Spectrum refers to the frequencies which are used by various radio-communication services. As it is a limited resource, IDA plays a key role in managing its allocation and use so that it can be harnessed efficiently to deliver services such as mobile, fixed, satellite, short-range devices and broadcasting.

Spectrum Planning

Spectrum planning processes establishes the direction and cohesion for policy formulation, supporting future steps to achieve optimal spectrum use and creating a conducive regulatory environment. With the increasing demand for spectrum, spectrum planning is required to chart the major trends and technological developments to forecast the needs of current and future uses of spectrum in Singapore. Through spectrum planning, our programmes are conceived to harness and promote technologies that will support IDA strategic thrusts.

• White Space Initiative Through Spectrum (“WITS”)
  Since 2009, IDA has established a roadmap to spearhead the development of a regulatory framework for White Spaces to promote the adoption and deployment of white space networks in Singapore.
  
  
• World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 (WRC-15)
  The forthcoming World Radiocommunication Conference, WRC-15, will be held from 2 – 27 November 2015. IDA has commenced our preparatory activities for this conference and will consult the industry and stakeholders through the Preparatory Working Group Meetings (PWGMs).

For more information on the two programmes, please refer to the Spectrum Planning page .

Spectrum Rights Auctions and Assignments

IDA allocates the right to use spectrum in Singapore through different methods, including auctions and assignments. The method by which different frequency bands are allocated for use is determined by the demand for the band, the potential uses of the band, and other properties of the band. View the auctions and assignments that IDA has undertaken for spectrum.

Spectrum Rights Issued

Spectrum Rights confer upon their owners the right to use specific frequency bands in Singapore, and set out the requirements and terms and conditions of use. Spectrum Rights are issued by IDA pursuant to allocation methods such as auctions, assignments and transfers. View the list of Spectrum Rights issued .

Frequency Allocation and Assignment

IDA manages the frequency allocation and assignment for commercial and government spectrum usage. The radio frequency spectrum is divided into bands, allocated for different type of services. For spectrum bands, recommended by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), specific channeling plans may be adopted for assignment. Assignment refers to the subdivision of the spectrum in which a licensee is permitted to use part of the spectrum assigned to operate a telecommunication network on a specific channel or group of channels at a particular location under specific conditions.

As the radio frequency spectrum is a limited resource and increasing number of wireless mobile services, international coordination of spectrum is important as a part of the spectrum allocation process.

Find out more information on the management of Frequency Allocation and Assignment .