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RSM 2008 Archive
Important notice regarding availability of online services
To ensure that the Ministry is able to meet the increasing demands of our online services we are upgrading the technology infrastructure.
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Narrow channel spacing
The Ministry of Economic Development has recently published a technical feasibility study commissioned into the use of a narrower channel spacing of 400 kHz in the FM broadcasting band. Comments are sought on this report which is part of a Ministry ongoing programme of work.
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Digital terrestrial television – potential effects on other services
The government has agreed various policies to promote the transition of the longstanding analogue based terrestrial television services to digital technology.
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Atmospheric conditions cause anomalous propagation
The engineering processes determine the geographical separation which permits radio services on the same frequency to operate without interference.
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3.5 GHz spectrum allocation update
Applications for 40 area spectrum licence lots in the second round of the 3.5 GHz Crown-retained spectrum allocation (for broadband wireless access) have been received and confirmed.
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Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) website provides BBC’s solution
When the new RSM website went live in July 2007, the "Reception Problems" section innovatively offered down-loadable files of moving images and audio examples of some types of interference to assist identification of problems.
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Successful solution to 33KV power line interference!
For 25 years Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) staff have dealt with interference from 33KV transmission lines in the Birdlings Flat area south of Banks Peninsula.
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When is a licence to transmit radio waves valid?
RSM’s clients may begin to transmit radio waves when their licence has been granted or registered.
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Public Information Bulletin (PIB 46) update
The PIB 46 edition 5 - the Approved radio examiners (ARX) manual - has been updated on our website.
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3.5 GHz spectrum allocation update
The second round of the 3.5 GHz Crown-retained spectrum allocation for broadband wireless access is close to being concluded.
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Use of cell phones on aircraft
Travellers will be familiar with the airline request to turn off all electronic and transmitting equipment in preparation for take-off.
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Sensitive microwave detection equipment deployed by Radio Spectrum Management
Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) has improved its interference management capability to include microwave services in the band 1.5 GHz to 20 GHz.
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Management right holder and Radio Spectrum Management combine to resolve interference
In December Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) received a report of interference to a cell phone site in Masterton from the cell phone band management right holder.
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Statistics of audits programme and product compliance
The Radio Spectrum Management group carries out an audit programme of products and folders (compliance documentation) each year.
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3.5 GHz spectrum allocation: Round 2 outcome
Round 2 of the allocation of 3.5 GHz Crown-retained radio spectrum for broadband wireless access has drawn to a close following the successful tender of eight further licence lots.
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Allocation of spectrum for Public Protection and Disaster Relief
Communications and Information Technology Minister David Cunliffe and Police Minister Annette King today announced the allocation of VHF and UHF spectrum for the exclusive use of agencies with responsibility for public protection and disaster relief (PPDR). This allocation affects such agencies as the police, border control and civil defence.
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Discussion paper on ultra wide band communication devices released
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Radio Spectrum Management’s audit programme proves its benefits
The result of a recent audit, of a local council’s fixed point to multipoint radio transmitting system, was a timely reminder of both the need and the value of having a proactive auditing regime.
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Reminder - a new choice: Licensee Interference Investigation (LII)
Licensee Interference Investigation (LII) is a new option that allows you the choice of managing your own interference investigation – and receiving an additional 10% discount on your Annual Administration Fee, when paid online.
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Security of Tenure transition policy
The government has approved a transition policy that provides greater security of tenure for holders of radio licences.
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Assisting Low Power FM (LPFM) users to remain compliant
The Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) website has been updated to include additional technical and non-technical information for Low Power FM (LPFM) users.
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Allocation of new FM licences
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Transmitter licence location – which pin to pinpoint with?
A transmitter’s location can greatly affect the useful coverage it can expect. This makes accurate location data on a radio licence crucial for efficient spectrum planning and management.
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Submissions on UWB communications devices discussion paper close on 15 May
Interested parties are reminded that submissions on licensing of Ultra Wide Band (UWB) communication devices close at 5.00pm, Thursday 15 May 2008.
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Consultation on the digital conversion policy for the UHF-TV band
The Ministry of Economic Development is seeking feedback from broadcasters, content providers and other interested parties on a discussion paper setting out options for the conversion of analogue terrestrial television broadcasting licences to digital licences.
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RSM helps out at the Australian V8 supercars championship
Radio Spectrum Management was on hand to help out with the hosting of the Australian V8 Supercars in Hamilton in April. The use of wireless communications is an essential part of the event, with a significant potential for interference.
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Opening of Awarua satellite earth station
The Awarua space station was officially opened in March by the Hon. David Parker.
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Maintaining your marine radio equipment
With winter approaching, many boaties are limiting or ceasing their seasonal boating activity. Now is a good time to look after maintenance of the VHF marine radiotelephone which forms a vital part of a good communications plan.
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China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) - Electrical product safety and electro magnetic compliance
The Chinese Free Trade agreement signed by New Zealand last month will require some changes for Chinese manufacturers.
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Proposals for operation of the Managed Spectrum Park in the 2.5 GHz band
The Ministry of Economic Development has released a discussion paper for public comment on detailed proposals for the operation of the Managed Spectrum Park (MSP) in the 2.5 GHz spectrum band.
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Renewal of cellular spectrum
Telecom and Vodafone have accepted offers for the renewal of cellular spectrum.
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PIB 47: Legal Entities for the Purposes of the Radiocommunications Act 1989
A new Public Information Brochure, PIB47, is now available online.
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Radio frequency auction results announced
Communications and Information Technology Minister David Cunliffe recently announced the provisional results of Radio Frequency Auction 10.
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Radio Frequency Interference Investigation and Resolution Guide released
Radio Spectrum Management has just released its online Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) Investigation and Resolution Guide.
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Transferring your radio licence
When you sell radio transmitting equipment to another party, you can also transfer your licence ownership to that party.
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RSM to run more SMART training seminars
Radio Spectrum Management is running more SMART (Spectrum Management and Registration Technology) training seminars for Approved Radio Engineers and Approved Radio Certifiers.
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Submissions on Managed Spectrum Park to close soon
Interested parties are reminded that submissions on the Ministry's proposals for the operation of the Managed Spectrum Park in the 2.5 GHz band are due at 5.00pm, Friday 18 July 2008.
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Ultra Wide Band technology opportunities
The Ministry of Economic Development (MED) has released a report on spectrum allocations for ultra wide band (UWB) communication devices, following a public consultation process. The report summarises the submissions received from industry and other stakeholders, and outlines licensing arrangements to accommodate UWB communication applications.
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Radio Spectrum Management 2008 client survey results
Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) conducted an online client survey at the beginning of May.
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Radio Spectrum Website updated
The sole location for up-to-date information related to the Ministry of Economic Development’s role managing the radio spectrum resource is now the Radio Spectrum Management website.
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Information for suppliers of radio transmitters (radio dealers)
Authority to supply radio transmitting equipment in New Zealand has long been established by application for and issue of a (free) "licence to supply radio transmitters".
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Audit programme statistics released
The Radio Spectrum Management group has now released statistics from its yearly audit programme of products, folders (compliance documentation) and licences.
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Ministry attends International Telecommmunication Union Radio meetings in Geneva
The Ministry attended the International Telecommmunication Union Radio Sector meetings from 19-27 June in Geneva, Switzerland.
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Ministry releases report on Ultra Wide Band technology opportunities
The Ministry of Economic Development has released a report on spectrum allocations for ultra wide band (UWB) communication devices, following a public consultation process. The report summarises the submissions received from industry and other stakeholders and outlines licensing arrangements to accommodate UWB communication applications.
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RSM and Energy Safety attends Electrical Trade Fair
“Protect your Business” was the focus for the Ministry of Economic Development (MED) at a recent Electrical Trade Fair held in Christchurch in July.
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WiMAX Forum Inaugural Global Congress held in June
The WiMAX Forum held its inaugural Global Congress from 16-18 June '08 in Amsterdam. The Ministry was invited by the Forum and its event partner, Informa Telecoms & Media, to attend the Congress as a keynote speaker. The presentations and the Panel discussion were well received.
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Update on allocation of local commercial FM broadcasting licences
Following the auction of Local Commercial FM Broadcasting Licences in May 2008, 15 of the new licences have now been allocated.
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Radio Spectrum Management 2008 client survey results released
In the last edition of Business Updates, we announced that the results of the 2008 client survey had been released, with 82% of the survey respondents rated RSM 6 and above on a scale rating from 1 (very dissatisfied) to 10 – (very satisfied),
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Ministry seeks comments on draft Radio Operator Certificate and Callsign Rules
The manual of radio operator certificate and callsign rules (PIB 46) has been revised.
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Further steps towards "All Digital" television
MED has announced the steps it will take to follow through on the government’s intention to make further progress towards an all-digital television environment for New Zealand.
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High speed linking in the 70-90 GHz band
MED has released a consultation paper seeking views on future regulatory arrangements for high-capacity, short-haul, point-to-point linking in the 70-90 GHz band. These links are suitable for supporting high speed data rates of up to 1 Gbit/s.
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Mobile radio network codes available
The Ministry’s ICT Regulatory Group is responsible for the assignment and international notification of unique Mobile Network Codes for mobile radio networks.
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Ministry seeks submissions on high speed linking in the 70-90 GHz band
The Ministry has released a consultation paper seeking views on future regulatory arrangements for high-capacity, short-haul, point-to-point linking in the 70-90 GHz band. These links are suitable for supporting high speed data rates of up to 1 Gbit/s.
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Fixed-term Studio to Transmitter Linking licenses now available
On 22 May 2008, 16 local commercial FM licences, and 35 full commercial FM licences were successfully auctioned, thereby creating new demand for Studio to Transmitter Linking (STL) licences. Another eight non-commercial licences have also been assigned.
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Ministry releases report on managed spectrum park
The Ministry of Economic Development has released a report summarising the submissions received on its discussion paper "Proposals for operation of the Managed Spectrum Park in the 2.5 GHz band", following a public consultation process.
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Re-auction of Christchurch commercial licence for FM radio
MED intends to re-auction a local commercial FM licence with Christchurch coverage. Auction 10a will be held on Thursday 30 October 2008.
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Security of Tenure transition policy - draft implementation guidelines
In June 2007, following public consultation, the government agreed to amend the Radiocommunications Regulations in order to improve security of tenure arrangements for holders of radio licences.
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Radio Spectrum Management - Business Evaluation released
As part of its 2007/08 work programme, the Ministry of Economic Development (MED) commissioned an independent business evaluation of the activities of its Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) and Radio Spectrum Policy and Planning (RSPP) groups.
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Off-air measurements confirm breach of licence terms and conditions for LPFM radio station
Recently an LPFM (Low Power FM) radio station was issued with an infringement offence notice for operating above the legal power limit of 500mW e.i.r.p.
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Improved security for credit card transactions
Radio Spectrum Management is introducing a new credit card payment solution to provide increased security and improved itemised invoicing when you are using the SMART payment pages.
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Important information for new importers of electrical and radio products
New Zealand does not have an import licensing system. Any individual or organisation can import any goods that are not prohibited. New importers of electrical and radio products may be unaware that this freedom to import does not automatically mean that they are allowed to supply those goods on the New Zealand market.
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Spectrum licence application process
MED announced the availability of several VHF-FM broadcasting licences via Newsflash on 26 September 2008.
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Radio Spectrum Management comes to the rescue of an old faulty beacon
A recent case has prompted Radio Spectrum Management to remind all users of emergency beacons to ensure that batteries have been properly removed prior to disposal.
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Radio Spectrum Management business evaluation released
As part of its 2007/08 work programme, the Ministry commissioned an independent business evaluation of its Radio Spectrum Management and Radio Spectrum Policy and Planning groups.
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Discrepancies between RSM SMART online Register of Radio Frequencies and NZART Callbook
Radio Spectrum Management has recently been made aware of some errors in the “Callbook” of amateur radio callsigns produced by NZART.
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Mutual recognition notices published in the New Zealand Gazette
Three gazette notices came into force on 2 October 2008 covering mutual recognition arrangements with Australia and China.
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A new version of SMART
SMART stands for Spectrum Management and Registration Technology. It is Radio Spectrum Management's online system that facilitates online applications, licence cancellations, fee payments, external engineering of licences and searching the Register of Radio Frequencies.
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2008 Radio Spectrum Regulators Forum held in Vancouver
Staff from the Ministry of Economic Development recently participated in the 2008 Spectrum Regulators Forum (SRF) hosted by Industry Canada in Vancouver between 22 and 26 September.
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Auction result announced
Auction 10a for a Christchurch local commercial FM licence was held at 12:30 pm on Thursday, 30 October.
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Errors found in amateur radio “Callbook”
Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) has recently been made aware of some errors in the “Callbook” of amateur radio callsigns produced by the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters (NZART).
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Sparks cause radio frequency interference
Hertz proved in 1888 that radio transmissions could be made over a distance by generating a spark.
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Managed Spectrum Park - Call for Applications in January 2009
The Ministry of Economic Development is finalising the rules and application documentation on the operation of the Managed Spectrum Park (MSP) in the 2.5 GHz radio spectrum band, and expects to publish the rules and invite applications in Januray 2009.
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Satellite General User Licence in hot demand
The Satellite General User Licence (GUL), which was introduced by RSM three years ago, is supporting the growth of broadband internet and telephone services to remote places in New Zealand.
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Christmas holiday hours
Radio Spectrum Management will be closed for the holiday break from 5pm Wednesday 24 December 2008, reopening 8.30am Monday 5 January 2009.
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Discussion paper on digital land mobile released
In May 2007, the Ministry published an Engineering Discussion Paper on Digital Trunked Land Mobile in the 800 MHz Band.
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Use of Radio Frequency Identification Devices on the rise
On 5 April 2007, Radio Spectrum Management introduced a Gazette Notice aiming at facilitating the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFIDs).
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A timely reminder for boat and aircraft owners
In November, the Search and Rescue Co-ordinator was alerted by the satellite based detection system to an activated emergency locator transmitter.
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How to avoid interference caused by your computer
Computers can and do create interference to radio communications if not designed and constructed to minimise that effect.
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