ITU-R HDBK SM PDF

FOREWORD

It is a matter of great importance that due to the growing demands on the radio frequency spectrum, that there is a need to improve spectrum monitoring techniques that take into account advances in radiocommunication technology and to disseminate such information the world over. Accordingly, Radiocommunication Study Group 1 entrusted Working Party 1C with the task of revising the Handbook on Spectrum Monitoring for the benefit of developing and developed countries .

The radio frequency spectrum is a limited natural resource and it is essential that it is used in the most effective and efficient manner by all radiocommunication users the world over. This is so that various radiocommunication networks can function in an interference-free radio environment. Radiocommunication technology is advancing at a rapid pace. With the emerging of new technologies and the phenomenal growth of radiocommunication services, requirements for the radio frequency spectrum and the geostationary satellite orbit are increasing at an astronomical rate. Effective and efficient spectrum management is the key element for ensuring the co-existence of various radiocommunication networks, without causing interference to each other.

Spectrum monitoring is one of the essential tools of spectrum management. Spectrum monitoring techniques are developed to ensure that technical parameters and standards for radiocommunication systems are adhered to. In addition spectrum monitoring assists in promoting the efficient utilisation of the radio frequency spectrum and the geostationary satellite orbit. Spectrum monitoring techniques are different from those of a radiocommunication network in that they are carried-out in non-optimal situations and in an unknown environment.

This Handbook has been developed covering all essential features of spectrum monitoring techniques and activities including the establishment of monitoring facilities. The Handbook is expected to be of great value to administrations and spectrum monitoring agencies. It is considered to be equally valuable to the developing as well as to developed countries.

We convey our great appreciation to Mr. Jan Verduijn (the Netherlands), Chairman of the Monitoring Handbook Group of Working Party 1C, sub-coordinators, contributors, participants and all those who have been instrumental in the development of this Handbook and without whose efforts this Handbook would not have been a reality. Our special gratitude is also due to Mr Albert Nalbandian, Counsellor of the Radiocommunication Bureau who has played a key role in the development of the Handbook.

It is hoped that this Handbook will prove to be a great asset in the field of spectrum management and spectrum monitoring for establishment and operation of monitoring facilities. It should provide essential tools for spectrum management and for the performance of radiocommunication networks in an interference-free environment.