Spectrum monitoring is one of four key spectrum management functions which include spectrum planning, spectrum engineering and spectrum authorization.Spectrum monitoring helps spectrum managers to plan and use frequencies, avoid incompatible usage, and identify sources of harmful interference.Key spectrum monitoring activities explained in this section include data collection and compliance enforcement.
Properly designed and functioning spectrum management processes including planning, authorization and engineering activities require data derived from monitoring technical procedures and from components which are characterized by varying degrees of complexity and cost. Spectrum monitoring and compliance activities help users to avoid incompatible frequency usage through identification of sources of harmful interference.
Furthermore, spectrum use planning and resolution of spectrum scarcity issues can be accomplished through study and analysis of spectrum occupancy data. Maintaining interference free assignments includes the use of data and electro magnetic compatibility (EMC) verification activities, as well as monitoring and enforcement activities needed to ensure user compliance with licence conditions and technical standards.
In the next three parts of this section, we expand on the topic of Spectrum Monitoring and demonstrate its importance in supporting Spectrum Management Activities. In the first section, we provide more detailed explanations of Spectrum Monitoring Objectives, Activities and Strategies. Spectrum Monitoring Technology is outlined in the second section. The last section deals with Compliance Enforcement activities.
The following topics are included in this section of the module:
5.1 Spectrum Monitoring;
5.2 Monitoring Technology; and
5.3 Enforcing Compliance.
For more information on these topics, please click the appropriate heading in the Table of Contents in the left navigation pane on this page.