Ofcom today recommended that the European Commission establishes a common set of standards for the development of a new wireless technology called Ultra Wideband (UWB).
UWB operates in the 3.1-10.6GHz band range and can transfer large amounts of data wirelessly over short distances. An alternative to other wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and WiFi, UWB offers faster data transfer rates and UWB transmitters consume less battery power. UWB devices could be used for: wirelessly connecting DVD players, displays and speakers; or linking PCs, printers and storage devices within a room.
Ofcom’s recommendation is set out in a formal Input Document submitted to the European Conference of Postal and Telecoms Administrators (CEPT), which is seeking to harmonise the introduction of UWB.
The document concludes that the introduction of UWB would create economic benefits. But it argues that for the benefits to be maximised then member states should agree on common standards to create a European market for UWB. The US has already developed a specification for UWB. However, Ofcom believes that this does not provide adequate protection against interference with other wireless devices in Europe because of the different uses of radio spectrum in the US and Europe.