Ofcom, the UK communications regulator yesterday launched a public consultation on proposal to make certain device exempt from the need for a licence. These include micro-FM transmitters that plug into iPod devices.
The closing date for responses is 6 November 2006.
This follows a prior public consultation about the issue generally and this exercise is about the proposed legal changes to implement.
On the Ofcom website you can:
The changes to be implemented are:
- Citizens’ Band (CB) radio – measures to remove the need for users of CB radio, of which there are currently 20,000, to obtain a licence from Ofcom;
- “Micro” FM transmitters – these devices are designed to facilitate easy connection between audio sources (such as digital audio devices and MP3 players) and normal FM broadcast receivers by way of a radio link. Ofcom proposes to permit the use of these devices on a licence-exempt basis;
- A range of new technologies and novel applications of radio where users will not need to obtain a licence from Ofcom:
- Inmarsat BGAN and High Density Fixed Satellite Service (HDFSS) satellite terminals;
- narrow band use of 24 GHz for short-range radar (including automotive applications);
- Radar Level Gauges; and
- digital PMR 446 (“walkie talkies”).
Comments