Radio-frequency spectrum needed for the operation of short-range high-resolution automotive radar has been allocated in the 79 GHz frequency band. This decision was reached at the World Radiocommunication Conference currently meeting in Geneva from November 2 to 27.
The allocation of the 79 GHz frequency band provides a globally harmonized regulatory framework for automotive radar to prevent collisions, which will improve vehicular safety and reduce traffic accidents.
Last month, the ITU membership also unanimously approved open standards aimed at delivering advanced sound for broadcasting services that will create a listening experience that is closer to real life.
The new global standards will facilitate the production and exchange of advanced audio files by allowing a single file to carry a complete audio program containing audio samples as well as metadata for any combination of object, channel and scene-based audio.
Car radar for road safety
The allocation of the frequency band for automotive radar responds to the call by the United Nations General Assembly, which observes the third Sunday in November of each year as a “World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims”, which occurred on Sunday, November 15.
The allocation of spectrum by ITU will now facilitate the development of one of the most significant technologies in support of this global need.
“The decision to harmonize the 79 GHz frequency band for automotive radar will allow the automotive industry to deploy anti-collision radar devices globally,” said ITU secretary-general Houlin Zhao. “This will contribute a great deal towards the UN goal to improve road safety worldwide and prevent traffic-related fatalities.”
According to UN data, more than 1.25 million fatalities occur each year on the roads around the world.
Open standards for immersive sound
The new file format was developed based on the existing and widely used RIFF/WAV file format in order to facilitate its application and implementation.
Coupled with new high quality Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV), which offers enhanced image rendition, immersive audio will lift the television experience to an entirely new level, further blurring the line between physical reality and virtual or digital simulation.
Future technical capabilities for audio will also allow viewers to select their own menu of services. They will be able to decide on and adjust the level of immersive sound in their living rooms, creating dynamic sound imaging.
These features become possible with “object based coding”, which will allow viewers to personalize their viewing and listening experience “at the point of consumption”. This could include setting language and dialogue levels and selecting different aspects or sections of programming, which could also bring added benefits for people with disabilities.
“The ITU global standard for immersive audio sets an important step for an exciting new age of ‘sound’ for broadcasting,” said Zhao. “The advanced audio systems will provide additional features and performance well beyond those available today.”