Ofcom Proposes 27MHz Community
Audio Distribution Systems
Ofcom proposes to allow local religious and community organisations
to operate within the UK Citizens' Band allocation.
To begin with, a small number of such organisations will
be licensed to transmit services in a limited number of pilot areas. These
would be called Community Audio Distribution Systems (CADS). At present,
some housebound religious congregation members, who wish to hear local
religious community services, are unable to do so.
Ofcom is proposing to allow CADS users to share spectrum
with the Citizens' Band radio service in a way that will provide the flexibility
required to transmit religious and community service material whilst protecting
other spectrum users from harmful interference.
Community Audio Distribution Systems would, in practice, constitute simple,
short-range and inexpensive wireless public address systems. The evidence
of demand for such arrangements has arisen primarily from within religious
communities and this is therefore where Ofcom expects the majority of
use to arise. However, other community groups could also use the arrangements
for other similar purposes.
To test these plans, Ofcom is proposing a closely monitored year-long
pilot scheme in the areas where interest has been most widespread and
sustained: Northern Ireland and West Yorkshire. Further information is
available on the Ofcom
website.
Source: GB2RS News - Courtesy of the
RSGB
|
