Cable Europe and ZVEI (German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers´ Association) have issued a joint statement calling on the European Commission to ensure any second Digital Dividend gained from potential spectrum reallocations in the 700MHz band ensures practical coexistence between new mobile services and the existing equipment and services already providing European consumers and business with connectivity.
The statement draws attention to the lack of any study regarding the impact of new mobile services with existing electronic equipment already in the hands of the consumer. Last week the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) was formally adopted by the European Commission.
“The risk of one technology interfering with another existing technology runs counter to the aims of greater connectivity spelled out in Europe’s ambitious Digital Agenda which we fully support,” read the declaration. “As we move to a potential second Digital Dividend, it is vital to ensure that no question remains as to what happens or who is liable should harmful interference occur. That question, following the adoption of the RSPP, remains unanswered today”.
Concern over the possible impact of interference has come from all corners. Yesterday the UK government announced it had committed £180 million (€216 million) to fund solutions to TV interference caused by new 4G mobile services.
