The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has proposed to change the nation’s regulatory arrangements to make it easier to access spectrum for use in the IoT.
Proposed revisions would remove a technical barrier to the operation of narrowband low-power wireless access (LPWA) networks in the 900-MHz, 2.4-GHz and 5.8-GHz bands.
ACMA chair Chris Chapman said the changes would enable the use of the bands for a variety of applications including data telemetry, machine data and monitoring, sensor networks, smart metering, security systems and industrial control.
“The changes should encourage innovations in the M2M and IoT spaces,” he said. “The proposals are a part of our work in looking at Australia’s state of readiness for IoT and identifying areas where the ACMA can further assist IoT developments.”
ACMA has proposed other regulatory change to prepare for the IoT, including the addition of the new frequency bands for radiodetermination transmitters used as industrial sensors and in-ground ultra-wide bandwidth transmitters used in automated parking management systems.
The regulator will accept input on the proposed changes until February 26.