Abstract Descriptions of Spectrum: VITA 49 and IEEE 1900.5.2.

Spectrum is of increasing value. This article discusses two new and emerging standards, VITA 49.2 and IEEE 1900.5.2, and identifies both as abstract descriptions of spectrum. VITA 49 emerged as a packet-based protocol at the RF-digital interface of software-defined radios. The VITA 49 metadata allows all information about the spectrum as seen by a radio at its antenna to be described, stored, and transported to other systems. IEEE 1900.5.2 arose out of ongoing efforts to create a policy language for cognitive radios and in response to the need to describe spectrum usage. This article shows how the IEEE 1900.5.2 Spectrum Consumption Model can be cast as a VITA 49.2 packet. It also identifies next steps for standardization in this area.