Innovation
Recent technological innovations have proven to allow for more local and more efficient re-use of chunks of spectrum. “Smart” or so called “cognitive” radio technologies support the usage of ‘white spaces’ without danger of interference. The introduction of Wi-Fi (Wireless LAN, the 802.11 standard, in technical terms) has proven that many devices can efficiently re-use the same spectrum as long as the technology adheres to preset parameters of use (for example, relatively low transmission power, utilization of contention protocols).

Wi-Fi provides an impressive example how open spectrum can provide enormous benefits for business, commerce, science and culture. Wi-Fi operates on a chunk of the spectrum which for historical reasons is license exempt in most countries: the industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) bands. The majority of national regulators have ruled that end-users do not need a license to operate in these ISM bands. This open spectrum has triggered a wealth of user-innovation. For example, user-community initiatives have opened broadband internet connectivity in rural areas where the incumbent telecommunication provider can not or will not provide service -- myriad examples of community networks enabling residents to participate locally in economic activities exist around the globe.

The Open Spectrum Alliance believes that the time has come to expand allocations of ‘open spectrum’. Contrary to popular rhetoric, open spectrum does not specify any single way of spectrum regulation, rather it is the foundation for innovation and diversity in spectrum allocation and assignment -- for example, using licensed spectrum for one set of services and license-exempt or ‘lightly licensed’ spectrum for other services. Contemporary spectrum regulation needs to evolve to take into account of the new wireless technologies of the 21st Century.

“Cognitive radio” is a generic term for digitally controlled radio devices which allow spectrum to be managed efficiently at the local level by the devices themselves. Regulation thus sets the parameters of use, but does not license when specific devices can operate. Controlling radio transmitters and receivers with computers allows the usage of technologies such as ‘spread spectrum’ technology which, unlike traditional systems that transmit data on one band of the spectrum, divides information over multiple frequencies and thus reduces the potential of harmful interference by lowering transmit power.

The Digital Dividend
The switchover from analog to digital terrestrial TV has the potential to dramatically increase the amount of spectrum available for innovative technologies. Currently the European and International organizations are studying the implementation of new spectrum management techniques. The opening up of the spectrum at least for secondary use will greatly increase the overall economic and social benefit to the general public. The US regulatory agency, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has set the precedent and has passed an order to allow secondary use of spectrum on the bands between broadcast TV frequencies. The Open Spectrum Alliance strives to make similar forms of spectrum management available in all countries and additional allocation bands.

Summary
Wi-Fi has already shown that open spectrum allows people to innovate and supports increased broadband connectivity. The Open Spectrum Alliance (OSA) is united in our to maximize the potential social and economic benefits of radio spectrum by promoting innovative public policies. OSA is committed to promoting best practices for opening spectrum that make use of technological innovations and expand and enhance new services and applications.

How can I participate?
OSA is a young initiative that is rapidly building momentum. OSA is actively recruiting partners from all areas: companies, research institutes, educational and cultural institutions and individuals can all support OSA. You can apply join the Open Spectrum Alliance at office@openspectrum.eu. Membership requests will be decided on a case to case basis based on matching common goals and mutual support.