S'pore revises LMDS framework; sets auction date
LMDS is a transmission system that allows broadband Internet access, similar to technologies like Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), cable, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and leased circuits. However, unlike existing technologies, LMDS is wireless and can give companies quicker access to Singapore's phone and broadband market without having to lay infrastructure.
Sixteen LMDS spectrum lots will be offered at the reserve price of S$41,400 per lot, said the Info-communications Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) in a statement late this evening.
The auction was initially slated for February. Then, the IDA said it intended to auction up to five larger spectrum lots at a reserve price of S$4 million for a pair of 2x112Mhz lots; S$3 million for a pair of 2x84Mhz lots; and S$2 million for one 2x75Mhz lot.
According to IDA spokesperson Jennifer Toh, the revised LMDS framework has taken into account feedback from players in the telecommunications industry.
Each lot is now a generic 2X28 MHz spectrum block in the 24.5GHz to 26.5GHz band, according to IDA's revised LMDS allocation framework.
Under the new LMDS auction rules, Singapore Telecommunications Ltd will not be allowed to bid for more than three lots "to ensure that there will be sufficient competition in the provision of telecommunication services". Last year, the government said it would allow SingTel to bid for one small (2x75Mhz or 2x84Mhz) lot and buy additional spectrum from other successful bidders upon IDA's approval.
However, other auction participants are allowed to bid for a maximum of four spectrum lots per company, the regulator added.
Successful bidders will be granted seven-year rights for the spectrum.