The Microsoft Research White Space database enables users to learn about the available TV white spaces spectrum, i.e.,
unoccupied TV channels, at a given location. A user can specify a location, and our service
returns a list of TV channels that can be used for voice, video, and data communication along with the allowed
power levels on each channel. We build upon our experience building similar white space databases for the
United States and United Kingdom, and for demonstrations in several other locations and have customized the database to meet requirements
set forth by regulators.
The web service has support for the device vendors, licensees, and administrators. Device vendors can query the web
service, and the result includes the list of channels available for data communication,
the allowed power limit, the noise-level on the channel and information about why a channel
is unavailable. Licensees can register their devices, change the location and their
transmission parameters. Administrators, such as the regulators have many more rights.
They can add and remove primary users, including their transmit power, heights, and
other features. They can also implement different techniques to determine white space
availability, including different propagation models, detection thresholds, and other
configuration parameters.
Our web service is built on a solid understanding of the research principles behind white space networking.
Microsoft Research’s paper describing the details of the service was published
in IEEE DySPAN 2011. This web service started out as a research prototype, and
has been used by several academics, including MIT, Harvard, UIUC, and Berkeley,
for their research.
PDetailed channel info
In addition to the list of available channels, the APIs return allowed power levels,
and (in the future) noise levels.
PAdvanced admin APIs
Test different configuration parameters and propagation models to study their impact
on white space availability.
PProtect new users
Insert new primary users at a given location. The corresponding channels are shown
as occupied in the returned results.
PValidated Results
We have conducted trials and demonstrations using white space databases in at least
nine countries without any report of interference to incumbent licensees. We also have validated the
results from our API by driving over a distance of more than 1500 miles (more results in the research paper).
PWhite Space Analysis:
APIs support simple analysis of white space availability to differentiate between
channels, and (in the future) will support planning.
PEasy to use
Since the web service is built using ASP .NET, it is easy to use, for example by
adding as a Web Reference in a C# project, or a simple HTTP query.
PBuilt on solid research principles
Published more than 10 papers in research conferences and scientific journals.