According to a new report, LTE handsets will interfere with cable TV if used within six metres of a set top box.

According to a new report, LTE handsets will interfere with cable TV if used within six metres of a set top box.  Powerful LTE devices seems to be on a collision course with existing tv and broadband connections

This report provides the analysis of the interference to Cable Networks from the deployment of Electronic Communications Services in the 790-862 MHz band. 

The research is undertaken by Excentis and is in line with a concerted European effort to assess ongoing risks associated with interference. The report states that 

The primary source of interference will most likely be the TS (terminal station). With the deployment of the new services, a transmitter (the TS) will be operating close to the end-user network and CPE-equipment for HFC networks. The analysis has shown that for those LTEdevices that are actively used (transmitting data) indoor a significant number (>10%) will be operating at the highest transmit power allowed (23 dBm). If the transmitter is close enough to the victim (in-house cable network or TV, settop box, cable modem) this is likely to result in interference problems. The required distance to avoid interference varies between different models of CPE-equipment, but for some models a distance of even more than 6 m is required. About 30% of the TSs used indoor will be transmitting at high (>20 dBm) power. At small distances (1 m) between TS and victim the chance of interference becomes very significant. The exact amount of how likely it is that interference will occur depends on the exact type and positioning of the victim (receiver).

“Impact analysis is crucial as we get closer to new usages for the precious spectrum that will take part in Europe’s recovery. What we have now seen is that the debate on interference continues and so does attention to the risks to manage. One new element in this equation is the risk of interference caused by base stations used for LTE. In cities where these stations are among more densely packed areas, it is important to understand how consumers and business would deal with being next to a fixed source of interference,” said Caroline Van Weede, Managing Director of Cable Europe

 Download the Excentis Analysis Report on ECN in 800 Mhz.