The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) has announced it will make available some Time Division Duplex (TDD) spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.5 GHz band in the short term to facilitate trials for Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) deployments. According to the IDA, the HetNet trials may require a period of six to nine months to attain meaningful results. To this end, successful applicants may use these spectrum bands for the trials until the bands are next allocated for long-term spectrum rights. IDA is currently studying the allocation of these TDD bands for the longer term, as part of its overall review of spectrum bands to be allocated for mobile broadband services.
To study the potential benefits of HetNet to consumers and enterprises, IDA will also carry out a series of HetNet trials in conjunction with the industry. The deliverables of the trials will include new techniques to improve the use of spectrum and infrastructure resources so that users can be connected to the best network based on their usage needs.
Through the trials, IDA and participating industry players will also be able to validate the technologies and capabilities of HetNet, which may either be commercially available today or still in research, and identify the most suitable ones for future deployment. Additionally, new business opportunities and commercial models can be identified.
Interested operators can refer to the ‘Short-Term Assignment of Unassigned Spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.5 GHz TDD Spectrum Bands Framework’ for additional information. They can apply for the TDD spectrum for their trials.
