FINAL REPORT - Stakeholders - Ofcom

adio-frequency technology with advanced real-time control software. The result is a
system which is reliable, robust, cost-effective and easy to use. Frequency-agile, adaptive
HF systems may be used for any type of fixed or mobile service, but have a greater
capability for digital technologies where a high quality is required. An adaptive system
automates the process involved in establishing, maintaining and terminating HF links.
There is no need for skilled operators the quality of service and the efficiency of the link is
improved.
An adaptive system has a triple function, firstly automatic selection of the frequency and
of other system parameters to be used, secondly automatic operation as regards calling
and thirdly establishing the communications path and disconnecting the adaptive function
during the communication so as to optimise at all times the quality of service with respect
to the ionospheric conditions and spectrum congestion. Some adaptive systems have the
capability to monitor the channel prior to utilisation and assess the channel quality on a
periodic basis. This capability enables the adaptive system to avoid the use of channels
which have a limited utility and it also reduces the probability of interference to other
users of the spectrum. One current application which uses adaptive techniques is the
various operators which offer an automated E-mail service including the transmission of
binary files and graphics. Such systems are covered in section 6.5.2 above.
Studies are ongoing in the ITU-R; they focus inter alia on grade of service, efficient use of
spectrum, minimisation of interference and better access to the spectrum (see e.g.
Question ITU-R 205-1/9, Recommendations ITU-R F.1110 and SM.1266).
Recommendation 6.5:
Adaptive systems have been successfully introduced in the fixed service in the HF bands.
They would likewise offer great advantages to the maritime mobile service in the MF (see
section 6.6.6) and HF bands. The implementation of adaptive systems on frequencies
listed in Appendix 17 to the Radio Regulations is permitted for initial testing through note
p to the table in Part A of the Appendix. Frequencies from outside the maritime bands
could of course be added to the group of frequencies used. It is of course well understood
that the final introduction of this new technology in the maritime mobile service requires
further in-depth studies and the adoption of appropriate technical and regulatory
provisions. It is therefore recommended, that regulatory pre-conditions are developed for
the implementation of such adaptive techniques along the lines described above.
6.7.6 Replacement Technologies (radio, other or none)
Use of CB equipment (around 27 MHz) might be considered as a cheap alternative for
small boats for general communications and also in a limited way for safety and distress
alerting and communications. According to information received from the United Kingdom
Coastguard, they currently do not monitor any CB channel nor do they have plans to do
so. The situation in Germany is exactly the same. Information from other European
countries has not been found. Australia has however used spectrum in the vicinity of the
CB band for such an application. Details are provided in Table 6-5.
Frequency Application in Australia
27.680 MHz Ship to ship/ ship to shore Calling and working
27.720 Professional fishing. Calling and working/ ship to ship and ship to shore
27.820 As 27.720
27.860 Secondary DISTRESS, safety and calling
27.880 Primary DISTRESS, safety and calling
27.900 Calling and working ship to shore
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