An overview and comparison of TV white space regulations worldwide

Abstract

The use of unlicensed wireless devices in TV White Spaces (TVWS) is gaining traction worldwide as a mean to increase spectrum utilization of TV bands. Regulators around the world have released or preparing the regulation frameworks for unlicensed wireless devices operating in TVWS to regulate these white space devices (WSDs). As the use of WSDs is still mostly in trial stages and the switchover from analogue to digital TV is not completed worldwide, the regulators have regular updates to the regulations of WSDs after accumulating more knowledge from the trials. In this paper, we provide an overview and comparisons of the latest TVWS regulations in major regions such as North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. We will point out the rationale for some of the differences so that readers are aware of the various parameters to watch out for when using TVWS.