Application for a variation to 3G licences (and consequent proposal to vary draft 2GHz MSS/CGC Base station licences) | Ofcom

Application for a variation to 3G licences (and consequent proposal to vary draft 2GHz MSS/CGC Base station licences) | Ofcom

Ofcom is holding a consultation on raising the power limits on 3G basestations which the mobile network operators(MNO) have requested in order to increase mobile coverage.

The MNOs have requested to increase the EIRP limit to 65dBm while Ofcom are suggesting 68dBm, the current limit is 62dBm EIRP i.e. an increase of 6dBm which is about 1585W going up to 3981W almost double the power.

Though Vodafone made the original request Ofcom are proposing that the limits be increased for all operators.

This will allow bigger cell sizes and therefore will be good for rural areas, though (if there any any) health risks will be increased too.

The consultation closes on 19/03/2010.