As part of its mandate to ensure effective and legitimate use of the radio spectrum in Qatar, the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a state-of-the-art nationwide Automated Spectrum Monitoring System (ASMS) to ensure interference free spectrum to authorised licencees.
Monitoring the radio spectrum is essential under CRA’s Spectrum Policy and Regulatory Framework to ensure its legitimate use. Monitoring identifies and eliminates sources of interference that degrade public or private telecommunication networks, for example and not limited to radio and television networks, mobile telecommunications networks,  and critical frequencies used for aviation, maritime operations and emergency services.
Monitoring is also needed to investigate harmful interference complaints and to collect data for determining compliance by radio frequency users with national rules and regulations.
“Radio spectrum is a scarce national resource and ASMS infrastructure is vital for preventing its illegal use, as well as reducing cases of interference,” said Faisal al-Shuaibi, CRA’s spokesperson.
“CRA has invested in this infrastructure to ensure all public and commercial radio communication networks operate effectively and without interruption,” he said.
“ASMS infrastructure is also essential to provide the necessary support in managing spectrum during major international and national events such as World Cup 2022, where high spectrum demand requires detailed planning and monitoring,” the CRA official added.
The new ASMS ecosystem comprises four Fixed Monitoring Stations and Directional Finding systems, two Time Difference on Arrival Monitoring Stations, two Mobile Monitoring Stations and a National Control Centre (NCC).
The fixed stations are unmanned, remotely controlled stations strategically located in different parts of Qatar to maximise monitoring and geolocation results. The mobile monitoring stations are installed inside customised vehicles deployable in any area of the country as required.
The ASMS components are used by CRA to monitor operational radio communication equipment throughout Qatar to check “bandwidth occupancy” and to ensure all spectrum bands are used as specified. Idle spectrum bands are also monitored and recorded for future planning purpose.
Monitoring is conducted 24-hours a day through the NCC and the fixed and directional finding stations. Mobile monitoring is conducted by CRA’s experts at regular intervals and each time CRA receives a complaint of interference or illegitimate use of spectrum.
The fixed and mobile stations of Qatar are being registered with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), to empower CRA to be a part of international monitoring activities for research studies through ITU’s Radiocommunication Bureau.
CRA has encouraged all consumers of radio communication devices to report any interference issues or concerns through the dedicated Consumer Telecom Hotline – 103, or via e-mail at [email protected]
CRA, established by virtue of Emiri Decree (42) in 2014, regulates the communications and information technology sector, postal services, and access to digital media.
CRA uses its regulatory powers mandated by the decree to protect consumer rights, ensure competition, manage the resolution of disputes, and manage the electromagnetic spectrum.
In all its activities, the CRA seeks to ensure the provision of advanced, innovative and reliable ICT and postal services across the country.

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