Guidelines for Use of Wireless Access Systems (WAS) On Shared Non Protected Basis in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Frequency Bands

"Wireless Access Systems (WAS)” are defined as end-user radio connections to public or private core networks. Wireless technologies, operating in shared bands on a non-protected basis, are today being utilized as a cost effective means to deliver communication services to end-users. An example is the fixed wireless access systems that use wideband digital modulation techniques and provide a wide array of high data rate fixed communications for individuals, businesses, and institutions. These technologies provide capabilities for urban and rural networks for high-speed internet access, telemedicine, tele-education, as well as for municipalities, governments and enterprises to link their buildings and other sites.

In an effort to provide more choice to the public for access to communications services, the Communications Commission of Kenya hereinafter referred to as “the Commission”, issues these guidelines for operation of the WAS systems on a shared, non-protected basis.

Type of Authorization

Under this authorisation, all WAS systems shall operate on a shared non-protected basis. These guidelines specify the frequencies that may be used, technical requirements for the use of the frequency band(s), equipment standards/features and technical and operational parameters.

The use of a WAS system shall require approval from the Commission prior to installation, operation and/or use. The WAS systems shall require the payment of an annual frequency fee to facilitate the maintenance of a register for the WAS systems. It is therefore a requirement to obtain authorisation from the Commission prior to installation, operation and/or use of WAS systems.

The WAS systems shall not cause harmful interference to radiocommunication services operating on protected basis, and shall accept interference from protected and non-protected radiocommunication services including, where applicable, Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) equipment.

Applications

The authorized effective isotropic radiated power (e.i.r.p) levels are expected to self-limit the range and/or coverage area of the WAS, and where necessary, will be reviewed by the Commission, to ensure that the WAS operate as expected.

Technical Requirements and Standards

In order to maintain the orderly and efficient use of the RF spectrum, the Commission shall type approve the equipment to be utilized for the WAS against minimum technical requirements, including but not limited to: operating frequency range, type of modulation and RF power.  For type approval the Commission may, at its discretion, require conformance with certain technical standards, including proof of such conformance. The users and vendors of the WAS shall be required to ensure that the equipment intended for the Kenyan market complies with these guidelines.

Frequency Bands and Power Levels

Frequency Band (MHz)	Maximum Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (e.i.r.p.)	Maximum mean e.i.r.p. density
2400-2483.5 MHz	100mW	10mW/MHz
5150-5250 MHz	200mW	10mW/MHz in any 1 MHz band or 0.25mW/25kHz in any 25kHz band
5250-5350 MHz	1W with a Maximum transmitter power output of 250mW	50mW/MHz
5470-5725 MHz	1W with a Maximum transmitter power output of 250mW	50mW/MHz
5725-5800 MHz	4 Watts with a Maximum transmitter power output of 1W	200mWatt/MHz

 

 

 

 

6.   EQUIPMENT FEATURES

The WAS operating in the frequency bands 5250-5350 MHz and 5470-5725 MHz shall be required to employ Transmit Power Control (TPC) and Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS).

7.   INTERFERENCE MANAGEMENT

The WAS shall not cause harmful interference to radiocommunication services operating on protected basis. Upon notification by the Commission, any WAS causing harmful interference shall cease all transmission until the interference is eliminated.  The WAS users shall, however, comply with the technical requirements laid down by the Commission, ensure that the equipment meets the technical standards acceptable to the Commission and shall take reasonable measures to ensure that no harmful interference is caused to other radiocommunication services.

The WAS shall not be accorded any protection from harmful interference caused by protected or non-protected radiocommunication services and the Commission shall not investigate complaints of such interferences. The Commission, however, will expect the systems used in the band to comply with the necessary technical requirements and standards.  It is recommended that best-practice implementation be adhered to, in order to retain value in the quality of service of the WAS services. The Commission may from time to time carry out tests to ensure that best practice implementation is adhered to.

8.   NETWORK RETURNS

Network returns on the WAS systems shall be regularly submitted to the Commission, as the Commission may determine from time to time, on network parameters such as network layout/configuration, site coordinates, number of radio terminals, Tx/Rx frequencies, e.i.r.p., polarization, cell radius/link length, antenna height/type/pattern, number of sectors, number of radio frequencies per sector and bandwidth/bit rate.

9.   FREQUENCY FEES

The use of the WAS systems shall attract an annual frequency fee. Currently, the annual frequency fee is KShs. 10,000 per terminal. This, however, does not apply to a WAS system, with coverage and/or range that is restricted within a building and/or campus.

10.  OTHER CONDITIONS

The WAS users and vendors are strictly required to comply with these guidelines.  As well as specific conditions spelt out in these guidelines, the operation of the WAS is also subject to other regulatory provisions such as the Kenya Communications Act 1998 and Kenya Communications Regulations 2001.

These guidelines are subject to review by the Commission from time to time.