History and Development of Spectrum Policy Institution in Thailand

Paper in proceeding, 2010

Radiocommunication in terms of wireless devices is a part of daily activity and includes the garage door opener, remote control, toys, navigation system (land, air and sea), radio and TV broadcasting (terrestrial and satellite), earphone, cordless telephone, card reader and internet connection (Wi-Fi) in smart phone devices. To manage the use of radiocommunication is the duty of the national regulatory authority (NRA), which has established rules. In Thailand, spectrum management has developed in several phases, from the establishment of an authority without a radiocommunication act to the implementation of that act, the establishment of the national frequency management board, and the establishment of an independent regulator. This paper provides a chronological account of how the spectrum assignment, especially spectrum commons, developed in Thailand. Access to the archive of the post and telegraph department, Thailand, including the minutes of the national frequency management board, and interviewing the relevant persons have provided the rationale for spectrum assignment, how it has been developed and why this concept is essential for the regulator and society.