Radio Links >1GHz Licensing

A Point to Point Radio Link is a radiocommunications link between two stations located at specified fixed points.

Radio Links are commonly used for high bandwidth connections between two points and are popular with many users including fixed and mobile phone operators, broadcasters, public utilities and the emergency services. Some operators use Radio Links as an economic alternative to leased lines and optical fibre.

Why do I need a licence?

Unless licence exempted, all wireless telegraphy equipment requires a licence.

The regulations governing the issue of Point to Point Radio Link licences are:

The Wireless Telegraphy (Radio Link licence) Regulations, 1992 (S.I. no. 319 of 1992)

How can I apply for a licence?

Step 1. Reading Information

The applicant should read ComReg’s guidance information to familiarise themselves with the particular licensing scheme and relevant application requirements:

Point to Point Radio Link > 1GHz - Application Guidelines

Step 2. Checking Databases

ComReg’s Equipment Reference Codes

Before submitting an application to ComReg the specifications of the antenna, radio transmitter and feeders must be registered on ComReg’s equipment reference code database.

Please check the following the following database to obtain ComReg’s reference code.

Equipment Reference Code Database

If the equipment is not registered on the database, please complete the Equipment Reference Code registration form and send to ComReg at refcode@ComReg.ie.

High/Low Database

Prior to submitting an application to ComReg, applicants should consult the High / Low Database to ensure that their application does not have a high/low designation conflict.

A high/low designation conflict arises when a site designation in the application conflicts with an existing site designation in ComReg’s High / Low Database. For example, a high designation is requested in the application for a site that has an existing low designation.

High/Low Database

Please note that ComReg will not license a link with a high/low designation conflict.

Step 3. Submitting The Application Form

The application form should be completed and submitted to ComReg along with the application process fee of €12 per link.

Point to Point Radio Link > 1GHz Licence Application Form

Please note that the technical details of the application should be appended as annex 1 of the application form AND submitted electronically as a text file (*.anx file) to links.anx@ComReg.ie.

The *.anx file should have the same identifiable reference as the hardcopy application form sent to ComReg. See Application File – ANX for information on how to create a *.anx file

Details on how to complete the form and submit it are contained in the above documents. please note that incomplete applications may result in your application being returned as non-valid.

Once I have a licence, are there licence obligations to comply with?

Yes, the licensee must comply with the Radio Link licence conditions which are included within the licence documentation sent to the licensee.

In particular licensees must ensure that their radio installation does not cause harmful interference to other licensees.

Can I renew my licence?

Yes, annual licences are renewable. Each licence is valid for 1 year and must be renewed in order to keep its validity. In renewing the licence, ComReg will follow the general renewal process. Please note that the licence will be cancelled if it is not renewed.

Temporary Radio Link licences are non-renewable. They may be issued for any period up to a maximum of six months.

Can I amend my licence?

Yes, to amend your licence the standard application form should be submitted to ComReg with the appropriate fee if applicable. Please write “amendment” on the form to indicate that it is an amendment.

Point to Point Radio Link > 1GHz Licence Application Form

Can I cancel my licence?

Yes, to cancel a licence a formal written request should be submitted to ComReg from a verified email, fax or post contact address. Before cancellation, ComReg may contact you for verification purposes.