1. RRAC Committee Mr Peter Kiddle OBE (Chairman) Mr Chris Cheeseman Mr Tim Cull Prof Jim James Dr David James Prof Peter Ramsdale Prof Ray Steele Dr Gary Tonge Dr Walter Tuttlebee Prof Peter Watson RA Members: Mr Barry Maxwell Mr Mike Goddard Secretariat: Mr Martin Skingley (Meeting Secretary) Mr Chris Carey Contact: RRAC Secretary RA, Wyndham House 189 Marsh Wall London E14 9SX Tel:020 7211 0039 rrac@ra.gsi.gov.uk www.radio.gov.uk Summary of Research Strategy The objective of the RRAC Research Strategy for the RA is to use technical research as part of the spectrum management policy. The aim is to re-align existing research projects and to maximise effectiveness by promoting: A Research culture Developed by recognising radio research as a means of implementing and aligning with the UK Spectrum Strategy. Promoting within the RA and Government and externally with industry the importance of research into radio science, technology and propagation to promote efficient spectrum use and allow development of new radio-based communication services. "To assist in the planned deployment of radio research resources". Research Focus Achieved by recognising that strength and excellence can only be achieved in a limited number of areas. Here the "four themes" may help to focus and prioritise research as follows: improved use of existing spectrum coexistence/sharing studies spectrum efficiency long-term research Research Dynamism Stimulated through the planning process being responsive to the changing needs of radiocommunication research. The RRAC may need to recommend structural changes to the RA's internal research management function with an emphasis on feedback and evaluation. Background and objectives The RRAC was set up to advise the Radiocommunications Agency (RA) on its technical research strategy. The RRAC aims to help the RA to consolidate its current research programme (propagation, EMC, Mathematical projects, Sharing studies, and Other technologies) and implement a research strategy (over a timeframe of 6 years) based on four themes; improved use of existing spectrum, coexistence/sharing studies, spectrum efficiency, and long-term research (including extending the usable frequency range). The overall objective should be to assist frequency management by planning, provision and creating a research environment where radio research can be co-ordinated in the UK and impart information to radio users. Methods The methods of meeting this objective should include: Review of RA's existing research Build on the recommendations of previous research reviews and Government policy Survey and feed back information from radiocommunications industry to assist the RA Research responsibility All RRAC members will have a research interest in their particular field and an awareness of spectrum needs and should be on the look out for projects and research issues that the RA might support. Although the RRAC is confined to radio technology aspects of research only, it may touch on economic drivers, training and policy issues that form part of government regulatory requirements. Implementation to produce a list of priorities for RA to consider in terms of research needs with associated timeframes. to promote a "focal point" for radiocommunications research to improve the dissemination of data and information to develop (one) research area on the RA's RRAC website and a list of major UK "radio research" centres. to consider reviewing the technical Task Groups (TG's) and making these multidisciplinary. to promote collaborative research and monitor and liaise with EU, CEPT and International bodies on radiocommunications to avoid duplication. to encourage and promote feedback on this research strategy Task Groups (TG’s) There are currently three TGs providing expert advice and disseminating research information on a range of services including Mobile, Fixed and HF. RRAC Role The RRAC role in top-level research strategy will be: Advising the regulatory body on radio research Project co-ordination (top-level) "Gap analysis", advice on evaluation and feedback of research Recommend mechanisms for change (convergence of regulatory function with the convergence of technology) External liaisons Interaction with RAL, Industry, ITU etc.