In light of the rapid progress of digitalisation, we must make sure that frequencies are available for the testing of wireless communications. Traficom supports this by granting radio licences in a flexible manner for the testing of innovative radio technologies and systems.
5G brings myriad possibilities
With the help of 5G networks, real-time control functions that require minimal delay can be carried out in a reliable way while ensuring the required level of information security. Such functions include intelligent transportation systems and industrial automation. Meanwhile, energy efficiency enables the utilisation of durable terminal devices in e.g. measurement applications and the large number of connected devices required by the internet of things (IoT).
Research into 5G mobile technologies is primarily focused on frequencies above 24 GHz, among which sufficiently interference-free frequencies may be allocated for testing and research.
Industrial internet and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications developing quickly
The industrial internet and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications are set to grow rapidly in the future. Innovations in these fields help create smart cities, factories and homes as well as a more efficient healthcare system.
Systems developed using a range of technologies can be tested, researched and implemented in several frequency ranges.
Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) looking for new solutions
Intelligent transportation systems use information and communications technology to improve the flow and safety of traffic. ITS enables the utilisation of self-driving vehicles, unmanned aircraft and ships, and more.
Additional frequencies are needed for research and use in the field of ITS. In Finland, the majority of the frequencies used for research purposes may already be allocated also for ITS research and testing.
Mobile network frequencies for research, development and educational purposes
Finland boasts a high standard of education in the fields of communications technologies and telecom networks, and educational institutions must be able to utilise realistic teaching methods. To this end, Traficom also grants radio licences as well as numbers and codes for teaching purposes.
Frequencies have been reserved for research, development and educational purposes in frequency ranges that are subject to a licence and allocated for mobile communications and television broadcasts. This enables wide-ranging, long-term research, development and maintenance projects. Licences are granted on an equal basis to Finnish and foreign entities.
In addition, technical mobile network codes are required, which, unlike ordinary telephone numbers, are not visible to users. An example of such codes is the Mobile Network Code (MNC) (External link) (external link).
Short-term licences for trials and testing
TraficThose looking to carry out testing, research or trials utilising radio technology may apply to Traficom for a short-term radio licence. These licences can cover periods from a few days to several years. Short-term radio licences for the frequencies that the application concerns are granted on a case-by-case basis. Free-form licence applications can be submitted using our contact form .
Research and international cooperation prepare us for the future
Traficom participates in a number of national and international management and steering groups in research projects that study new technologies and their possibilities. The aim is to support pilots and innovations, understanding the needs of different sectors and the effects and possibilities of these, especially regarding the future use of spectrum. We want to promote the introduction of new wireless technologies in society in different sectors, such as transport, cities and industry.
Enquiries:
Tapio Penkkala, Development Manager, tel. +358 295 390 434
Jan Engelberg, Senior Specialist, tel. +358 295 390 438