ABSTRACT: In the UK, Ofcom has recently published its consultation on allowing cognitive devices into the so-called "white space" spectrum. The proposals suggest that devices that determine whether spectrum is free by sensing alone will be very difficult to manufacture and point towards a geolocation database as potentially a better option. This lecture will explore the reasons why Ofcom came to this conclusion and discuss some of the implications for cognitive devices, for short and long range wireless applications and for for future spectrum management.
SPEAKER: William joined Ofcom as Head of Research and Development and Senior Technologist in 2003. Here he manages a team providing technical advice and performing research across all areas of Ofcom’s regulatory remit. He also leads some of the major reviews conducted by Ofcom including the Spectrum Framework Review and development of Spectrum Usage Rights. Previously, William worked for a range of communications consultancies in the UK in the fields of hardware design, computer simulation, propagation modelling, spectrum management and strategy development. William also spent three years providing strategic management across Motorola’s entire communications portfolio, based in Chicago. William has published ten books, eighty papers, and four patents. He is a Visiting Professor at Surrey University and DeMontfort University and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, the IEEE and the IET where he has served as a Vice President. His biography is included in multiple “Who’s Who” publications around the world. William has a first class honours degree in electronics, a PhD and an MBA. He can be contacted at william.webb@ofcom.org.uk.
