The Path Towards Efficient Coexistence in Unlicensed Spectrum

Although unlicensed spectrum has tremendous advantages, it is always possible that an unlicensed wireless system will experience intolerable levels of interference from its neighbors. Before developing products and services for which interference is problematic, strategies must be adopted to minimize this effect. One strategy is to keep utilization low, possibly by allocating excess spectrum, or strictly limiting transmission power. Another strategy is to encourage efficient coexistence, possibly by adopting an effective etiquette. Further study is required, and if problems are to be averted, this study should begin soon. Purpose To identify some of the challenges of providing quality of service in unlicensed spectrum that is adequate for high-speed metropolitan-area networks, and to suggest useful future studies. Notice This document has been prepared to assist IEEE 802.16. It is offered as a basis for discussion and is not binding on the contributing individual(s) or organization(s). The material in this document is subject to change in form and content after further study. The contributor(s) reserve(s) the right to add, amend or withdraw material contained herein. Release The contributor grants a free, irrevocable license to the IEEE to incorporate text contained in this contribution, and any modifications thereof, in the creation of an IEEE Standards publication; to copyright in the IEEE’s name any IEEE Standards publication even though it may include portions of this contribution; and at the IEEE’s sole discretion to permit others to reproduce in whole or in part the resulting IEEE Standards publication. The contributor also acknowledges and accepts that this contribution may be made public by IEEE 802.16. Patent Policy and Procedures The contributor is familiar with the IEEE 802.16 Patent Policy and Procedures (Version 1.0) , including the statement “IEEE standards may include the known use of patent(s), including patent applications, if there is technical justification in the opinion of the standards-developing committee and provided the IEEE receives assurance from the patent holder that it will license applicants under reasonable terms and conditions for the purpose of implementing the standard.” Early disclosure to the Working Group of patent information that might be relevant to the standard is essential to reduce the possibility for delays in the development process and increase the likelihood that the draft publication will be approved for publication. Please notify the Chair as early as possible, in written or electronic form, of any patents (granted or under application) that may cover technology that is under consideration by or has been approved by IEEE 802.16. The Chair will disclose this notification via the IEEE 802.16 web site . 2000-04-30 IEEE 802.16hc-00/03 1 The Path Towards Efficient Coexistence in Unlicensed Spectrum Jon M. Peha Carnegie Mellon University