THE Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) says safeguards are being put in place to prevent Jamaica’s roll-out of fifth-generation (5G) technology from interfering with critical communication systems, including those used in aviation.

The assurance comes amid concerns about the potential for 5G services to interfere with systems operating in neighbouring frequency bands, as Jamaica prepares for wider adoption of the technology.

Managing director of the SMA Dr Maria Myers-Hamilton said the authority’s responsibility extends beyond making spectrum available for new technologies to ensuring that Jamaica’s communications environment remains safe and properly managed.

“We have to ensure that as Jamaica advances technologically, we are protecting the integrity of the spectrum and the critical services that depend on it. Ultimately, we manage the risk,” said Myers-Hamilton.

As Jamaica’s regulatory body responsible for managing the radio frequency spectrum, the SMA oversees the allocation and assignment of frequencies and monitors their use to identify and address harmful interference.

“Whenever you introduce a new technology, you have to consider what is already operating within that environment and what is operating in adjacent bands. Our job is to understand those interactions, identify where there may be a risk of interference, and put the appropriate safeguards in place,” Myers-Hamilton explained.

She pointed out that the SMA’s oversight continues after frequencies have been assigned, with its spectrum monitoring systems and technical teams used to detect, identify, and locate radio frequency signals and investigate potential sources of interference.

“We continuously monitor the spectrum because the environment is always changing. New devices are introduced, new services come on stream, and patterns of use change, so monitoring allows us to identify issues and respond where necessary,” she said.

Myers-Hamilton noted that while much of this technical work takes place behind the scenes, effective spectrum management supports communication systems Jamaicans rely on every day.

“People may not necessarily see spectrum management happening, but they experience the results of it every day. Whether you’re using your mobile phone, listening to the radio, or relying on critical communication services, spectrum is involved,” she said.

As Jamaica embraces faster and more sophisticated wireless technologies, Dr Myers-Hamilton said innovation must be balanced with the protection of existing services.

“We want Jamaica to benefit from the opportunities that technologies such as 5G can provide, but innovation has to be introduced responsibly. Our role is to create an environment where new technologies can thrive while ensuring that existing services remain protected,”added Myers-Hamilton.