Calculation of TVWS Spectrum Availability Using Geo-location White Space Spectrum Database

Many rural and low-income areas around the globe have poor quality (or no) internet service with limited telephone coverage due to a lack of infrastructure, insufficient power supply, and a limited core telecommunications network. Because of limited mobile device propagation capabilities, sparse population density and poor purchasing power, it is not economically feasible for mobile operators to deploy traditional communication networks in these regions. Researchers recently discovered that a portion of the underutilized TV spectrum known as TV white space (TVWS) could be suitable for those areas in terms of bandwidth, improved reception features, good penetration of buildings, and broad reach. This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of available TVWS channels in Ethiopia using a Geolocation Database front-end (GLSD) aided by the CSIR Calculation Engine hosted by the CSIR Meraka Institute. GLSD and the CSIR calculation engine together are able to quantify the amount of TVWSs through dynamically allocating the TVWS network radio services according to the geographic position of WSDs. The GLSD was developed using the ITU-R P.1546-5 propagation model. Using the GLSD and the CSIR calculation engine, the quantification of TVWS free channels are calculated. The results show that among the 58 VHF and UHF TV channels, 52 of the channels are free (underutilized) in Ethiopia. These free channels can be employed to provide wireless broadband solutions for connecting the rural areas as well as offloading the urban traffic.