Chapter 4 - Regulating the radio spectrum

Abstract

Unregulated use of radio spectrum can possibly lead to chaos, high levels of interference and pollution, and a reduction in the utility of the radio spectrum for all users. Regulation makes it possible to minimize these problems by ensuring the correct choice of operating frequencies and other technical factors in transmissions from a particular location and by setting standards for the design of radio systems and of the equipment to be used both in transmission and reception. Regulating the use of the electromagnetic spectrum is the duty of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), Geneva. Successor to the International Telegraph Union founded in 1865, this is the oldest of all intergovernmental bodies, and without it the world of telecommunications would be very different and much less effective. The ITU administers decisions on spectrum use which are collectively arrived at by all the member nations, their representatives meeting together at the World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC), which is held every few years. These are backed up from time to time by Regional Administrative Radio Conferences, as may prove necessary. At these meetings agreements are hammered out, which are then binding on the national authorities.