standards In managing the radio spectrum, ComReg has set down specific rules and regulations for the possession and use of many forms of radio equipment. The latter can specify the licensing regime or, alternatively, exempt a particular class of radio equipment from licensing under the Wireless Telegraphy Act. Where individual licences are granted, licences typically specify parameters such as operating frequency, transmission bandwidth and output power. This is in order to facilitate licensees to operate their equipment without interference to or from other systems. This section details the licensing regime which applies to the temporary operation of radio equipment deployed at special events. The subsections which follow outline the various licensing regimes which apply to the temporary operation of various types of wireless equipment. The relevant application forms2 are available for download from the ComReg website, or on request from the Licensing Operations Unit3.

2.1 Types of Licences 2.1.1 Temporary Business Radio Licences

These licences are to allow individuals or firms to use radio equipment on a temporary basis for the purpose of sending and receiving messages for a limited period. Devices typically licensed under a Temporary Business Radio Licence include: Walkie-talkies; Two-way radio base stations and repeaters; Wireless cameras; Wireless microphones; Miscellaneous data & telemetry devices (e.g. for wireless camera control). Temporary Business Radio Licences are issued on a non-interference, non-protected basis for the duration of the event in question, with a maximum validity of six months. 2.1.2 Satellite Earth Station Licences

This licensing scheme allows the use of satellite systems to facilitate international transmissions of large amounts of data, as in the case of outside broadcast and news media vehicles. In the context of special events, satellite earth stations facilitate the relay of broadcast coverage from a venue back to the television studio. 2.1.3 Temporary Point-to-Point Radio Link Licences

A typical point-to-point radio link consists of two stations with a clear line of sight between them and separated by distances of up to circa 40 kilometres. Each station employs a highly directive antenna for transmission and reception. At some special events there may be a requirement to deploy point-to-point links in order to relay mobile phone traffic from temporarily deployed base stations or to relay broadcast coverage back to a studio. 2

See Appendix 7 for links to the application forms and licence-specific guidance notes (if applicable).

3

See Appendix 6 for contact details.

6

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland The point to point radio link licensing scheme allows for the temporary operation of links, subject to spectrum availability. 2.1.4 Temporary Radio Broadcasting Licences

The licensing of temporary broadcast radio stations is a matter for the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI)4. 2.2 Other Options

In addition to the above licence regimes, there exist other options for operating radio equipment on a temporary basis: 2.2.1 Third Party Business Radio Licensing

An alternative option for the operation of Private Mobile Radio (PMR) equipment (e.g. walkie-talkies) on a temporary basis is to operate on a frequency channel licensed to a radio supplier who holds a Third Party Business Radio Licence (TPBR). Intending operators must apply directly to the holder of such a licence and will be required to pay a fee, which is set at the discretion of the TPBR licence holder. This licence scheme permits the licensed supplier to provide business radio services to third parties on a nationwide basis using a 12.5 kHz duplex channel. Further information, including a list of Third Party Business Radio Licensees, can be found on the ComReg website5 2.2.2 Licence-Exempt Operation

It is also worth noting that there are a large number of radio systems which are exempt from licensing in Ireland. Licence-exempt equipment shares radio spectrum with other radio devices and is restricted to low output power for use over short distances. It is not permitted for licence-exempt equipment to cause interference to other devices. In addition, operators of such equipment are not entitled to claim protection from any interference received. Examples of short range radio systems used at special events, for which licence-exempt operation is available in specific frequency bands and under specific conditions include: Wireless microphones and audio systems; Walkie-talkies (PMR 446); and Wireless CCTV links. Details of licence-exempt channels and frequency bands available for specific types of equipment typically used at special events are set out in the appendices to this document. Full details concerning the types of licence-exempt equipment, relevant frequency bands, output power and other additional specific conditions are available from the ComReg website6. 4

See Appendix 6 for contact details.

5

http://www.comreg.ie/radio_spectrum/search.541.874.10021.0.rslicensing.html

6

http://www.comreg.ie/radio_spectrum/exemptions.541.488.rslicensing.html

7

ComReg 08/08


2.3 Types of Events 2.3.1

Large-Scale Events

Large-scale events typically entail a strong demand for radio spectrum for uses such as broadcast coverage, surveillance, marshalling, security, team communications, sound relay etc. Recent examples of such events in Ireland have been the Special Olympics (2010), the World Rally Championship (2007) and the Ryder Cup (2006). Organisers of large-scale special events are advised to contact ComReg at the earliest possible planning stage of the event, preferably no less than six months in advance of the event, and before engaging the services of radio suppliers and broadcasters. This is in order to determine the amount of spectrum which will be available at the event location on the specified date. 2.3.2

Nationwide / Regional Events

Generally, there is much less spectrum available for geographically wide-ranging events such as car rallies and cycle races, than is the case for events centred on a specific location (e.g. a concert or football match). This is because not all channels are available at all locations. Prospective users are advised to contact ComReg as early as possible. 2.3.3 Cross-Border Events

Wireless equipment used at special events (e.g. cross-border car rallies) which take place simultaneously in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland will require separate licences and authorisation from the relevant authorities in both jurisdictions. Intending applicants should note that the same set of frequency channels may not be available in both jurisdictions as different National Radio Frequency Plans apply. If applicants wish to use the same channel in on both sides of the border, they are strongly advised to submit their applications at least two months in advance of the event. Contact details for the relevant licensing authorities for Northern Ireland are set out in Appendix 6 of this document. 2.3.4 Operation adjacent to border with Northern Ireland

Applicants intending to operate in counties7 adjacent to the border with Northern Ireland should note that applications for the border region may take longer to process than applications for the rest of the country. This is because ComReg may have to coordinate with its counterpart in Northern Ireland in order to verify that channels assigned would not cause interference to services in that jurisdiction. 2.3.5 Airborne Operation

Only a limited number of channels are available for airborne operation. Absence of factors such as mountains, terrain and the curvature of the Earth mean that the potential for interference to existing assignments is much greater from airborne than from ground-based transmitters. Consequently, temporary channels which are shared with permanent services, 7

Counties: Donegal, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth

8

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland or which are already assigned to another temporary licensee in any other part of the country, will not be assigned for airborne use. Some of the frequencies for airborne operations need to be co-ordinated with the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). For this reason applicants are advised to apply well before in advance of the event. Channels on which airborne operation is not permitted under any circumstances are set out in the appendices. 2.4 Equipment Interface requirements and R&TTE Equipment Compliance

All radio and telecommunications terminal equipment placed on the market in Ireland since 5 June 2001 is required to comply with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (R&TTE) Directive (1999/5/EC)8. The current wireless equipment interface requirements applicable in Ireland are outlined in the latest edition of ComReg Document 06/47 Interface Requirements for Radio Services in Ireland. Interface requirements include the administrative and technical requirements associated with operation of the different radio services in Ireland. The possibility exists that equipment brought into Ireland from outside the EU or EEA may not be R&TTE compliant, even though such equipment may have been manufactured to comply with standards which apply in other parts of the world. This may well be the case for equipment which has not been manufactured for sale on the European market. If radio equipment has not been manufactured to comply with the R&TTE Directive, there is a risk that it may be: (1) insufficiently immune to unwanted interference from licensed R&TTE compliant systems, and as such not entitled to protection from such interference; (2) not constructed in such manner as to minimise all unwanted interference to licensed R&TTE compliant systems. In such a case the operator may be instructed by ComReg to cease operation of the equipment. Licensees are advised to familiarise themselves with ComReg Document 06/47R, as it is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure that all equipment being used is R&TTE compliant. Queries concerning R&TTE Directive or hosting radio equipment can be directed to ComReg’s Spectrum Compliance Team9.

8

Signed into Irish law on 5 June 2001 under Statutory Instrument 240 of 2001.

9

Please see Appendix 6 for contact details.

9

ComReg 08/08


Spectrum Availability

3.1 Channels available for Temporary Licensing

Listed in the appendices to this document are the specific channels available under a Temporary Business Radio Licence for the various types of equipment typically deployed at special events. It should be noted that, while the channel plans in the appendices are intended to show the current availability of channels for temporary use and are intended to serve as a guide to selecting suitable equipment for operation in Ireland, the bands available are subject to revision from time to time. As such, intending applicants are advised to check with ComReg’s Licensing Operations Unit as to the current availability of the frequency bands and channels listed. Intending applicants should note the following factors which may limit the availability of frequency channels at particular locations and times: (1) The frequency channel applied for may have already been assigned to another user. (2) Geographic restrictions may be imposed on the use of a particular frequency band or channel. (3) The frequency bands available are subject to revision. It should also be noted that channels will only be assigned for temporary use under a Temporary Business Radio Licence in accordance with the channel plans outlined in the appendices to this document or as updated by ComReg from time to time. Channels which are not consistent with the channel plans will not be assigned. 3.2 Current and future spectrum availability

Wireless Cameras: Below is the brief list of spectrum bands that will be available in Ireland for wireless camera operations on a secondary non-interference basis. A more detailed list is provided in appendix 3 of this document 2025 – 2110 MHz 2200 – 2300 MHz 2300 – 2330 MHz U6 and L7 GHz 10.3 – 10.5 GHz Some of the bands listed in the appendices as currently available for temporary assignment for wireless camera operation are under consideration for other services. As of the date of publication of this document these bands are available for use by wireless cameras however the status of these bands may change in the near future. The bands in question are: 1980 – 2010 MHz

UMTS Terrestrial 10

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland 2010 – 2025 MHz 2170 – 2200 MHz 2330 – 2400 MHz

UMTS Satellite UMTS Terrestrial Electronic Communication Services

Wireless Microphones/In-Ear Monitoring Systems: Wireless microphones and in-ear monitor systems share frequency bands with Television Broadcasting (VHF and UHF) and Digital Audio Broadcasting (VHF), which are the primary services in those bands. Consequently, licensed wireless microphones and in-ear monitor systems, as secondary services, are only licensed at locations where they will not cause interference to reception of television and digital radio from local transmitters. After the digital switch over channel 3810 will be made available for wireless microphone/in-ear monitor operations. All other spectrum assignments above 790 MHz will be migrated to Channel 38 and any interleaved spectrum that may be available after the analogue switchoff. Any amount of interleaved spectrum will be determined in future consultations. Other spectrum bands such as the 11 MHz FDD duplex gap for Programme Making & Special Events post-switch-off will of course depend on whether a TDD or FDD scheme is employed, the level of demand for spectrum in this band and on other future technical considerations. In the event of a TDD arrangement being employed in the future, the 7 MHz guard band ( 790 – 797 MHz ) suggested in the ECC Decision (09) 03 may be considered by ComReg for PMSE uses based on the technical conditions specified in Annex 3, Section 3.1 of ECC Decision (09)03. However, until the digital switchover, licensing requests could be made in the entire 470 – 862 MHz as present. As mentioned in section 3.1 earlier intending applicants are advised to check with ComReg’s Licensing Operations Unit as to the current availability of the frequency bands and channels listed.

Temporary Private Mobile Radio (Two-way Radio) Both these services operate in VHF & UHF frequency bands on a non-interference, nonprotection basis. Frequency channels available for these are now revised and are listed in appendix 1

10

Ch. 38 is also allocated to wireless microphones in the UK

11

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 1 - Private Mobile Radio (Two-way Radio) Channels A1.1 Simplex Channels A1.1.1 VHF High Band 164 MHz

Max ERP:

0.5 W

Max channel bandwidth:

12.5 kHz

Centre Frequency (MHz)

Airborne Use Permitted?

A1

164.9500

NO

A2

164.9625

NO

A3

164.9750

NO

A4

164.9875

NO

A5

165.0000

NO

A6

165.0125

NO

A7

165.0250

NO

12

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.1.2 VHF High Band 169 MHz

Max ERP:

5W


12.5 kHz



B1

169.61875

YES

B2

169.63125

YES

B3

169.64375

YES

B4

169.65625

YES

B5

169.66875

YES

B6

169.68125

YES

B7

169.69375

YES

B8

169.70625

YES

B9

169.71875

YES

B10

169.73125

YES

B11

169.74375

YES

B12

169.75625

YES

B13

169.76875

YES

B14

169.78125

YES

B15

169.79375

YES

B16

169.80625

YES

13

ComReg 08/08


A1.1.3 UHF 441 MHz

64 channels available

Simplex channels in range:

441.2000 - 441.9875 MHz

Channel spacing:

every 12.5 kHz

Max ERP:

25 W


12.5 kHz

Airborne operation permitted?

Yes

Example Channels

Centre Frequency

Max Effective Radiated Power

Max Bandwidth

(MHz)

(ERP)

(MHz)

441.20000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

441.21250

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

441.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes


14

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.1.4 UHF 444 MHz



444.0000 - 444.9875 MHz

Channel spacing:

every 12.5 kHz

Max ERP:

25 W


12.5 kHz


Yes

Example Channels

Centre Frequency


Max Bandwidth

(MHz)

(ERP)

(MHz)

444.00000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

444.01250

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

444.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes


15

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.1.5 UHF 445 MHz



445.0000 - 445.9875 MHz

Channel spacing:

every 12.5 kHz

Max ERP:

25 W


12.5 kHz


Yes

Example Channels

Centre Frequency


Max Bandwidth

(MHz)

(ERP)

(MHz)

445.00000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

445.01250

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

445.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes


16

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.1.6 UHF 446MHz



446.2250 - 446.9875 MHz

Channel spacing:

every 12.5 kHz

Max ERP:

25 W


12.5 kHz


Yes

Example Channels

Centre Frequency


Max Bandwidth

(MHz)

(ERP)

(MHz)

446.22500

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

446.23750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

446.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes


17

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.1.7 UHF 465MHz Max ERP:

5W


12.5 kHz


Geographic Limitations (Regions where the channel is not available)


C1

465.8

Yes

C2

465.8125

Yes

C3

465.825

Yes

C4

465.8375

Yes

C5

465.85

Yes

C6

465.8625

Yes

C7

465.875

Yes

C8

465.8875

Yes

C9

465.9

Yes

C10

465.9125

Yes

C11

465.925

Yes

C12

465.9375

Yes

C13

465.95

Yes

C14

465.9625

Yes

C15

465.975

Yes

18

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.2 Duplex Channels A1.2.1 VHF Low Band Max ERP:

base 25 W


mobile/portable 5 W 12.5 kHz Geographic Limitations (Regions where the channel is not available)


Base

Mobiles/ Portables

(MHz)

(MHz)

D1

80.5125

70.5125

Yes

D2

80.5375

70.5375

Yes

D3

80.6375

70.6375

Yes

D4

80.6625

70.6625

Yes

D5

80.7500

70.7500

Yes

D6

80.8000

70.8000

Yes

D7

80.8625

70.8625

Yes

D8

81.9500

71.9500

Yes

D9

81.9750

71.9750

Yes

D10

81.9875

71.9875

Yes

D11

82.0000

72.0000

Yes

D12

82.0375

72.0375

Yes

D13

82.0500

72.0500

Yes

D14

82.3625

72.3625

Yes

D15

82.3875

72.3875

Yes

D16

82.6875

72.6875

Yes

D17

85.1375

75.5375

Yes 19

ComReg 08/08


A1.2.2 VHF High Band Max ERP:

base 25 W

mobile/portable 5 W


12.5 kHz



Base (MHz)

Mobiles/ Portables (MHz)

E1

165.1875

169.98750

Yes

E2

165.5250

170.32500

Yes

E3

166.3875

171.18750

Yes

E4

166.4125

171.21250

Yes

E5

166.4250

171.22500

Yes

E6

166.4625

171.26250

Yes

E7

166.4750

171.27500

Yes

E8

166.5375

171.33750

Yes

E9

167.5000

172.30000

Yes

E10

167.6375

172.43750

Yes

E11

167.6500

172.45000

Yes

E12

167.6625

172.46250

Yes

E13

167.6750

172.47500

Yes

E14

167.6875

172.48750

Yes

E15

167.70000

172.50000

Yes

E16

167.72500

172.52500

Yes

20

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.2.3 UHF 442/447 MHz

56 channels available Base frequency in range:

442.3000 - 442.9875 MHz

Mobile/Portable frequency in range:

447.3000 - 447.9875 MHz

Channel spacing: Split between base and mobile/portable frequencies: Base max ERP:

every 12.5 kHz

Mobile/Portable max ERP:

5W


12.5 kHz


Yes

5 MHz 25 W

Example Channels

Base (MHz)

Max Effective Radiated Power (ERP)



Max Bandwidth (MHz)

442.30000

25 W

447.30000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

442.60000

25 W

447.60000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

447.98750

25 W

452.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

21


ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.2.4 UHF 443/448 MHz


Base frequency in range:

443.0000 - 442.9875 MHz

Mobile/Portable frequency in range:

448.0000 - 448.9875 MHz

Channel spacing: Split between base and mobile/portable frequencies: Base max ERP:

every 12.5 kHz

Mobile/Portable max ERP:

5W


12.5 kHz


Yes

5 MHz 25 W

Example Channels

Base (MHz)




Max Bandwidth (MHz)

443.00000

25 W

448.00000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

443.40000

25 W

448.40000

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

443.98750

25 W

448.98750

5W

12.5 kHz

Yes

22


ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.2.5 UHF 456/461MHz Max ERP:

base 25 W


mobile/portable 5 W 12.5 kHz



Base

Mobiles/ Portables

(MHz)

(MHz)

F1

456.00000

461.50000

Yes

F2

456.01250

461.51250

Yes North Co. Mayo West Co. Sligo

F3

456.02500

461.52500

NO

Co. Wicklow (excl. Bray) Co. Meath Phoenix Park Dublin

Dublin 7

F4

456.03750

461.53750

Yes

F5

456.06250

461.56250

Yes

F6

456.07500

461.57500

Yes North Co. Mayo

F7

456.08750

461.58750

F8

456.10000

461.60000

F9

456.11250

461.61250

Yes

F10

456.12500

461.62500

Yes

F11

456.13750

461.63750

Yes

F12

456.15000

461.65000

West Co. Sligo

NO

Co. Wicklow (excl. Bray) Dublin 14, 16, 24, 6, 6w

NO

North Co. Mayo West Co. Sligo

23

NO

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A1.2.6 UHF 455/469MHz Max ERP:

base 25 W


mobile/portable 5 W 12.5 kHz


Base(MHz)

Mobiles/ Portables( MHz)

G1 G2 G3 G4 G5 G6 G7 G8 G9 G10 G11 G12 G13 G14 G15 G16 G17 G18 G19 G20 G21

455.00000 455.01250 455.02500 455.03750 455.05000 455.06250 455.07500 455.08750 455.10000 455.11250 455.12500 455.13750 455.15000 455.16250 455.17500 455.18750 455.20000 455.21250 455.22500 455.23750 455.25000

469.00000 469.01250 469.02500 469.05000 469.06250 469.07875 469.09500 469.11125 469.12750 469.14375 469.16000 469.17625 469.19250 469.20875 469.22500 469.24125 469.25750 469.27375 469.29000 469.30625 469.32250

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

G22 G23 G24 G25 G26 G27 G28 G29 G30 G31 G32 G33 G34 G35 G36

455.26250 455.27500 455.28750 455.30000 455.31250 455.32500 455.33750 455.35000 455.36250 455.37500 455.38750 455.40000 455.41250 455.42500 455.43750

469.33875 469.35500 469.37125 469.38750 469.40375 469.42000 469.43625 469.45250 469.46875 469.48500 469.50125 469.51750 469.53375 469.55000 469.56625

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

24


ComReg 08/08


A1.3 Licence-exempt Channels

PMR 446 (Personal Mobile Radio, 446 MHz) is part of the UHF frequency range, which is licence-exempt for personal use in many European Countries including Ireland. A PMR 446 two-way radio is essentially a small handset or walkie-talkie which may operate in the PMR 446 frequency range without the requirement of a licence. The range offered by PMR handsets can vary from a few hundred meters (in a city) to a few kilometers (open countryside). PMR446 is primarily used by consumer-grade walkie-talkies, which are manufactured to operate in the PMR 446 band only. The PMR 446 bands are shown in the following table:

Centre Frequency in range

Channel Spacing

Max ERP

PMR 446 (Analogue)

446.0 - 446.1 MHz

12.5 kHz

500 mW

Digital PMR 446

446.1 - 446.2 MHz

6.25 or 12.5 kHz

500 mW

Please refer to ComReg Document 02/71R411 (as revised) for further information concerning the interface requirements for PMR 446 equipment.

“Permitted Short Range Devices in Ireland”: available for download from the Publications section of www.comreg.ie. 11

25

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 2 - Wireless Microphone / In-ear Monitor Channels A2.1 Licensed Channels A2.1.1 VHF Channels


Max Channel Bandwidth

Typical ERP

Max ERP

174 – 230 MHz

200 kHz

50 mW

1W



Typical ERP

Max ERP

470 – 862 MHz

200 kHz

50 mW

1W

A2.1.2 UHF Channels


Low power (10 mW ERP) wireless microphones are permitted to operate on a licence exempt basis in the bands listed in the following table: Band


Channel Spacing

Max ERP

VHF

173.7 – 175.1 MHz

50 kHz

10 mW

UHF

863.0 – 865.0 MHz

200 kHz

10 mW

Please refer to ComReg Document 02/71R412 (as revised) for further information concerning the interface requirements for wireless microphones.


26

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 3 - Wireless Camera Channels

A6.1 1980 – 2025 MHz

Max ERP:

5W


10 MHz

Centre Frequency

Geographic Limitations

Note


(MHz) H1

1990

YES

H2

2000

YES

H3

2010

YES

H4

2020

YES

27

ComReg 08/08


A6.2 2025 – 2110 MHz Max ERP:

1W


10 MHz




I1

2035

Limited availability outside Dublin, Kildare, Meath & Louth

NO

I2

2045


NO

Note

Not available in Dublin for bandwidth >8 MHz

I3

2055

NO Limited availability outside Kildare, Meath & Louth Not available in Dublin

I4

2065


I5

2075

NO Limited availability outside Kildare, Meath & Louth

I6

2085


NO

I7

2095


NO

I8

2105


NO

28

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A6.3 2170 – 2200 MHz Max ERP:

5W


10 MHz



Note


J1

2175

YES

J2

2185

YES

J3

2195

YES

29

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland A6.4 2200 – 2300 MHz


10 MHz

Centre Frequency

Maximum Effective Radiated Power

(MHz)

(ERP)

K1

2205

1W


NO

K2

2215

1W


NO

K3

2225

1W


NO


Note


Not available in Dublin

K4

2235

1W


K5

2245

1W

NO Limited availability outside Kildare, Meath & Louth

K6

2255

1W


NO

K7

2265

1W


NO

K8

2275

1W


NO

K9

2285

5W

YES

K10

2295

5W

YES

30

ComReg 08/08


A6.5 2300 – 2400 MHz Max channel bandwidth:

10 MHz

Centre Frequency

Maximum Effective Radiated Power

(MHz)

(ERP)


Outdoor use not recommended in:

Dublin

L1

2305

100 mW

NO Western and Central counties listed below*

2315

Meath, North Kildare, South Louth Outdoor use not recommended in:

Dublin

L2

Note


100 mW

NO Western and Central counties listed below*

Meath, North Kildare, South Louth

Western and Central counties listed below*

L3

2325

100 mW

L4

2335

5W

L5

2345

5W

L6

2355

5W

YES

L7

2365

5W

YES

L8

2375

5W

YES

L9

2385

5W

YES

L10

2395

5W

YES

NO YES This channel is available for newsgathering on a shared restricted nationwide basis

* Channels 2305, 2315 and 2325: Western and Central Counties where operation on these channels is not permitted: Cavan (West) Galway Leitrim Sligo Clare Kerry Mayo Cork (West) Kildare (South) Offaly Donegal Laois Roscommon

31

ComReg 08/08

NO


A6.6 10.3 – 10.5 GHz Max ERP:

5W


10 MHz

Centre Frequency (GHz)


Note


M1

10.305

YES

M2

10.315

YES

M3

10.325

YES

M4

10.335

YES

M5

10.345

YES

M6

10.355

YES

M7

10.365

YES

M8

10.375

YES

M9

10.385

YES

M10

10.435

YES

M11

10.445

YES

M12

10.455

YES

M13

10.465

YES

M14

10.475

YES

M15

10.485

YES

M16

10.495

YES

32

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 4 - Wireless CCTV Link Channels A4.1 Licensed Channels

The channels available for licensed temporary wireless CCTV (video surveillance) links are the same as for Wireless Cameras. Please refer to the previous appendix for a full channel list.


The operation of low power wireless video surveillance links is permitted on a licence exempt basis in the bands listed in the following table, subject to the maximum output power specified: Centre Frequency in range

Max EIRP

2400 – 2483.5 MHz

25 mW

24.00 - 24.25 GHz

100 mW

Please refer to ComReg Document 02/71R413 (as revised) for further information concerning the interface requirements for video surveillance equipment and non-specific short-range devices.


33

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 5 - Data / Telemetry Channels A5.1 VHF Channels

It should be noted that temporary VHF data channels share frequency bands with VHF Television Broadcasting and Digital Audio Broadcasting which are the primary services in the relevant band. Consequently, temporary data transmitters, as secondary services, are only licensed at locations where they will not cause interference to reception of television and digital radio from local transmitters. The channels available for temporary VHF data systems are as shown in the following table:



Max ERP


174 – 230 MHz

25 kHz

1W

NO

34

ComReg 08/08


A5.2 UHF 12.5 kHz Channels


N1

12.5 KHz



456.03750

5W



Yes Co. Wicklow (excl. Bray)

N2

456.10000

1W

N3

456.12500

5W

Yes

N4

455.4125

5W

Yes

N5

455.425

5W

Yes

N6

455.4375

5W

Yes

N7

455.45

5W

Yes

N8

455.4625

5W

Yes

N9

455.475

5W

Yes

N10

455.4875

5W

Yes

N11

455.5

5W

Yes

N12

455.5125

5W

Yes

N13

455.525

5W

Yes

N14

461.53750

5W

Yes

Dublin 14, 16, 24, 6, 6w

NO

Co. Wicklow (excl. Bray)

N15

461.60000

1W

N16

461.62500

5W

Dublin 14, 16, 24, 6, 6w

NO

Yes

35

ComReg 08/08


A5.3 UHF 25 kHz Channels


25 KHz

Centre Frequency


(MHz)

(ERP)

O1

455.4375

5W

Yes

O2

455.4625

5W

Yes

O3

455.4875

5W

Yes

36



ComReg 08/08


Appendix 6 – Useful Contacts Temporary Radio Licences: Republic of Ireland Licensing Operations Unit Market Framework Division Commission for Communications Regulation Abbey Court Irish Life Centre Lower Abbey Street Dublin 1

Tel: +353 1 8049600 Fax: +353 1 8049665 Web: www.comreg.ie

Interference Investigation / Unlicensed Equipment: Republic of Ireland Spectrum Compliance Team Market Framework Division Commission for Communications Regulation Abbey Court Irish Life Centre Lower Abbey Street Dublin 1

Tel: +353 1 8049600 Fax: +353 1 8049671 Email: [email protected]. Web: www.comreg.ie

Broadcasting Licences: Republic of Ireland The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland 2 - 5 Warrington Place Dublin 2

Tel: + 353 1 644 1200 Fax: + 353 1 644 1299 Email: [email protected] Web: www.bai.ie

Temporary Radio Licences: Northern Ireland The Joint Frequency Management Group JFMG Ltd 33-34 Alfred Place London, WC1E 7DP United Kingdom

37

E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.jfmg.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 7299 8660 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7299 8661 Out of hours: +44 (0) 7050 177335

ComReg 08/08

Radio Licensing for Special Events and Temporary Use in Ireland Office of Communications (Ofcom) Ofcom Licensing Centre Riverside House 2a Southwark Bridge Road London SE1 9HA United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7981 3131 or +44 (0) 300 123 1000 Web: www.ofcom.org.uk/licensing

38

ComReg 08/08


Appendix 7 – Links to Application Forms and Other Relevant Documents This appendix lists application forms for the various temporary licences and other relevant documents, which are published on the ComReg website www.comreg.ie. It should be noted that the documents are subject to revision from time to time and that the editions listed here may have been superceded by more current versions. For example a revised version of document ComReg0202 will be published as ComReg0202R. A further revision of the same document will be published as ComReg0202R2 and so on. The hyperlinks listed below will not work if a new edition of a document has been published. In that case intending applicants are advised to check for the latest edition in the Publications section of www.comreg.ie.

Temporary Business Radio Licence Application Form ComReg0202R http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg0202R.pdf

Satellite Earth Station Licence – Guidelines and Application Form Guidelines ComReg 00/64R: Guidelines for Applicants for Satellite Earth Station Licences in the Fixed Satellite Service in Spectrum above 3 GHz http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg0064R.pdf Application Form ComReg 00/67R2: Fixed Satellite Earth Station licences in Fixed Satellite Services in spectrum above 3 GHz transportable - application form http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg0067R2.pdf

39

ComReg 08/08


Temporary Point-to-Point Radio Link Licences – Guidelines and Application Forms For links operating above 1 GHz: 09/89: Guidelines to Applicants for Radio Links - Point-to-Point above 1GHz Licences. http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg_0989.pdf ComReg 09/89a: Application Form: Point to Point Radio Link Licence above 1 GHz. http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg_0989A.pdf

Interface Requirements ComReg 06/47: “Interface Requirements for Radio Services in Ireland” http://www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg0647.pdf

40

ComReg 08/08

Guidance Notes

Guidance Notes

Suggest Documents

CSC Guidance Notes - governance

FATCA Guidance Notes - WordPress.com

Guidance Notes - Gov.uk

Hypnotism licence guidance notes

Guidance Notes - Gov.uk

Experienced Officer Guidance Notes

Guidance Notes - Gov.uk

guidance notes - Gov.uk

Guidance Notes - Gov.uk

Guidance Notes - Ministry for Finance

Guidance Notes - April 2012 - OISD

Teacher Guidance Notes simpleveriosn - BBC

Guidance notes for Loan Application

Guidance Notes - The Limehouse Project

Regulations, Syllabus and Guidance Notes

Guidance notes - Chief Scientist Office

Application form – Notes for guidance

Guidance Notes on Health Hazards in Construction Work Guidance ...

ROHS Regulations - Government Guidance Notes - February 2011

Gaming Machines on Licensed Premises guidance notes

Contract Guidance Notes - assets.highways.g... - Highways Agency

FATCA Guidance Notes - Seychelles Revenue Commission

BRACED M&E Guidance Notes FINAL - Aidstream

Leap Coach Bursary 2015-16 Guidance Notes