Global Positioning Technologies and Canadian Spectrum Issues: Protecting the New Utility

Sheryn McGregor-Sauvé

Abstract:	Until the fall of 1997, the global positioning technologies and geomatics communities in Canada were generally not involved with spectrum management issues. As a result of a proposal by Inmarsat at the World Radio Conference (WRC) in 1997 to share the GPS L1 spectrum band, 1559-1567 MHz, these two groups are now aware of the necessity for their involvement in spectrum issues. This paper will provide a background on international spectrum management and on the differences between U.S. and Canadian spectrum management. It will also explain specific differences between the two countries in the management of global positioning technology related to spectrum issues. Current issues and their implication on Canadian industry and government programs will be pointed out, specifically those that should be considered as Safety-of-Life applications. Finally, Canadian lobbying methods and efforts regarding spectrum issues that affect global positioning technologies will be described. In conclusion, the Canadian geomatics and global positioning communities will continue to work with spectrum management officials to ensure the positioning requirements of the Canadian public are not threatened.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 12th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1999) September 14 - 17, 1999 Nashville, TN
Pages:	621 - 628
Cite this article:	McGregor-Sauvé, Sheryn, "Global Positioning Technologies and Canadian Spectrum Issues: Protecting the New Utility," Proceedings of the 12th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 1999), Nashville, TN, September 1999, pp. 621-628.
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