Ofcom deregulates Radio Frequency Identification
tags
Ofcom today announced that the use of radio frequency identification
(RFID) operating in the 865-868 MHz range will be exempt from licensing.
RFID is a technology that uses radio waves to allow automatic communication
between small electronic tags and reading devices, typically within
a range of a few metres. There is increasing demand for new spectrum
for RFID, particularly from the retail industry. Advanced RFID tags
could, for example, be used to track goods along the supply chain
and improve in-store security.
Ofcom is responsible for the civil use of the radio spectrum in
the UK. Where feasible and appropriate, Ofcom seeks to deregulate
in order to increase the amount of licence-exempt spectrum used
by businesses to bring new technologies and services to the market.
Today's announcement means that equipment can be used without a
licence under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949, subject only to
regulations intended to minimise potential interference.
The statement can be found at:
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/wireless865_868/865_868statement
/
The decision, which was subject to consultation over the summer,
follows a recommendation from the Conference of European Post and
Telecommunications administrations (CEPT) that additional spectrum
should be made available for RFID at 865-868 MHz.
In reaching its decision, Ofcom considered:
* THE POTENTIAL LEVELS OF INTERFERENCE FROM
RFID DEVICES. Ofcom concluded that, with the regulations
covering power levels, frequency bands and antenna characteristics,
interference from RFID devices in the
865-868 MHz range was unlikely.
* THE ECONOMIC COSTS AND BENEFITS.
Ofcom conducted an impact assessment which found that the potential
net benefits to businesses (through better inventory management
and improved security) and consumers (if savings were reflected
in lower prices) would be ?100 - ?200 million over 10 years.
In addition, Ofcom found that exempting RFID from licensing would
be the most cost effective way to facilitate the introduction of
the devices.
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