IoT Connectivity in Radar Bands: A Shared Access Model Based on Spectrum Measurements

To address the challenge of more spectrum for IoT connectivity, this article proposes an SA framework with rotating radars. The proposed framework is based on the results of our measurement campaign in which we measured spectrum usage patterns and signal characteristics of three different ground-based fixed rotating radar systems near Oulu, Finland. In our work, we review different IoT protocols and their use of licensed or unlicensed spectrum. We make the case that IoT systems generate much data that cannot be accommodated with licensed/unlicensed spectrum, which already suffer from congestion. We identify the suitability of shared access between different rotating radars and IoT networks. We then present a zone-based SA framework in rotating radar spectrum for the operators providing IoT services, highlight its benefits, and also specify challenges in its implementation. To fully develop the considered zone-based SA method that ensures coexistence of IoT devices with no harmful interference to the rotating radars, we propose an REM-enabled architecture for the SA. The proposed architecture provides principles and rules for using the SA for the IoT, and it does not require modifications in the incumbent radar systems.