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Frank H. Sanders

Abstract: Dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) systems have been proposed for operation at locations across the United States in the 5850 to 5925 MHz band. To establish electromagnetic compatibility between DSRC and other 5-GHz systems, it is necessary to understand current and future occupancy of this spectrum. This report summarizes results of measurements made in 5-GHz spectrum for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) of emissions from high-power radars and a fixed satellite service (FSS) earth station.

Results of 5-GHz spectrum survey measurements in major metropolitan areas are also included. Measured spectrum occupancy in 5-GHz bands is typically dominated by radar systems. Radar spurious emissions are the major element of occupancy observed between 5850 and 5925 MHz, although future radar designs are expected to make more use of this band. Therefore, proposed 5-GHz DSRC systems will have to share spectrum with both spurious and on-tuned emissions from radars. DSRC frequency assignments will need to be coordinated with local radar assignments to avoid co-channel operations at short separation distances, and it is recommended that DSRC system designs be electromagnetically compatible with radar spurious emissions.

Keywords: electromagnetic compatibility (EMC); fixed-satellite service (FSS); interference; radio spectrum measurement system (RSMS); spectrum survey; Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS); high-power radars; dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) systems; electronic toll collection; highway access control systems; radar emissions; spectrum measurements; spectrum occupancy

For technical information concerning this report, contact:

Geoffrey A. Sanders
Institute for Telecommunication Sciences
(303) 497-6736
gsanders@ntia.doc.gov

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.

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