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This guideline was prepared with support from the Telecommunications Development Bureau (BDT) of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU)

COMMUNICATIONS REGULATORS’ ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

Harmonised Radio Frequency Channelling Arrangements For

Terrestrial Fixed And Mobile Systems In SADC

29 March 2011

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© Communications Regulators’ Association of Southern Africa 2011 Gaborone Botswana

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MEMBER STATES OF THE SOUTHERN AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY

http://www.community-tourism-africa.com/

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1. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this recommendation is to harmonise radio frequency channelling plans for

various fixed and mobile services in different radio frequency bands throughout SADC.

Harmonisation of channelling plans has various advantages for SADC. These include,

amongst others, creating a common market for technology, facilitating frequency

coordination between countries, promoting effective use of spectrum and facilitating

interoperability of international PTP links (those crossing national borders) and mobile

networks (allowing roaming by users).

Radio-frequency (RF) channel arrangements for fixed services and mobile services are

developed in ITU-R Study Group 5 (Terrestrial Services) and are published as part of the F-

Series and M-Series of recommendations, respectively. Most recommendations contain

more than one RF channel arrangement, which reflect the various alternatives adopted by

different countries or regions. RF channel arrangements are also developed by regional

organisations such as CEPT and published as ERC recommendations and/or decisions.

Where possible this recommendation will adopt ITU-R recommendations; where an

appropriate ITU channel plan is not available, a suitable alternative, e.g. a CEPT

recommendation, will be specified.

Preferred harmonised RF channel arrangements for various frequency bands are specified in

this recommendation. It is however acknowledged that in some frequency bands in some

countries alternative RF channel arrangements are in use. Also, not all listed frequency

bands, in particular the fixed terrestrial frequency bands, are in use in all SADC countries,

which will depend on the demand for fixed wireless infrastructure in the particular country.

Although variations are indicated, a specific SADC country should therefore be contacted

directly regarding the availability of spectrum in any particular frequency band in the

particular country.

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2. BACKGROUND

During the development of the SADC Frequency Allocation Plan (SADC FAP 2010)1, CRASA

Members identified the need to harmonise, to the extent possible, not only frequency

allocations but also the radio-frequency channel arrangements in key PTP2, PTMP3 and

access frequency bands. This framework therefore addresses the harmonisation of radio

frequency channel arrangements of key frequency bands. It does not address secondary

issues such radio frequency sharing and coordination, spectrum licensing, radio frequency

migration or refarming, etc.

Radio-frequency channel arrangements for fixed wireless and mobile systems have been

developed for several decades and are continuously being updated as technologies and user

requirements change. Radio-frequency channel arrangements not only specify the specific

pre-set frequency channels for fixed wireless systems but also the TX-RX separation

(frequency separation between the transmitter and receiver), centre gap (YS) for FDD4

bands, band edge guard bands (Z1S and Z2S) and channel spacing (XS) for fixed wireless

systems or frequency blocks for FDD and TDD5 systems. These parameters are explained in

the next section.

3. RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) CHANNEL ARRANGEMENTS

In the case of fixed wireless systems (mainly PTP links), ITU-R Recommendation F.746

addresses three possible schemes for frequency channel arrangements as indicated in the

diagram below.

1 SADC FAP 2010 was adopted by SADC ICT Ministers’ meeting in Luanda, May 2010

2 Point-to-point

3 Point-to-multipoint

4 Frequency Division Duplex

5 Time Division Duplex

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From: ITU-R Recommendation F.746-9

The main parameters are defined as:

XS = radio-frequency separation between the centre frequencies of adjacent radio-

frequency channels on the same polarisation and in the same direction of

transmission;

YS = radio-frequency separation between the centre frequencies of the go and return

radio-frequency channels which are nearest to each other (innermost channels);

ZS = radio-frequency separation between the centre frequencies of the outermost

radio-frequency channels and the edge of the frequency band (also know as

gaurdband). Where the upper and lower gaurdband differ in size, these are referred to

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as Z1S and Z2S for the lower and upper separations respectively. Where the go and

return frequency bands are not contiguous such that there are another allocation/s in

the gap between the Tx and Rx band, ZSi will be defined for the innermost edges of

both sub-bands and will included in YS;

DS = Tx/Rx duplex spacing defined as the radio-frequency separation between

corresponding go and return channels within a given channel arrangement.

For more detail on these and other relevant parameters, Recommendation ITU-R F.746

should be consulted. Some of these parameters could also be applied to the frequency

arrangements for mobile services bands.

4. LIST OF FREQUENCY BANDS AND ADOPTED RECOMMENDATIONS/

REPORTS

Section Frequency Band Frequency band ITU-R Recommendation or

Reports

5.1 800 MHz 790 – 862 MHz ITU-R M.1036

5.2 2 GHz 2025-2110 MHz//2200-2290 MHz ITU-R F.1098

5.3 2.6 GHz 2 500 – 2 690 MHz ITU-R M.1036

5.4 3.5 GHz 3 400 – 3 600 MHz ITU-R F.1488, Annex 2

5.5 4 GHz 3 600 – 4 200 MHz ITU-R F.635, Annex 1

5 GHz 4 400 – 5 000 MHz ITU-R F.1099, Annex 1

5.7 Lower 6 GHz 5 925 – 6 425 MHz ITU-R F.383

5.8 Upper 6 GHz 6 425 – 7 110 MHz ITU-R F.384

5.9 7 GHz (L7 + U7) 7 110 – 7 750 MHz ITU-R F385, Annex 3

5.10 Lower 8 GHz 7 725 – 8 275 MHz ITU-R F.386, Annex 6

5.11 Upper 8 GHz 8 275 – 8 500 MHz ITU-R F.386, Annex 1

5.12 10.5 GHz 10.15-10.3 GHz//10.5-10.65 GHz ITU-R F.1568, Annex 1

5.13 11 GHz 10.7 – 11.7 GHz ITU-R F.387

5.14 13 GHz 12.75 – 13.25 GHz ITU-R F.497

5.15 15 GHz 14.5 – 15.35 GHz ITU-R F.636

5.16 18 GHz 17.7 – 19.7 GHz ITU-R F.595, Annex 1

5.17 23 GHz 21.2-23.6 GHz or 22.0-23.6 GHz

ITU-R F.637, Annex 1 ITU-R F.637, Annex 3




5.21 38 GHz 37.0 – 39.5 GHz ITU-R F.749 Annex 1

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5. RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) CHANNEL ARRANGEMENTS

This section reflects the preferred harmonised RF channel arrangement for CRASA members

for each radio frequency band listed above. It is however acknowledged that other RF

arrangements could also be used in some countries in any of the listed frequency bands.

These variations are indicated in the text where required. Whereas harmonisation is more

important in some cases (e.g. PTP links used for international cross-border links and mobile

IMT frequency bands) it is less important for other frequency bands (e.g. higher frequency

bands used for PTP links nationally). Nevertheless, as indicated above, there are reasons

why it remains important to harmonise these frequency bands throughout SADC. The

information below is not all inclusive and contains only the basic frequency channel

arrangements; the respective ITU-R recommendations should further be consulted for detail

on the use of these frequency bands and should be agreed between the administrations

concerned.

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5.1 800 MHz (ITU-R M.1036)

WRC-07 allocated the band 790-862 MHz for mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service

and identified to band for IMT6. This band is also known as the Digital Dividend (DD), which

is a direct result of the migration of analogue television broadcasting to digital broadcasting.

The SADC FAP 2010 also allocated the band 790-862 MHz to mobile, except aeronautical

mobile, service and identified the band for IMT. Whereas this band is currently used for

broadcasting service in some SADC countries, it is not in use in many other SADC countries

and IMT systems could be deployed without the need for migration of broadcasting

systems. In some countries however CDMA-2000 systems are deployed and these will

impact on the use of the 800 MHz band and is discussed further below. As indicated,

migration of services from this band is beyond the scope of this recommendation.

5.1.1. International use of 700/800 MHz frequency band for mobile services

At WRC-07, various frequency bands in the 700 MHz/800 MHz range have been allocated to

mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service as indicated in the diagram below. It is clear

from the diagram that global harmonisation of IMT will not happen in the 700/800 MHz

frequency range. The SADC allocation is in line with the Region 1 allocation (EMEA7).

From: CEPT Report 31

6 IMT (International Mobile Telecommunication) = IMT-2000 + IMT-Advance

7 Europe, Middle East and Africa

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5.1.2. FFD as preferred channel arrangement

Since the mobile allocation has been harmonised in Region 1, it is also critical for SADC

countries to adopt a harmonised RF channel arrangement for the 800 MHz band for

deployment of mobile services, in particular IMT. In Europe, CEPT adopted decision

ECC/DEC(09)038 on 30 October 2009 on this matter. According to ECC/DEC(09)03 the

preferred RF channel arrangement for Europe for the 800 MHz band is based on a 2 x

30 MHz FDD arrangement based on a 5 MHz raster as indicated in the figure below. This

channel arrangement is also reflected in ITU-R Recommendation M.1036 (Table 2, option A3

and figure A3) 9.

From: ECC/DEC(09)03, Annex 1

The lower edge guard band and duplex gap is as indicated. It is important to note the

reverse duplex direction (Downlink/Uplink)10 in order to facilitate sharing with the 900 MHz

mobile frequency band.

The RF channel centre frequencies for the 800 MHz band (using 5 MHz channels) are:

Channel nr Centre Frequency Channel nr Centre Frequency

1 793.5 MHz 1’ 834.5 MHz

2 798.5 MHz 2’ 839.5 MHz

3 803.5 MHz 3’ 844.5 MHz

4 808.5 MHz 4’ 849.5 MHz

5 813.5 MHz 5’ 854.5 MHz

6 818.5 MHz 6’ 859.5 MHz

8 ECC Decision of 30 October 2009 on the harmonised conditions for mobile/fixed communications networks

(MFCN) operating in the band 790-862 MHz 9 At the time of preparing this guideline, ITU-R Report M.1036 was in the process of being updated in WG5; it is

expected that the report will be concluded at its next meeting in 2011. 10

The conventional methodology is to deploy mobile transmit in the low band and base station transmit in the higher band – for 800 MHz this is reversed

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5.1.3. TDD as an alternative channel arrangement

An alternative option for the 800 MHz band is to adopt a TDD band plan approach as also

indicated in ECC/DEC(09)03 (see diagram below). This TDD plan could be used by a CRASA

member that cannot implement the preferred FDD plan, maybe because the entire 790-

862 MHz band is not available. It is also possible to implement a mix of FDD and TDD

although this will lead to inefficient use of spectrum because additional guard bands will be

required between FDD and TDD assignments. It must be considered that the 800 MHz DD

band is only 2 x 30 MHz wide and sacrificing spectrum for additional guard bands must

therefore be avoided as much as possible. The guard band at the bottom of the band is to

facilitate sharing with broadcasting services operating below 790 MHz. The width of this

guard band could be varied according to national requirements. It should be noted that this

European TDD channel arrangement has not been incorporated in ITU-R Recommendation

M.1036.

From: ECC/DEC(09)03, Annex 2

It should however be noted that the FDD channel arrangement described above is Europe’s

preferred channel arrangement for IMT in the 800 MHz band and therefore initial

development will occur mostly based on this configuration. Any CRASA member wishing to

implement the TDD option will have to carefully assess the implications of doing so,

considering, amongst others, the increased costs of handsets due to less economy of scale,

lack of roaming with networks in SADC countries (and Europe) that have implemented the

FDD option, less efficient use of spectrum, etc.

5.1.4. Sharing between 800 MHz IMT and CDMA-2000 in 850 MHz

In some SADC countries CDMA-2000 in the 850 MHz band have been deployed, as indicated

in the diagram below. The impact of CDMA-2000 on the Digital Dividend 800 MHz band will

depend on the bandwidth allocated to CDMA-2000. The 850 MHz CDMA-2000 band is a 2 x

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25 MHz FDD arrangement. Where GSM/E-GSM have been deployed in the band 880 –

915 MHz, a maximum of 2 x 11 MHz is available for CDMA-2000 as indicated in the diagram

below (not considering any gaurdband between the two technologies). The amount of

spectrum allocated to CDMA-2000 will however differ from country to country. In order to

reap full advantage of the 800 MHz Digital Dividend and the implementation of IMT (e.g. LTE

or WiMAX), the CDMA-2000 systems operating in the 850 MHz band will have to be

migrated. Each CRASA member will have to consider this matter on a case-by-case basis in

order to determine the best national outcome. Options include, amongst others, migrating

CDMA-2000 and making the entire 2 x 30 MHz available for IMT, sacrificing a portion of 800

MHz DD (e.g. channel 1/1’) in order to retain a portion for CDMA-2000 allocation, separating

the CDMA-2000 and IMT networks on a geographic area basis, adopting the TDD band

option as indicated above (considering the disadvantages as highlighted), etc.

SADC variations:

Whereas the FDD arrangement is preferred, some administration prefers the TDD option at

this stage because of the use of CDMA-2000 systems in the 850 MHz band.

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5.2 2 GHz band (ITU-R F.1098)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the 2 GHz band (2025-2110 MHz paired

with 2200-2290 MHz) is as presented in Annex 1 to ITU-R Recommendation F.1098. The

2 GHz band has technical and economic advantages for low capacity digital systems

including, for example, provisioning of fixed links operating over long distances. The RF

channel arrangement in Annex 1 of Recommendation ITU-R F.1098 provides for 6 return

channels of 14 MHz each. These channels can be further sub-divided into channels of 7

MHz, 3.5 MHz or 1.75 MHz, depending on the system capacity requirements. The centre

frequencies for RF channels in the 2 GHz band based on channels of 14 MHz are indicated in

the table below:

The RF channel centre frequencies for the 2 GHz band (using 14 MHz channels) are:


1 2032.5 MHz 1’ 2207.5 MHz

2 2046.5 MHz 2’ 2221.5 MHz

3 2060.5 MHz 3’ 2235.5 MHz

4 2074.5 MHz 4’ 2249.5 MHz

5 2088.5 MHz 5’ 2263.5 MHz

6 2102.5 MHz 6’ 2277.5 MHz

SADC variations:

No variations recorded.

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5.3 2.6 GHz band (ITU-R M.1036)

The frequency band 2 500-2 690 MHz has been allocated to, amongst others, the mobile,

except aeronautical mobile, service. According to provision 5.384A the band is also

identified for IMT and Resolution 223 (Rev.WRC-07) applies. This allocation and

identification for IMT is also in line with the SADC FAP 2010. From a technology perspective

this band could be used for either LTE or WiMAX. In order to allow for technology neutrality,

it is important to adopt a harmonised channel arrangement that could allow either of the

two technologies or both, depending on market requirements.

In order to allow flexibility, ITU-R Recommendation M.1037 presents three options for using

the 2.6 GHz band (see diagram below). Option C1 is recommended for SADC members with

Option C3 only as an alternative in specific cases, as discussed below.

Source: ITU-R Recommendation M.1036 (Figure 1, Section 6.1.4.3)

These three options will be assessed separately.

Option C1: This option allows for 2 x 70 MHz FDD with a 50 MHz TDD centre gap. The FDD

portion can therefore accommodate 14 return channels of 5 MHz each with a

Tx/Rx separation of 120 MHz. This option is the European preferred option and

several countries have auctioned the band using this arrangement. It is also

recommended to SADC as the preferred option. It is also recommended that

spectrum be assigned in multiples of 5 MHz channels.

Option C2: Option C2 is similar to Option C1 in the sense that it also provides for a 2 x

70 MHz FDD allocation. The difference is, however, that the centre gap (50 MHz)

could be used as the downlink for another FDD band with the uplink as yet

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undefined (but external to the 2.6 GHz band). This external FDD return link has

not yet been harmonised and the use of the 50 MHz centre gap in this manner is

therefore not preferred at this stage. However, if only the 2 x 70 MHz portion is

assigned at this stage and if there is no immediate demand for the 50 MHz TDD

portion, the identification of the external FDD uplink could be resolved at a later

stage.

Option 3: In this option the entire 2 500-2 690 MHz band is allocated as a flexible FDD/TDD

arrangement. This allows administrations to decide how the band should be

allocated for FDD/TDD. Through this option the band could be used entirely for

TDD or for some combination of TDD and FDD. It should however be noted that,

in order to harmonise the use of the band with international developments, any

FDD allocation adopted under Option 3 should be aligned with the Tx/Rx

separation as provided in Option 1 (i.e. 120 MHz). By adopting another Tx/Rx

configuration for FDD all benefits associated with spectrum harmonisation for

FDD will be lost (e.g. economies of scale, roaming, interoperability, etc.). This

option is only to be used where the demand for FDD is less than 2 x 70 MHz

while the demand for TDD is more than 50 MHz. Care should however be taken

to mix FDD and TDD assignments since this will lead to the need for additional

guard bands (minimum 5 MHz between every FDD/TDD assignment as well as

between all TDD assignments11), which will result in less efficient use of the

band. Furthermore, once the spectrum has been assigned and is used in a TDD

configuration, it will be difficult to revert back to the FDD configuration if the

demand for FDD spectrum increases. Furthermore, a TDD only band plan is not

recommended since it is not technology neutral in the sense that it does not

make provision for FDD technology, e.g. LTE.

SADC variations:

Option C1 is the preferred option for CRASA members

Zambia, Tanzania, Botswana and Angola indicated a preference for TDD (Option 3).

11

See ECC Report 131 (Derivation of a Block Edge Masks (BEM) for terminal stations in the 2.6 GHz frequency band)

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5.4 3.5 GHz band (ITU-R F.1488, Annex 2)

The current CRASA RF channel arrangement for the 3.5 GHz band (3 400-3 600 MHz) is as

presented in Annex 2 to ITU-R Recommendation F.1488 (see Table 1). This band plan is

based on blocks formed from the aggregation of 0.25 MHz slots and has a Tx/Rx separation

of 100 MHz. This arrangement is depicted in the diagram below. Using this arrangement the

band 3 400-3 600 MHz is divided into 2 x 100 MHz return channels (3 400-3 500 MHz paired

with 3 500-3 600 MHz). There is no centre gap in this configuration.

Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.1488 (Table 1, Annex 2)

The band 3 400-3 600 MHz has been allocated to the mobile, except aeronautical mobile,

service and was identified for IMT at WRC-07 (see 5.430A). A new channel arrangement for

the 3.5 GHz band is under development in Europe and the ITU-R (see Annex 6 of draft

updated version of M.1036). Whereas the current channel arrangement is sufficient for

fixed wireless access systems, SADC members should take note of the new developments in

this band. Introducing mobile services in the 3.5 GHz band may require the adoption of a

new channel plan and as a consequence the migration of fixed wireless access systems.

SADC variations:

In Angola the band 3.5 – 4.2 GHz is reserved for a Government project.

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5.5 4 GHz band (ITU-R F.635, Annex 1)

For those members where fixed PTP links are deployed in the 4 GHz band (3 600 –

4 200 MHz), the preferred RF channel arrangement for the 4 GHz band is as presented in

section 6 (30 MHz CCDP channel arrangement) of Annex 1 to ITU-R Recommendation F.635.

This arrangement defines a channel plan consisting of 9 x 30 MHz RF channels within the

band 3 600 – 4 200 MHz and is depicted in the diagram below. This band is generally used

for high-capacity digital fixed wireless systems (e.g. SDH or 140 Mbit/s). It is also possible to

deploy a co-channel arrangement with the use of XPIC (cross-polar interference canceller)

thereby doubling the capacity of the band. This arrangement allows for the transmission of

up to 18 x STM-1 systems. This band is also shared with fixed-satellite services (space-to-

Earth).

Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.635-6



1 3 620 MHz 1’ 3 940 MHz

2 3 650 MHz 2’ 3 970 MHz

3 3 680 MHz 3’ 4 000 MHz

4 3 710 MHz 4’ 4 030 MHz

5 3 740 MHz 5’ 4 060 MHz

6 3 770 MHz 6’ 4 090 MHz

7 3 800 MHz 7’ 4 120 MHz

8 3 830 MHz 8’ 4 150 MHz

9 3 860 MHz 9’ 4 180 MHz

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SADC variations:

In many SADC countries this band is used only for satellite services (e.g. VSATs) considering

the importance for C-band for satellite. In other countries the band is shared on a co-

primary basis between satellite and terrestrial fixed services.

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The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the 5 GHz band is as presented in Annex 1

of ITU-R Recommendation F.1099. This arrangement defines a channel plan consisting of 7 x

40 MHz RF channels within the band 4 400 – 5 000 MHz and is depicted in the diagram

below. This band is generally used for high-capacity digital fixed wireless systems (e.g. SDH

or 140 Mbit/s).

Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.1099, Annex 1



1 4 430 MHz 1’ 4 730 MHz

2 4 470 MHz 2’ 4 770 MHz

3 4 510 MHz 3’ 4 810 MHz

4 4 550 MHz 4’ 4 850 MHz

5 4 590 MHz 5’ 4 890 MHz

6 4 630 MHz 6’ 4 930 MHz

7 4 670 MHz 7’ 4 970 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.7 Lower 6 GHz band (ITU-R F.383)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the L6 GHz band is as presented in

Figure 1A of ITU-R Recommendation F.383. This arrangement defines a channel plan

consisting of 8 x 29.65 MHz RF channels within the band 5 925 – 6 425 MHz and is depicted

in the diagram below. This band is generally used for high-capacity digital fixed wireless

systems (e.g. SDH or 140 Mbit/s). It is also possible to deploy a co-channel arrangement

with the use of XPIC (cross-polar interference canceller) thereby doubling the capacity of the

band. In some SADC countries analogue systems are still in operation in this band using the

same RF channel arrangement, although these are being replaced with digital systems.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the L6 GHz band (using 29.65 MHz channels) are:


1 5 945.20 MHz 1’ 6 197.24 MHz

2 5 974.85 MHz 2’ 6 226.89 MHz

3 6 004.50 MHz 3’ 6 256.54 MHz

4 6 034.15 MHz 4’ 6 286.19 MHz

5 6 063.80 MHz 5’ 6 315.84 MHz

6 6 093.45 MHz 6’ 6 345.49 MHz

7 6 123.10 MHz 7’ 6 375.14 MHz

8 6 152.75 MHz 8’ 6 404.79 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.8 Upper 6 GHz band (ITU-R F.384)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the U6 GHz band (6 425 – 7 125 MHz) is as

presented in ITU-R Recommendation F.384. This band can be used for both high and

medium capacity systems using a 40 MHz and 20 MHz channel plan, respectively. For high

capacity (140 Mbit/s or SDH) systems operating in 40 MHz channels the band plan allows for

8 return channels. For medium capacity systems operating in 20 MHz channels the plan

allows for 16 return channels. These are indicated in the figures below.

Preferred RF channel arrangement for the U6 GHz band (based on 40 MHz channels) are:


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The figure above indicates the channel arrangements for antenna with single and double

polarisations. The centre frequency of the U6 GHz band is: f0 = 6 770 MHz.

RF channel centre frequencies for the U6 GHz band (based on 40 MHz channels) are:


1 6 460 MHz 1’ 6 800 MHz

2 6 500 MHz 2’ 6 840 MHz

3 6 540 MHz 3’ 6 880 MHz

4 6 580 MHz 4’ 6 920 MHz

5 6 620 MHz 5’ 6 960 MHz

6 6 660 MHz 6’ 7 000 MHz

7 6 700 MHz 7’ 7 040 MHz

8 6 740 MHz 8’ 7 080 MHz

Preferred RF channel arrangement for the U6 GHz band (based on 20 MHz channels) are:


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The figure above indicates the channel arrangements for antenna with single and double

polarisations.

RF channel centre frequencies for the U6 GHz band (based on 20 MHz channels) are:


1 6 440 MHz 1’ 6 780 MHz

2 6 460 MHz 2’ 6 800 MHz

3 6 480 MHz 3’ 6 820 MHz

4 6 500 MHz 4’ 6 840 MHz

5 6 520 MHz 5’ 6 860 MHz

6 6 540 MHz 6’ 6 880 MHz

7 6 560 MHz 7’ 6 900 MHz

8 6 580 MHz 8’ 6 920 MHz

9 6 600 MHz 9’ 6 940 MHz

10 6 620 MHz 10’ 6 960 MHz

11 6 640 MHz 11’ 6 980 MHz

12 6 660 MHz 12’ 7 000 MHz

13 6 680 MHz 13’ 7 020 MHz

14 6 700 MHz 14’ 7 040 MHz

15 6 720 MHz 15’ 7 060 MHz

16 6 740 MHz 16’ 7 080 MHz

SADC variations:

No variation recorded.

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5.9 Lower 7 GHz and Upper 7 GHz bands (ITU-R F.385, Annex 3)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the L7 and the U7 GHz bands (7 110 –

7 750 MHz) are as presented in ITU-R Recommendation F.385 Annex 3. The 7 GHz plan

(consisting of a lower part and an upper part or Lower 7 and Upper 7, respectively) is

depicted in the diagram below. The 7 GHz band can be used for medium and high capacity

systems (up to 140 Mbit/s or SDH). The centre frequencies of the 7 GHz band are: f0l =

7 275 MHz and f0h = 7 597 MHz for the L7 and U7 bands, respectively.

Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.385-9 (Figure 4)

The RF channel centre frequencies for the L7 and U7 GHz plans (based on 28 MHz channels)

are:


1 l 7 121 MHz 1 l’ 7 317 MHz

2 l 7 149 MHz 2 l’ 7 345 MHz

3 l 7 177 MHz 3 l’ 7 373 MHz

4 l 7 205 MHz 4 l’ 7 401 MHz

5 l 7 233 MHz 5 l’ 7 429 MHz

1 h 7 457 MHz 1 h’ 7 625 MHz

2 h 7 485 MHz 2 h’ 7 653 MHz

3 h 7 513 MHz 3 h’ 7 681 MHz

4 h 7 541 MHz 4 h’ 7 709 MHz

5 h 7 569 MHz 5 h’ 7 737 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.10 Lower 8 GHz band (ITU-R F.386, Annex 6)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the L8 GHz band (7 725 – 8 275 MHz) is as

presented in Figure 7 to ITU-R Recommendation F.386 (Annex 6). The L8 GHz plan is

depicted in the diagram below. The L8 GHz band can be used for digital systems up to

140 Mbit/s or SDH. A co-channel arrangement is also possible, using the same channel

centre frequencies as indicated in the table below. The centre frequency of the L8 GHz band

is: f0 = 8 000 MHz.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the L8 GHz plan (based on 29.65 MHz channels) are:


1 7 747.70 MHz 1’ 8 059.02 MHz

2 7 777.35 MHz 2’ 8 088.67 MHz

3 7 807.00 MHz 3’ 8 118.32 MHz

4 7 836.65 MHz 4’ 8 147.97 MHz

5 7 866.30 MHz 5’ 8 177.62 MHz

6 7 895.95 MHz 6’ 8 207.27 MHz

7 7 925.60 MHz 7’ 8 236.92 MHz

8 7 955.25 MHz 8’ 8 266.57 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.11 Upper 8 GHz band (ITU-R F.386, Annex 2)

The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the U8 GHz band (8 275 – 8 500 MHz) is as

presented in Figure 2 of ITU-R Recommendation F.386 (Annex 2). The U8 GHz plan is

depicted in the diagram below. The U8 GHz band can be used for medium and low capacity

digital fixed wireless systems (34 Mbit/s and 8x2 Mbit/s) using the 14 MHz and 7 MHz

channels respectively.


As indicated, this band can be used for either 14 MHz (plan (a) in the diagram) or 7 MHz

channels (plan (b) in the diagram). The centre frequencies for the RF channels using these

two options are indicated below. The centre frequency of the U8 GHz band is: f0 =

8 387.5 MHz.

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the U8 GHz plan (for 14 MHz channels) are:


1 8 293 MHz 1’ 8 412 MHz

2 8 307 MHz 2’ 8 426 MHz

3 8 321 MHz 3’ 8 440 MHz

4 8 335 MHz 4’ 8 454 MHz

5 8 349 MHz 5’ 8 468 MHz

6 8 363 MHz 6’ 8 482 MHz

The RF channel centre frequencies for the U8 GHz plan (for 7 MHz channels) are:


1 8 286 MHz 1’ 8 412 MHz

2 8 293 MHz 2’ 8 419 MHz

3 8 300 MHz 3’ 8 426 MHz

4 8 307 MHz 4’ 8 433 MHz

5 8 314 MHz 5’ 8 440 MHz

6 8 321 MHz 6’ 8 447 MHz

7 8 328 MHz 7’ 8 454 MHz

8 8 335 MHz 8’ 8 461 MHz

9 8 342 MHz 9’ 8 468 MHz

10 8 349 MHz 10’ 8 475 MHz

11 8 356 MHz 11’ 8 482 MHz

12 8 363 MHz 12’ 8 489 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.12 10.5 GHz band (ITU-R F.1568, Annex 1 and Annex 2)

There are two options to be used in the 10.5 GHz band (10.15-10.3 GHz paired with 10.5-

10.65 GHz) namely a 28 MHz plan and a 30 MHz plan. These are presented in Figure 1 and

figure 2 of ITU-R Recommendation F.1568 (Annex 1 and Annex 2). Both channel plans

provide 5 return channels.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the 10.5 GHz plan (for 28 MHz channels) are:


1 10 168 MHz 1’ 10 518 MHz

2 10 196 MHz 2’ 10 546 MHz

3 10 224 MHz 3’ 10 574 MHz

4 10 252 MHz 4’ 10 602 MHz

5 10 280 MHz 5’ 10 630 MHz

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 10.5 GHz plan (for 30 MHz channels) are:


1 10 165 MHz 1’ 10 515 MHz

2 10 195 MHz 2’ 10 545 MHz

3 10 225 MHz 3’ 10 575 MHz

4 10 255 MHz 4’ 10 605 MHz

5 10 285 MHz 5’ 10 635 MHz

SADC variations:

South Africa is using the 28 MHz plan

Zambia is using the 30 MHz plan

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The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the 11 GHz band (10.7 – 11.7 GHz) is as

presented in the figure below (F.387-11, Figure 2) of ITU-R Recommendation F.387. The

11 GHz band can be used for digital systems with a capacity of up to 140 Mbit/s or SDH or

equivalent bit rates. This channel arrangement allows 12 return channels based on 40 MHz

each. The centre frequency of the 11 GHz band is: f0 = 11 200 MHz.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the 11 GHz plan (using 40 MHz channels) are:


1 10 735 MHz 1’ 11 225 MHz

2 10 775 MHz 2’ 11 265 MHz

3 10 815 MHz 3’ 11 305 MHz

4 10 855 MHz 4’ 11 345 MHz

5 10 895 MHz 5’ 11 385 MHz

6 10 935 MHz 6’ 11 425 MHz

7 10 975 MHz 7’ 11 465 MHz

8 11 015 MHz 8’ 11 505 MHz

9 11 055 MHz 9’ 11 545 MHz

10 11 095 MHz 10’ 11 585 MHz

11 11 135 MHz 11’ 11 625 MHz

12 11 175 MHz 12’ 11 665 MHz

This channel arrangement is in accordance with recommends 1.2 for Recommendation ITU-

R F.387. The advantage of this arrangement, compared with the arrangement in accordance

with recommends 1.1 (see figure 1 below) is that it does not encroach into the 10.68-10.7

GHz. According to provision 5.340, all transmissions in the band 10.68 – 10.7 GHz are

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prohibited, except as provided for in 5.483 (list of countries where the band is also allocated

to fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services (limited to systems in operation by

1 January 1985)). In the arrangement according to recommends 1.1, channel 1, which is 40

MHz wide, will encroach into the band below 10.7 GHz. It is therefore recommended that

the channel arrangement in accordance with recommends 1.2 be adopted by CRASA

members where possible.

In some countries, the currently used channel arrangement is based on recommends 1.1 of

Recommendation ITU-R F.387 as indicated below.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the 11 GHz plan (using 40 MHz channels) are:


1 10 715 MHz 1’ 11 245 MHz

2 10 755 MHz 2’ 11 285 MHz

3 10 795 MHz 3’ 11 325 MHz

4 10 835 MHz 4’ 11 365 MHz

5 10 875 MHz 5’ 11 405 MHz

6 10 915 MHz 6’ 11 445 MHz

7 10 955 MHz 7’ 11 485 MHz

8 10 995 MHz 8’ 11 525 MHz

9 11 035 MHz 9’ 11 565 MHz

10 11 075 MHz 10’ 11 605 MHz

11 11 115 MHz 11’ 11 645 MHz

12 11 155 MHz 12’ 11 685 MHz

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The band 10.7 -11.7 GHz is also used for the fixed-satellite services (space-to-Earth) and is

used extensively for VSAT and SNG type services. Frequency coordination with fixed links

will be required when operating in the same area. Currently, it is mainly the sub-bands

10.95 – 11.2 GHz and 11.45 – 11.7 GHz which are used for VSAT and SNG services since

Appendix 30B applies to the sub-bands 10.7 – 10.95 GHz and 11.2 – 11.45 GHz. No FSS

systems compliant to Appendix 30B have been launched for the SADC region. Some SADC

members also use the sub-bands 10.95 – 11.2 GHz and 11.45 – 11.7 GHz for DTH (Direct-to-

Home) broadcasting services under the FSS (Fixed-satellite services).

SADC variations:


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The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for the 13 GHz band (12.75 – 13.25 GHz) is as

presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R Recommendation F.497 and is depicted in the diagram below.

The 13 GHz band can be used for high capacity systems up to 140 Mbit/s or SDH. The centre

frequency for the 13 GHz band plan is f0 = 12 996 MHz.


The RF channel centre frequencies for the 13 GHz plan (based on 28 MHz channels) are:


1 12 765 MHz 1’ 13 031 MHz

2 12 793 MHz 2’ 13 059 MHz

3 12 821 MHz 3’ 13 087 MHz

4 12 849 MHz 4’ 13 115 MHz

5 12 877 MHz 5’ 13 143 MHz

6 12 905 MHz 6’ 13 171 MHz

7 12 933 MHz 7’ 13 199 MHz

8 12 961 MHz 8’ 13 227 MHz

Where smaller capacity radios are required, the 28 MHz channels can be sub-divided into

14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz. These arrangements are indicated in figure 2 of

Recommendation F.497-7 as option d (14 MHz), option a (7 MHz) and option c (3.5 MHz)

respectively.

SADC variations:


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The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for medium capacity systems operating in the

15 GHz band (14.5 – 15.35 GHz) uses 28 MHz channel spacing and is as presented in Figure 1

of ITU-R Recommendation F.636. This RF channel arrangement providing 15 return channels

of 28 MHz each and is depicted in the figure below.

Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.636-3 (Figure 1)12

The RF channel centre frequencies for the 15 GHz plan (based on 28 MHz channels) are:


1 14 515 MHz 1’ 15 131 MHz

2 14 543 MHz 2’ 15 159 MHz

3 14 571 MHz 3’ 15 187 MHz

4 14 599 MHz 4’ 15 215 MHz

5 14 627 MHz 5’ 15 243 MHz

6 14 655 MHz 6’ 15 271 MHz

7 14 683 MHz 7’ 15 299 MHz

8 14 711 MHz 8’ 15 327 MHz

9 14 739 MHz 9’ 15 355 MHz

10 14 767 MHz 10’ 15 383 MHz

11 14 795 MHz 11’ 15 411 MHz

12 14 823 MHz 12’ 15 439 MHz

13 14 851 MHz 13’ 15 467 MHz

14 14 879 MHz 14’ 15 495 MHz

15 14 907 MHz 15’ 15 523 MHz

12

In SADC the 15 GHz band is only 14.5 – 15.35 GHz; in SADC therefore the option 14.4 – 15.35 GHz does not apply

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The reference frequency for the 15 GHz band plan is fr = 11 701 MHz. It is also possible to

sub-divide the 28 MHz channels into smaller channels where there is a demand for low

capacity systems. Appendix 30A applies in some SADC countries (AFS, MOZ, NMB and SEY)

in the band 14.4 – 14.8 GHz.

SADC variations:


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The CRASA preferred RF channel arrangement for low, medium and high capacity systems

operating in the 18 GHz band (17.7 – 19.7 GHz) is as presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R

Recommendation F.595. This recommendation provides for various channel spacing options

including, amongst others, 220 MHz, 110 MHz, 55 MHz and 27.5 MHz and is indicated in the

figure below. These RF channel arrangements provide either 4 duplex channels of 220 MHz

each, 8 duplex channels of 110 MHz each, 17 duplex channels of 55 MHz each or 35 duplex

channels of 27.5 MHz each. In order to accommodate low capacity systems, some SADC

members have also adopted a 7.5 MHz channel option also from ITU-R Recommendation

F.595 (see option d of figure 7), which provides for 131 duplex channels of 7.5 MHz each.

The centre frequency for the 18 GHz band plan is f0 = 18 700 MHz.

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Source: ITU-R Recommendation F.595-9 (Figure 1 and Figure 7 respectively)

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 18 GHz plan (for 55 MHz channels) are:


1 17 755 MHz 1’ 18 765 MHz

2 17 810 MHz 2’ 18 820 MHz

3 17 865 MHz 3’ 18 875 MHz

4 17 920 MHz 4’ 18 930 MHz

5 17 975 MHz 5’ 18 985 MHz

6 18 030 MHz 6’ 19 040 MHz

7 18 085 MHz 7’ 19 095 MHz

8 18 140 MHz 8’ 19 150 MHz

9 18 195 MHz 9’ 19 205 MHz

10 18 250 MHz 10’ 19 260 MHz

11 18 305 MHz 11’ 19 315 MHz

12 18 360 MHz 12’ 19 370 MHz

13 18 415 MHz 13’ 19 425 MHz

14 18 470 MHz 14’ 19 480 MHz

15 18 525 MHz 15’ 19 535 MHz

16 18 580 MHz 16’ 19 590 MHz

17 18 635 MHz 17’ 19 645 MHz

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 18 GHz plan (for 27.5 MHz channels) are:


1 17727.5 MHz 1’ 18737.5 MHz

2 17755.0 MHz 2’ 18765.0 MHz

3 17782.5 MHz 3’ 18792.5 MHz

4 17810.0 MHz 4’ 18820.0 MHz

5 17837.5 MHz 5’ 18847.5 MHz

6 17865.0 MHz 6’ 18875.0 MHz

7 17892.5 MHz 7’ 18902.5 MHz

8 17920.0 MHz 8’ 18930.0 MHz

9 17947.5 MHz 9’ 18957.5 MHz

10 17975.0 MHz 10’ 18985.0 MHz

11 18002.5 MHz 11’ 19012.5 MHz

12 18030.0 MHz 12’ 19040.0 MHz

13 18057.5 MHz 13’ 19067.5 MHz

14 18085.0 MHz 14’ 19095.0 MHz

15 18112.5 MHz 15’ 19122.5 MHz

16 18140.0 MHz 16’ 19150.0 MHz

17 18167.5 MHz 17’ 19177.5 MHz

18 18195.0 MHz 18’ 19205.0 MHz

19 18222.5 MHz 19’ 19232.5 MHz

20 18250.0 MHz 20’ 19260.0 MHz

21 18277.5 MHz 21’ 19287.5 MHz

22 18305.0 MHz 22’ 19315.0 MHz

23 18332.5 MHz 23’ 19342.5 MHz

24 18360.0 MHz 24’ 19370.0 MHz

25 18387.5 MHz 25’ 19397.5 MHz

26 18415.0 MHz 26’ 19425.0 MHz

27 18442.5 MHz 27’ 19452.5 MHz

28 18470.0 MHz 28’ 19480.0 MHz

29 18497.5 MHz 29’ 19507.5 MHz

30 18525.0 MHz 30’ 19535.0 MHz

31 18552.5 MHz 31’ 19562.5 MHz

32 18580.0 MHz 32’ 19590.0 MHz

33 18607.5 MHz 33’ 19617.5 MHz

34 18635.0 MHz 34’ 19645.0 MHz

35 18662.5 MHz 35’ 19672.5 MHz

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 18 GHz plan (for 7.5 MHz channels) are (not all

channels indicated):


1 17710.0 MHz 1’ 18720.0 MHz

2 17717.5 MHz 2’ 18727.5 MHz

3 17725.0 MHz 3’ 18735.0 MHz

4 17732.5 MHz 4’ 18742.5 MHz

5 17740.0 MHz 5’ 18750.0 MHz

6 17747.5 MHz 6’ 18757.5 MHz

7 17755.0 MHz 7’ 18765.0 MHz

8 17762.5 MHz 8’ 18772.5 MHz

9 17770.0 MHz 9’ 18780.0 MHz

10 17777.5 MHz 10’ 18787.5 MHz

11 17785.0 MHz 11’ 18795.0 MHz

12 17792.5 MHz 12’ 18802.5 MHz

13 17800.0 MHz 13’ 18810.0 MHz

14 17807.5 MHz 14’ 18817.5 MHz

15 17815.0 MHz 15’ 18825.0 MHz

16 17822.5 MHz 16’ 18832.5 MHz

17 17830.0 MHz 17’ 18840.0 MHz

18 17837.5 MHz 18’ 18847.5 MHz

19 17845.0 MHz 19’ 18855.0 MHz

20 17852.5 MHz 20’ 18862.5 MHz

21 17860.0 MHz 21’ 18870.0 MHz

22 17867.5 MHz 22’ 18877.5 MHz

23 17875.0 MHz 23’ 18885.0 MHz

24 17882.5 MHz 24’ 18892.5 MHz

25 17890.0 MHz 25’ 18900.0 MHz

… … … …

… … … …

… … … …

125 18640.0 MHz 125’ 19650.0 MHz

126 18647.5 MHz 126’ 19657.5 MHz

127 18655.0 MHz 127’ 19665.0 MHz

128 18662.5 MHz 128’ 19672.5 MHz

129 18670.0 MHz 129’ 19680.0 MHz

130 18677.5 MHz 130’ 19687.5 MHz

131 18685.0 MHz 131’ 19695.0 MHz

SADC variations:


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5.17 23 GHz band (ITU-R F.637, Annex 1 or Annex 3)

There are two RF channel arrangements options for the 23 GHz band. Option 1 is based on

Annex 1 of Recommendation F.637 and uses the frequency band 21.2-23.6 GHz whereas

Option 2 is based on Annex 3 of the same recommendation, but is limited to the band 22.0-

23.6 GHz. Option 2 avoids the broadcasting-satellite service in the band 21.4-22.0 GHz and is

recommended for those SADC members who have not yet deployed any 23 GHz links. Some

SADC countries have already deployed Option 1, which are used extensively for mobile

backhaul systems. This issue is addressed further below.

Option 1 (21.2-23.6 GHz):

The RF channel arrangement for low, medium and high capacity systems operating in the

frequency band 21.2 – 23.6 GHz is as presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R Recommendation F.595.

This recommendation provides for various channel spacing options including 112 MHz,

28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz and is indicated in the figure below. The centre

frequency for the 23 GHz band plan is f0 = 22 400 MHz (Option 1).

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 23 GHz plan (for 112 MHz channels) are

(Option 1):


1 21 280 MHz 1’ 22 512 MHz

2 21 392 MHz 2’ 22 624 MHz

3 21 504 MHz 3’ 22 736 MHz

4 21 616 MHz 4’ 22 848 MHz

5 21 728 MHz 5’ 22 960 MHz

6 21 840 MHz 6’ 23 072 MHz

7 21 952 MHz 7’ 23 184 MHz

8 22 064 MHz 8’ 23 296 MHz

9 22 176 MHz 9’ 23 408 MHz

10 22 288 MHz 10’ 23 520 MHz

The band 21.2-23.6 GHz can be further sub-divided into 40 x 28 MHz channels; 80 x 14 MHz

channels; 160 x 7 MHz channels or 320 x 3.5 MHz channels (or any combination thereof) as

required and as indicated in the diagram above.

As indicated, the band 21.4 – 22 GHz has been allocated to the broadcasting-satellite

service, which allocation came into effect on 1 April 2007. This allocation may have an

impact on the fixed services operating in the band but will depend on the deployment of a

BSS satellite for the SADC region operating in this frequency band. This issue is also on the

agenda of WRC-12 (see Resolution 551 (WRC-07)). Resolution 525 (Rev.WRC-07) addresses

the introduction of HDTV systems of the broadcasting-satellite service in the band 21.4-

22 GHz. No migration of fixed links operating on the Option 1 configuration is foreseen at

this stage. Possible migration of fixed links will largely depend on the deployment of a BSS

system operating in the frequency band 21.4-22.0 GHz within the SADC region. Even when a

BSS system is launched for HDTV in this band, it is foreseen that frequency sharing could be

feasible in most areas and migration of individual fixed links will only be required in those

instances where a BSS receiver is deployed within the main beam (or very close to the main

beam) of a fixed link.

Option 2 (22.0-23.6 GHz):

In order to address the issue of broadcasting-satellite service in the band 21.4-22 GHz, an

alternative RF channel arrangement for the 23 GHz band (22.0-22.6 GHz paired with 23.0-

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23.6 GHz) has been developed and does not overlap the BSS allocation. This RF channel

arrangement is contained in Annex 3 of Recommendation F.637. It is recommended that

those SADC administrations that have not yet deployed 23 GHz links use this alternative

plan. Although this RF channel arrangement will avoid potential sharing issues with HDTV in

the future, it has only half (5 x 112 MHz channels) the capacity of the Option 1 RF channel

arrangement, which SADC members should consider when selecting an appropriate channel

arrangement. This alternative channel plan is depicted in the diagram below. The centre

frequency for the 23 GHz band plan is f0 = 21 196 MHz (Option 2).

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The RF channel centre frequencies for the 23 GHz plan (for 112 MHz channels) are

(Option 2):


1 22 078 MHz 1’ 23 086 MHz

2 22 190 MHz 2’ 23 198 MHz

3 22 302 MHz 3’ 23 310 MHz

4 22 414 MHz 4’ 23 422 MHz

5 22 526 MHz 5’ 23 534 MHz

SADC variations:


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frequency band 24.5-26.5 GHz is as presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R Recommendation F.748

(Annex 1). Although this recommendation addresses the 25 GHz, 26 GHz and 28 GHz bands,

in SADC the frequency range 24.5-26.5 GHz is addressed as one frequency band (25 GHz and

26 GHz) as is the case in CEPT. Recommendation F.748 provides for various channel spacing

options including 112 MHz, 56 MHz, 28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz and is indicated in

the figure below. The centre frequency for the 26 GHz band plan is f0 = 25 501 MHz.


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1 24 605 MHz 1’ 25 613 MHz

2 24 717 MHz 2’ 25 725 MHz

3 24 829 MHz 3’ 25 837 MHz

4 24 941 MHz 4’ 25 949 MHz

5 25 053 MHz 5’ 26 061 MHz

6 25 165 MHz 6’ 26 173 MHz

7 25 277 MHz 7’ 26 285 MHz

8 25 389 MHz 8’ 26 397 MHz

As indicated in the diagram above, these 112 MHz channels can be sub-divided into

channels of 56 MHz, 28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz, depending on the system

capacity needs. The centre frequencies for the 3.5 MHz channels are interleaved between

the recommended homogeneous pattern with an offset of 1.75 MHz. These RF channel

arrangements can be used for PTP and PTMP systems.

SADC variations:


51 | P a g e



frequency band 27.5-29.5 GHz is as presented in Figure 2 of ITU-R Recommendation F.748

(Annex 2). Recommendation F.748 provides for various channel spacing options including

112 MHz, 56 MHz, 28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz and is indicated in the figure below.

The centre frequency for the 28 GHz band plan is f0 = 28 500.5 MHz.


52 | P a g e



1 27 604.5 MHz 1’ 28 612.5 MHz

2 27 716.5 MHz 2’ 28 724.5 MHz

3 27 828.5 MHz 3’ 28 836.5 MHz

4 27 940.5 MHz 4’ 28 948.5 MHz

5 28 052.5 MHz 5’ 29 060.5 MHz

6 28 164.5 MHz 6’ 29 172.5 MHz

7 28 276.5 MHz 7’ 29 284.5 MHz

8 28 388.5 MHz 8’ 29 396.5 MHz

As indicated in the diagram above, these 112 MHz channels can be sub-divided into

channels of 56 MHz, 28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz, depending on the system

capacity needs. The centre frequencies for the 3.5 MHz channels are interleaved between

the recommended homogeneous pattern with an offset of 1.75 MHz. These RF channel


SADC variations:


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The RF channel arrangement for HDFS systems operating in the frequency band 31.8-

33.4 GHz is as presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R Recommendation F.1520 (Annex 1).

Recommendation F.1520 provides for various channel spacing options including 56 MHz,

28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz and is indicated in the figure below.


54 | P a g e



1 31 899 MHz 1’ 32 711 MHz

2 31 955 MHz 2’ 32 767 MHz

3 32 011 MHz 3’ 32 823 MHz

4 32 067 MHz 4’ 32 879 MHz

5 32 123 MHz 5’ 32 935 MHz

6 32 179 MHz 6’ 32 991 MHz

7 32 235 MHz 7’ 33 047 MHz

8 32 291 MHz 8’ 33 103 MHz

9 32 347 MHz 9’ 33 159 MHz

10 32 403 MHz 10’ 33 215 MHz

11 32 459 MHz 11’ 33 271 MHz

12 32 515 MHz 12’ 33 327 MHz

As indicated in the diagram above, the 32 GHz band can also be sub-divided into channels of

28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz, depending on the system capacity requirements.

SADC members should note that the centre gap of the 32 GHz band should be avoided (at

least 56 MHz) in order to protect the radio-navigation systems. See Recommendation ITU-R

F.1520 for more detail.

SADC variations:


55 | P a g e



frequency band 37.0 – 39.5 GHz is as presented in Figure 1 of ITU-R Recommendation F.749

(Annex 1). Recommendation F.749 provides for various channel spacing options including

140 MHz, 56 MHz, 28 MHz, 14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz and is indicated in the figure below.

The centre frequency for the 38 GHz band plan is f0 = 38 248 MHz. The 38 GHz band can be

used for PTP, PTMP and BWA systems.

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1 37 128 MHz 1’ 38 388 MHz

2 37 268 MHz 2’ 38 528 MHz

3 37 408 MHz 3’ 38 668 MHz

4 37 548 MHz 4’ 38 808 MHz

5 37 688 MHz 5’ 38 948 MHz

6 37 828 MHz 6’ 39 088 MHz

7 37 968 MHz 7’ 39 228 MHz

8 38 108 MHz 8’ 39 368 MHz



1 37 086 MHz 1’ 38 346 MHz

2 37 142 MHz 2’ 38 402 MHz

3 37 198 MHz 3’ 38 458 MHz

4 37 254 MHz 4’ 38 514 MHz

5 37 310 MHz 5’ 38 570 MHz

6 37 366 MHz 6’ 38 626 MHz

7 37 422 MHz 7’ 38 682 MHz

8 37 478 MHz 8’ 38 738 MHz

9 37 534 MHz 9’ 38 794 MHz

10 37 590 MHz 10’ 38 850 MHz

11 37 646 MHz 11’ 38 906 MHz

12 37 702 MHz 12’ 38 962 MHz

13 37 758 MHz 13’ 39 018 MHz

14 37 814 MHz 14’ 39 074 MHz

15 37 870 MHz 15’ 39 130 MHz

16 37 926 MHz 16’ 39 186 MHz

17 37 982 MHz 17’ 39 242 MHz

18 38 038 MHz 18’ 39 298 MHz

19 38 094 MHz 19’ 39 354 MHz

20 38 150 MHz 20’ 39 410 MHz

As indicated in the figure, the 38 GHz band can be sub-divided into 56 MHz, 28 MHz,

14 MHz, 7 MHz and 3.5 MHz channels, which will depend on the system capacity

requirements. The centre frequencies for the 3.5 MHz channels are interleaved between the

recommended homogeneous pattern with an offset of 1.75 MHz. These RF channel


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SADC variations:


---END ---

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