Digitization of the airwaves and the consequent ‘digital dividend’ led to the vacating of key parts of the spectrum, the main recipients of which were mobile broadband service providers. However, this has trained the focus of still unsatisfied demands of certain providers to a lesser-known part of the spectrum called TV white spaces. White spaces are spectrum buffer zones constructed to prevent interference between broadcasters. Historically, these spaces were occupied by providers of Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE) services, like wireless microphones and wireless in-ear monitor (IEM) systems, which were used mainly in large venues and productions (e.g. concerts halls, churches, schools, theatres, sports and political events). However, as white spaces were considered under-occupied, it led to pressure for them to be opened up to a wider range of users and lower power Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Initiatives to reform TVWS use, led by the United States and the United Kingdom, are underpinned by vital technical standards with the aim of introducing computer-mediated Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) to implement use of the wireless environment. The chapter highlights the contingent nature of technical standards-making in processes of TVWS development in that it shows how opportunities presented by technical standards are constrained by conflict when powerful incumbent interests from commercial, public service, and civil society quarters present opposition to such change.
New dynamic spectrum access algorithm for TV white space cognitive radio networks
