VSAT Licensing

 
 

Importance of Registering Frequencies

The utilization of Radio Frequency(RF)is regulated by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). ITU members collectively determine and establish the telecommunications regulatory framework amongst its member class to allow for equitable use and avoid interference amongst respective end user countries. This is done through active registration of frequencies in the host nation. 

Coordinating control of spectrum and frequency is an ITU best practice, and in most countries is mandatory.  It allows for member states to maintain autonomy and be respectful of jamming frequencies amongst neighboring countries. Radio Spectrum licensing processes differ from country to country, becoming a very complex procedure involving and requiring legal and engineering technical expertise.

 

Licensing efforts performed includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • Acquisition of satellite operational licenses and/or relevant authorization papers

  • Registration of frequencies

  • Acquisition and coordination of terminal equipment homologation

  • Negotiation and submission of licensing fee waiver requests before relevant governmental agencies    

  • Approvals from appropriate Ministries and/or related organizations

  • Negotiation of regulatory/contractual fees with local authorized resellers of frequency rights

  • Coordination and negotiation of regulatory requirements that involve technical & engineering studies, and/or procedures requiring professional third parties

  • Coordination of any and all translations into English of relevant regulatory & licensing documentation

  • Renewal of licenses due to expiration of life cycle and/or issuance of new regulatory framework

  • Licensing amendment processes as a result of events including upgrades, downgrades, site relocation, and change of frequencies

  • Coordination of annual licensing fee payments or one-time fees

  • Supporting and advising on legal aspects related to telecommunications regulations

  • Spectrum Licensing Project Management and status reporting

  • Representing the company before concerned international and national telecommunications organizations and related to telecommunications regulations

 

What happens if I don’t register my remote terminal and radio frequencies?

Compliance with the laws and policies of host nations is critical working knowledge for operating in areas where VSAT data transmission is a necessity. Neglecting compliance of a sovereign nations authority can lead to any or all of the following:

  • Interference with legally registered missions

  • Subject to being shut down and equipment seized

  • Fines and or judgements on the enterprise/person violating local statutes

  • Local criminal charges

  • Long-term negative brand impact of regional violator