The Impact of Regulations on the Business Case for Cognitive Radio

Cognitive Radio holds an interesting promise for improved utilisation of the radio spectrum. However, there is a considerable degree of uncertainty regarding the potential application of cognitive radio. One of the reasons for this uncertainty is the need for changes in the regulatory regime to allow for more dynamic forms of spectrum access. In addressing the necessary changes in regulations, the regulator should be well aware of the perspective of the entrepreneur. Eventually, it is the entrepreneur who invests in CR technology and thereby realises the goal of improved utilisation of the radio spectrum. This chapter addresses the impact on the business case for cognitive technologies of the regulatory regime and the choices on the fundamental CR technology that regulators will have to make.