Wave Issue 0503 1/21/05 Article 4-01

***Software Defined Radio Forum Develops New Initiatives To
Support The Advancement Of Cognitive Radio Technology

DENVER, Colorado
January 10, 2005

In response to increasing interest from the wireless community,
the Software Defined Radio (SDR) Forum has developed new
initiatives to support the advancement of Cognitive Radio
technology. The SDR Forum has created a Cognitive Applications
Special Interest Group and a Cognitive Radio Working Group to
leverage the role of SDR in the continued development of
Cognitive Radio technology.

With this unique two-pronged approach, the Cognitive Applications
Special Interest Group is studying the business case, market
drivers, regulatory, and other cross-disciplinary implications of
SDR within a Cognitive Radio framework, while the Cognitive Radio
Working Group is working to produce technical guidance and
standardization to design, develop and implement cognitive
concepts and features based on SDR technology and architecture.

By its very definition, SDR is the ability to reconfigure a
radio’s operating parameter—and that’s exactly why it is so
attractive for Cognitive Radio technology. According to the
organization, SDR is the best solution to address the
‘adaptability’ component of Cognitive Radio.

Software Defined Radio is a reality today. SDR-enabled radios—
from handhelds to large, shipboard-mounted radios—are available
through numerous defense contractors in support of the U.S.
Department of Defense’s multi-billion dollar Joint Tactical Radio
Systems (JTRS) program. Numerous coalition forces have similar
programs under way worldwide. In the commercial sector, SDR-
enabled base stations are continuing to come to market throughout
the world. The public safety/homeland security communities
continue to closely examine ways to leverage the SDR development
within the defense and commercial sectors.

The most recent meeting of the Cognitive Applications Special
Interest Group and Cognitive Radio Working Group was held on
January 18, 2005, during the Forum’s general meeting in Austin,
Texas.

About the Software Defined Radio Forum

The Software Defined Radio Forum is an international industry
association dedicated to supporting the development and
deployment of software defined radio systems that enable flexible
and adaptable architectures in advanced wireless systems. The
membership of the SDR Forum spans commercial, defense, and civil
government organizations, and includes wireless service
providers, network operators, component and equipment
manufacturers, hardware and software developers, regulatory
agencies, and academia. Presently numbering more than 100
organizations, the SDR Forum’s membership includes major
commercial wireless players from Asia, Europe, and North America.
The SDR Forum’s administrative office is headquartered in Denver,
Colorado.

www.sdrforum.org