SPECIAL SESSIONS

Radiofrequency (RF) spectrum is the main resource for wireless communications. It is a scarce national resource, which requires a careful and effective management primarily in order to achieve interference-free operation of wireless systems. In this all-digital era, with a wide range of smart systems and devices in place, with high quality mobile broadband and fixed wireless access systems, the spectrum demands are  constantly increasing. RF spectrum utilization has been pushing its physical limits for a long time: different modulation schemes, multiple access techniques, adaptive antennas as some of them. Most recently, the implementation of MIMO and beamforming in 5G NR technologies, has imposed some new challenges to both frequency planning and on-field measurements.

What can be expected in the following years?

Firstly, it is expected that new generations of wireless communications (namely the further development and implementation of 5G and 6G technologies) will break the boundaries between terrestrial and satellite systems. An uninterrupted coverage (seamless connectivity) achieved through non-terrestrial networks (NTN) is the new hot topic. Satellite communications are vital technology for achieving coverage and full deployment of 5G and 6G networks of remote and isolated areas. The convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks is not the only one. The cohabitation of broadcast and mobile, as well as mobile and fixed networks, is not new, but it has approached the implementation phase. Complex sharing and compatibility studies that should allow this coexistence are currently being developed on the international level within CEPT and ITU. Will that be possible within the traditional spectrum management rules or will somewhat different approach be necessary, is yet to be seen.

Secondly, new/modern techniques that have been introduced in order to improve propagation of electromagnetic waves (e.g. MIMO based techniques and antennas), have also imposed some challenges in both RF spectrum planning and applicability of measurement methods. This question is especially challenging for spectrum monitoring which provides realistic information from field measurements and is a valuable tool for  enabling  possible  solutions based on the real-life data. However, in order to fulfill this role, it is crucial that spectrum monitoring methods and procedures are accurate, reliable and simple.

SynGRID project aims to enhance institutional and regional innovation in Widening countries through the capitalisation of outcomes from completed Horizon 2020 and ongoing Horizon Europe projects. The combination of valorisation of research results with the focus on enhancing the management, observability and controllability of low-voltage grids considering the increased integration of Renewable Energy Sources, will be combined with the transparent sharing of the know-how to foster stronger collaborations between renowned research and innovation institutions and HE beneficiaries in Croatia, Greece and Slovenia. The outcome of the international collaboration will be materialised in a joint ERDF, HE and LIFE project proposals that will aim to bridge the gap between European and regional funding mechanisms.

The session focused on the project “Istraživanje naprednih algoritama i rješenja inovativne poslovne inteligencije u oblaku – NPOO.C3.2.R3-I1.04.0128” aimed at developing an advanced, mass-accessible business analytics solution in response to market demand. The discussion highlighted the project’s innovative approach, which involves researching a cloud-based artificial intelligence solution, blockchain technology and data warehouse, leveraging the consortium’s multidisciplinary expertise. Emphasis was placed on the potential for real-world application and international collaboration, supported by memoranda with both domestic and foreign companies.