The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is expected to provide the spectrum waves needed by telecom service providers for testing their 5G networks, by September.

“Telecom operators will need six months of testing 5G devices and spectrum before we begin auctions,” said an anonymous DoT official. “We are looking at providing the companies with the spectrum for the testing by September so that they can begin the process.”

5G is the fifth generation technology standard for cellular networks, superior to the 4G networks which currently provide connectivity to most cellphones. The testing was originally scheduled for March but got delayed due to the pandemic.

It was reported earlier that Chinese companies will not be allowed to participate in the trials and auctions. This means that Indian telecom service providers cannot partner with Chinese telecom equipment makers. Huawei and ZTE are the major Chinese telecom equipment provider in India.
“From the companies that had submitted applications in December 2019, we are considering allowing only Nokia, Ericsson and Samsung to participate in the 5G trials;” said the official.
Bharti Airtel had also submitted its application to conduct trials in partnership with Huawei and Ericsson.
“Banning Huawei and ZTE from 5G will increase our procurement costs and reduce competitiveness in the 5G space. Huawei had started roadshows in India and has a lead amongst most of its peers in the global 5G ecosystem;” said a senior executive from a telecom operator.
Telecom Department has simplified the testing method and will provide spectrum for demonstration and testing purposes at a nominal charge of Rs 5000 a year. Speaking at a webinar earlier, Kishore Babu, Director General at DoT had confirmed that spectrum for testing will be provided through a self-declaration and operators don’t need to go through an elaborate approval process.

 

Source: Moneycontrol 

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TOPICS: Department of telecommunication