New white space R&D centre opens in UK
1 min read
The University of Strathclyde has announced the official opening of its new Centre for White Space Communications.
Through engagement with industry and government, the facility will develop and apply dynamic spectrum technology to tap into unused white space spectrum capacity.
The aim is to improve efficiency and extend the techniques to bands beyond the tv white spaces which are its current focus.
This, according to Strathclyde's principal Professor Sir Jim McDonald, will enable improved wireless broadband access and a 'plethora' of smart-rural developments, maximising the technical, economic and social yield from the spectrum.
"The Centre for White Space Communications is taking the lead to capitalise on a global opportunity that will have a positive impact on industry, business, communities and the wider economy," Prof McDonald said. "Strathclyde has a prominent role in technological innovation and the launch of this centre will help to put Scotland at the forefront of economic and social developments in the field."
Working with partners such as Microsoft, BT and the BBC, the centre will capitalise on the white space available in many frequency bands, and that made available from the discontinuation of analogue television, to shape the future for wireless access to the internet.
Jim Beveridge, Senior director of Microsoft's Technology Policy Group, said: "We are excited about the potential and possibilities in the use of tv white spaces technology. We see the launch of the Centre for White Space Communications as essential to this effort and another example of the UK leading the way in this field.
