Singapore's IDA commits to regulatory framework for Super Wi-Fi

The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) will be introducing regulations for the use of spectrum in the TV white space* (TVWS) arena, making Singapore one of the first countries in the world to implement such a framework. TVWS is sometimes referred to as 'Super Wi-Fi' as it offers Internet connectivity beyond the current Wi-Fi spectrum, although it does not actually make use of Wi-Fi technology standards.

The regulations will make available for use approximately 180 MHz of spectrum when it takes effect from November 2014. As more Internet-capable devices are launched, more spectrum is needed to cater for increased data consumption.

The regulations come after the conclusion of a public consultation in 2013. Taking into account inputs from the industry, these regulations will set out the TVWS equipment requirements, spectrum channels to be made available for TVWS use, and how TVWS equipment should communicate with geo-location databases in order to identify the available spectrum channel to use, among others.

The regulations will also provide business certainty to companies who intend to offer services over TVWS. This signals Singapore's commitment to support TVWS technology as businesses roll out innovative applications and solutions over TVWS. Such applications may include machine-to-machine (M2M) communications, smart metering, outdoor environment and security monitoring services. 

Leong Keng Thai, IDA's Deputy Chief Executive and Director General (Telecoms and Post), said, "The TVWS regulatory framework is a step towards Singapore's vision on being the world's first Smart Nation. Regulators all over the world are exploring different ways to efficiently use spectrum, so that they can plan for their countries' future needs. The additional spectrum made available through the TVWS regulatory framework will ensure that Singapore efficiently allocate and use this available bandwidth to support the growing demand for data communication."

IDA said it will continue to review the allocation of spectrum to ensure the optimal use of scarce spectrum resources, and to facilitate IDA's vision of establishing Singapore as a Smart Nation, which is underpinned by a high speed, trusted and resilient infocomm infrastructure, comprising fixed and wireless networks.

*TV White Spaces, or TVWS, refer to unused radio spectrum in the TV broadcast bands that could potentially be utilised for alternative wireless broadband communications similar to Wi-Fi capabilities, but with lower-power, lower-cost and longer-range characteristics.