Abstract
The radio frequency (RF) spectrum is a natural resource used by wireless network operators to provide radio communications and transmission systems. The scarcity of RF spectrum has led to the development of dynamic spectrum access techniques to achieve more efficient spectrum utilisation. A number of related questions arise, including: How much of the RF spectrum is currently available? How much of it can be used opportunistically and dynamically without interfering with licensed or primary users (PUs)? In this paper, we present work being conducted in South Africa on the application of software defined radio (SDR) to dynamic RF spectrum usage. Specifically, we discuss the Meraka Cognitive Radio Platform (MCRP) which is based on Universal Serial Radio Peripheral version 2 (USRP2) hardware and GNU radio software. We also discuss the implementation and operation of the spectrum monitoring sub-system in MCRP. Lastly, the results of the measurements which were conducted using the MCRP are presented.
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© 2013 ICST Institute for Computer Science, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering
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Aderonmu, A.I., Adegnandjou, R.H., Masonta, M.T., Mzyece, M. (2013). VHF Spectrum Monitoring Using Meraka Cognitive Radio Platform. In: Jonas, K., Rai, I.A., Tchuente, M. (eds) e-Infrastructure and e-Services for Developing Countries. AFRICOMM 2012. Lecture Notes of the Institute for Computer Sciences, Social Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering, vol 119. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-41178-6_6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-41178-6_6
Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
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