National EMC by Design

Fragmentation of spectrum management responsibilities and authority is resulting in less than optimum electromagnetic spectrum utilization in the United States. To begin to implement a solution to this problem, a phased program which would ultimately centralize all administrative, engineering, and record-keeping activities related to spectrum management is proposed. A "national spectrum manager" is proposed who would have the authority and capability necessary to design spectrum utilization patterns by applying state-of-the-art analysis, information, and monitoring techniques to the electromagnetic compatibility problem. The need for computer simulation and interference prediction capabilities is discussed. The problems involved in keeping existing spectrum users "happy," while serving new users under changing use patterns and rules, are discussed. Approaches to the validation of the analytical capability are treated. Possible applications of the resulting capabilities and techniques to international spectrum management are discussed. The ever-present subject of cost is raised, and several possible methods of financing such a system are reviewed. Also touched upon are future problems and applications, such as those relating to space and satellite communications.