Cable Europe and ZVEI -German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers´ Association have called on the European Commission to ensure that any second Digital Dividend gained from potential spectrum reallocations in the 700MHz band ensures practical coexistence between new mobile services and the existing equipment and services already providing European consumers and business with connectivity.

In a joint statement, Cable Europe and ZVEI said: “Millions of consumer households stand to benefit from a holistic review of how new and existing services and equipment can coexist rather than interfere with one another.  As with the first Digital Dividend, there has been no mention of further study regarding the impact these mobile services could have on other electronic equipment and services currently deployed by European consumer. Without the recognition of this issue and a comprehensive assessment being carried out, investments made by European consumer and businesses may be at risk for equipment or services already purchased. This could also carry the potential of affecting future investment decisions whether it be for consumer or business until a solution or contingency plan is agreed upon.

With the recent formal adoption of the Radio Spectrum Policy Programme, a multitude of concerned stakeholders including technology hardware manufacturers, PMSE and live performance representatives, cable operators and decision makers highlighted the opportunities brought about by coexistence. The risk of one technology interfering with another existing technology runs counter to the aims of greater connectivity spelled out in Europe’s ambitious Digital Agenda which we fully support.

As we move to a potential second Digital Dividend, it is vital to ensure that no question remains as to what happens or who is liable should harmful interference occur. That question, following the adoption of the RSPP this week, remains unanswered today.”

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