Survey of Jordan's Wireless Internet

UNCLAS AMMAN 002429

SIPDIS

E.O. 1258: N/A
TAGS: ECPS ECON ETRD JO
SUBJECT: Survey of Jordan's Wireless Internet

REF: SECSTATE 85946

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SUMMARY
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1. As per instructions REFTEL, we consulted with
Jordanian telecom regulatory officials to respond to
survey questions regarding Wi-Fi regulations in Jordan.
Follow-up questions can be directed to Greg Garramone,
Econ Section (GarramoneGG@state.gov). The responses
begin para. 2.


2. Jordan has allocated unlicensed radio-frequency
spectrum for use by Wi-Fi and similar wireless
technologies, specifically Spread Spectrum in
frequency bands (2400 - 2483.5 MHz),(5150-5250 MHz)
and (5725-5850 MHz. Currently, Jordan allows only
indoor use of Wi-Fi or similar wireless technologies
with maximum Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP)
of 100mw. According to Telecommunications Regulatory
Commission (TRC) regulations, devices producing EIRP
under 10mw need only type approval, usually obtained by
the vendor. Sites installing devices producing EIRP in
excess of 10mw, but less than 100mw, need to obtain a
usage license in addition to the type approval.


3. Wi-Fi systems can not be used without a license in
Jordan. A type license is required for devices
producing EIRP under 10mw; additionally, a usage
license is required for devices producing EIRP over
10mw but under 100mw.

The following requirements must be submitted with the
application for a usage license:


A. A certificate confirming that the system conforms to
European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI)
standards EN 300 328, EN 300 440, or EN 300 836, or in
accordance with Federal Communication Commission (FCC)
Rules Part 15.247 or 15.247(g) or 15.407.

B. Submit a test report that complies with all TRC
accredited standards.

C. Colored pictures for the equipment from all sides,
showing the brand, model and type.

D. A complete test report describing the equipment used
to conduct the test.

E. Written confirmation by the testing laboratory,
confirming that the equipment is in accordance with
European safety requirements regarding the emission of
radial power.


3. Wi-Fi can be used in licensed commercial outlets,
such as Internet cafes, as long as the location abides
by the regulations governing the use of Wi-Fi.


4. There are currently no known commercial Wi-Fi
networks that provide service to the public currently
operating in Jordan.


5. According to our sources at the Ministry of
Information and Communications Technology, Wi-Fi is
currently in use at few five star hotels for guest and
staff use. Global One, a subsidiary of Jordan Telecom,
told us that their offices utilize Wi-Fi, and that
there are plans to outfit the Queen Alia International
Airport passenger halls with Wi-Fi for use by
travelers.


6. Wi-Fi is currently not in use in rural areas in
Jordan. MoICT sources told us that plans to connect
all schools and universities throughout Jordan to the
Internet are based on fiber optics and wired LAN's and
WAN's.




7. There are currently no longer distance (beyond 100
meters outdoors) Wi-Fi networks in use in-country as Wi-
Fi usage is limited to indoor facilities for the time
being.


8. The number of Wi-Fi units sold in Jordan is
currently not available, but indications are that it is
low compared to wired network devices.


9. Further information regarding Wi-Fi use and
licensing is available at the TRC website
www.trc.gov.jo.

GNEHM