POLICIES :: eCommunications :: 169 MHz ERMES
Paging frequencies get new applications
In 2005, five applications were allowed to share the 169 MHz ERMES frequency band, which until then was reserved for paging systems. The other applications could use the band due to reduced demand for paging/messaging systems such as the European ERMES systems.
Council Directive 90/544/EEC of 9 October 1990 required Member States to designate the 169.4 to 169.8 MHz frequency band for the pan-European land-based public radio paging service (known as ERMES). The use of this band for ERMES decreased dramatically, with very little or no use in many countries as other technologies replaced the need for radio paging or similar messaging systems. In particular, the growth of short messaging systems (SMS) using GSM frequencies made ERMES redundant.
Reallocation
This gave the opportunity to reallocate the band to meet several EU policy needs. A technical assessment was made by CEPT in 2004. An overall solution was developed that made the whole band available for the applications suggested in the Commission Mandate to the CEPT on either an exclusive, preferred or alternative basis.
To implement the proposed applications a Commission Decision was adopted, containing a frequency plan and the channel arrangement for the 169.4 - 169.8 MHz band. This Decision provided for the implementation of six applications, including the continued use by paging systems. The six applications are:
- Hearing aids (two exclusive channels);
- Social alarms (two exclusive channels);
- Tracking or tracing systems;
- Meter reading systems;
- Paging systems; and
- Private Mobile Radio (PMR) systems.
In 2008 the Decision was amended. Unnecessary restrictions on the channelling arrangement were removed. As a consequence users of hearing aids, tracking or tracing devices and meter reading systems can choose from a larger range of channel widths. This change is in line with the Commission’s aim to remove unnecessary restrictions and to increase flexibility in spectrum use.
Range of applications
The wide range of applications includes frequencies for hearing aids and social alarms which allow disabled people to send alarm messages for assistance. The tracking and tracing systems are for asset tracking or tracing devices which assist in recovering stolen goods or in logistics. The meter reading systems can be used by utility companies for added-value consumer services or increasing efficiency, while the frequencies allocated for existing paging systems (including ERMES) as well as PMR can help in the coverage of special temporary events.