TV White Space (TVWS) refers to the unused parts of the wireless spectrum initially allocated to television broadcasters but not used by them. This portion of the spectrum is often called “white spaces.”

Here are some key points regarding TVWS:

  1. Usage:
    • TVWS technology utilizes these unutilized or underutilized frequencies for wireless communication, much like how Wi-Fi operates in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
  2. Advantages:
    • TVWS can cover longer distances and better penetrate through obstacles compared to traditional Wi-Fi. This makes it suitable for rural or remote areas where other forms of broadband are not available or not economically feasible.
  3. Dynamic Spectrum Access:
    • TVWS technologies use dynamic spectrum access to ensure that they do not interfere with other users of the spectrum, such as TV broadcasters. This involves querying a database to find vacant channels before transmitting.
  4. Regulation:
    • The utilization of TVWS for wireless communication requires regulatory frameworks to prevent interference with existing users of the spectrum. In the U.S., the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved the use of TVWS for wireless broadband services, and other countries have similar regulatory frameworks.
  5. Equipment:
    • Special equipment is required to use TVWS, including radios capable of operating in the TV bands and a database service to provide channel availability information.
  6. Applications:
    • TVWS can be utilized to provide broadband access in rural or underserved areas, improving connectivity and providing opportunities for economic, educational, and social benefits. It can also be used for smart agriculture, IoT connectivity, and other wireless communication applications.
  7. Performance:
    • The performance of TVWS technologies can vary depending on the specific technology used, the amount of available spectrum, and other factors. Generally, TVWS can provide broadband-like speeds, which can significantly improve connectivity in areas with limited options.
  8. Cost:
    • TVWS can be a more cost-effective solution for providing broadband access in certain areas compared to traditional wired solutions or even cellular networks due to its longer range and lower infrastructure requirements.
  9. Global Adoption:
    • The adoption of TVWS technology is growing globally, with projects and initiatives in various countries exploring and deploying TVWS solutions to address connectivity challenges.

TVWS represents a promising approach to addressing the digital divide and improving connectivity, especially in rural and remote areas.