Reconfigurability support for dynamic spectrum allocation: from the DSA concept to implementation

The paper presents current research into the area of dynamic spectrum allocation (DSA) in the context of a reconfigurable multi-radio environment. First, the DSA concept is introduced. Then, some possible deployment scenarios for DSA are presented. Based on these scenarios, some high level DSA requirements on reconfigurability are outlined from different perspectives (technical, economic and regulatory) investigating different areas (system, equipment). Two extreme architecture approaches, combining both DSA and reconfigurability, are illustrated. Finally, we review some of the current technologies (with emphasis on SDR) enabling the support of DSA. This activity is ongoing and some more mature results are expected regarding the identification of future research needs in reconfigurability.