The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) launched a public consultation today for the proposed Class License for Wireless Home Area Networks (WHANs). The aim of the consultation is to receive views and comments on the content of the Class License from multi-stakeholders including consumers, telecom service providers, or suppliers and manufacturer of Radio & Telecommunications Terminal Equipment (RTTE) no later than May 21, 2019.
The proposed Class License is for WHANs and covers Smart Home Area Systems, which are electronic devices that work interactively. Despite its small size, it has the ability to connect with other smart devices through WHAN, which connects between various devices and systems at the house, so that the user can control it remotely through simple orders. This includes automated electrical home appliances and heating systems, wireless alert and sensors, as well as lighting automation systems.
The Class License for WHAN will enable anyone in Qatar to possess, use, operate, and install the approved class of devices for personal use according to the frequencies specified in the License, without having to apply for a License or paying License or spectrum fees. However, the user must ensure that the devices are compatible with CRA’s Regulatory Framework, and follow the necessary procedures for customs clearance. In case of importing WHAN devices for commercial purposes in Qatar, it is obligatory to obtain Type Approval Certificate, Import Authorization License and Customs Clearance Certificate from CRA.
“CRA ensures that Qatar leads in the information and communications technologies field at the regional level. To this end, CRA develops the needed regulatory instruments that ensure introducing the latest technologies in the Qatari market in a regulated manner and ensure that there is enough spectrum to accommodate it, by balancing the needs of existing spectrum users with the rapidly evolving technologies,” said His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al-Mannai, President of CRA.
Stakeholders can check the public consultation document through CRA’s website www.cra.gov.qa and send their views and comments by email to type.approval@cra.gov.qa or spectrumaffairs@cra.gov.qa. They should specify the subject name as “Consultation on Class License for Wireless Home Area Networks (WHAN)”.
